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Newsletter Archive
Note: The content of these newsletters is intended for clients of Joe McDonald only. Not intended for public use.
| December 2017 |
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In This Issue |
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 Effective January 1st, 2018 my rates will be
increasing to $50 per hour.
Appointments after 6:00 PM will be $75 per hour.
There will also be a new cancellation fee. Appointments that are cancelled less then 24 hours, will have a $20 fee added to the next rescheduled appointment. |
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Free Computer
and Tech Classes
On Break for the Holidays, Return in February 2018 Classes are free, and will be held at the Trilogy Clubhouse in the Four Suits room. You must be registered with me to attend. Please email me at trilogycomputerclass@gmail.com to register when classes are in session. |
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I believe if you have Windows 7, keep it because when you upgrade to Windows 10, Microsoft will remove any programs that are not compatible. These include Windows DVD maker, Office 2007, Live Mail, Quicken, etc. If your Windows 7 computer has at least 6 gigabytes (GB) of RAM, and at least a 500 GB hard drive, then you can upgrade to Windows 10. If you do not use any of the above special programs and just use your computer to browse the Internet, check your webmail email or play some Internet based games, then you may want to go to Windows 10. Windows 7 expires in the year 2020,and Windows 10 is good until at least the year 2025. If you would like me to do the upgrade for you (recommended); please call for an appointment as soon as possible. |
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I believe if you have Windows 7, keep it because when you upgrade to Windows 10, Microsoft will remove any programs that are not compatible. These include Windows DVD maker, Office 2007, Live Mail, Quicken, etc. If your Windows 7 computer has at least 6 gigabytes (GB) of RAM, and at least a 500 GB hard drive, then you can upgrade to Windows 10. If you do not use any of the above special programs and just use your computer to browse the Internet, check your webmail email or play some Internet based games, then you may want to go to Windows 10. Windows 7 expires in the year 2020,and Windows 10 is good until at least the year 2025. If you would like me to do the upgrade for you (recommended); please call for an appointment as soon as possible. |
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I will be closed, and celebrating the holidays on the follow days:
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It happens everyday to many people. You open your Internet browser on your PC or Mac computer, and your homepage has been changed to a fake search page - MyWay. Then you cannot get to your Yahoo, AOL, or Gmail email. Its easy to change your home page back to what you had, before the bad guys changed it. If you continue to use the browser set to the wrong search page, your computer will slow down as malware is installed. You must change it back as soon as possible to stay safe! Apple - Safari - Click here Microsoft PC - Internet Explorer - Click here Microsoft PC and Apple - Firefox - Click here Microsoft PC and Apple - Google Chrome - Click here |
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Never call the number on the screen! Click here to see some good advice from the FTC. Never give remote access to anyone! The latest part of this scam is that they are asking for the routing number on your check, so you can pay them for their services. Never give your routing number to anyone over the phone! They will drain your bank account! Do not be another victim of this scam!
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Apple/Mac News & Tips Cleaning up your Dock
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Your Internet Speed with Comcast has been increased to 60 MBPS (Mega Bits Per Second). To get the new speed, all you need to do is unplug the Comcast Modem for 10 seconds (black box with the light on it). Then plug it back in and wait 2 minutes. Then open your Internet browser and enjoy the Internet again! Click here for more information. Click on the NO or Cancel Button - Reminder!
Please click the "NO" button on the PC, and the "Cancel" button on the Apple/Mac to stay safe (Note: if you are doing your own maintenance). It is safe to click on the "Yes" or "OK" button in the Admin Account. If you have any questions please contact me. |
| November 2017 |
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In This Issue |
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Many users just had their computers updated to the Summer Windows 10 SP3, but hold onto your hats; here comes the Fall update. I noticed this new version on one computer so far in October. I am sure many of us will soon be updated. Like the previous version, they made minor changes to the Start menu, and other items that most users are not currently using. Here is a summary of some of the new features: View Mixed Reality. Preview the View 3D app with View Mixed Reality enabled, can take any creation from Paint 3D and see it come to life.
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What's New with Windows 10 class at Kings Ridge, November 1st at 1pm. |
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Free Computer
and Tech Classes
On Break for the Holidays, Return in February 2018 Classes are free, and will be held at the Trilogy Clubhouse in the Four Suits room. You must be registered with me to attend. Please email me at trilogycomputerclass@gmail.com to register when classes are in session. |
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Starting November 7th, 2017 AOL will stop supporting iMap settings on Computers, Tablets and Smart Phones. On Computers you will need to change the iMap settings in your email program (Outlook, Thunderbird or Live Mail) to POP. On Tablets and Smart Phones, you must install the AOL email app.
iMap syncs email between all your devices, so when you delete an email on one device, it deletes the email on all your devices. Now if you use an email program on your computer, and delete an email when you open email on other devices, you will need to delete the email there also. More work! For some reason AOL has decided to stop support of this email protocol. A few years back Yahoo also dropped support for users of the free email, but for $20 per month you could use the iMap settings. This is clearly a money making process for AOL. If you do not have AOL email you do not have to worry about these changes. Click here for more information from AOL. Please let me know if you have any questions or would like to make an appointment to have me make the changes for you. |
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With the recent big companies that were hacked and exposing many people to possible Identity Theft, many have been asking me for advice on what to do to keep our data safe. Some of my clients have signed up with LifeLock which monitors your credit and charge a monthly fee. Above is an example of their plans that they offer.
If you are a member of AAA Auto Club they are now offering a free service (Essential) or a paid service (Deluxe) for a monthly fee. I have signed up with the free service to give it a try.
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Fake emails claiming it is from Amazon
The below email was sent to one of my clients this Summer. It looks so real, but fortunately this receiver asked for help and did not call the phone number in the email. If it has a phone number, it is a fake! Many people have reported fake emails from iTunes, claiming purchases were made for hundreds of dollars, and trying to get people to call a fake number, and then costing them hundreds of dollars. If you get one of these email, please forward it to me so I can review it, and help you make the correct choice on how to respond. This email was sent to a Microsoft PC user, so she knew it was a fake. Note, the Apple OS (operating system) is free! Eventually your computer will become too old to upgrade; but your OS never expires!
Click here for more information from Amazon about fake emails. There is also a link on their website you can use to report a fake email. |
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Never call the number on the screen! Click here to see some good advice from the FTC. Never give remote access to anyone! The latest part of this scam is that they are asking for the routing number on your check, so you can pay them for their services. Never give your routing number to anyone over the phone! They will drain your bank account! Do not be another victim of this scam!
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The first thing you should do after the Safari is updated is to open Preferences (Click on Safari in top title bar then click on Preferences). Then click on General tab, and review your homepage settings. I recommend the settings below (except you should have your own homepage in the window, IE: Yahoo.com, aol.com, etc)
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Smart Phone and Email Checkup -
Click on the NO or Cancel Button - Reminder!
Please click the "NO" button on the PC, and the "Cancel" button on the Apple/Mac to stay safe (Note: if you are doing your own maintenance). It is safe to click on the "Yes" or "OK" button in the Admin Account. If you have any questions please contact me. |
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Click here to view previous issues (back to August 2015) http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Archieve_NL.html Note: The content of this newsletter is intended for clients of Joe McDonald only. Not intended for public use.
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Website
Links: Computer Tips: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Tips.html Backup: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Backup.html
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| October 2017 |
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In This Issue |
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Creator Edition 1703 (Service Pack 3) - For most, the update is installing with no problems; for a few, it has crashed their computers. If you tend to turn on your computer, check your email and then turn it back off. You will have the most problems with the update. I recommend leaving your computer on for at least eight hours for the update to install uninterrupted, which will allow the computer to download the large file, and install it. When you use your computer, you cause the update process to fail. When you turn off your computer, it tries to install the update, but if it did not download the entire 4 gigabyte file, the update will fail and cause start up issues with your computer. By leaving the computer on overnight it will give the computer the ability to computer this process uninterrupted.
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What's New with Windows 10 class at Kings Ridge, November 1st at 1pm.
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| Free Computer
and Tech Classes
October 11th 10:00 am PC Class: Hiding Win 10 Menu with the Classic Shell. Microsoft has changed the look of the Start Menu again with the latest release on Service Pack 3. Seniors do not like changes, so there is a way to opt-out using the Classic Shell program. We will explore how to install, and setup this program to make our computers easier to use. October 11th 11:30 am Apple Class: iPad Maintenance: We use our iPad everyday, and they eventually slow down and become dirty. During this class we will be doing a step by step maintenance on our iPads to freshen them up. Its been about a year since I taught one on this topic, so for many this will be a refresher class. Deadline to register is Monday, October 9th. Classes are free, and will be held at the Trilogy Clubhouse in the Four Suits room. You must be registered with me to attend. Please email me at trilogycomputerclass@gmail.com to register when classes are in session.
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Many homes lost roof shingles and some had trees blown over. Trilogy had a downburst at 7:00 PM on Sunday night at the start of the high winds and rain bands. Smart phone users received a Tornado Warning message to take cover. Very scary, but it only lasted a minute or two. The rest of the storm had alot of rain and noisy wind. In Trilogy we did not lose power which allowed us to watch our TV's as the eye wall moved over our homes at 4 am. Like many others, this was also my first hurricane and hopefully the last for a very long time.
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Many years ago, remember when our parents yelled at us to go to sleep, but we did not want to? Likewise, we are doing the same thing with our electronic devices. Never force your computer to go to sleep; let the device go into the sleep mode gradually. Most of the computers that I work on, I set the sleep time to 45 minutes, so when your are done with it you can just walk away from it, and the computer will go to sleep on its own. To wake it, just move the mouse or tap a key on the keyboard, and the computer will wake up on its own. On the Windows 10 computers when you click on shut down, the screen turns off within the first 3 seconds, but the computer does not close for up to 30 seconds. If you have a laptop, and you click on shut down, DO NOT CLOSE the lid until all the lights go off on the computer. Some users click on shut down, and then instantly close the lid which forces the computer to Go To Sleep before it shuts down. This confuses the computer. The next day when the lid is opened, the computer does not start correctly. When our parents yelled at us to go to sleep, and we never did, it just made us mad. So forcing a computer to go to sleep will make our computers mad at us. In conclusion, be nice to your computer and it will be nice to you.
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Printer Manual bad Phone Numbers
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 Mapquest
ads laced with malware?
I recommend using Google Maps which do not have any ads. Onlinemapfinder, Mytransitguide and Flightsearch malware has been popping up on computers when users visit the Mapquest website. I have seen a definite pattern related to that website. Mapquest is owned by Verizon, which also owns AOL and other companies. The Google Maps website does not contain any ads, and is easy to use. Best of all - its free!
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Never call the number on the screen! Click here to see some good advice from the FTC. Never give remote access to anyone! The latest part of this scam is that they are asking for the routing number on your check, so you can pay them for their services. Never give your routing number to anyone over the phone! They will drain your bank account! Do not be another victim of this scam!
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The new Mac OS 10.13 High Sierra was released on September 25th, 2017. Most of the time, the new OS is released yearly prior to the holidays, but it was released earlier in September which surprised me. I upgraded an iMac to the new operating system, and there were no problems (yet). I normally recommend that you wait at least one month before upgrading, and let the bugs get worked out. The upgrade took two hours; one hour to download the 4 gigabyte file, and one hour to install it. If you need help upgrading, please give me a call to schedule an appointment. You need Mac OS X 10.8 or higher with at least 2 gigabytes of ram (I recommend 4 GB min). It will also need 15 GB of storage space on your hard drive. You will need your Apple ID password to install.
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Click on the NO or Cancel Button - Reminder!
Please click the "NO" button on the PC, and the "Cancel" button on the Apple/Mac to stay safe (Note: if you are doing your own maintenance). It is safe to click on the "Yes" or "OK" button in the Admin Account. If you have any questions please contact me. |
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Click here to view previous issues (back to August 2015) http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Archieve_NL.html Note: The content of this newsletter is intended for clients of Joe McDonald only. Not intended for public use.
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| Website
Links: Computer Tips: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Tips.html Backup: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Backup.html
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| If you do not want to do your own monthly maintenance on your computer, I can visit (if you live in Lake County), and take care of it for you on a semi-annual basis. Please contact me to setup scheduled visits, call 352-449-8561. |
| September 2017 |
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In This Issue |
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Creator Edition 1703 (Service Pack 3) Many people are reporting problems with this update. In a few cases it crashed the computer hard drive. In others, it killed the printer software. Microsoft knew this update was buggy which is why they delayed the release. To get the update installed bug free, I recommend leaving the computer on overnight to give it time to install without interruption. If you had the invitation to install (blue screen featured in last months newsletter), then its time to pickup the TV remote and let Microsoft update your computer. If you use your computer while an update is trying to install, you may become the latest casualty of this update.
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| Free Computer
and Tech Classes
September 13th 10:00 am PC Class: Hiding Win 10 Menu with the Classic Shell Microsoft has changed the look of the Start Menu again with the latest release on Service Pack 3. Seniors do not like changes, so there is a way to opt-out using the Classic Shell program. We will explore how to install, and setup this program to make our computers easier to use. September 13th 11:30 am Apple Class: iPad Maintenance: We use our iPad everyday, and they eventually slow down and become dirty. During this class we will be doing a step by step maintenance on our iPads to freshen them up. Its been about a year since I taught one on this topic, so for many this will be a refresher class. Classes are free, and will be held at the Trilogy Clubhouse in the Four Suits room. You must be registered with me to attend. Please email me at trilogycomputerclass@gmail.com to register when classes are in session.
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Avast Free Antivirus Tricks and Tips I still recommend Avast Antivirus Free. I am not happy though with all the tricks to install add ons. Never install any other software from Avast! Also turn off options to install the Google Toolbar. See the photos below, and how to respond when you see these screens appear on your computer.
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Never call the number on the screen! Click here to see some good advice from the FTC. Never give remote access to anyone! The latest part of this scam is that they are asking for the routing number on your check, so you can pay them for their services. Never give your routing number to anyone over the phone! They will drain your bank account! Do not be another victim of this scam!
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Click on the NO or Cancel Button - Reminder!
Please click the "NO" button on the PC, and the "Cancel" button on the Apple/Mac to stay safe (Note: if you are doing your own maintenance). It is safe to click on the "Yes" or "OK" button in the Admin Account. If you have any questions please contact me. |
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Click here to view previous issues (back to August 2015) http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Archieve_NL.html Note: The content of this newsletter is intended for clients of Joe McDonald only. Not intended for public use.
