Dear Geek,

My computer is slower than molasses this month.  I’m a student, so I don’t really want to take it in for repair, if they’re just going to tell me my computer’s too old.  What steps can I take to find the problem, and fix it?

Sincerely,

My Computer’s Going To The Back 40…

Dear Back 40,

We get it.  We don’t like spending money when we don’t need to either.  Why take it in to a tech, when you could fix it yourself, or be saving for a new computer?

Unfortunately, computer speed can be affected by a whole lot of things, and without the computer here in front of us, it’s impossible to give a specific diagnosis.

Let’s go through the steps to see what the problem could be:

**Note:  If you are unexperienced, or unsure of what any of these steps are, or how to do them, we highly recommend taking your computer to an I.T. professional.**

1. Reboot.  If you haven’t shut down, and rebooted your computer lately, do it.
2. Background Programs.  One of the most common reasons for a slow computer, are programs running in the background.  Remove/disable any TSRs and startup programs that automatically start each time the computer boots.  *Note:  To check what background programs are running, and how much memory and CPU they are using, open Task Manager.  If you are running Windows 7 or higher, run Resmon to get a better understanding of how your computer is being used.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  If you have an antivirus scanner on the computer, spyware protection program, or another security utility, make sure it is not scanning your computer in the background.  If a scan is in progress, it can slow down your computer significantly.
3. Delete Temp Files.  As a computer runs programs, opens web pages, and in general use, temporary files are being stored on the hard drive.  Deleting these temp files can help improve computer performance.        First, we suggest using the Windows Disk Cleanup utility to delete temporary files and other files no longer needed on the computer.  However, Disc Cleanup may not delete all files in the temp directory.  We suggest also deleting temporary files manually by opening the “Start” menu and enter %temp% in the “Search” or “Run” field.  Press Enter and a “Temp” folder should open.  Delete all files found in this folder.  If any files are currently in use, you can leave them in there.
4. Free Hard Drive Space.  Check to make sure you have a minimum of 25% hard drive space free.  This available space allows the computer to have room for the swap file to increase in size, as well as temporary files.
5. Bad, Corrupted, or Fragmented Hard Drive.  To make sure there is nothing physically wrong with the computer’s hard drive, run “ScanDisk” or “CHKDSK“.  Run Defrag to ensure that data is “arranged” in the best possible order.  Use other software tools to test the hard drive for any errors by looking at the S.M.A.R.T. of the drive.
6. Scan for malware.  These days, spyware and other malware is a HUGE cause of many computer problems, including a slow computer.  Even if you have an antivirus scanner installed in your computer, we recommend running a malware scan on the computer.  We personally use Malwarebytes.  There is a free version available.  However, the paid version of Malwarebytes’ Anti-Malware is excellent at catching the droppers and installers that install the malware infections, BEFORE they are installed.  It makes a great companion to your Anti-Virus (which brings me to our next point…).
7. Scan For Viruses.  If your computer is infected with 1 or more viruses, this can slow your computer considerably.  We recommend you install an anti-virus program for active protection against viruses.  We personally use and sell Vipre.  It’s the best antivirus protection from today’s online threats.  There is a free trial version available.
8. Hardware Conflicts.  Sometimes, hardware is just not meant to work together.  Check that the “Device Manager” has no conflicts.  Resolve any that exist.
9. Update Windows.  Sometimes there are “issues” with computer software, which the manufacturers release updates to fix.  Make sure you have all the latest Windows updates installed on the computer.  Make sure all browser plug-ins are up-to-date.  Out-of-date plug-ins can cause slow performance while using internet.
