Category Archives: Computer Repair

Windows 11 Snipping Tool Error

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Microsoft confirms a Windows 11 error with the Snipping Tool.

A “This app can’t open – A problem with Windows is preventing Screen Snipping from opening. Refreshing your PC might help fix it” error may pop up if users try to utilize the Snipping Tool app. Microsoft’s community forums have filled up with questions regarding this issue.

Microsoft says for now to try this remedy:

“For the time being, using WIN + PrintScreen, ALT + PrintScreen, or WIN + G, are alternative options if you need to take screenshots.”

Source: Microsoft

Other apps and features, including voice typing and the touch keyboard are also experiencing issues. At this time, Microsoft doesn’t have an update to fix said issues. However, it appears they’re working on it.

For help troubleshooting PC 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 by our staff at the Brandon Computer Repair Service. If you need computer service in Brandon, FL, please call the local office at (813) 400-2865.

How to Utilize Safe Mode Properly

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Before you can make use of Safe Mode, you need to understand the basics behind it.

Safe Mode is a secure and handy feature on Windows 10 that allows you to load the minimum interface of the operating system when there are issues occurring on the normal OS. You have the ability to figure out what is causing the malfunctions and fix them accordingly.

How to boot to Safe Mode in Windows 10

Digital Citizen, a tech blog, shares 8 methods on how to boot into Windows 10 Safe Mode. Instructions are easy to follow, and can assist you in troubleshooting PC issues.

The first one, using the “Shift +Restart” option while you’re on the Sign-In screen, seems like an easy way. This will give you the Troubleshoot option. As the admin, you’ll be able to enable Safe Mode and perform the revisions necessary to get your PC back to where it needs to be.

When I tried it on my Windows 10 computer, I didn’t see “Startup Settings” in my Advanced options. Some users may only find “See more recovery options”.

From there, you can enable Safe Mode and then fulfill the needed adjustments to get your computer back on track.

Using the Settings App

Troubleshooting and Recovery are options in the Settings app, under the Update & Security. From there, you can run a troubleshooter for recommendations.

There are plenty of ways that the above blog post shares to boot to Windows 10 Safe Mode. Be sure to read it to get the best option that works for you.

For help troubleshooting PC 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.

Customizing Command Prompt App

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Windows Command Processor is the original title for Command Prompt. It’s utilized to carry out directives that have been entered. The majority of those commands use scripts and batch files to automate activities, perform advanced administrative functions, and troubleshoot or resolve specific Windows issues.

If you use the Command Processor app often, you may know how to customize it to your liking.

However, if you don’t, here’s how:
  1. Click the Windows icon on your keyboard to bring up the Start Menu
  2. Type Command Prompt in the search bar and hit Enter
  3. Once the window opens up, right-click on the taskbar
  4. Click on Properties at bottom of the drop-down

From there, you can change the font, layout, colors, and other features to your liking.

If you are needing help with Apple 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 Tucson Computer Repair Service. If you need computer repair in Tucson, AZ please call the local office at (520) 526-9940.

What is Linux and Why is it Popular?

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Everyone knows about the Windows and Mac operating systems, as they are the most commonly used on computers. And while Linux has been heard of, not many people comprehend what all their operating system does.

So here’s the scoop:

Linux is an open-source OS. Open-source means that someone can change and monitor the system. This allows users, particularly programmers to directly access its operations and add or remove desired features, along with creating what they need. Security is a benefit, allowing the user to fix errors without requesting authorization.

“Should you have a problem on a Linux system, finding a solution online is much easier than on Windows or Mac. Instead of submitting support tickets and waiting days for a reply, there are many online forums — notably askubuntu.com —  providing support. Answers are quicker and more personalized. The Linux community as a whole has a great understanding of Linux, it is difficult to encounter a problem that can’t be solved.”

Source: Red and Black
Point of View

Linux at its core is very simplistic and barebones. It doesn’t assume anything about the way the machine will or will not be used. This leaves the user a LOT of freedom to install what they want, how they want. That’s why it makes a good platform for servers. Server installs don’t even have a GUI (like windows with a mouse and icons and such). It’s all command line.