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| Website
Links: Computer Tips: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Tips.html Backup: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Backup.html
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| If you do not want to do your own monthly maintenance on your computer, I can visit (if you live in Lake County), and take care of it for you on a semi-annual basis. Please contact me to setup scheduled visits, call 352-449-8561. |
| August 2017 |
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Creator Edition 1703 (Service Pack 3)
The new version of Windows 10 is now being released to most users. The screen above is the final step before the update is installed. Once started, you will not be able to use your computer for an hour or two while the update is being installed. Because of this, you may want to install the update at night when you are ready to go to sleep. The update will install and restart the computer, then finally go to sleep when its done. The next day just move the mouse or tap the space bar, and the computer will wake up again. Then the new version of Windows 10 will be installed. If you are using the Classic Shell start menu, you will not notice any major changes. For everyone else they now have hidden the Programs list and you will just have a blank blue menu. If you want to see the Programs list, you must click on a new Hamburger icon (4 lines, double patty) just below the previous Hamburger icon (3 lines, the bun and one patty). I am now recommending the Classic Shell Start menu which will allow you to keep your computer looking the same no matter how many times Microsoft updates your computer. I will be teaching a class in September on this topic. If you would like to learn more about it, see below for details. Windows 10 Fall Creators Update (Build 2017, Service Pack 4) will be pushed to our computers later in this year. They are planning to change the look of the Start menu once again. They plan to add apps to the Microsoft store that are currently in the Google (Android) Play Store and Apple Store. Click here for more details. |
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Is your Smart Phone contract up for renewal? I recommend taking a look at what Consumer Cellular has to offer. I have been using this company for over five years now, and I am very happy with them. There are no contracts to sign. You can either use your existing phone, or purchase a new one. You choose your Talk Plan and finally you select the Text/Data Plan. I am currently using the 1,500 minutes Talk Plan which costs me $20 per month, and the 500 MB Data Plan which costs me an additional $10 per month. They give discounts if you are an AARP member.
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| Free Computer
and Tech Classes
September 13th 10:00 am PC Class: Hiding Win 10 Menu with the Classic Shell Microsoft has changed the look of the Start Menu again with the latest release on Service Pack 3. Seniors do not like changes, so there is a way to opt-out using the Classic Shell program. We will explore how to install, and setup this program to make our computers easier to use. September 13th 11:30 am Apple Class: iPad Maintenance: We use our iPad everyday, and they eventually slow down and become dirty. During this class we will be doing a step by step maintenance on our iPads to freshen them up. Its been about a year since I taught one on this topic, so for many this will be a refresher class. Classes are free, and will be held at the Trilogy Clubhouse in the Four Suits room. You must be registered with me to attend. Please email me at trilogycomputerclass@gmail.com to register when classes are in session.
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Trilogy Community Only: New Spectrum Contract
The new 5 year contract begins in September. It includes 450 TV channels, nationwide phone service, and 60 MBPS Internet service. Trilogy residents will be receiving a letter in the mail from Spectrum in August with more details, and contact phone numbers. Most residents will require a new modem that can handle the higher Internet speeds.
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Trilogy new Community Website and Tech Bar
I will be in the Artisan Studio on Wednesday, August 2nd and Wednesday, August 9th from 9:00 am to 10:30 am. This is for Trilogy residents only.
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If you visited any Google websites over the past few weeks, you may have spotted one of these annoying pop ads from Google promoting the Google Chrome Internet browser. The one above is annoying because when you click on "No Thanks", the banner ad returns the next time you visit that page. I love the Google websites, email and mapping programs, but getting tired of their ads. I use the Firefox Internet browser because it is fast and easy to use. No matter how many ads are in view, I am not switching to Google Chrome. So when you see the ads, just ignore them.
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Never call the number on the screen! Click here to see some good advice from the FTC. Never give remote access to anyone! The latest part of this scam is that they are asking for the routing number on your check, so you can pay them for their services. Never give your routing number to anyone over the phone! They will drain your bank account! Do not be another victim of this scam!
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Click on the NO or Cancel Button - Reminder!
Please click the "NO" button on the PC, and the "Cancel" button on the Apple/Mac to stay safe (Note: if you are doing your own maintenance). It is safe to click on the "Yes" or "OK" button in the Admin Account. If you have any questions please contact me. |
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Click here to view previous issues (back to August 2015) http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Archieve_NL.html Note: The content of this newsletter is intended for clients of Joe McDonald only. Not intended for public use.
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| Website
Links: Computer Tips: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Tips.html Backup: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Backup.html
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| If you do not want to do your own monthly maintenance on your computer, I can visit (if you live in Lake County), and take care of it for you on a semi-annual basis. Please contact me to setup scheduled visits, call 352-449-8561. |
| July 2017 |
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I will be closed Monday, July 3rd and Tuesday July 4th for the holiday. I will reopen Wednesday at 9:00 am.
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Creator Edition 1703 (Service Pack 3) July 2017 Please visit my Windows Tips and Tricks website with the new look. Microsoft has started to release this update. If you do not have it yet, your computer should be automatically upgrading to the new version soon. If your computer is going crazy, then its possible that the new update is being installed. One client had strange streaks appear on the screen as the video drivers were being updated. Before the update can begin, you will get the "Privacy Survey" window (see below). New Privacy window. Answer questions as follows:
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Get out of Trouble Test If you are signed up for me to do the 6 month Maintenance on your PC computer(s), I will now be testing you at the end of my next visit. The new test will teach you how to close the Fake Microsoft Tech Support Window that is popping up on many PC computers. When it does, it disables your mouse and touch screens! When the window opens sometimes there is a beeping noise that may cause you to panic. Knowing what to do in this situation will prepare you if it happens to you. There is going to be a test...
If you want to test yourself right now, make sure you have saved any documents or emails. Then try to close this newsletter without using your mouse. The solution is: Press on CTRL + ALT + Delete on your keyboard. A window will appear that will unlock your mouse. Then click on Signout (Windows 10 and Windows 8) or Logoff (Windows 7). Then click on your name to go back to your account. These simple steps will make the Fake Microsoft window go away. You should be comfortable doing these steps, so if this happens you will be prepared. I am getting at least one call a day from clients surprised by this fake window!
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| Free Computer
and Tech Classes
No Classes - Summer Break Classes are free, and will be held in the Trilogy Clubhouse. You must be registered with me to attend. Please email me at trilogycomputerclass@gmail.com to register when classes are in session. On Summer Break - Classes return Fall 2017.
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Finally, an explanation of the New AOL Desktop Software. I installed the program for one of my clients recently and found the AOL website that has the download to AOL Gold software. Click here to visit the website - https://productcentral.aol.com/products/aol-desktop-gold I also found this information under the Terms of Service at the bottom of this website: The AOL company name has changed to Oath. Oath is part of the Verizon family of companies, and consists of over 50 digital and mobile brands globally, including AOL. So if you do not want to change to using an Internet browser to access your AOL email for free, then you can download this software from Verizon and pay $3.99 per month. Its not a scam, just a poor explanation of a new product. It caused lots of stress for my clients, and more work for me trying to determine if this was real or just another scam. Click here to read the explanation from Brenda Jennings, Senior Vice President, AOL Membership
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I have updated my Windows Tips n Tricks website with the steps to Register the Avast Anti Virus program that I recommend. Once a year the program must be registered, in order to keep using it for free. That is the time you will get an offer to buy the program. I DO NOT recommend buying Avast! Click here to review the steps to keep the Free version of Avast which I highly recommend. Note, on Apple/Mac computers you do not have to register yearly, its always free.
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New Minimum House Call Service visit fee $20
If I make a quick home visit, this will be the minimum that I will charge for this visit. |
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Click on the NO or Cancel Button - Reminder!
Please click on the NO button on the PC, and the Cancel button on the Apple/Mac to stay safe. Note: if you are doing your own maintenance. It is safe to click on the Yes or OK button in the Admin account. If you have any questions please contact me.
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Click here to view previous issues (back to August 2015) http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Archieve_NL.html Note: The content of this newsletter is intended for clients of Joe McDonald only. Not intended for public use.
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| Website
Links: Maintenance: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Maintenance.html Computer Tips: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Tips.html Backup: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/MonthlyBackup.html
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| If you do not want to do your own monthly maintenance on your computer, I can visit (if you live in Lake County, FL) and take care of it for you on a semi-annual basis. Please contact me to setup scheduled visits, call 352-449-8561. |
| June 2017 |
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In This Issue |
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Creator Edition 1703 (Service Pack 3) June 2017 Please visit my Windows Tips and Tricks website with the new look. Microsoft is continuing to delay the release of this update. If you do not have it yet, your computer should be automatically upgrading to the new version soon. New Windows 10 Settings menu:
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Get out of Trouble Test If you are signed up for me to do the 6 month Maintenance on your PC computer(s), I will now be testing you at the end of my next visit. The new test will teach you how to close the Fake Microsoft Tech Support Window that is popping up on many PC computers. When it does, it disables your mouse! When the window opens sometimes there is a beeping noise that may cause you to panic. Knowing what to do in this situation will prepare you if it happens to you. There is going to be a test...
If you want to test yourself right now make sure that you have saved any documents or emails. Then try to close this newsletter without using your mouse! The solution is: Press on CTRL + ALT + Delete on your keyboard. A window will appear that will unlock your mouse. Then click on Signout (Windows 10 and Windows 8) or Logoff (Windows 7). Then click on your name to go back to your account. These simple steps will make the Fake Microsoft window go away. You should be comfortable doing these steps, so if this happens, you will be prepared.
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| Free Computer
and Tech Classes
No Classes - Summer Break Classes are free, and will be held in the Trilogy Clubhouse. You must be registered with me to attend. Please email me at trilogycomputerclass@gmail.com to register when classes are in session. On Summer Break - Classes return Fall 2017.
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Remember to Backup With the recent stories in the news about Worldwide Ransomware attacks, now is a good time to make sure that your Documents, Photos, Music and Favorites/Bookmarks are backed up. Flash Drives are very inexpensive, and the process is easy! Insert a flash drive into a USB slot on your computer, and a window will open. Click, hold, drag and drop your important files into the window, and you are all set. If you get Ransomware on your computer, the only thing you can do is wipe your computer. Reinstall the operating system, and then restore your files from your flash drive. Please let me know if you have any questions about backing up your files.
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I have updated my Windows Tips n Tricks website with the steps to Register the Avast Anti Virus program that I recommend. Once a year the program must be registered to keep using it for free. That is the time you will get an offer to buy the program. I DO NOT Recommend buying Avast! Click here to review the steps to keep the Free version of Avast which I highly recommend. Note, on Apple/Mac computers you do not have to register yearly, its always free.
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In March 2017, Microsoft released a Windows Update to patch PC computers running Windows 7, Windows 8.1 & Windows 10. It did not patch Windows Vista or Windows XP machines because those operating systems are no longer supported. So most users do not have to worry about this attack if they are getting regular Windows Updates. It does not attack Apple/Mac computers. You should still be very careful of any emails with attached files. If you move your mouse over an attachment, look for an extension - .jpg is a photo and .pdf is a document. Do not open any other files extensions!
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Click on the NO or Cancel Button - Reminder!
Please click on the NO button on the PC, and the Cancel button on the Apple/Mac to stay safe. Note: if you are doing your own maintenance. It is safe to click on the Yes or OK button in the Admin account. If you have any questions please contact me.
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Apple Mac Mini is a small box with a big punch! If you are planning on replacing your iMac or Macbook you may want to take a look a this computer.
You will need to have your own monitor, keyboard and mouse to use this computer. When it arrives it only has a power cord. You do not have to use an Apple keyboard, you can use a generic wireless or wired keyboard and mouse. Just plug them into the USB ports on the back. The monitor can use a standard HDMI cable. If you have an old VGA monitor, you can buy an adapter for $50 from Walmart. A 15" Macbook starts at $2,000 or a 21" iMac starts at $1,500. For $499 you can be up and running at an affordable price. Click here for more information - https://www.apple.com/mac-mini/
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I had over 16,000 visitors viewing my website in April, but its very strange since I only have 900 clients. The answer is the article that I wrote in my newsletter about the AOL Desktop Gold program. AOL users worldwide tried to find out what was happening to their email program, and they found my website during their Internet searches. As you see from my report, I average about 500 visitors a month so this was a shock to me when I checked my website report. As for the AOL program, I am still not sure if its a scam or not. Some of my clients still use the AOL Desktop 9.7 and 9.8 versions with no problems, while others open it to the dreaded red window with the demand for money. If its legit, then AOL picked a lousy way to introduce a new product. I have looked at the new program, and I do not see ANY improvements. My advice still holds, use a regular Internet browser (Internet Explorer, Firefox, Google Chrome or Safari), or switch to another free email provider (Gmail, msn, etc).
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Click here to view previous issues (back to August 2015) http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Archieve_NL.html Note: The content of this newsletter is intended for clients of Joe McDonald only. Not intended for public use.
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| Website
Links: Maintenance: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Maintenance.html Computer Tips: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Tips.html Backup: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/MonthlyBackup.html
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| If you do not want to do your own monthly maintenance on your computer, I can visit (if you live in Lake County, FL) and take care of it for you on a semi-annual basis. Please contact me to setup scheduled visits, call 352-449-8561. |
| May 2017 |
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In This Issue |
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Creator Edition 1703 (Service Pack 3) May 2017 This update has been delayed by Microsoft due to issues and problems related to the new operating system. They are now doing a "controlled rollout approach", blocking some computers from downloading so that the Microsoft servers do not get overwhelmed by the traffic. To date, only 10% of Worldwide computers have been updated. I decided to do a manual update on my Windows 10 computer and it worked. I was surprised that it took over 2 hours to download and install. I am in the process of updating my Windows Tips and Tricks website with the new look. My advice is to wait for your computer to be automatically updated. The new features are not worth rushing the process of updating your computer. Your computer will update when its ready. In my review of the new Windows 10, so far the most annoying feature is the Internet Explorer Edge Tab. After your computer upgrades to SP3, then follow these steps below to hide this new feature.