10. Update Drivers.  Having out-of-date drivers can cause many issues, including slow computer performance.  Make sure all drivers, including video drivers, are up-to-date.
11. Reboot, Again.  If you’ve done any of the above steps, but your computer is still running slow, try rebooting your computer again.
12. Memory Upgrade.  If you’ve had your computer for more than 2 years, you probably need more memory.  We recommend a minimum of least 4GB of memory.  That is if you’re using your computer for internet, email, etc.  Just the basics.  If you’re using your computer for anything more, we recommend a minimum of 8GB.  If you’re using your computer for gaming, high graphics, etc., we recommend a minimum of 16GB.  by having enough memory, your computer will not need to swap information stored within memory to the swap file.  If your computer hard drive light is constantly active, its a good indication that your computer is swapping information between your memory and hard drive because of the lack of space in memory.
13. Hard Drive Upgrade.  One of the biggest speed-killers is a bad hard drive.  If your computer is slow (and none of the other items listed fixed the speed), or if you’re just looking for something to upgrade the overall system performance, upgrading your hard drive (along with RAM, if you’re not already maxed out), would be the recommended upgrade.  If you’re looking to super-size your hard drive, upgrading to a Solid State Drive (SSD) will significantly improve the overall system performance.
14. Run Registry Cleaner.  We normally DO NOT recommend registry cleaners.  However, if you have followed all of the above steps, and your computer is still slow, a registry cleaner could do the trick.  If you are going to run a registry cleaner, we recommend CCleaner.  You can get a free trial version here.  A lot of the others on the market will tell you that you have a bunch of problems in your computer, but then ask for payment in order to fix them.
15. Computer or Processor is Overheating.  Excessive heat can cause a significant decrease in computer performance, and can eventually cause it to crash.  Most processors automatically reduce the speed of the processor to help compensate for the heat related issues.  Make sure your computer has enough space to allow it to expel hot air, and bring in cool air.  A good general rule is to keep 1 foot on every side of the computer tower, in order to allow for transfer of air.  Dust, dirt, and hair can also constrict proper air flow inside your computer, which can also cause it to overheat.  Make sure the computer case (especially the air intake) is clean, and fans are not dusty or obstructed.
16. Erase Computer and Start Over.  This is the last resort.  If you have never done this before, or have important data or files that would be devastating (either emotionally, financially, or otherwise) to lose – DO NOT ATTEMPT THIS.  Erasing everything and starting over is exactly that.  It can increase performance by getting rid of old software or drivers that may be on the computer and causing the computer to be slow.  Installing a fresh copy of Windows, software programs, and the latest drivers help verify there is no software-related issues causing your computer to be slow.  Before thinking about attempting this, make sure you can find all your software installation disks.
17. Hardware Issues.  If your computer continues to be slower than normal after going over each of the above recommendation (including erasing everything and starting over), its possible that your computer is experiencing a hardware-related issue (eg. failing computer component).  This could be a failing hard drive, CPU, RAM, motherboard, or other component.
18. Old Computer.  If your computer is older than 5 years, and you’re doing more than just email and text files on it, it’s definitely time to take it out to the back 40, and put it out of your misery.  Computers advance in technology and capabilities, and new more advanced software programs come out to run properly on those advanced computers.  Older computers are just not set up to run the newer programs, which can cause them to slow down.  If you don’t want to buy a computer, then you’ll just have to accept the limitations (both in software and in speed) of your older computer.