Not having a GUI running on top of everything keeps the hardware running at optimal speeds without wasting resources on things we don’t need running on there. It’s also incredibly stable and will run darn near indefinitely (baring any hardware failures) without ever breaking or failing.

Should you make the switch?

If you prefer to have more freedom and control over your operating system, Linux might be a great idea to look into. Those interested in computer programming would also benefit from working through this operating system.

If you are having security problems or any other issue with your computer and would like some assistance, 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 Green Valley Computer Repair Service. If you need computer repair in Green Valley, AZ please call the local office at (520) 526-9940.

How to End Ads on Windows 10 Start Menu

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Happy Halloween!

If you were to see pop-up ads on your Windows 10 Start Menu, don’t be alarmed. They were specifically put there by Microsoft to recommend different apps for purchase from their store. Yes, it’s a way for Microsoft to make more money, and yes it may be annoying to most users.

But did you know that you can disable that feature? Here’s how:

  1. Go to Settings on the Start Menu
  2. Go to Personalization
  3. Click Start
  4. Find the Show suggestions occasionally on Start
  5. Click the toggle off

If you are needing help with 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 by our staff at the Las Vegas Computer Repair Service. If you need computer repair in Las Vegas, NV please call the local office at (702) 800-7850.

Quick Tip: Incognito Mode

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The majority of modern browsers have an Incognito Mode feature that allows users to browse the internet anonymously. Your activities are not kept on your computer while you are incognito. Private browsing mode allows you to browse the web without saving browsing data on your browser, which makes it impossible to recover later. This comes in handy when shopping online. It deletes cookies immediately after closing the browser and empties its history.

Incognito mode is also available for iPhone and Android devices.

Here’s how to use Incognito Mode

Pressing Ctrl + Shift + N instigates a new private page in Chrome. Ctrl + Shift + P will do it in Firefox.

Unfortunately, your ISP, snoopers, and hackers can still access your data.

Despite its perks, Incognito Mode won’t hide your traffic from other parties like as your ISP, the government, or your company or university’s network administrator. It also won’t protect your traffic from hackers and other assaults and weaknesses.

Extra Security Added to Incognito

If you want more privacy, activating private browsing is a start. But you won’t retain complete anonymity or data security. There’s another way to help ensure privacy and security when you go online.

A VPN — a virtual private network — can help you create a private network that is secure and encrypted from a public Internet connection.

Source: Norton
Pros and Cons of Cookies and Cache

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 by our staff at the Henderson Computer Repair Service. If you need computer repair in Henderson, NV please call the local office at (702) 800-7850.

Microsoft Store Revamp Coming to Windows 10

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This year has been full of updates to a handful of Microsoft features, along with a new operating system. Developers are continuing the process of updating the Microsoft Store and allowing the Windows 10 OS to acquire it.

If you are in the Windows Insiders Program, you can now install the new Microsoft Store. According to WindowsLatest, “Microsoft originally announced Windows 11’s new app store in June, and since then, the company has been trying to improve the quality of its marketplace. Several servicing updates have been released as part of the Windows Insider Program and users have been testing the new Store on their devices for more than three months now.”

Source: Microsoft

The new Microsoft Store appears less crowded than the present app store. It is also built on XAML (UWP) code rather than WebView. This means especially when the internet connection itself is sluggish, the speed should be improved.

If you would like to try out the new Microsoft Store on your Windows 10 device, you can join the Windows Insiders Program. It’s free. We don’t know for sure when the installation will be open to the public, but hopefully soon.

Note for Windows Insiders: The preview may carry bugs that can affect your device. To become part of the Windows Insiders Program and try out upcoming features before anyone else, sign up here!

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 by our staff at the Tampa Computer Repair Service. If you need computer repair in Tampa, FL please call the local office at (813) 400-2865.

2021 Cyberattack Developments

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Malware, Ransomware, and spyware are just a few examples of threats that are designed to infiltrate vulnerable software. As a result, hackers can steal personal information such as social security numbers or bank passwords. The Microsoft Digital Defense Report shared that while hackers are hitting hard, cybersecurity is hitting harder.