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If you are a resident in Kings Ridge, I will be hosting a Tablet class on May 3rd at 1pm. Contact Roy Gordon or Frank Zarcone if you have questions. |
| Free Computer
and Tech Classes
No Classes - Summer Break Classes are free, and will be held in the Trilogy Clubhouse. You must be registered with me to attend. Please email me at trilogycomputerclass@gmail.com to register when classes are in session. On Summer Break - Classes return Fall 2017. |
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I was wrong, it was not a scam. AOL has stopped offering the free AOL Desktop program. You can still access your AOL email for free using the Internet Explorer, Firefox or Google Chrome Internet browsers if your Desktop program gets the window above. If you want to use the Desktop version, you may have to pay. On one website they are asking $3.99 per month, and on the message above its $5.99 per month. Once again there is NO information on the aol.com website about this new product, which to me raises many red flags. Click here to read reviews of the AOL Tech Support (BBB.org) which is included in this paid service. My advice is to use an Internet browser, or switch to another free email service (gmail, outlook.com). This has not affected all Desktop users yet. In some cases, the program is still functioning so time will tell. |
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If you are trying to move photos from a Digital Camera, Smart Phone or Tablet, and your Windows PC computer does not open a program to help you, then try these steps. Open "Computer" for Windows 7 users or "This PC" for Windows 8 and Windows 10 users). You should see the device in the window. Right click on the Device, then left click on the option to Import pictures and videos. A wizard will open to assist you with copying the photos from your device onto your computer. Apple/Mac computer. Plug in your smart phone or tablet, and iTunes will open. Click on the iTunes menu at the top, then click on Quit iTunes. Next open the Photos program, and click on the Import button. If you do not quit the iTunes program, you will not be able to import your photos. |
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Click on the NO or Cancel Button - Reminder!
Please click on the NO button on the PC, and the Cancel button on the Apple/Mac to stay safe. Note: if you are doing your own maintenance, it is safe to click on the Yes or OK button in the Admin account. If you have any questions please contact me.
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Now is the time to upgrade to 10.12 Sierra. If you are running 10.7.5 or higher, have at least 2 gigabytes of RAM, and at least 20 gigabytes of free hard drive space then you should be able to upgrade. This version of MacOS has been available since the Fall of 2016, and it is stable and safe to upgrade to. You will need your Apple ID password to upgrade, and your Administrator password. To upgrade - open the Apple Store on your computer, and click on 10.12 Sierra Upgrade at the top of the Updates window. The upgrade will download to your computer, then restart and install. It takes about two hours, depending on the RAM in your computer and Internet speed. If you have any questions or need assistance upgrading, please contact me.
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Click here to view previous issues (back to August 2015) http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Archieve_NL.html Note: The content of this newsletter is intended for clients of Joe McDonald only. Not intended for public use.
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| Website
Links: Maintenance: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Maintenance.html Computer Tips: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Tips.html Backup: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/MonthlyBackup.html
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| If you do not want to do your own monthly maintenance on your computer, I can visit (if you live in Lake County, FL) and take care of it for you on a semi-annual basis. Please contact me to setup scheduled visits, call 352-449-8561. |
| April 2017 |
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In This Issue |
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Creator Edition (Service Pack 3) April 2017 Creators Update is on its way...
One of the new features gives you a little bit more control. "Restart Now" will install the update at that moment. "Pick a Time", will let you schedule when the computer will restart, and install the update. "Snooze" lets you delay the update for three days. Active Hours currently limits you to 12 hours per day. The new version claims that we can extend that restart window.
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If you are a resident in Kings Ridge, I will be hosting a Smart Phone class on April 5th at 1pm. Contact Roy Gordon or Frank Zarcone if you have questions. |
| Free Computer
and Tech Classes
April 12th at 10:00 am - Smart Phone Class This month we will be combining the 10:00 am and the 11:30pm classes into one session which will start at 10:00 am. If you have an Android (Play Store App) or an iPhone (Apple Store App), then bring your phones for a hands on smart phone basics class. Flip phones and Jitterbug type phones will not be covered. Space is limited, so please sign up early. Deadline to sign up will be Saturday, April 8th by 6pm. We will be learning the basic functions beyond making phone calls. How to use email, take photos and videos. We will cover how to adjust the phone settings, how to add contacts, and install apps from the Store. Classes are free, and will be held in the Trilogy Clubhouse. You must be registered with me to attend. Please email me at trilogycomputerclass@gmail.com to register. Deadline to register is Saturday, April 8th by 6pm.
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Please print out the above picture, and tape it near your computer. This will save you from hours of turmoil related to the bad guys taking over your computer. The latest twist is if you do not pay them the money they demand, then they will lock your computer with a password. If this happens to you, there is NO FIX! You will have to buy a new computer, and all your pictures and documents will be lost. Do not call the number on the screen!!
All it takes is you can be browsing the Internet for a coupon or a recipe, and all of a sudden a window appears on your screen. It says its from Microsoft or Apple, and a phone number is in the message. In some cases, there is also a loud beeping noise, which makes most users panic. If you call the number on the screen, it will say they can 'fix' your computer, and will trick you into giving them remote control over your computer. They will make a copy of all your documents and pictures to their computer, and will install nasty viruses. Finally, they will demand $200 to $400 to 'fix' it. In the latest twist to this scam if you refuse to pay, they add a BIOS password to your computer, and do not give you the password, so you are locked out. I have been writing about these fake pop up windows for over two years now, but people are still falling for it. We need to get the word out that pressing down on the CTRL + ALT + Delete keys will close this fake window, and give you control over the computer. Do not call the number on the screen!!!
For more information or to file a report with the FTC click here - https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0346-tech-support-scams
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Add your Favorite websites to your Desktop
This is a neat trick that comes in handy if there are a few websites you visit everyday. The downside is, if you add too many shortcuts to your desktop you cannot see the desktop picture.
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AOL Desktop Gold - Scam ??
Many of my clients have forwarded this email they received. It started showing up about mid March. I did a ton of research, and as of today I still cannot prove if its real or a scam! One indication that it might be a scam, is the reply to address, @message.aol.com That is not an aol email address, so to me this looks like a phishing scam. The second issue is when you go to aol.com, there is no mention on their website that they are discontinuing the free aol desktop program. Also, you cannot find AOL Desktop Gold to download! So this is going to be a wait and see situation. After April 10th or 11th, if AOL Desktop is still working, then you know it was a scam. If you get a message that your product has been discontinued, then you can make a choice. Most will dump AOL, and go to a free email. I recommend gmail. But you should still be able to access free aol email using an Internet browser. If this is a scam you can report it to aol. Click here for more information. - http://mail.security.aol.com/suspicious-emails
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Click on the NO or Cancel Button - Reminder!
Please click on the NO button on the PC, and the Cancel button on the Apple/Mac, to stay safe. Note: if you are doing your own maintenance, it is safe to click on the Yes or OK button in the Admin account. If you have any questions please contact me.
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I found this surprise when I was working on a clients
computer recently. I have no idea how this little guy got inside. |
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Click here to view previous issues (back to August 2015) http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Archieve_NL.html
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| Website
Links: Maintenance: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Maintenance.html Computer Tips: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Tips.html Backup: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/MonthlyBackup.html
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| If you do not want to do your own monthly maintenance on your computer, I can visit (if you live in Lake County, FL) and take care of it for you on a semi-annual basis. Please contact me to setup scheduled visits, call 352-449-8561. |
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| March 2017 |
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In This Issue |
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Creator Edition (Service Pack 3) April 2017 Compact Overlay window - This is a new feature that will allow you to watch videos in a window that will float on top of all other windows that you currently have open at that time. You can check your email, and watch a video at the same time. Lets hope that Microsoft does not use this window to display video ads. Dynamic Lock - Dynamic Lock automatically locks your computer when you’re not around, based on the location of your smart phone. If your Smart phone is not found near your computer, Windows will turn off the screen, and lock the computer after 30 seconds. To enable Dynamic Lock, make sure your phone is paired to your computer using Bluetooth. Then you must go to "Start", "Settings", and then "Accounts". Click on Sign-in options, and toggle Dynamic lock to “on”. If you do not like this feature you can turn it off thankfully.
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Sort by Date: Click on the word "Date" 2 times and your email will be sorted with the newest emails on top. If you click on the word "Subject" by accident, then your Inbox will be sorted by subject, which is very confusing. So click on "Date" 2 times and its back to normal.
Aol Folders Labels missing: There is a small gray handle you can drag to the right which will show you the names of your folders. Sometimes you may accidentally click on the 'handle' and it will hide the folder labels. A simple drag and drop brings them back. Unfortunately there is no way to lock the 'handle'. The above steps will only work with Aol email, which you access through an Internet browser (Internet Explorer, Firefox, Google Chrome or Safari). Aol Desktop program has a different look, and these tips do not work. Aol Desktop is 'as is'. It does not let you change the look of your inbox. There is also the Aol 'classic' (recommended if you have slow Internet access) that also looks different then this version.
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| Free Computer
and Tech Classes
March Classes: Wednesday, March 8th at 10:00 am - Microsoft Windows 10 Creators Update (Service Pack 3). In this class we will review what is new in this latest version of Windows 10. We will also review the steps that you can take to turn off some of the new features, and return your computer to "normal". Wednesday, March 8th at 11:30 am - Apple iPad Beginners class. Did you get a new iPad as a gift, and you do not know how to turn it on and off? Then this class is for you. This will be a very basic class on how to use this device. We will be covering how to install apps, how to setup your email, learn to print, and other fun things. Classes are free, and will be held in the Trilogy Clubhouse. You must be registered with me to attend. Please email me at trilogycomputerclass@gmail.com to register. Please indicate which classes you plan to attend. Deadline to register is Saturday, March 4th by 6pm.
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A new version of this antivirus program has been released. If you are doing your own maintenance on your computers, please click here for the steps you must take to update to this new version. If you are signed up for the Maintenance Plan, (which I take care of the maintenance of your computers) I will be update to the new version on my next visit. This new version includes WebRep browser add on, which blocks ads from appearing on the website, which is a nice feature.
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Effective March 1st, my new hours will be 9:00 am to 7:00 pm Monday to Saturday. During these hours I will respond to your phone calls, and answer your emails.
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Click on the NO or Cancel Button - Reminder!
Please click on the NO button on the PC, and the Cancel button on the Apple/Mac, to stay safe. Note: if you are doing your own maintenance, it is safe to click on the Yes or OK button in the Admin account. If you have any questions please contact me.
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Keychain Help - On the Apple computer, a keychain is a password keeping system that uses a Master password for all your websites and email passwords. Most often, the user forgets the keychain password, and the window above pops up every time they open Safari or Mail. I do not recommend activating the keychain, but if you do, use the same password that you log into your computer. Forgot Keychain Password: 1. Open Keychain Access, which is in the Utilities
folder within the Applications folder. Click here for additional help with Keychain issues.
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Printer Tips
Printer offline - 2 steps to take when printer offline
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Click here to view previous issues (back to August 2015) http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Archieve_NL.html
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| Website
Links: Maintenance: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Maintenance.html Computer Tips: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Tips.html Backup: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/MonthlyBackup.html
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| If you do not want to do your own monthly maintenance on your computer, I can visit (if you live in Lake County, FL) and take care of it for you on a semi-annual basis. Please contact me to setup scheduled visits, call 352-449-8561. |
| February 2017 |
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In This Issue |
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New Year |
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New Look |
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Windows 10 Service Pack 3 is coming in April. The update will install automatically as you turn off your computer. One of the first things you will notice is the Internet Explorer icon on the taskbar may be missing, and the dark blue Edge e will be in its place. One of the new features will be the Dynamic Lock that will sense when you are not in front of your computer, and will log you out of your account. A laptop that has a webcam will allow this option to work. Computers without cameras most likely will not work as the sensor needs to "see" you. Build 1511 (Service Pack 1) expires in March 2017, so you need to make sure you are using the new version of Windows 10 (apps layered on top of Documents, Pictures, Power labels). The current version is Build 1607 (Service Pack 2). If you are not sure which version you have, type 'winver' into the search window, and press the enter key. A new version of Windows 10 will be released every 6 months.
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Internet Explorer and Google Chrome was retired a few years ago on Windows XP and Vista computers. Now Firefox has followed their lead and stopped support. If you are still using Windows XP or Vista, you may soon get a message that your Internet browser is not supported and the website cannot load. It may be time to buy a new computer. Click here for more information.
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| Free Computer
and Tech Classes
No classes in February. Classes will resume in March. March Classes: Wednesday, March 8th at 10:00 am - Microsoft Windows 10 Creators update (Service Pack 3). In this class we will review what is new in this latest version of Windows 10. We will also review the steps that you can take to turn off some of the new features and return your computer to "normal". Wednesday, March 8th at 11:30 am - Apple iPad Beginners class. Did you get a new iPad as a gift, and you do not know how to turn it on and off? Then this class is for you. This will be a very basic class on how to use this device. We will be covering how to install apps, how to setup your email, learn to print, and other fun things. Classes are free, and will be held in the Trilogy Clubhouse. You must be registered with me to attend. Please email me at trilogycomputerclass@gmail.com to register. Please indicate which classes you plan to attend.
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There is a new version of Malwarebytes that works best on Windows 10 computers. It is slowly being released to users. If you are currently running 2.21, you may get it the next time you run the program. They changed the way you get the free version, and its a bit tricky. If you do your own maintenance, then Click on the 'Maintenance Instructions' link in your Internet Explorer browser for the steps you will need to take to get the free version (deactivation process). The scans run faster than the previous versions of the program.
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Did you change your email address or Phone number this year?
There were many changes this year for the Royal Highlands and Kings Ridge communities. The above photo shows Fiber Optics being installed in the Kings Ridge community. If you changed your phone number or email address, please send me an email with your new contact information.
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Look at your printer - is there a blue light flashing? If yes, then you need to restart your wireless router. If the light is solid blue, then first restart your printer (off then on)
and then restart your computer. Try to print again. If the above steps do not work, then call or email me for help.
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Click on the NO or Cancel Button - Reminder!
Please click on the NO button on the PC, and the Cancel button on the Apple/Mac, to stay safe. Note: if you are doing your own maintenance, it is safe to click on the Yes or OK button in the Admin account. If you have any questions please contact me.
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Over the past two years, many Microsoft PC users have been tricked by a fake ad that pops up on their computer, and locks up their mouse. Unfortunately, the bad guys have figured out a way to make it happen on Apple/Mac computer. It attacks the Mail program or the iTunes program. If it happens to you, a window will appear with a phone number claiming to be Apple Support - but do not call that number! Call me. Close the app or close your computer, and when you turn it back on the fake ad will be gone. |
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Steps you can take to close fake Apple support window:
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Click here to view previous issues (back to August 2015) http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Archieve_NL.html
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| Website
Links: Maintenance: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Maintenance.html Computer Tips: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Tips.html Backup: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/MonthlyBackup.html
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| If you do not want to do your own monthly maintenance on your computer, I can visit (if you live in Lake County, FL) and take care of it for you, on a semi-annual basis. Please contact me to setup scheduled visits, call 352-449-8561. |
| January 2017 |
I would like to start by thanking all of my clients for their support over the past five years since I have been in business. It has been a fantastic journey as I took my hobby of working with computers, and turned it into a thriving business. I could not have accomplished so much without you, my client. Thank you for your support.