If you plan on purchasing a computer – give Technology by Design a call at 1-204-800-3166.  We can give you a quote on a new or refurbished computer (we are a Registered Microsoft Refurbisher!), that is built to suit your needs, AND your budget.

Don’t forget:  Unwanted and end-of-life electronics are not trash.  We all have a roll to play to ensure usable electronics don’t end up in our landfill.

Please donate unwanted electronics to family members or friends.

If you would like your electronics to go to a worthy cause,

Give us a call!  We’d be happy to arrange to pic, it up.

Call TbyD at 1-204-800-3166 or email marketing@tbyd.ca

We are a Microsoft Certified Refurbisher.

If we can tune it up, fix it up, upgrade it, and make it useable, we will.

We will then drop it off at a local charity.

If we determine that it is no longer useable, we will take it to an EPRA-Approved drop-off location.

If your electronics are no longer useable, please take them to an EPRA-Approved drop-off location near you.

For a list of location, please visit:  EPRA Manitoba.

Dear Geek,

I am an older adult that is stuck in my ways.  My computer is on XP.  My neighbour told me that I have to upgrade to a newer “OS” (?).  I don’t want to have to learn a new program.  All I use my computer for is emails, internet banking, and playing a couple of games.  Do I really need to upgrade?

Sincerely,

Can’t Teach An Old Dog New Tricks

Dear Old Dog,

I completely understand not wanting to learn a new program.  That is not exclusive to older adults – most people don’t want to learn a new program, and resist until they absolutely have to.  Unfortunately this is one of those times.  In order for me to tell you why you need to upgrade, I need to give you some background information:

‘OS’ refers to ‘Operating System‘.  This is software that manages computer hardware and software resources, and provides common services for computer programs.  Other software programs usually require an OS to be able to run on your computer.  Most times, an OSs ‘bugs’ or security issues are not discovered until the OS is in use by the general population.

OS manufacturers release ‘patches‘ to fix these ‘bugs’, which are released to users in the form of ‘updates‘.  A patch is a piece of software designed to update a computer program or its supporting data, to fix or improve it.  This includes fixing security vulnerabilities and other bugs, improving the usability or performance.  Generally, updates are released on Tuesdays.

OS system updates often address security vulnerabilities that have been discovered or not previously disclosed.  If OS system updates are not installed in a timely manner it can lead to unauthorized access to your computer, theft of personal, confidential, or Protected Health Information, or the destruction of information, files, or pictures that are on your computer.  Your computer should be set up to receive automatic updates, and should notify you when new updates are available and ready for downloading and/or installing.  When the installation is completed, the computer may require you to ‘restart’ your computer to activate the newly installed updates.

OS support (patches and updates released by the manufacturer) is available for 5 years after their GA (general availability) dates, as a general rule.  After those 5 years, the manufacturer no longer releases patches/updates for that OS, which leaves it vulnerable for hackers to access your computer.

To find a Microsoft Product’s end-of-support date, use the Microsoft Product Lifecycle Search page  to get the official answer.  Enter the name of the OS, and click ‘Search’.  You will get back a table that shows the general availability date, the retirement dates for mainstream and extended support, and retirement dates for service packs (which don’t follow the general rules of support).

Here’s the search result for Windows XP:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The date that matters most on this chart, is the one circled in red – April 8, 2014.  This is when support ended for Windows XP.

What this means to you:  Your computer, and everything it contains including your emails, internet banking information, and any pictures or other personal information you may have, is vulnerable to being accessed by computer hackers.  So, long-story-short:  yes, you need to upgrade…immediately.  If you think your computer is too “small potatoes” for hackers, think again.  It’s actually very easy for a hacker to hack into a computer that is vulnerable, like yours.  Any low-level, low-skill hacker (ie the teenager down the street) can hack into a computer such as yours…and will.

I suggest you upgrade your OS immediately.  If you can’t afford to upgrade your computer, keep all personal information off of it – emails, banking information, etc etc, and keep your computer strictly for playing solitaire.  I know, this makes your computer a very large paperweight.  Another option:  sometimes, you can get a refurbished computer for much cheaper than a brand-new one.  This would most likely not be available from any of the big-box stores – they want to sell you the newest computer out there.  Judging from your general use, you don’t need a high-powered super fast computer (that would be more suited to playing the new computer games with lots of graphics).  Just a reliable, and up-to-date one.

Need a new computer, or upgrade your old one?

Call Technology by Design at 1-204-800-3166  www.itthatworks.ca.

We don’t sell you what we want – We sell you what you NEED.

  We’ll tell you what you need, based on use and budget.  Then, we’ll tell you if your old computer is worth upgrading, or if you should invest in a newer computer.

 

Why is my computer running slower than usual?

