Author Archives: Kristin Willis

Uninstalling Programs Will Help Your PC

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Unnecessary software applications may and can cause your machine to slow down over the years. If you have apps on your computer that you seldom use, you should consider removing them.

Apps take up memory space, and can stop a PC from performing at its best. They cause the computer’s CPU to work even harder than intended, as well. Uninstalling programs will not only declutter your operating system, it will enhance its performance.

To uninstall programs, follow the directions below:
  • Go to Start Menu
  • Type in Control Panel
  • Find Programs
  • Under Programs and features, click on Uninstall a program

If you prefer, you can also go to the Start Menu and go to Settings, then Apps, and afterwards Apps & features. This list will show you all of the applications, every program installed on your PC here. Browse down the list until you find the software you want to uninstall, then select it and click Uninstall.

For help with computer issues, call us at 1-800-620-5285.  Karls Technology is a nationwide computer service company with offices in many major cities. This blog post was brought to you from our staff at the Mesa Computer Repair Service. If you need computer repair in Mesa, AZ please call the local office at (480) 240-2950.

When Is Windows 11 Releasing?

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Microsoft will finally deliver Windows 11 to supported PCs on October 5th, after its announcement late in June this year.

If you plan to grab this revamped update, check your computer. The next OS will only be supported if it has the appropriate compatible hardware.

Microsoft’s stance on Windows 11 requirements remains unchanged. They said unequivocally that the new operating system will only be available for compatible devices. Unfortunately, an incompatible operating system may raise the chance of BSOD (black screen of death) or other technical problems.

Source: Windows Blog

“Since the Insider build was released, there’s been many more updates for the dev channel, where it brings back the search bar to the start menu, more refinements to the new design across the menus, alongside better multi-monitor support for the taskbar, alongside many fixes.”

Source: TechRadar

This upcoming update will be available as a free upgrade to existing Windows users. To download, install, and activate Home editions, you must be connected to the internet. Also, you must have a Microsoft account when installing or updating your PC or tablet.

If you are needing assistance with any Microsoft issues, please give us a call at 1-800-620-5285.  Karls Technology is a nationwide computer service company with offices in many major cities.  This blog post is brought to you from our staff at the Arlington Computer Repair Service. If you need computer repair in Arlington, TX please call the local office at (817) 756-6008.

Unsupported Windows 11 Could Spell Trouble

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Microsoft recommends you not download Windows 11 early

If you plan on updating your operating system to Windows 11 this fall, you will want to check your computer. The reasoning behind this is the upcoming OS will only be supported if it has the correct supported hardware.

  • Unsupported devices have 52% more kernel mode crashes (Blue Screen of Death errors). On the other hand, compatible devices provide a 99.8% crash-free experience.
  • On unsupported devices, app hangs are 17% more likely. For first-party apps, Microsoft observed 43% more crashes. -Source: Microsoft

If your computer does not have the right hardware, it will have limited support, or won’t be supported at all. Microsoft maintains its stance on Windows 11 requirements. They stated clearly that only supported devices will receive the new operating system. An unsupported operating system could, unfortunately, increase the risk of BSOD (black screen of death) or other technical errors.

If you ignore Microsoft’s advice and run the officially unsupported operating system on your device, you may not receive any quality updates via Windows Update. Microsoft officials have said that they couldn’t guarantee these devices would get monthly updates like cumulative or optional updates.

Source: WindowsLatest

If you are experiencing hardware issues, please give us a call at 1-800-620-5285.  Karls Technology is a nationwide computer service company with offices in many major cities.  This blog post is brought to you by our staff at the Riverview Computer Repair Service. If you need computer repair in Riverview, FL, please call the local office at (813) 400-2865.

How to Know What OS Your Mac is Utilizing

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While this may seem like a simple, unneeded bit of information, knowing what operating system your Mac computer is using can help when you’re needing certain aspects of features – which often requires a certain version. If you have the wrong version, it may not work for you.

The OS software controls your entire computer, including memory and hardware devices like printers and drivers. It works with the CPU (central processing unit) to make sure your computer runs the best it can. The software and the hardware go hand-in-hand.

Here’s how to find out what OS your Mac uses:

  1. Go to the Apple Menu Icon
  2. Click on “About This Mac”

From there, you’ll see the overview of information, including the name and version. There are a plethora of names, including Catalina, Mojave, and High Sierra.

In order to get the most out of your Mac, make sure that your operating system is up to date with the newest version. This will allow security to be on top of its game. Simply click on the Software Update button and follow the prompts.