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| Website
Links: Maintenance: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Maintenance.html Computer Tips: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Tips.html Backup: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/MonthlyBackup.html |
| December 2016 |
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In This Issue |
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Turn off Background Apps - One of the biggest changes in the new version of Windows 10 (SP2) that I have noticed is the number of Apps that are running in the background as you use your computer. It went from about 10 to 100, which is crazy when you review the list of programs, most you are not using. Many of these apps are used to constantly update the content of the program on the Start menu (if you are using the Tiles). These programs are running in the background using your Internet service, and slowing down your computer. Click here for instructions on how to turn off these power sucking Apps.
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Breaking News - Please stop using the WOT
Over the past few years I have been using an "add on" to my browsers called the Web Of Trust, (WOT) which warned me about bad websites. It was an excellent tool. Recently the WOT server went offline. When I went to the website to find out what was going on, I discovered a major issue. According to the WOT website, the company had been gathering users website data, and then selling that information to 3rd parties. It is an issue that was not released when you install the add on. The company claims they will make it clearer in their terms of use with an option to opt out, but I feel the damage may be done. I recommend not using the add on, and go back to using common sense before you click on a website. I do not know if we can trust the WOT rating system anymore! Click here for more information about this issue on the WOT forum. Disable add on in your Internet browsers: Safari - Apple computers - Open Safari - then click on the Safari text in the title bar (top left near Apple icon), click on Preferences, click on Extensions tab, click on the green WOT icon, and then click on the - minus button in the window to remove the WOT. Microsoft PC computer - Open Safari
- click on Tools menu, click on Preferences, click on Extensions tab,
click on the green WOT icon, and then click on the
remove button.
I am testing a replacement to the WOT. If you have the Avast antivirus program on your computer, then you can install the Security Browser Extension. Click here for the instructions. If you are not using Avast antivirus, then your antivirus program may have a similar add on that you can activate. Do not install any toolbars, they will not rate the websites, only slow down your Internet browser. Please contact me if you have any questions about this issue.
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| Free Computer
and Tech Classes - Holiday Break
No Classes December and January. Classes start again in February 2017. Please email me your class topic ideas to the email address below.
Classes are free, and will be held in the Trilogy Clubhouse. You must be registered with me to attend. Please email me at trilogycomputerclass@gmail.com to register. Please indicate which classes you plan to attend.
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I will be celebrating the holidays on the follow days: Saturday - December 24th, Monday - December 26th, Saturday - December 31st and Monday, January 2nd. During these days you can email me, or call and leave a voice mail, and I will respond on the next business day. Enjoy the holidays!
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Did you change your email address or Phone number this year
There were many changes this year for the Royal Highlands and Kings Ridge communities. The above photo shows Fiber Optics being installed in the Kings Ridge community. If you changed your phone number or email address please send me an email with your new contact information.
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Windows Live Mail Jan 10th End of Support
Windows Live Mail is an email program that many people use to read their emails on their PC computers without using a web browser. In many cases, it is faster than Webmail, and is handy when you have more then one email account. Microsoft will be stopping support on January 10th, 2017. This means you will no longer be able to download the program from the Microsoft website. If you are using the program, and want to download a backup copy of the installer click here. The MS Essentials Suite is a group of programs that include Photo Gallery (organizes photos), Movie Maker (used to create Vacation movies) and Live Mail email program. If you are using any of these programs, they will continue to work on your computers. If there is a security issue with any of them, Microsoft will not fix it which may present a security risk for your computer. If you are concerned about the future security risk of using Windows Live Mail, I recommend the Mozilla Thunderbird email program which works the same way that Windows Live Mail does. Please contact me for an appointment if you would like to switch to this other program. I will set it up for you, and transfer your address book. If you want to do it yourself, then click here to download the Thunderbird email program. Click here for more information from Microsoft about this issue.
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Click on the NO or Cancel Button - Reminder!
The Safe Setup is keeping many Lake County residents safe, but some are forgetting the rules, and getting into trouble. For years, most users had slow computers because they were clicking on the Yes/OK button for everything that popped up on their computers. Over the past few years, it has become more difficult to tell what is real, and what is fake (malware). So my invention - the Safe Setup gave computer users an alternative. Now the Maintenance Account is the Administrator on the computer, so users are able to click on the NO/Cancel button for everything, and keep their computers clean. Lately, some users are forgetting this simple step, and installing dangerous malware on their computers. So once again, this newsletter article is a reminder. Please click on the NO button on the PC, and the Cancel button on the Apple/Mac, and stay safe. Note, if you are doing your own maintenance, then it is safe to click on the Yes or OK button in the Maintenance account. If you have any questions please contact me.
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iPad and iPhone new O/S update is now safe to install. I have not heard of any problems related to this update that was released two months ago. OS 10.12 Sierra is also now safe to install on your iMac, Macbook Pro or Mac Mini computers. Some of my clients have already installed the update and have not had any problems. Please call if you would like to schedule an appointment for me to upgrade your computer.
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New Hours, Same Rates 2017
As we look towards 2017, I have made a change to my scheduled appointment hours. When you call or email me for an appointment, I will now offer you 10:00am, 2:00pm, 4:30pm or 6:30pm based on what is available in my schedule. My rates for 2017 will stay the same, $40 per hour for daytime and $60 per hour for appointments after 6:00pm.
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Click here to view previous issues (back to August 2015) http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Archieve_NL.html
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| Website
Links: Maintenance: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Maintenance.html Computer Tips: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Tips.html Backup: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/MonthlyBackup.html
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| If you do not want to do your own monthly maintenance on your computer, I can visit (if you live in Lake County, FL) and take care of it for you, on a semi-annual basis. Please contact me to setup scheduled visits, call 352-449-8561. |
| November 2016 |
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In This Issue |
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Windows 10 Build 1607 (Service Pack 2) - By now, most Windows 10 users should have the latest version installed on their devices. The biggest change is the Start menu (pictured above). The Apps (Applications) are now on top of the labels for Documents, Pictures and Power. To show the labels, click on the 3 lines (hamburger icon) on the top left to show the labels. Unfortunately, we cannot keep the section open. Maybe in the next version scheduled to be released in March 2017 the folder labels will return.
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Stop googling for coupons - Most sites are bad
If you are looking for restaurant coupons, please do not look for them online. The safest way is to go directly to the restaurant website, and sign up to have coupons emailed directly to you. Most keywords that you type into an Internet search window are purchased by the bad guys, and are most likely to appear on the top of the search window. The above example shows a green WOT circle, but it also shows the word Ad, which you should always avoid clicking on. I have received many reports about the fake ad that locks up your mouse and shows a screen that demands you to call a phone number that is displayed. Most of those effected were searching for coupons online. Its not worth saving a few $$$ and putting yourself at risk.
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| Free Computer
and Tech Classes - Fall Schedule
Wednesday, November 9th at 10:00 am - Microsoft Word and Excel Basics – This will be a basic class on Word which is used to write letters, and Excel which is used to keep track of numbers. In Word - we will be covering how to change your default fonts, how to insert a picture, and how to use Word Art. We will be reviewing Margins, Columns, Watermarks and more. In Excel - we will be covering how to enter numbers into the spreadsheet, and how to add the numbers up (sum). I will be showing you how to use some basic formulas (=B1+C1), how to format your sheet using cell borders, and adjusting row and column heights. I will be using a Windows 7 computer with Office Starter 2010, but the information covered will apply to all versions. Wednesday, November 9th at 11:30am - Explore the Internet Browsers that you can use on your Macs (iMac/Macbook Pro computers). We will be exploring the Safari and Firefox Internet browsers. We will be reviewing how to set them up the way you want and how to add extensions and plugins that add more features to the browsers. We will also cover adding websites to your bookmark list, and how to organize your list. Classes are free, and will be held in the Trilogy Clubhouse. You must be registered with me to attend. Please email me at trilogycomputerclass@gmail.com to register. Please indicate which classes you plan to attend. The deadline to register is Monday, November 7th. No Classes December and January.
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HP Envy Printer
I purchased my HP Envy 5660 two years ago, and this printer has never let me down. Its easy to use with a nice touch screen. I can copy, print and scan with it. I can also print from my Apple computer, Android tablets and smart phone. I had an Epson printer prior to this one, but it was always breaking down. If you are looking for a new printer, I recommend the HP Envy series which ranges from $50 to $150 depending on the features you are interested in. If you have any questions, or need to make an appointment for me to setup the new printer please give me a call.
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Please do not contact me by text - Use phone or email only
Five years ago when I started my computer repair business, I decided to focus on phone and email as a method of communication with my clients. I did not activate text services on my phone. Five years later, I still have text services turned off. A customer who recently sent me 10+ texts was mad at me for not answering, but with the service turned off I had no idea they sent them. So if you would like to reach me, please use either email or phone services. Thank you :)
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Click on the NO or Cancel Button - Reminder!
The Safe Setup is keeping many Lake County residents safe, but some are forgetting the rules, and getting into trouble. For years, most users had slow computers because they were clicking on the Yes/OK button for everything that popped up on their computers. Over the past few years, it has become more difficult to tell what is real, and what is fake (malware). So my invention - the Safe Setup gave computer users an alternative. Now the Maintenance Account is the Administrator on the computer, so users are able to click on the NO/Cancel button for everything, and keep their computers clean. Lately, some users are forgetting this simple step, and installing dangerous malware on their computers. So once again, this newsletter article is a reminder. Please click on the NO button on the PC, and the Cancel button on the Apple/Mac, and stay safe.
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iCloud Control Panel -
If you are using the iCloud to backup your iPhone, iPad or Macbook, then the icloud.com website will help you manage that data. Type in your apple id (your email address), and your apple password, then click on the arrow to sign in. Click on the "Keep me signed in option" so that when you return, you do not have to type in your apple id and password. Once signed in, you should be able to see the photos that are in your icloud account. When you click on Contact icon, you should find your complete contacts list. The email icon is only if you have an @icloud.com account (most of us do not have one). The Calendar icon loads your current calendar with all of your upcoming events. If you add an event from this screen it will appear on all of your Apple devices. This website also keeps a backup of your items for 30 days. If you ever lose the items on your device, you can restore them from the icloud.com website.
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Click here to view previous issues (back to August 2015) http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Archieve_NL.html
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Links: Maintenance: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Maintenance.html Computer Tips: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Tips.html Backup: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/MonthlyBackup.html
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| October 2016 |
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In This Issue |
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Windows 10 Anniversary update was pushed to most Windows 10 computers in September. The average computer took one and a half hours to install. Once again Microsoft pinned the dark blue Edge Internet browser to the taskbar, and hid the Internet Explorer. They also turned back on the items that I turn off, including Cortana, and the Advertising ID which tacks you with a unique number that Microsoft shares (sells?) to its advertisers. They revised the Settings menu, and changed the look of the Start menu. Click on the 3 lines (hamburger) in the top left to find your documents and pictures. Microsoft plans to release a new version every six months. The current version is now 1607, but I am nicknaming it Service Pack 2. Add Pictures and Documents to your Start menu - We have had Documents, Pictures, Videos and Music on our Start menu for years, but with Windows 10, Microsoft removed them. Thankfully you can put them back on, but the location of this option is crazy. Click on the Start menu, then click on the 3 lines (hamburger), then click on Settings. Once the Settings menu opens, click on Personalize, then scroll down and click on the word Start, then click on Choose which folders appear on Start. Then slide each item that is missing from off to on. Close the window, and click on the Start menu, then hamburger, and you will see your missing folders once again where they belong. Click here for additional instructions.
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If you use the Firefox Internet browser, and you get a message to install firefoxpatch.exe - do not do it!!! Its fake! The Firefox browser does not update itself with patches. To check to see if this is on your computer, open Firefox, then click on Tools, then Add-ons. Click on Extensions. If you see Firefox Hotfix, first click on disable, then click on remove button. Close Firefox, and reopen it, and it should be removed. If you click on Extensions and this item is not in the window, then your computer is OK. This fake update appears to be coming from a bad ad on some websites. I recommend installing the Adblock Plus addon in your Firefox browser. If you are signed up for me to visit you, I will be taking care of this task on my next visit. To update Firefox click on Help then click on About Firefox. Then click on Update button then when the update is done click on Restart button. Then Firefox will close then reopen with the new version.
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| Free Computer
and Tech Classes - Fall Schedule
Wednesday, October 12th PC - How to use Google Apps. We will be exploring the free applications (apps) that are available on the Google.com website. Most of these apps are free, some require you to create an email account to access. Google is more then an Internet search tool. We will be exploring Google Translate, Google News, Google Calendar, Google Photos, Google Maps, Google Finance, Google Docs, Gmail, etc. Wednesday, October 12th Apple - Internet Browsers you can use on your Macs (iMac/Macbook Pro computers). We will be exploring the Safari and Firefox Internet browsers. We will be reviewing how to set it up the way you want, and how to add extensions, and plugins that add more features to the browsers. Classes are free, and will be held in the Trilogy Clubhouse. You must be registered with me to attend. Please email me at trilogycomputerclass@gmail.com to register. Please indicate which classes you plan to attend. Fall 2016 Season Classes Wednesday, November 9th PC - Microsoft Word and Excel Basics Wednesday, November 9th Apple - Topic to be announced. No Classes December and January.
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What's New with Windows 10 class at Kings Ridge, October 5th at 1pm. If you are a Kings Ridge resident, and part of the Computer Club, I will be returning as the Guest Speaker on Wednesday, October 5th at 1pm. I will be doing a demo on the new Windows 10 Anniversary Update (Service Pack 2). So if you have Windows 10 with the new Start menu, I will be demonstrating how to calm it down, and return your computer to normal. This class is only for Kings Ridge residents.
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Gmail - Create Mailing Lists (Groups)
If you have recently started to use Gmail (Google
email), here are the steps you will need to take when you want to create a
mailing list in your address book. When you log into the Gmail website you
will see the word Gmail in the top left corner. When you click on the
black triangle, you will find a menu with Contacts on it. Click on Contacts,
and your address book will open in a new window or tab in your browser. If
you would like to add people to your address book, click on the red circle
( Then type in the person's name (be careful of the list that appears, Google is trying to suggest people for you to add, but many in the list are not the people you are adding to your address, they are strangers). After you type in the name, click on the Blue Create button. Add the person's email address, and click on the blue Save button. Their name should now appear in your address book. Google calls a Mailing List a "Group". To create a mailing list (group), click on the word "Group" under "All Contacts", then click on "New Group". In the next window type in the name of your group, and then click on the "Create Group" button. Next, click on the red button to add people to your new group. Email addresses that are already in your Master list will appear when you start typing. Click on the correct contact from "Under Contacts", and that person will be added to your group. If they are not in your address book, you can add then by typing in their name, and clicking on "Create".