 

 

 

If your computer usually runs at an ok speed, and has only recently started to run slowly, there are a few reasons that could cause this:

1. Surfing the internet.  Sometimes, if you’ve spent some time on numerous websites, your computer “saves” these websites and information packets (called “cookies”) which your computer uses to move from page to page & site to site on the internet.  The fix:  Delete all the “cookies” in your computer’s temporary memory.  If you don’t know how to do this, do not attempt it.  You could delete the wrong files, and cause a major catastrophe.  Get someone that knows what to do, and get them to show you how.  If you hire someone to do it, and they won’t show you, get a new computer person.  Any IT person worth keeping, will show you how to do this, because it’s an easy fix, and not really worth their time to be called out to do it.  Anybody not willing to show you how to do it, is likely pretending it takes more time than it really does, and is overcharging you.
2. Not enough memory.  If you’re running a lot of programs, your computer may be struggling to run all the programs, and having a hard time with it.  The Fix:  Either install more memory, or reduce the number of programs you are running on your computer.
3. Spyware and Malware.  This is the fastest growing threat to computers today.  Spyware can use your computer to send out spam emails and pop-up advertisements on your computer.  If you have a server, it can actually use your server as their server.  Some spyware (keyloggers) will even record your usernames, passwords, and web activity, then send them anonymously to someone who may steal your identity, read your email, or even log into your bank’s online website to steal your cash!  The fix:  Get your computer cleaned out ASAP!  Do not attempt to do it yourself if you do not know how to do it.  The longer it stays on your computer/server, the more it can take over your computer, the more spam emails it can send to your contacts, and the more information it can steal!
4. Hard Drive Failure.  If your hard drive is failing, it will cause slowness and, in severe cases, freezes or “blue screens”.  The Fix:  If your computer is showing these symptoms – Backup your data ASAP! Then get your IT person to install a new hard drive.  If you are not able to backup your data, sometimes an IT person can retrieve some of your data from your old hard drive, but not always.

Need computer help ASAP?  

Technology by Design can usually fix your computer remotely, which means you don’t lose your computer while it’s “at the shop”.

Call us at 204-800-3166!

Dear Geek,

I am tired of the constant autoplay ads that are on every webpage I visit.  Is there a way to stop them?

Signed,

AutoPlayed Out

Dear AutoPlayed,

Lately, there has been a rapid increase in websites that host autoplaying video advertisements.  This can be really annoying.  There is a way to put a stop to it.  However, before you consider disabling autoplaying video on websites that you frequent.  There is a good chance that this is the main source of income, and is what ultimately funds the production of the content you wish to view/read.  So, if you disable autoplaying ads, make sure you support your favorite website some other way, or run the risk of losing the website due to not enough funding.

Now, to disabling autoplay ads.  Depending on whether you’re running Chrome, Firefox, or Internet Explorer, there are different steps to each.

 

 

How To Stop AutoPlaying Ads, Videos, and Media in Chrome:

1. Type “chrome://chrome/settings/content” into the URL bar.
2. Scroll down to the plug-in section, and select “Click to Play”.

 

 

 

 

 

How to Stop AutoPlaying Ads, Videos and Media in Firefox:

1. Type “about:config” into the URL bar.
2. Accept the warning.
3. Enter “plugins.click_to_play” into the search box, and toggling the settings.

However, there was limited success with the steps above.

 

 

 

If this didn’t work for you, try downloading the add-on Flash Block:

1. Type into Google search “Flash Block Firefox”.
2. Install/enable the add-on. **Make sure you download from a reputable source. **
3. Restart Firefox.

All Flash content will now be on “click to play”, until you disable or remove the add-0n.

 

 

 

How To Stop AutoPlaying Ads, Videos, and Media in Internet Explorer:

1. Go to “Tools, Safety”
2. Click on the “ActiveX Filtering option.  This will put a check mark next to the option, indicating that the filtering option is enabled.

 

 

 

Email your questions for our Resident Geek to:  geek@tbyd.ca.

 

Computer problems got you grinched?  

Call Technology by Design at 204-800-3166.  

We’ll put the sparkle in your stocking again!

 

We Make I.T. Work!

With all the cyber-attacks lately, we receive one question more than any other:  

How can I protect my computer/network?