If you ever have an issue with any macOS updates, give us a call at 1-800-620-5285.  Karls Technology is a nationwide computer service company with offices in many major cities. This blog post was brought to you by our staff at the Atlanta Computer Repair Service. If you need computer repair in Atlanta, GA please call or text the local office at (678) 695-8120.

Perks and Cons Browser Cookies and Cache

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Computer browser cookies seem relevantly convenient due to maintaining things in your shopping carts. They also preserve your personal information so that websites can remember you and your interests. This gives quick and easy accessibility.

Cons of Cookies

While the perks may be favorable, these cookies reveal a lack of privacy. Many sites won’t allow you to browse them without accepting the cookies. This gives them an advantage to collect data from those who visit.

On top of that, some websites may have ill-intentions. The collection of cookies allows more access to information than intended on your part. Unfortunately, this could potentially increase the risk of malware.

Did you know it’s possible for cookies to slow down your computer? The files are stored on the hard drive. Once the drive’s limit is almost full, your computer may lag a bit.

How to clear

We wrote a blog post earlier this year about how to clear these from your browser history. Within specific time frames, you may now clear any history, data, or files you choose. Incognito mode, a private surfing option, is a handy tool for individuals who want to collect as little information as possible.

If you have any computer-related questions, please give us a call at 1-800-620-5285.  Karls Technology is a nationwide computer service company with offices in many major cities.  This blog post is brought to you from our staff at the Scottsdale Computer Repair Service. If you need computer repair in Scottsdale, AZ please call the local office at (480) 240-2960 or schedule an appointment at www.scottsdalecomputerrepairservice.net.

Windows 10 Expiration Scams Are a Thing

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You may have received a warning pop-up.

Microsoft’s Windows 10 is one of cyber hackers’ favorite OS to imitate. With a large number of users, the chance of someone falling for one of their scams is quite high. Many of the viruses look legit, as hackers tend to use brand logos.

Recently, some Windows 10 users have received pop-ups on their computers. These raise warnings, stating that their Windows 10 license is expiring and that they should address the issue by calling a toll-free number.

What should you do?

First off, Windows 10 licenses that are normally pre-loaded onto the computer itself, never expire. Second, Windows wouldn’t share a toll-free number for you to call to buy a new license. Third, check the spelling. Always check the spelling. The majority of scams or viruses include a variety of spelling errors.

Windows Phone Scams

In addition to this information, Windows phone scams have started to spread to take advantage of users. So if you have a Windows phone, keep an eye out. According to AZCentral:

The scammers are trying leverage the news of Windows 7’s upcoming end of life in January and hope consumers running Windows 10 get confused when they call pretending to be a concerned Microsoft support person offering to help.

The scam is designed to convince you that you need to purchase a license renewal so that your computer won’t stop working. If you get this call, just hang up on them or feel free to have some fun with them and waste their time.

If you have any questions regarding Windows 10, call us at 1-800-620-5285.  Karls Technology is a nationwide computer service company with offices in many major cities. This blog post was brought to you by our staff at the Hollywood Computer Repair Service. If you need computer repair in Hollywood, FL please call our local office at (754) 241-1655.

Received a Phone Call from Microsoft, Don’t Answer

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If you ever receive any phone calls from someone who says they work for Apple, Google, or even Microsoft, just hang up.

While it sounds rude to do, here is why. Cyber hackers are always figuring out ways to scam potential victims. The norm was through e-mails, however they’ve found that calling customers, claiming to be the software/hardware companies, they can dupe those into giving credit card or other personal information over the phone. These people may sound completely legit and may even know what software you’re using.

According to Microsoft Security, “Once cybercriminals gain your trust, they might ask for your user name and password or ask you to go to a legitimate website (such as www.ammyy.com) to install software that will let them access your computer to fix it. Once you do this, your computer and your personal information are vulnerable. “

Here’s the thing to remember: Apple, Google, and Microsoft will never ever call you. If for whatever reason you have issues with your phone, you can easily look on the company’s website for any information regarding particular problems. What if that doesn’t work? It’s best for you to reach out to their customer service.

If you are having issues with your PC, please give us a call at 1-800-620-5285.  Karls Technology is a nationwide computer service company with offices in many major cities.  This blog post is brought to you from our staff at the Plano Computer Repair Service, if you need computer repair in Plano, TX please call the local office at (469) 299-9005.

Ventilating Your Computer

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Computers require ventilation and fans to ensure its hardware’s longevity. Overheated components can cause the PC to crash and fail. This could result in loss of data and personal information.

