FAQ #1:  My PC is frozen, what should I do?

If your computer is completely unresponsive – the mouse is frozen and the system does not respond to keyboard entries – you will have to reboot the system.  If (and it’s rare these days) your system has a RESET button, you can press it to restart the PC without repowering.  However, most PC’s (including Macs) do not come with a reset button and you must power off the system.  To do so, press and hold the power button on your computer for at least 5 seconds (even if the system shuts down sooner).  Once the computer has fully shut down, wait 30 seconds - then power up the system.   If this situation is chronic, your system needs servicing.

FAQ #2:  I’m constantly getting reminders to update software or to scan my computer, should I do as I am asked?

The fact of the matter is that there is very little in the software world that is static.  Your computer’s operating system, security software, and applications that support web browsing / Internet access are constantly being refined and upgraded.  Ignoring these update requests is not recommended.  Here’s is a short list of the items you should always update:

- Operating system (Windows or Mac OS) critical updates

- Java

- Adobe Flash

- Anti-Virus / Firewall  updates (Norton, McAfee, CA, etc)

We DO NOT generally recommend updating device drivers via the Windows Update process.  We also ask users to read carefully when installing updates (don’t just click “next”) so you do not install a ‘free’ program or toolbar you do not want.  Also, if your INSTALLED security software is asking you to perform a scan or an update – do so. 

FAQ #3:  I was surfing the Internet when a window popped up and told me I had viruses and Trojans on my computer, do I download or run the offered software?

NO.  Repeat: That is a Negative 

Do not download any software or believe anything that might be presented in this fashion – this is typically scareware or malware.  Don’t even click on the box displaying the message.  If you’re using Windows, press the control-alt-delete keys simultaneously to get to your task manager (you may also have to click on “task manager”).  Select the Applications tab, locate the tasks for your browser, highlight and END them (click “end task”).  Afterward, if you have anti-virus software, run a full system scan. 

For Macs, click the Apple in the upper left corner, select Force Quit, find your browser program in the list, and click Quit.

If you do get infected, call us - we can remove it.  

FAQ #4:  What is Wi-Fi / what do I need to have Wi-Fi in my home or office?

Wi-Fi is the common term used to refer to the wireless networking method used by PCs, printers and smart phones / tablets.   If you have a recently installed DSL or Broadband (cable or fiber optic) Internet connection, you most likely have a Wi-Fi access point in your home or office.   If so, there will typically be a foil label on the back or underside of the modem device that will tell you the SSID (wireless network name) and the required WEP or WPA key (essentially an access password).  

If you do not have Wi-Fi and wish to upgrade your home or office network, please call and talk to us about installing one (or more) access points.  We can also configure all your PC’s, phone, game boxes for wireless internet access.

FAQ #5:  How long is a computer good for?  When should I get a new one?

The average PC – purchased new and at the midpoint or above in terms of available technology – should last 4 – 5 years.  Power users will probably want to update systems every 3 years (see: Moore’s Law).  Even when replaced by a newer system, that ‘old’ PC can be refurbished with a new hard drive and additional RAM to keep it running for another 3 years (on average). 

Mr. Computer will assist you in the configuration of a new Dell PC – this is a free service.  Just give us a call.