 

The most common (AND most important!) answer:  password…password…password.  This is the easiest of all the tasks you could do to protect your computer/network and information.  BUT it’s the task that a lot of people don’t place a lot of importance on.

Look at your password as the keys to your “kingdom” (your computer/network).  If you had 1 key that opened everything (and I mean EVERYTHING), from personal data, pictures, financial information, emails, credit card information, etc, would you trust it with a lock you could pick with a ballpoint pen?  Need a visual?  Think of a bathroom lock – my siblings and I have been picking those locks since we were 6-years old.  Now think of your password as that ballpoint pen.  An item that is commonly found in almost every room in every house.  Do you want your key to be that easily found?  That is how simple a lot of passwords are.  Some people even use the default passwords (see ALERT posted Dec. 8, 2014).

The top 25 common passwords of 2013:

1. 123456
2. password
3. 12345678
4. qwerty
5. abc123
6. 123456789
7. 111111
8. 1234567
9. iloveyou
10. adobe123
11. 123123
12. admin
13. 1234567890
14. letmein
15. photoshop
16. 1234
17. monkey
18. shadow
19. sunshine
20. 12345
21. password1
22. princess
23. azerty
24. trustno1
25. 000000

If any of your passwords are on that list:  Change It Now!  This list means these are the go-to passwords that hackers will try 1st.  If your password is even remotely close to any of the ones on the list:  Change It Now!  Just because you add a 1 or 0 or s to the passwords, doesn’t make it any more difficult to guess.

The best passwords to use:  a mixture of letters, numbers, and symbols.  Unfortunately for you, the best password to use, is usually the hardest to remember.  But think of it this way – if it’s easy for you to remember, it’s easy for a hacker to guess.  A good trick:  using numbers for substitutes for letters.  Scuba becomes 5cu8a or $cu8a; water becomes w4t3r or w@t3r; icecream becomes 1c3cr34m or 1(3(r34m.

Also a good rule of thumb – use a different password for every site/application.  Do Not use the same password for your online banking as you use for all your online shopping sites.  Avoid predictable passwords

Trouble remembering all the different passwords?  Check out https://www.passwordbox.com/.  It’s a free password manager, which was so good, that Intel bought the company.  So far it’s still free.

Or, you could check out a ECG-authenticating wristband, Nymi, which uses your own heart rhythm as an authenticator for everything from accessing email to unlocking cell phones and other gadgets.  They are size adjustable, and come in 3 colours.  You can reserve yours on their website for $79 until Dec. 31, 2014.

Need help with passwords?  Computer already infected/hacked?  

Call Technology by Design at 204-800-3166.

 

 

 

Following are some of the more common monitor troubles encountered:

 

 

 

My monitor screen is blank.

1. Make sure the monitor is turned on – you should see a power light (usually green or orange) on the front of the monitor.  If there’s no light, try pressing the power button.
2. If you stepped away from your computer for a few minutes, and your screen was blank when you came back, the monitor may have gone to “sleep” (a power-saving mode when the monitor is not in use).  Try moving or clicking your mouse, or pressing any key (“where’s the any key?”) such as the space bar.
3. Make sure that the monitor cord to/from the monitor to the computer tower is firmly connected on both ends.

The image on my screen is “wonky” – distored or skewed.

1. If the cable to/from the monitor to the computer tower is loose or defective, you may get a distorted image.  Disconnect the cable at the computer tower, and make sure none of the “pins” in the end of the cable are bent, broken, or missing.
2. If the refresh rate is not properly set, the image may look “wavy”, or have lines going across the monitor (either slow or quickly), or may flicker.
3. A distorted image may also be caused by magnetic or other types of interference.  Make sure there are no speakers, fans, or other magnetic devices close to the monitor

My monitor shows a “no signal input” message on the screen.