Dust Buildup

Over time, dust builds in computer cases and even laptops. This causes obstructing fans and restricting air movement. Unfortunately, trapping heat and preventing your PC from adequately cooling itself could cause even bigger problems. Clean your computer’s casing on a regular basis.

Now, if dust isn’t clogging it but it’s still overheating, the fan may not be working properly. It may need replaced, or it might have just come unplugged.

Another tip to remember is to keep the room clutter-free and cool. Make sure nothing is blocking the vents or fans. A warm environment could spell disaster for your computer. Humidity often becomes a culprit of PC issues.

Prolonged exposure to high humidity corrodes the components inside your computer, similar to the way damp air on a rainy day rusts metal left outdoors. When the computer’s metal and electronic pieces corrode, they can lose their conductivity, resulting in short circuits or complete computer failure. Computers should be kept in areas where the humidity level is around 45-50%. Keep them away from humidifiers and damp areas like bathrooms to prevent corrosion.

Source: AnytimeHVAC

Temperature Changes

Like the inside, it’s best not to leave your device out in the sun. Doing so can also ruin the battery. Sources say to keep the temperature within 70-80 degrees. Apple says their devices include an automatic regulation, shown below:

iPhones come with a temperature sensor, so if the device overheats it sends a notification to the user. It immediately pauses any phone activity until the temperature drops.

For inquiries with any computer issues, call us at 1-800-620-5285.  Karls Technology is a nationwide computer service company with offices in many major cities. This blog post was brought to you from our staff at the Frisco Computer Repair Service. If you need computer repair in Frisco, TX please call or text the local office at (469) 299-9005.

How To: Boot Windows 10 in Safe Mode

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If you’re needing to troubleshoot Windows to understand the reasoning behind your PC not functioning properly, use Safe Mode. This allows Windows to load when the operating system won’t start up. And it only uses the bare minimum necessities, like uninstalling updates, running system restore, and malware scans.

Here’s how to Boot Windows 10 in Safe Mode:
  1. Hold the Shift button and then press Restart
  2. The blue screen will show up, then go to Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Startup Settings > Restart > Press #4 from the list
  3. The computer will restart and you’ll be in Safe Mode
If you have Windows 8 or earlier, try these steps:
  • Windows 7 and earlier: Press the F8 key while the computer is booting (after the initial BIOS screen, but before the Windows loading screen), and then select Safe Mode in the menu that appears.
  • Windows 8: Hold Shift while clicking Restart on the Power menu on either the login screen or through the Charms bar menu to begin the process.

When you get into safe mode, you’ll have the ability to run any troubleshooting tasks available to get the job done.

For help with Safe Mode on Windows 10, call us at 1-800-620-5285.  Karls Technology is a nationwide computer service company with offices in many major cities. This blog post was brought to you from our staff at the Frisco Computer Repair Service. If you need computer repair in Frisco, TX please call or text the local office at (469) 299-9005.

Recovering Deleted Items on PCs

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If you accidentally empty the Recycle Bin on your computer, only to realize that there was something in there you actually needed, we can help. If you are using Windows Backup, there are steps you can take to recover the deleted item(s).

  1. Click on the Start button
  2. Select Computer
  3. Go to the folder that previously contained the file or folder
  4. Right-click it and select Restore previous versions.

If the folder was located on the top level of a drive, (ex. C:\) right-click on the drive, scroll down and then click on Restore previous versions.

Using File History as Back Up

Windows explains that you can,”use File History to back up to an external drive or network location.”

  1. Click Start​ button 
  2. Go to Settings  
  3. Then Update & Security 
  4.  Backup 
  5. Add a drive 
  6. Choose an external drive or network location for backups

And if you had created a backup on Windows 7, you’ll still be able to recover lost, damaged or deleted files on Windows 10, and Backup will show the “Go to Backup and Restore (Windows 7)” link you can click on to give you further instruction.

A safe place you can back up your files on Windows is OneDrive. You can get 5 MB for free, and 50 MB for $1.99 right now. However, in the coming months, you’ll be able to double that 50 and get 100 MB for $1.99. And Windows introduced Personal Vault feature, which includes additional protection your more important files and information on your personal account. Definitely recommended.

For help with restoring files on your PC, call us at 1-800-620-5285.  Karls Technology is a nationwide computer service company with offices in many major cities. This blog post was brought to you from our staff at the Denver Computer Repair Service. If you need computer repair in Denver, CO please call or text the local office at (720) 441-6460.