When you compose an email, type in the name of your group in the To: or BCC: window, and everyone in that group will get a copy of the email. For more instructions on Gmail groups click here. If you are trying to setup Outlook, Thunderbird or Windows Live Mail to use your Gmail account, you must turn on the "Less Secure Apps" option. Click here for the instructions. Google considers their Google Chrome browser is the most secure in the world, and any other program is less secure. So they require you to approve this change before they allow any other program access to your email. If you try to setup Gmail with one of these programs, you may get an email alerting you that someone was trying to access your email. But when setting up the program, you will not get an error message. The email icon will just spin, and not allow the email to enter your program. Very annoying! Click on "Less Secure" apps on button, and the email will flow.
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New Modem: Keep Your Network Name and Password
In Royal Highlands, Comcast has been setting up new modem/routers for residents. When they do this, they are creating a new wireless network in their home. All of the devices that were connected to the previous modem/router, will stop working. I have been receiving an average of 4 phone calls a day related to this problem. I sent an email to Royal Highlands, requesting that Comcast techs change the Network name and password to match what was in the previous box, but since they are working with sub contractors, they are having some communication problems. If you have your own Linksys, DLink or Netgear wireless router, you do not need to worry about this issue. Your devices connect to that box, not the new Comcast modem. If you know your Network name and password, write it on a piece of paper and tape it to your current Centurylink or Comcast modem. The Network name and password are case sensitive! When the technician visits, ask him to change the new box to match your old box. It will take him just 3 minutes to do this task. Your printer, laptops, tablets, phones and Smart TV's will work. If this change is not made, then all the devices must be added to the new network, which could take up to an hour, depending on the number of devices you own. Kings Ridge will be going through this same process, when they are setup with Opticaltel this Fall. So now is the time to locate this information, tape it to your Brighthouse modem/router. When the technical visits, ask them to make this change for you.
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Click on the NO or Cancel Button - Reminder!
The Safe Setup is keeping many Lake County residents safe, but some are forgetting the rules, and getting into trouble. For years, most users had slow computers because they were clicking on the Yes/OK button for everything that popped up on their computers. Over the past few years, it has become more difficult to tell what is real, and what is fake (malware). So my invention - the Safe Setup, gave computer users an alternative. Now the Maintenance Account is the Administrator on the computer, so users are able to click on the NO/Cancel button for everything, and keep their computers clean. Lately, some users are forgetting this simple step, and installing dangerous malware on their computers. So once again, this newsletter article is a reminder. Please click on the NO button on the PC, and the Cancel button on the Apple/Mac, and stay safe.
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iPad Maintenance: In September, I taught a class on iPad Maintenance. I have uploaded the steps onto my website. Click here to view these steps. Please let me know if you have any questions. New 10.12 Sierra was released on September 20th. I recommend that you wait at least three months before installing this update on your iMac, Macbook or Mac Mini computer. According to the Apple website screen shots (https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/macos-sierra/id1127487414?mt=12&ls=1) the overall look has not changed from Yosemite or El Capitan, so there is no rush to get it. Click on the link above, then click on more to read about the new features. The new Operating System (OS) is suppose to communicate better with your other Apple devices. Click here for more details - http://www.apple.com/macos/sierra/
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Click here to view previous issues (back to August 2015) http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Archieve_NL.html
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Links: Maintenance: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Maintenance.html Computer Tips: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Tips.html Backup: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/MonthlyBackup.html
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| If you do not want to do the monthly maintenance on your computer yourself, I can visit (if you live in Lake County, FL) and take care of it for you, on a semi-annual basis. Please contact me to setup scheduled visits, call 352-449-8561. |
| September16 |
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In This Issue |
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New Windows 10 Start menu - Microsoft has once again changed the look of the start menu. This time they are hiding Documents, Pictures, Music, Settings, Power descriptions, and only displaying icons which make it difficult to find what we need. Now the Apps menu fills that portion of the Start menu. To find your stuff now, you must click on the three horizontal lines in the top left corner of the menu, and the full descriptions reappear. So far I have not found a way to return the menu to normal. When I do, I will include the details on my website and newsletter.
Active Hours - These is nothing more annoying then having your computer restart in the middle of the day to install a Windows Update. With the original Windows 10 you could change Auto Update to Notify to restart, enabling you to delay the updates until you chose to either shut down or restart your computer. Microsoft has once again removed our control over Windows Updates. Now making us choose a time Window. You can select a Start time, and an End time, but the max is a 12 hour window that Microsoft will not restart your computer. If you tend to leave your computer on all the time (I recommend that you turn off at night). Make sure you adjust this feature after your computer upgrades to the new version (SP2). Go to Settings, and click Update and Security. Then click on Windows Update, and change active hours to set the times.
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Many of the problems we are having on our computers these days are caused by bad ads on the web pages we visit. The Internet is still free to use, and the costs associated with building and maintaining webpages are paid in part by the ads that are displayed. Some websites have the fake Microsoft Tech support ads which cause many computers to lock up, and encouraging them to call a number on the screen. Now its email which is being effected by ads. Yahoo is a perfect example where you must view an ad before you can read your email. Once was a good idea to offset the costs by creating, and hosting webpages with ads, but now are out of control. I am recommending that you install the Adblock Plus extension/plugin into your Internet browser in order to block the ads. This way we can go back to enjoying the internet and our email. Please let me know if you need help, or if you would like me to install the program on my next visit.
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| Free Computer
and Tech Classes - Fall Schedule
Wednesday, September 14th at 10am - PC - What's new in Windows 10 Build 14393 (Service Pack 2). On August 2nd, Microsoft will start releasing a new version of Windows 10. We will take a look at the new features, and also review how to setup Windows 10, to make it "look like" Windows 7. I have one laptop left with Windows 10 that you can use during the class, which are a first come, first reserve basis. When you register for the class, please ask to reserve a Windows 10 computer. If you have never used Windows 10 before, or do not have a laptop to bring to class, you can use one of these computers. Wednesday, September 14th at 11:30am - Apple - iPad Maintenance class. We use our iPads everyday, but from time to time they start to run slow. We will review the steps you can take to cleanup, and backup your iPad. We will review Safari Internet browser excessive tabs, and bad extensions, good vs. bad apps, and how to manually backup your iPad using iCloud. We will also cover storage issues that slow you down. Classes are free, and will be held in the Trilogy Clubhouse. You must be registered with me to attend. Please email me to register. Please indicate which classes you plan to attend. Fall 2016 Season Classes Wednesday, October 12th PC - How to use Google Apps Wednesday, October 12th Apple - Internet Browsers you can use on your Macs (iMac/Macbook Pro computers) Wednesday, November 9th PC - Microsoft Word and Excel basics Wednesday, November 9th Apple - Topic to be announced. No Classes December and January.
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Changes coming soon to Royal Highlands, Kings Ridge and Trilogy
The first community to see the changes this month will be Royal Highlands in Leesburg. They have added Internet services to their Homeowners Associations fees. Prior to this month, only TV services were covered through their monthly community dues. Some homeowners were using Centurylink for their Internet, but this company did not have good coverage in the community, and the Internet was very slow for most. As they switch to Comcast, they need to address two important issues: Keep their phone numbers (porting), and back up their Centurylink email address book. Remember, when you cancel your Centurylink service (after Comcast has hooked up their new equipment), you will be losing access to your email account. Kings Ridge in Clermont will also be seeing changes in January, 2017. Some of the neighborhoods in Kings Ridge have signed a ten year contract with a company called Opticaltel. The community originally had Brighthouse TV, and Internet covered by their Homeowner Association fees. The Master Board has decided not to renew the contract which expires at the end of December 2016. So residents have to make their own arrangements for TV and Internet services. Here again residents need to back up their Road Runner address books (cfl.rr.com), and transfer to another email provider. Trilogy in Groveland is currently provided with TV and Internet services by Brighthouse in their HOA dues. This contract expires in August 2017. I will be on the committee that helps either renew the current contract with Brighthouse, or start a new contract with another vendor. If you are a resident of Trilogy, and would like to be a part of the process, please contact me or Sentry Management. There will be more details in the Community Newsletter over the next few weeks. If you live in one of the communities that I mentioned above, I recommend switching to Gmail email. Gmail is not tied to any cable company. So as your communities make changes, you do not have to lose your email address(es). If you need help creating a new email account, and backing up your address book, please contact me for an appointment.
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Click on the NO or Cancel button - Reminder!
The Safe Setup is keeping many Lake County residents safe, but some are forgetting the rules, and getting into trouble. For years, most users had slow computers because they were clicking on the Yes/OK button for everything that popped up on their computers. Over the past few years, it has become more difficult to tell what is real, and what is fake (malware). So my invention - the Safe Setup, gave computer users an alternative. Now the Maintenance Account is the Administrator on the computer, so users are able to click on the NO/Cancel button for everything, and keep their computers clean. Lately, some users are forgetting this simple step, and installing dangerous malware on their computers. So once again, this newsletter article is a reminder. Please click on the NO button on the PC, and the Cancel button on the Apple/Mac, and stay safe.
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iPhone Security risk - update as soon as possible. Last week Apple issued a warning that the iPhone has a security risk that would allow the bad guys to snoop on our phones. Apple has released a fix, and you should be getting pop ups asking for you to install. Normally I recommend that you wait a few weeks before installing updates, allowing the bugs get worked out. In this case, I recommend installing this update as soon as possible. 10.11 El Captain upgrade for Mac Computers - time is running out. If you are running 10.8 Mt. Lion or 10.9 Mavericks, then you need to upgrade your Apple/Mac computer soon. This Fall, they will be releasing a new version of the operating system which may make your computer obsolete, and no longer upgradeable. To get the upgrade, go to the Apple store on your computer, and click on Updates. Then click on El Captain at the top of the window. It will take about 90 minutes to update on the average computer. If you would like me to do the upgrade for you, please contact me for an appointment.
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Click here to view previous issues (back to August 2015) http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Archieve_NL.html
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Links: Maintenance: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Maintenance.html Computer Tips: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Tips.html Backup: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/MonthlyBackup.html
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| If you do not want to do the monthly maintenance on your computer yourself, I can visit (if you live in Lake County, FL) and take care of it for you, on a semi-annual basis. Please contact me to setup scheduled visits, call 352-449-8561. |
| August 2016 |
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In This Issue |
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On Friday July 29th, the free Windows 10 upgrades ended. The process started last July, and many of us took advantage of the offer, and upgraded our computers. Windows 7 users hated Windows 10, but Windows 8 users loved it. This week Microsoft will be releasing a new version of the Windows 10 operating system, their first release since last November. Lately, many Windows 10 users have been reporting slow startups and shut downs. The new version may fix these issues. I helped many of my clients with the upgrade to Windows 10, and for most it went smoothly. I used the "Stop the Clock" method where I visit other customers during the upgrade process, which was a win-win situation for all. August 2nd New Version of Windows 10 - Click here to see some of the new improvements coming in this new version. This update will take about one hour to install, and it will be delivered through Windows Update. Please contact me if you have any problems related to this new version of Windows 10. Microsoft Edge hides Internet Explorer - After a windows update, you may notice the blue Internet Explorer icon is missing. Click here for steps to add the icon to your desktop. You can also type Internet into the search window, and when the icon appears at the top of the Start menu, right click on it, then click on More, then Pin to Taskbar.
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Ransomware Alert - It's like opening a bad Fortune Cookie
When we eat at a Chinese restaurant ,the waiter usually brings us these cookies at the end of our meal. We crack them open, and there is a fun message inside. There is a bad email making its rounds that if you click on the link in the email, it runs a program that adds letters to the end of every photograph, and every document on your computer making it impossible to open. Then you get a message that you must pay a ransom to unlock your files. Red flags on this email is it may be from a friend or family member you have not received an email from in some time. Another red flag is the Reply to email address is wrong. If you get an email like this, please call the person who it is from and ask them if they sent it to you. If they did not, make the email as junk and then delete the email. Opening this type of email, is like getting a bad fortune cookie. Keep your electronic devices safe, never click on a link in an email unless you know exactly who it is from!
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| Free Computer
and Tech Classes - Fall Schedule
Wednesday, September 14th at 10am - PC - What new in Windows 10 Build 14393 (Service Pack 2). On August 2nd, Microsoft will start releasing a new version of Windows 10, and we'll take a look at the new features. We will also review how to setup Windows 10, to make it "look like" Windows 7. I have two laptops with Windows 10 that you can use during the class, which are a first come, first reserve basis. When you register for the class, please ask to reserve a Windows 10 computer. If you have never used Windows 10 before or do not have a laptop to bring to class, you can use one of these computers. Wednesday, September 14th at 11:30am - Apple - iPad Maintenance class. We use our iPads everyday, but from time to time they start to run slower. We will review the steps you can take to cleanup and backup your iPad. We will review Safari Internet browser excessive tabs and bad extensions, good vs. bad apps and how to manually backup your iPad using iCloud. We will also cover storage issues that slow you down. Classes are free, and will be held in the Trilogy Clubhouse. You must be registered with me to attend. Please email me to register. Please indicate which classes you plan to attend. Fall 2016 Season Classes Wednesday, October 12th PC - How to use Google Apps Wednesday, October 12th Apple - Internet Browsers you can use on your Macs (iMac/Macbook Pro computers) Wednesday, November 9th PC - Microsoft Word and Excel basics Wednesday, November 9th Apple - Topic to be announced. No Classes December and January.
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| Fake Microsoft phone
calls
July was a profitable month for the fake Microsoft phone technicians. Many people in Lake County fell for their sales pitch, and turned over their computers and credit cards to these bad guys. Within the first five minutes, the "fake technicians" saved a copy of all your documents to their computer. They will then open the Event Viewer in the Control Panel, and show you some scary stuff they say proves there is something wrong with your computer. What they are showing you is normal error messages which are on all computers, and trying to trick you. Then comes the pitch, they need your credit card number to "fix" the problem. An average charge has been between $99 and $400. My advice is to let 'all' phone calls go to the answering machine, only call back family, friends and Dr's. "If you can't see them, you can't slap them". Never let anyone take remote control of your computer!