As governments perceive cybercrime as a danger to national security, they are enacting new laws and investing more resources.

Earlier this month, Microsoft published the 2021 Microsoft Digital Defense Report (MDDR). Drawing upon over 24 trillion daily security signals across the Microsoft cloud, endpoints, and the intelligent edge, the 2021 MDDR expands upon last year’s inaugural report and contains input from more than 8,500 security experts spanning 77 countries—including insights on the evolving state of ransomware, malicious email, malware, and more.

Source: Microsoft
Source: Microsoft Digital Defense Report

To avoid dangerous cyber assaults, make sure your antivirus software is up to date on your computer. Windows 10 has Ransomware protection as part of its operating system.

In the Settings app, you’ll find a plethora of protection settings, including Firewall & network protection. You’ll also notice Virus & threat protection, which easily scans your device to search for any possible attacks.

Source: Gilbert Computer Repair Service

Ransomware protection is provided if you scroll to the bottom of the Virus & threat prevention section. Simply click on Manage ransomware protection to enable this useful tool. You may then flip the toggle On to safeguard your data on your PC. In the event that danger arises, recovering files becomes an extra option.

If you have any questions regarding ransomware, 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 St. Petersburg Computer Repair Service. If you need computer repair in St. Petersburg, FL please call our local office at (727) 350-1090. 

The Difference Between Adware and Spyware

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Throughout the world of technology, many different types of software flourish. Some are safe and secure, while others tend to cause a ruckus to your PC. No one wants that. Unfortunately, cyber hacking is very much apparent in software and has the ability to be quite secretive. Two kinds of these kinds of software are Adware and Spyware.

What is Adware?

Adware, simply put, is advertising-supported software. Malwarebytes says, “Some security professionals view it as the forerunner of the modern-day PUP (potentially unwanted program).”

It is generally a tricky method of claiming its legitimacy so you will download its content. And when you do, unwanted pop-up advertisements will occur while you’re on the internet. It’s aggravating and annoying, to say the least. However, they’re less malicious than the Spyware. Adware can exist on both PC and mobile.

What is Spyware?

Spyware is mostly described as a malicious kind of software that is intended to find personal information. And it doesn’t stop there. This also allows the hacker to track browsing and reveal any kind of login credentials. Sometimes, they’re able to review in the information and report it back to their own software, or a third-party, without the user’s knowledge or consent.

What do I do if my computer is infected?

It’s very important for your computer to have the latest update to ensure the best security and safety. The operating systems include enhanced anti-virus software, which can be ran through your Security Settings.

Windows 10, for example, involves a Virus & threat protection that automatically does a quick scan throughout the day, every day. You can also opt-in for a Full scan, a Custom scan, or a Microsoft Defender Offline scan.

Many anti-virus software options are free. Researching can help you find the best one suited for your PC.

For help updating, restoring or dealing with any Windows 10 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 Denver Computer Repair Service. If you need computer repair in Denver, CO please call or text the local office at (720) 441-6460.

What is the PC Health Check App

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Microsoft will install the PC Health Check software on Windows 10 PCs. Many people sought to delete Health Check since their computer could not meet the criteria for running Windows 11.

So what’s it all about?

PC Health Check was originally designed to provide a rating for your PC, indicating whether or not it was upgradeable to Windows 11. However, Microsoft appears to have permitted many unsupported PCs to install the latest operating system.

Source: Microsoft

“Microsoft then went back and forth on its hardware requirements for Windows 11, eventually landing on a compromise that PCs without the “supported” hardware required by PC Health Check would be able to upgrade to Windows 11, but without updates. Well, some updates—anecdotal reports say some unsupported PCs are receiving Windows 11 updates, but they’re not guaranteed.”

Source: PCWorld
Here’s how to uninstall PC Health Check app:
  1. Click Start
  2. Open Settings
  3. Go to Apps > Apps & Features
  4. Find “Windows PC Health Check”
  5. Click on the 3-dot icon
  6. Click Uninstall.

For help troubleshooting PC 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 by our staff at the Aurora Computer Repair Service. If you need computer repair in Aurora, CO, please call the local office at (720) 441-6460.