1. Make sure that the cable to/from the monitor to the computer tower is firmly connected on both ends.
2. Make sure that a cable any where else is not loose.  Disconnect all cables that can be disconnected in the back of the monitor (usually the data cable cannot be disconnected).
3. Disconnect the data cable connected to the back of the computer, and reconnect it.  When connecting the cable in the back of the computer, make sure the cable connection is tight.  Most computers will have screws on either side of the cable that must be screwed into the computer tower to hold the connector firmly in place.

There are black borders on my screen.

1. First, check if the resolution has been changed.  If it was recently changed, the monitor may not auto-adjust to the correct size.  You can change the resolution back to the original setting, or you can manually readjust the monitor.  Usually a black border can be fixed by manually adjusting the horizontal or vertical width.  Because each monitor is different, please consult your monitor user manual on how to do this.

Email your question for the Geek to:  geek@tbyd.ca.

 

For all your computer and network needs, including hardware and software,call

Technology by Design at 1-204-800-3166 or email helpdesk@tbyd.ca.

 

We Make I.T. Work!

Dear Geek,

When I’m done with my computer, I usually just hit the power button. A friend told me that I should click “shut down” instead. Who’s right?

Signed,
Turned Off

Dear Turned Off,
Bring out your wallet, because you’ve lost this bet.

When you’re done surfing the web, hitting the power might seem like you’re saving time. However, Microsoft has included the shut down feature because it enables the computer to safely shut down all programs, including “background programs” that you don’t realize are running, and to go through all the necessary steps that are required before powering off. Many versions of Microsoft Windows will actually check the computer for any problems, if it hasn’t been shut down properly.

You should always click “shut down”, unless there is an issue. Even then, you should be hitting “Control-Alt-Delete”, where you can also go through the shut down process.

Do you have a question for our Resident Geek?  Email your questions to geek@tbyd.ca.

 

Have computer or network issues?  

Call Technology by Design at 204-800-3166.  

We’ll get you up & running.

 

We Make I.T. Work!

www.wemakeitwork.ca

If your mouse is acting erratically, there are a few simple checks you can do to try to fix it.

1.  If you are using an optical mechanical mouse (it will have a little red light from the bottom), likely the mouse is dirty.  Use a soft, clean cloth to clean the underside of it.  If you are still using a mouse with a roller ball on the bottom – take the ball out.  Use a soft, clean cloth to clean it, and place the ball back in the mouse.

2.  If you are using a wired mouse, check the connection to the computer tower.  If you are using a wireless mouse, try changing the batteries.

3.  If you are using a wireless mouse, check that the mouse is turned on – there should be a little “off-on” switch on the bottom of the mouse.

4.  If you are using a laptop, check that the “dongle” (the little piece that plugs into the laptop) is firmly connected to the laptop.

5.  If you are using a wired mouse (or a “dongle” mouse with a laptop), try connecting the mouse to another computer or laptop.

If all of these checks are done, and your mouse is still behaving erratically – it’s time to call the exterminator (sorry, had to slip that in) and get a new mouse.

If you have a question for the Resident Geek, email geek@tbyd.ca.  

For computer or network assistance,

call 204-800-3166

or email helpdesk@tbyd.ca.

 

 

 

A FAQ that we get asked here at Technology by Design is:

“What do I do when my computer crashes?”  

By crashing, we mean that the computer stops responding to keyboard or mouse directions, or “freezes”.

 

There are many reasons a computer might crash.  Some of the more common ones are new hardware (e.g. someone plugs in a USB key), malware, bad power supply, bad RAM, just to name a few.  Computer programs have become so complex that occasionally users will experience problems even when performing common tasks.

When your computer no longer responds to keyboard or mouse commands, your best bet is to re-boot your computer.  If you forgot the most important rule in the computer world (Save…Save…Save…OFTEN!), you might have to re-do some of the work you’ve just spent an hour (or more) on.

If your computer doesn’t respond to the re-boot, or keeps crashing often – call your friendly neighborhood IT Guy or Girl – you need their expertise.

If you are experiencing this, or any other computer issue, give Technology by Design a call at

204-800-3166,

or email helpdesk@tbyd.ca.  

We Make IT Work!