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Befrugal and Shop at Home Strikes again
The month of July was a bad one for Internet Explorer users, thanks to two bad bits of hidden malware. Once you remove the hidden programs, the browser comes back to life. Both are related to coupon shopping, and both infect your computers through emails. The email will appear in your inbox promoting coupons from some of your favorite restaurants. When you click on the link in the email, Befrugal or Shop at Home, inserts codes into your Internet Explorer, and runs a program from a hidden folder called AppData. This folder contains three additional folders "Local" "Local Low" and "Roaming". Once the contents of Befrugal or Shop at Home folders are emptied, the Internet Explorer returns to normal. If you are experiencing problems with your Internet Explorer, please contact me for an appointment to get rid of these bad guys. To prevent this from happening to you, make any emails titled Befrugal or Shop at Home as Spam/Junk, and do not open or click on any links in these emails.
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Windows 8.0 no longer
supported - 8.1 upgrade required
Over the past year, there has been so much focus on Windows 10 upgrades that the Windows 8.0 end of life was missed by many, it ended January 2016. If you are running Windows 8.0 on your computer, you may have been getting a message over the past two weeks warning you that you must upgrade to Windows 8.1, in order to get Windows Updates. Also Internet Explorer 10 is no longer supported, and many websites will not work with that Internet Browser. Click here for step by step instructions on how to upgrade Window 8.0 to Windows 8.1. An average computer will take 3 hours to upgrade.
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Click on the NO or Cancel button - Reminder!
The Safe Setup is keeping many Lake County residents safe, but some are forgetting the rules and getting into trouble. For years, most users had slow computers because they were clicking on the Yes/OK button for everything that popped up on their computers. Over the past few years, it has become more difficult to tell what is real, and what is fake (malware). So my invention - the Safe Setup, gave computer users an alternative. Now the Maintenance Account is the Administrator on the computer, so users are able to click on the NO/Cancel button for everything, and keep their computers clean. Lately, some users are forgetting this simple step, and installing dangerous malware on their computers. So once again, this newsletter article is a reminder. Please click on the NO button on the PC, and the Cancel button on the Apple/Mac, and stay safe.
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The new Apple/Mac operating system is due to be released this Fall (from the Apple Store Update page). Originally there was rumors, that the name was going to be Fuji, but it looks like they are going to name it macOS Sierra instead. The biggest feature is that Siri personal assistant that has been running on the iPhone, will not run on the Macbook and iMac computers. They plan to make slight changes to the other apps, including Photos. To read about these new features the macrumors.com website does a great job of explaining them, click here to read the article.
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Online Banking - Using Google Chrome
First it was Suntrust Bank, then Bank of America, and now Chase that recommends that you use the Google Chrome browser to access your online bank accounts. This has caused trouble for some who tried to install the program, and ended up with a bad program called Chromlin (purple icon). If you do online banking, and having trouble getting into your account, then installing Google Chrome is the answer. Click here for step by step instructions to install Google Chrome.
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Click here to view previous issues (back to August 2015) http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Archieve_NL.html
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| Website
Links: Maintenance: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Maintenance.html Computer Tips: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Tips.html Backup: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/MonthlyBackup.html Return to Top of page - click
here
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| If you do not want to do the monthly maintenance on your computer yourself, I can visit (if you live in Lake County, FL) and take care of it for you, on a semi-annual basis. Please contact me to setup scheduled visits, call 352-449-8561. |
| July 2016 |
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In This Issue |
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Last call on Free Windows 10 upgrades. On July 29th, Windows 10 upgrades will change from a free upgrade to $120. If you have Windows 7, keep Windows 7! If you have Windows 8, and are tired of the charm bar popping out all the time, then you may want to upgrade to Windows 10. If you do not mind the charm bar, and other Windows 8 issues, then my advice is for you to keep Windows 8. Please contact me for an appointment for the Windows 10 upgrade.
Windows 7 users If you see the above Windows 10 ad, click on "Decline free offer" and they promise the ad will no longer pop up. I recommend Windows 7 users to keep Windows 7, and not upgrade to Windows 10. Microsoft has changed the code in this ad again, and now if you click on the X in the top right corner, the ad closes. Last month you were giving Microsoft the OK to install Windows 10.
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Tips Page has been redesigned
I have redesigned the "Tips" page on my website. I have included photos of the items on this page. The "Tips" page features software programs that I recommend for your Computers, Tablets and Phones. Click here to take a look - http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Tips.html
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| Free Computer
and Tech Classes - Summer Break
No Classes July and August - Summer Break!
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| Turn
off Windows 10 Spotlight Ads
In August, your Windows 10 computer should be getting the new build (service pack) which will introduce some new features. One of the more annoying feature will show advertising of the Lock screen that appears when you turn on your computer, or when it goes to sleep. Click here for the step by step instructions to opt out (change from Spotlight to Picture and turn off Get fun facts).
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Android Tablets - Apps from Play Store only!
If you have an Android Tablet, please install apps from the Google Play Store only. I recently worked on an android tablet that was a mess. The user installed apps from the Internet, and some turned out to be malware infected.
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Click on the NO or Cancel button - Danger!
The Safe Setup is keeping many Lake County residents safe, but some are forgetting the rules and getting into trouble. For years most computers users had slow computers because they were clicking on the Yes/OK button for everything that popped up on their computers. Over the past few years it has become more difficult to tell what is real, and what is fake (malware). So my invention, the Safe Setup, gave computer users an alternative. Now the Maintenance Account is the Administrator on the computer, so users are able to click on the NO/Cancel button for everything, keeping their computers clean. Lately, some users are forgetting this simple step, and installing dangerous malware on their computers. So once again this newsletter article is a reminder. Please click on the NO button on the PC, and the Cancel button on the Apple/Mac, and stay safe.
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The Purpose of this Monthly Newsletter - In June, many people had pop up ads on their computers demanding that they call the number on the screen. Many did call, and some paid $$, and had their files compromised. I have been writing about this issue for the past three months in my newsletters, but each person that called the number on the screen, admitted they were not reading the newsletters. Please read it so that you are aware of what is happening to your neighbors, one day it might happen to you. The purpose of this newsletter is to keep you safe, and informed about what is happening with our computers, tablets and phones. When I encounter an issue, the previous month this newsletter is my communication tool to you.
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Click here to view previous issues (back to August 2015) http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Archieve_NL.html
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| Website
Links: Maintenance: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Maintenance.html Computer Tips: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Tips.html Backup: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/MonthlyBackup.html Return to Top of page - click
here
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| If you do not want to do the monthly maintenance on your computer yourself, I can visit (if you live in Lake County, FL) and take care of it for you, on a semi-annual basis. Please contact me to setup scheduled visits, call 352-449-8561. |
| June 2016 |
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In This Issue |
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Last call on Free Windows 10 upgrades. On July 29th, Windows 10 upgrades will change from a free upgrade to $120. If you have Windows 7, keep Windows 7! If you have Windows 8, and tired of the charm bar popping out all the time, then you may want to upgrade to Windows 10. If you do not mind the charm bar, and other Windows 8 issues, then my advice is for you to keep Windows 8. Please contact me for an appointment for the Windows 10 upgrade. Windows 7 users - warning! I recommend Windows 7 users to keep Windows 7, and not upgrade to Windows 10. If you have the "Get Windows 10" ad popping up when you turn on your computer, please contact me right away! Microsoft has changed the code in this ad, and now if you click on the X in the top right corner, you are giving Microsoft the OK to install Windows 10. I received two calls in May for help, returning the computers back to Windows 7. If the ad to "Get 10" is popping up, you must turn off Recommended Updates in the Windows Updates Control Panel, and you must uninstall Windows Update KB3035583. Return to Top of page - click here. |
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At the end of 2016 the Kings Ridge community will be losing their HOA supported Brighthouse contract. Their HOA has decided to drop Internet and TV services from their HOA fee, and all residents must replace these services themselves. If you live in Kings Ridge, I recommend that you stay with Brighthouse, if you can afford the new individual rate plan. Some of the neighborhoods are looking at a company called Opticaltel, but this company is also called HControl. The Trilogy community has history with this company. They promised high speed Internet but never delivered it. Brighthouse came to our rescue, and ran cable though the community. Royal Highlands is also going through Internet changes this Summer. Comcast has been the TV provider for many years, and they have worked out a contract to include High Speed Internet paid through their HOA fees. Centurylink was also in this community, but they could not supply the High Speed Internet services so they will most likely be leaving Royal Highlands. I am happy that Royal Highlands is improving their services, but I am concerned that the Kings Ridge community is going in the wrong direction. To read more about HControl, click here - http://www.complaintsboard.com/complaints/hcontrol-miami-florida-c157203.html Return to Top of page - click here.
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| Free Computer
and Tech Classes - Summer Break
No Classes June, July & August - Summer Break!
Return to Top of page - click here.
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| Mac
News
OSX 10.12 Fuji is on schedule to be released this Fall. This will be a major upgrade, which will change the way your iMac, Macbook will look and run. As with all new OSX releases, I recommend that you wait at least three months before upgrading, let other users work the bugs out. If you are currently running 10.11 El Capitan, then you can wait for a year or two to upgrade. If you are running 10.8 or lower, you will need to upgrade your Mac before the new release! Once 10.12 is released, your computer can no longer be upgraded, it becomes obsolete! Please contact me if you would like to schedule an appointment for me to upgrade your Mac this Summer! The picture above is from my donated Macbook that can no longer be upgraded past 10.5. Do not let this happen to your computer.
Return to Top of page - click here.
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If you have Avast antivirus on your computer, and you are getting a message that it must be registered, then follow the instructions above. Avast is a free antivirus program, but you must register the program each year with an email address. Please let me know if you have any questions. I am very impressed by the malware that has been stopped by this program. AVG antirus was driving many crazy with pop up ads. Avast is much better with very few ads that appear, and hide automatically. Return to Top of page - click here.
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Fake Microsoft pop up ad
The fake Microsoft pop up ads are continuing to appear on many area computers. As you see the above picture, it looks very real, and sometimes you will hear a beeping noise which is meant to scare you. Your mouse may lockup, preventing you from turning off your computer. If you get this, or any message on your computer, tablet or smart phone, turn off the device, then turn it back on and the ad will go away. On the PC computer, you can press on CTRL + ALT + Delete, then Sign out. For Tablets and phones, hold down on the power button until you get the option to power off. Then start it again, and the bad ad should no longer be visible. Please Do Not Call the number in the ad, call me first! Return to Top of page - click here |
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Fake AOL email message
One of my clients received the above message in her AOL email account. Unfortunately the client clicked on the link in the email, and then typed in their email address and password. A short time later, friends started to contact them, saying they got some strange emails from them. They also were receiving rejected emails in their inbox. They regained control by changing their password, then logging out and logging back in with a new password. Please use care when getting emails from your email provider. The bad guys are trying to trick you. If you move your mouse over the links in the email, and then look in the status bar at the bottom of your Internet browser, it will show you where that link is going. In this case, the links did not lead to an "aol.com" website, which was a clue that this was a fake email. Return to Top of page - click here |
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Avast Safezone Internet Browser
Windows 10 users may be scratching their heads on this one. After the latest Avast antivirus update, this new Internet browser was installed. It looks and acts like the new Microsoft Edge Internet browser. I do not recommend that you use this product. In your Maintenance account, you can drag the ugly orange icon into the trash, and it will disappear from all of the accounts on your computer. I feel Avast should focus on antivirus, and get out of the Internet browser business. Use Internet Explorer or Firefox on the PC. On the Mac use Safari or Firefox. Return to Top of page - click here |
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Click here to view previous issues (back to August 2015) http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Archieve_NL.html
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| Website
Links: Maintenance: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Maintenance.html Computer Tips: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Tips.html Backup: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/MonthlyBackup.html Return to Top of page - click
here
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| If you do not want to do the monthly maintenance on your computer yourself, I can visit (if you live in Lake County, FL) and take care of it for you, on a semi-annual basis. Please contact me to setup scheduled visits, call 352-449-8561. |
| May 2016 |
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In This Issue |
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Last call on Free Windows 10 upgrades. On July 29th, Windows 10 upgrades will change from a free upgrade to $120. If you have Windows 7, keep Windows 7! If you have Windows 8, and tired of the charm bar popping out all the time, then you may want to upgrade to Windows 10. If you do not mind the charm bar, and other Windows 8 issues, then my advice is for you to keep Windows 8. Please contact me for an appointment for the Windows 10 upgrade. In April, Microsoft released two flawed Windows 10 Updates that has caused problems on some computers. Here are some of the issues that have been reported:
Please let me know if you are experiencing any of these issues on your Windows 10 computers. If CTRL + ALT + Delete does not work, system restore will fix most of these issues. Return to Top of page - click here. |
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Click on No
If your computer has a Maintenance account, this message is for you. Apple and PC users. There were numerous attacks - some from Facebook, and others from suspicious emails. The computer users that click on the "No/Cancel" button were able to avoid damage to their devices. The ones who clicked on "Yes" are now fighting credit card companies, and having to reset all their passwords. Please click on the "No/Cancel" button and stay safe! Return to Top of page - click here.
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| Free
Computer and Tech Classes - Spring Season
PC Class - Wednesday, May 11th - 10:00 am Topic: Android
Tablet Basics - Back by popular demand, we will be covering the basics
with Android tablets. If you have a tablet, please bring it to the class
for hands on teaching. We will be covering emailing, Internet, taking
pictures, working with Apps, and the Google Play Store. Apple Class - Wednesday, May 11th 11:30am Topic: Using your iMac, Macbook computers. This will be a basic "how to" class. We will be reviewing how to clean up your Dock, make changes to System Preferences, how to add an app from the Apple Store, etc. If you have a Macbook laptop, please bring it to the class. If you would like to attend these free classes at Trilogy, please email me at: joe@computersbyjoe.com . Please indicate which classes you would like to attend in the email. I will register you with the front gate and clubhouse. You must be registered to attend. The Deadline to register is the Monday before the class. No Classes June, July & August - Summer Break!
Return to Top of page - click here.
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This email has been popping up in some inboxes. Watch out, it's a fake! When you click on the link in the email, a fake window pops up, and asks you to call Microsoft. Do not call the number on the screen, please call me first! If you get any emails from anyone you do not recognized, delete the email. When I moved my mouse over the blue box (pictured above), it showed a website that was not registered to Google. This is called a phishing scam. Return to Top of page - click here.
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If you hear Beeping, and you get a warning message - turn off computer This one is scary when it happens to you. It is happening on both PC and Apple products, phone, tablets and computers. It's just a fake ad that fills your device screen, and makes an annoying beeping sound. Its purpose is to scare you into calling the number that is on the screen. Then the caller will trick you into giving access of your device to them. They will search for social security numbers, credit card information and passwords. They also tell you they can "fix" your device for $200. The truth is - it's just a fake ad that pops up. All you need to do is turn off your device, then turn it back on, and the ad is history. If you are on a PC computer, press on the CTRL then ALT keys on your keyboard, then tap the Delete key. Then release all the keys, and use your mouse to click on "Sign Out". Then click on your account icon, and sign back in. The message should no longer be there. If you cannot sign out, then press and hold the power button until the device shuts down. Then restart the device, and the scary message should not appear. If the message does come back after you do the above steps, please call me. DO NOT CALL THE PHONE NUMBER ON THE SCREEN! Return to Top of page - click here |
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If you have an Apple device, and you are using Safari Internet browser, please watch out for this screen. This is a fake ad that may pop up. To make it go away, press on the Home button twice (on iPhone or iPad), then swipe to close the Safari app. When you open it again, the fake ad no longer appear. If it appears on an iMac or Macbook, click on the Apple icon, then click on Force Quit. You can also press down on the Option key, and then click on the Safari icon on the Dock then click on Force Quit. Return to Top of page - click here |
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Internet Explorer Change Home Page Alert
This is a very annoying trick Microsoft is now doing to change your Internet Explorer home page from what you have now (ie: aol, yahoo, google) to MSN. I have received many calls for help in the past two weeks related to this issue. If this window pops up, please click on the bottom circle next to Your current settings, and then click on the Done button.
Return to Top of page - click here |
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Newsletter Archive
Click here to view previous issues (back to August 2015) http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Archieve_NL.html
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| Website
Links: Maintenance: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Maintenance.html Computer Tips: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Tips.html Monthly Backup: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/MonthlyBackup.html Return to Top of page - click
here |
| If you do not want to do the monthly maintenance on your computer yourself, I can visit (if you live in Lake County, FL) and take care of it for you, on a semi-annual basis. Please contact me to setup scheduled visits, call 352-449-8561. |
| April 2016 |
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In This Issue |
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Windows 10 Insiders Blog/News Release - Microsoft has a website where it releases news about upcoming Windows 10 builds (I call them Service Packs). Click here to see the website. In Windows Updates section, you can now turn your computer into a testing machine for Microsoft, BUT I DO NOT recommend this!!! You should only do this on a computer that you are not using every day because these updates can crash your computer if its too buggy. When I was testing Windows 10 (before it was released last August), I was on the Fast ring, where every 3 weeks I received a new version of Windows 10. After the testers use the new version, and work out the bugs, the update is then released to the general public through Windows Update. So in the next few weeks we should be getting the latest version which may include advertisements on the Lock Screen. They also promise a fix for the Cortana Lockup (your start menu locks & the icons are missing). We shall see...
Return to Top of page - click here. |
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Click on No
If your computer has a Maintenance account, this message is for you. The month of March was a bad one for both Apple and PC users. There were numerous attacks - some from Facebook, and others from suspicious emails. The computer users that click on the "No/Cancel" button were able to avoid damage to their devices. The ones who clicked on "Yes" are now fighting credit card companies, and having to reset all their passwords. Please click on the "No/Cancel" button and stay safe! Return to Top of page - click here.
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| Free Computer
and Tech Classes - Spring Season
PC Class - Wednesday, April 13th 10:00 am Topic: Google Apps
(Google Photos, Goggle Drive, etc). Google is more then just a search
page or email program. It can now be used to store our photos and files,
giving us the ability to share these items between our smart phones,
tablets and computers. We will start by creating a Google account, then we
will be exploring Google Maps, Google Calendar, Google Photos and the
Google Drive. Apple Class - Wednesday, April 13th 11:30am Topic: Syncing your Devices with iCloud. Syncing is a method of having your photos and files appear on all your devices. Last month we explored the iCloud.com website, we will be continuing with the iCloud, and how we can use it to sync our iPhones, iPads and computers. We will also include how to sync photos taken with your iPad and iPhone with your PC computer using the iCloud Control Panel App. If you would like to attend these free classes at Trilogy, please email me . Please indicate which classes you would like to attend in the email. I will register you with the front gate and clubhouse. You must be registered to attend. The Deadline to register is the Monday before the class. May 11th, PC Class - 10:00 am Topic: Android Tablet Basics May 11th, Apple Class - 11:30am Topic: Using your iMac, Macbook computers. No Classes June, July & August - Summer Break!
Return to Top of page - click here.
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Microsoft Get 10 Update KB3035583 is back
This message is for Windows 7 users, and for those who have decided to keep Windows 8. Microsoft has decided to re-release the Windows Update KB3035583 which installs a white windows down by your clock, which then generates daily "Upgrade to Windows 10" ads. If you have Recommended Updates option turned off, you should not be effected by this. If you took the time to hide this update, and have Recommended Updates option turned on you may want to turn it back off. If you are not sure where to find this setting, please email me.
Return to Top of page - click here.
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If you hear Beeping, and you get a warning message - turn off computer This one is scary when it happens to you. It is happening on both PC and Apple products, phone, tablets and computers. It's just a fake ad that fills your devices screen, and makes an annoying beeping sound. Its purpose is to scare you into calling the number that is on the screen. Then the caller will trick you into giving access of your device to them. They will search for social security numbers, credit card information and passwords. They also tell you they can "fix" your device for $200. The truth is, it's just a fake ad that pops up. All you need to do is turn off your device, then turn it back on, and the ad is history. If you are on a PC computer, press on the CTRL then ALT keys on your keyboard, then tap the Delete key. Then release all the keys, and use your mouse to click on "Sign Out". Then click on your account icon, and sign back in. The message should no longer be there. If you cannot sign out, then press and hold the power button until the device shuts down. Then restart the device, and the scary message should not appear. If the message does come back after you do the above steps, please call me. DO NOT CALL THE PHONE NUMBER ON THE SCREEN! Return to Top of page - click here |
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Avast Gray Button Update is OK If you are getting a message that the Avast Antivirus needs to be updated, it is OK to approve it. You do not need to go to the Maintenance account for this task. Please click on the gray Update button. The orange button will ask you to pay for the program. The new program will download, you can continue to do what you were doing on your computer. When the update is done, it will ask you to restart your computer. If you do not want to restart now, you can click on the pull down window and choose to delay the restart by a few hours, weeks or even a Century (of course this is a joke on Avast's part). Pick a time, and then click on the gray Postpone button, and you are done. After you restart your computer, another window may appear with an offer to 'claim' your rewards. Just click on the "X" button on the top right, to close the window. Return to Top of page - click here |
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If you do your own maintenance on your PC or Apple computer, you may notice this month that Malwarebytes has changed the shape of their logo. It was shaped like a blue angel. Now it looks more like the Batman logo from the 1960's TV shows. It is still an excellent program that keeps our computers safe from the bad guys in the world. Just remember to uncheck the offer to install the Trial version of the program when upgrading. Return to Top of page - click here |
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Apple Operating System Updates
Every few months, you may get a notice on your Apple device (iPhone, iPad, computer) that there is a Software Update available. When you first see it, I do not recommend that you install it. When you tap on the "Later" button, it may ask you if you mean Later tonight. Click on "Remind Me Later" to postpone the update. Then after you talk with friends and family to see if they heard it was safe to install, then you can proceed with the update. Lately these updates have caused more problems then they solved, so waiting a few days can save you the trouble of your device not working. When you do finally install the update, your device will restart, and you will see the Apple logo and a run bar. Then your device should start back up normally. If you click on "Details", the Safari browser should open a page, and explain what the Software Update will fix on your device. You can then make a decision if its something that will benefit you or not. The Pop ups to update are annoying, but sometimes its better to wait a few days, and let others work the bugs out. If you get a notice about updates for the apps that are on your device, these updates can be installed right away. When they update the operating system, that is when the trouble starts. Return to Top of page - click here
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| Website
Links: Maintenance: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Maintenance.html Computer Tips: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Tips.html Monthly Backup: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/MonthlyBackup.html Newsletter Archive - http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Archieve_NL.html |
| If you do not want to do the monthly maintenance on your computer yourself, I can visit (if you live in Lake County, FL) and take care of it for you, on a semi-annual basis. Please contact me to setup scheduled visits, call 352-449-8561. |
| March 2016 |
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In This Issue |
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Cortana Lockup:
The Cortana Lockup continues to be the biggest problem with Windows 10. You turn on your computer and notice some of the icons on your task bar are missing. You click on the Start button, and nothing happens. Then the panic sets in, and you go get the sledge hammer to put the computer out of its misery. There is a simple fix, and it does not involve a sledge hammer. Follow the instructions above, and in three minutes you will be back up and running. If you call me for help, I will give you the same instructions, This has fixed 99% of the problems with Windows 10.
Return to Top of page - click here.
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Free Office Programs - Class Notes now online
In the February PC computer class at Trilogy, I taught a class on the free Office programs that are available. I have now put my class screen shots on my website for you to try at home. Click here to take a look - http://www.computersbyjoe.com/windowstipstricks.html Return to Top of page - click here.
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| Free Computer
and Tech Classes - Spring Season
PC Class - Wednesday, March 9th 10:00 am Topic: Android Phones Basics Apple Class - Wednesday, March 9th 11:30am Topic: iCloud.com website. How to use the iCloud.com website. We will be exploring what the cloud online storage is all about, and how it works to sync our stuff. We will also be covering how to restore your contacts, calendars or files if they ever disappear from your devices. If you would like to attend these free classes at Trilogy, please email me . Please indicate which classes you would like to attend in the email. I will register you with the front gate and clubhouse. You must be registered to attend. The Deadline to register is the Monday before the class. April 13th, PC Class - 10:00 am Topic: Google Apps (Google Photos, Goggle Drive, etc) April 13th, Apple Class - 11:30am Topic: Syncing your Devices with iCloud May 11th, PC Class - 10:00 am Topic: Android Tablets Basics May 11th, Apple Class - 11:30am Topic: Using your iMac, Macbook computers. No Classes June, July & August - Summer Break!
Return to Top of page - click here.
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How to Create a New
Brighthouse Email account - You are allowed to add up to 10 email accounts if you have Brighthouse cable. In the past a new account would assign 100 megabytes (MB) to each new account. Now a new account starts with 1 gigabyte (GB). Your storage limit is based on the speed of your Internet. The
standard account (25 MBPS) now allows up to 2 GB storage. So if you have multiple accounts, you may need to adjust the size of those accounts so your storage does not go over your limit.
Click Here for Step by Step Instructions. Return to Top of page - click here.
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Google's Picasa Photo program retiring -
Effective March 30th, Google will be shutting down this popular photo organizing app. If you are currently using this service, I recommend that you backup your photos that are online onto your computer. In May users will no longer be able to edit their online photo albums. The program is being replaced by Google Photos, which works with all devices, computers, tablets and smart phones. If you are using Picasa, Google has already moved your photos and videos to the new site - https://photos.google.com In May, users will start to see some of these changes take place. If you already have the Picasa Desktop program on your computer, it will still work, but Google will no longer be supplying updates to the product. Click here for more information - http://googlephotos.blogspot.com/2016/02/moving-on-from-picasa.html I will be teaching a class at Trilogy on April 13th on the new Google Photos app. Please see the details above.
Return to Top of page - click here |
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After naming the Mac Operating System after animals, and mountains in California, rumor has it, they are going back to using "fruits" for names. The new operating system is due out this Fall, so if you are planning on upgrading your iMac or Macbook you still have some time to go to El Capitan which is available in the Apple Store. Some of the new features are now being discussed on websites online. According to the Mac rumors website, improvements to the Photo app are coming. Some new photo editing tools will be added. Siri personal assistant may also be coming with this new Operating System. Click here for more information - http://www.macrumors.com/2016/02/25/ios-10-os-x-10-12-photos-app-improvements/
Return to Top of page - click here
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| Website
Links: Maintenance: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Maintenance.html Computer Tips: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Tips.html Monthly Backup: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/MonthlyBackup.html Newsletter Archive - http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Archieve_NL.html |
| If you do not want to do the monthly maintenance on your computer yourself, I can visit (if you live in Lake County, FL) and take care of it for you, on a semi-annual basis. Please contact me to setup scheduled visits, call 352-449-8561. |
| February 2016 |
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In This Issue |
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Windows 10 Upgrades - I have been averaging 3 upgrades from Windows 8 to Windows 10 each week since August 2015. The average time has been two hours. There have been a few glitches due to Windows Updates that installed after the upgrade. Most glitches disappeared when you restart the computer. New version coming soon - build # 11099 (Service Pack 2) - Another large update is due soon. It has been released to the people who are signed up to test new releases of windows, and it will include improvements to Windows Updates. Internet Explorer (IE) support issues - There have been rumors going around that since Microsoft released The Edge Internet browser, it is no longer going to support Internet Explorer. Those rumors are incorrect. Internet Explorer 11 is still installed on Windows 10, (just hidden) and will be supported for many years to come. Microsoft is stopping the support for Internet Explorer 8 (Windows XP), Internet Explorer 9 (Windows Vista), and Internet Explorer 10 (on older models of Windows 7). If you are still using Internet Explorer 10, then you need to upgrade to IE 11. Click here for more information. Return to Top of page - click here.
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Apple/Mac OSX 10.11.4 Update Available Soon -
Apple has released an update for the Macbook, iMac and Mac Mini computers, 10.11.3, but its main purpose is to fix glitches caused by the previous updates. If you are having trouble with your Apple computer, then its OK to install this update. If you are not having any problems, then wait. With every update, new problems can arrive so if its "not broke - don't fix it'. A major release is due this Spring that will change the look of some of the programs, including iTunes. This will be OSX 10.11.4 El Capitan is currently in the beta stage (being tested). Its planned to be released along with updates for iPhone and iPads (iOS 9.3). The latest OS X version is said to deliver new features that include iMessage sharing, Live Photo viewing through the Messages app, and enhanced security to Notes through password protection feature. Return to Top of page - click here.
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| Free Computer
and Tech Classes - Winter Break
PC Class - February 10th 10:00 am Topic: Open Office Basics - Open Office is a free Word and Excel 'like' program that has been installed on many computers, instead of the expensive Microsoft Office programs. This will be a basic class that will show you how to install the program, and use it to create some simple letters and spreadsheets. Apple Class - February 10th 11:30am Topic: iPad Basics class. Thanks to a generous donation, I now have an iPad that I will be using to teach this, and future iPad classes on. If you received a iPad for the Holiday's, this class will teach you the basics on how to use the iPad, how to add email and browse the Internet, etc. If you would like to attend these free classes at Trilogy, please email me . Please indicate which classes you would like to attend in the email. I will register you with the front gate and clubhouse. You must be registered to attend. The Deadline to register is the Monday before the class. March 9th, PC Class - 10:00 am Topic: To be Determined March 9th, Apple Class - 11:30am Topic: To be Determined
Return to Top of page - click here.
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Get 10 Ads - Uninstall Windows Update KB3035583
If you have Windows 7, I recommend that you keep Windows 7. If you have Recommended Updates turned on, then a white window appears down by the clock that are linked to annoying ads which pop up every time you turn on your computer. Click here for instructions on how to get rid of the ads. Return to Top of page - click here.
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You are a Child, do not do Adult tasks - Safe Setup Apple/Mac = Click on Cancel button
PC = Click on NO button
If your computer is slowing down, or there are some strange pop ups on your computer, then you may have forgotten that you are a child using your computer. You are not suppose to do adult tasks in your account on your computer. Over the past few weeks, I have tested my clients, and they are failing the test. I launch the above windows and everyone is clicking on the wrong buttons. If your computer has a Maintenance account, then its setup to never get viruses, malwareware, ransomware, etc. It comes down to you - the computer operator. If you click on the wrong button, you will do damage to your computer, and your personal security. Never install anything in your account! You cannot tell the real programs from the fake ones. Most of the bad stuff comes from emails, or browsing the Internet. In the Maintenance account - you do not check your email or browse the Internet, so it is safe to install programs there. The Safe Setup is my invention, it is a way to fight the bad guys from tricking us into installing bad programs. Without a Maintenance account, most users click on "Yes" for everything, and then get into big trouble (remember those days). With the Maintenance account, you click on "NO" or "Cancel" for everything, and stay Safe! Return to Top of page - click here |
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Can't see'm, Can't Slap'm: Fake Phone Scams
Never let a stranger on the phone take over the control of your computer (remote access). Hang up the phone, and then call me! Some guy in India is not going to be able to 'see' your computer unless you give him access, so whatever baloney they are telling you on the phone is fake, and a ploy to steal your identity and money. As I have told many of my clients, "if you can't see them, you can't slap them", so do not follow their instructions, because they will take control of your computer, and then you are in big trouble. Within the first 3 minutes, they will copy everything on your computer and save it to their computer. They are looking for passwords, tax forms that contain social security numbers, and other private information. Hang up the phone! Click here for more information from the Federal Trade Commission. You cannot trust your caller ID on your phone. The bad guys can now use a website to display a fake caller ID. Let all phone calls go to voicemail. Return to Top of page - click here
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PC Computer Life Cycles
Windows XP - retired, no windows updates If you are still using Windows XP, then you must have a Maintenance account or unplug the computer from the Internet. The hackers are still attacking the computer, and Microsoft is no longer issuing updates to patch this operating system. Windows Vista will also be in this same situation this time next year - so its time to consider replacing your Vista computers. Windows 7 has another four years before it hits retirement, so we have time. Apple/Mac Computer Lifecycles
On the Apple/Mac computers 10.5 Leopard is now considered retired, and no longer is receiving updates. Apple does not have a lifecycle like the PC. They are more focused on the hardware (computer) life, and they retire older models when the computer can no longer run the operating system well. 10.6 Snow Leopard introduced the Apple store where you were able to install App on your computer using an Apple ID. But to upgrade to the current 10.11 El captain, you need 10.7 Mt. Lion or higher. So that means 10.6 Snow Leopard is now retired. Click here to see what computers Apple considers retired. This was also a good site to check if you are in the process of replacing your outdated Apple/Mac - http://buyersguide.macrumors.com/ Just be careful of the ads on this page, do not click on them. Return to Top of page - click here |
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Links: Maintenance: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Maintenance.html Computer Tips: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Tips.html Monthly Backup: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/MonthlyBackup.html Newsletter Archive - http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Archieve_NL.html |
| If you do not want to do the monthly maintenance on your computer yourself, I can visit (if you live in Lake County, FL) and take care of it for you, on a semi-annual basis. Please contact me to setup scheduled visits, call 352-449-8561. |
| January 2015 |
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In This Issue |
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Happy
New Year! 
It has been a very busy 2015. The year started out with my beta testing Windows 10. Each month a new version was installed on my test machine, and each month I taught myself how to use the features, and gave Microsoft feedback. In August Windows 10 was released to the public, and its been a blur since then. Windows 8 was a nightmare for many, and Windows 10 was the end of that nightmare. This year was also an introduction of malware on the Apple devices. The most common hack was changing the Safari homepage to strange websites. Some of the malware I found slowed down the devices. It just shows how no device is safe, and how important my Safe Setup invention was used to keep my clients iMac and Macbooks safe. My monthly newsletter also saw a change this year as it transferred to my website instead of being emailed. My email provider notified me that I was not authorized to email newsletters, and that I had to stop immediately. I felt the newsletter is an important communication tool, and I did not want it to stop, so I moved it to my website. Then I notified my clients to add the website to their Favorites list, and then visit the website on the first day of every month. This transition worked very well, and allowed me to use pictures and illustrations which I was not able to use in the emailed newsletter. This year I passed the 700 client mark, which is a major accomplishment. I started my business in the Summer of 2011, so next year will be my fifth year in business. It started as a hobby working with computers, and has grown into a thriving business that has me working six days a week. I am now helping residents in communities from Hawthorne in the North to Kings Ridge in the South. This year was the fourth year that I have been using the Safe Setup to protect PC computers. The number of malware infections had dropped, but some of my clients were still running into trouble. I discovered that when the window popped up looking for a Maintenance password, they were clicking on the incorrect button and installing some bad programs. So I tested it adding a password to the Maintenance account, and I am happy to report that it worked. Clients who clicked on the Yes button by accident did not install any bad programs, because they clicked on the correct No button which has stopped viruses and saved computers. As I start looking towards this new year I see some deadlines looming. In July the free Windows 10 upgrade will change to the $119 charge for the operating system. If you are planning on going to Windows 10, please notify me before this Spring. This may also lead to a rise in the cost of new PC computers. Windows Vista PC computers are coming to the end of their lives soon, the official date is April 2017. Microsoft will then end support, and you will need to purchase a new computer. With a potential price hike in new PC computers, you may want to replace that Windows Vista computer this Spring. Happy New Year!
Return to Top of page - click here.
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| Free
Computer and Tech Classes - Winter Break
No classes in January!
What would you like to learn? I am looking for ideas on what to teach for the Winter Season. So far I have had one suggestion, a class on Open Office. I can teach about Smart Phones, Tablets or Computers in what ever areas you are struggling with. Please email me with a list of things that you would like to learn.
PC Class - February 10th 10:00 am Topic: Open Office Basics - Open Office is a free Word and Excel 'like' program that has been installed on many computers, instead of the expensive Microsoft Office programs. This will be a basic class that will show you how to install the program, and use it to create some simple letters and spreadsheets. Apple Class - February 10th 11:30am Topic: iPad Basics class. Thanks to a generous donation I now have an iPad that I will be using to teach this and future iPad classes on. If you received a iPad for the Holiday's, this class will teach you the basics on how to use the iPad, how to add email and browse the Internet, etc. If you would like to attend these free classes at Trilogy, please email me . Please indicate which classes you would like to attend in the email. I will register you with the front gate and clubhouse. You must be registered to attend. Deadline to register is the Monday before the class. March 9th, PC Class - 10:00 am Topic: To be Determined March 9th, Apple Class - 11:30am Topic: To be Determined
Return to Top of page - click here.
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What are my clients saying, your input please
A New Year is here, and it's time to update the "What are my clients saying" page (click here). If you are happy with my services, please email me in a paragraph or two, on what you think of the services I provide. Only your initials, and the name of your community will appear online.
Return to Top of page - click here.
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Royal Highlands Presentation -
I have been invited to the Royal Highlands community to do a presentation on Wednesday, January 6th at 3pm. The topic will be "How to share a Computer by adding an Account". The presentation is open to Royal Highlands residents only, and will be held in the Rec Center in the Royal Highlands community. I will be covering how to add an account to Windows 7 and prior operating systems. Then I will be showing how to add an account using Windows 10. I will be doing the presentation and then I will be answering questions after the presentation.
Return to Top of page - click here |
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Links: Maintenance: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Maintenance.html Computer Tips: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Tips.html Monthly Backup: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/MonthlyBackup.html Newsletter Archive - http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Archieve_NL.html |
| If you do not want to do the monthly maintenance on your computer yourself, I can visit (if you live in Lake County, FL) and take care of it for you, on a semi-annual basis. Please contact me to setup scheduled visits, call 352-449-8561. |
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In This Issue |
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Windows 10 News New Windows 10 - version 5011 (Win 10, SP1) is now being released to Win 10 computers. The update will arrive through the Windows Update, and you should get the request to restart your computer (if it was setup correctly). Here is what's new:
Note: This update may take up to one hour to install. I am calling this Windows 10 Service Pack 1, it makes more sense than Build 5011. Return to Top of Page - click here.
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My Grandfather was 105 years old He was born in 1910, retired at the age of 55, and had just passed away last month in November. He was retired for half of his lifetime, enjoyed bike riding, swimming, and computers. I taught him what I knew about computers, and he used that knowledge to learn, and trade stocks on the New York Stock exchange in his 80's. I have told many of my clients about my grandfather, so that is why I am sharing this personal story. I was proud of my grandfather, and he will be missed very much.
Return to Top of page - click here.
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What are my clients saying, your input please
A New Year is coming, and it's time to update the "What are my clients saying" page (click here). If you are happy with my services, please email me in a paragraph or two, on what you think of the services I provide. Only your initials, and the name of your community will appear online.
Return to Top of page - click here.
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Free Computer and Tech Classes - Winter Break No classes in December or January! PC Class - February 10th 10:00 am Topic: To be Determined Apple Class - February 10th 11:30am Topic: To be Determined If you would like to attend these free classes at Trilogy, please email me . Please indicate which classes you would like to attend in the email. I will register you with the front gate and clubhouse. You must be registered to attend the classes. Deadline to register is the Monday before the class. March 9th, PC Class - 10:00 am Topic: To be Determined March 9th, Apple Class - 11:30am Topic: To be Determined
Return to Top of page - click here.
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Ransomware coming to Mac/Apple products
In last month's Apple/Mac class, we discussed the new threat to Mac computers in the form of a nasty program called ransomware. If you get this bug, it will lock up all your pictures, documents, etc. on your computer, and give you 3 days to pay a ransom to get the files unlocked. If you do not pay, then your files are locked and you cannot view them. The attack has been appearing in bad ads on websites or an email with a bad attachment. The following are steps you can take to protect your files: The easiest is to back up your files onto an external hard drive, or a USB flash drive. The next important step is my invention, the Safe Setup, which removes the rights to install bad files from the account you use to open emails, and browse the Internet. If you have an iMac or a Macbook that does not have a Maintenance account, please call me for an appointment. Return to Top of page - click here.
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Note: Saturdays will be normal hours (8am to 8pm) during the holiday's. Return to Top of page - click here.
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Scheduled Appointments
I schedule appointments Monday to Saturday at 10am and 2pm. Daytime appointments are at $40 per hour. If you need an appointment sooner, I offer 6pm appointments, depending on availability at the $60 per hour rate.
Return to Top of page - click here.
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FixMeStick USB drive scam
Return to Top of page - click here.
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The New Avast 2016
Avast free is the anti-virus program that I am now recommending. If you are still running AVG free on your PC computer I recommend that you switch to Avast. If you are signed up for the 6 month maintenance plan, then I will be upgrading to the new version on my next visit so you can skip this article. If you are doing your own PC computer maintenance then from the Maintenance account, uninstall AVG & install Avast, click here for step by step instructions. If you already have Avast on your computer from the Maintenance account, right click on the Avast logo by the clock, left click on Update, and then Program update (see below).
You will then get the sales pitch below, choose Essential (free) by click on the gray Update button.
The program will then download and install the new version. When you see the Restart button, click on it, and your computer will restart. Go back to Maintenance. Then the screen below will appear. Uncheck the Google Chrome optional software and then click on the continue button. Then the program will open. You do not need to make any changes, all your settings have been transferred over.
Return to Top of page - click here.
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Yahoo Mail vs. Ad-Blocker
If you are using the Ad - Blocker plug-in on your Internet browser (Internet Explorer, Firefox, Safari or Google Chrome) to block the ads that appear in your Yahoo email window, you may get the message above appear the next time you try to read you email. Yahoo mail like many email providers, is a free email program. If you read the terms of use, it states that the email is free in exchange for you seeing ads on the website as you read your email. But, if you are using an ad-blocker program you will not see the ads, which means then Yahoo can then charge you for your email, or block access to your account. My advice is to disable the ad-block plug-in before you login to read your email, and enable it after you have finished it, or switch to an email provider that allows you to run ad blocker.
Return to Top of page - click here.
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Links: Maintenance: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Maintenance.html Computer Tips: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Tips.html Monthly Backup: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/MonthlyBackup.html Newsletter Archive - http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Archieve_NL.html |
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| If you do not want to do the monthly maintenance on your computer yourself, I can visit (if you live in Lake County, FL) and take care of it for you, on a semi-annual basis. Please contact me to setup scheduled visits, call 352-449-8561. |
| November 2015 |
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In This Issue |
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Windows 10 News Windows 8 to 10 Direct Method: Great news for Windows 8 users, you do not need to upgrade to Windows 8.1 before upgrading to Windows 10. I recently noticed on a Microsoft website that they changed the system requirements to upgrade, adding version 8 to the list. Originally they listed Windows 7, and Windows 8.1. During the upgrade Microsoft checks, and installs any missing updates that are required. I have upgraded a few machines using this direct to 10 method with only one glitch, which some Windows Store apps will need to be reinstalled. This is a great time saver, saving two to three hours of upgrade time. Cortana still crashing: Microsoft tried to copy the personal assistant program, Siri that is used on some Apple devices, but they failed. To get this program to work, you must allow Microsoft to "spy" on you, accessing your contacts, calendar, and everything you type on your keyboard. The trouble is that in the Privacy statement, they state they will share this info with their "trusted partners", and link you to an advertising ID number. Scary stuff. I am still recommending that you do not activate this feature. If you did turn it on, then Click on Start, Settings then Privacy, then go to Inking, and click on the "Stop learning about me" button. This will disable Cortana. If you get a message that the "Start menu and Cortana had a critical error", then you will need to do the CTRL, ALT, Del method, and then click on Sign out. Click here for instructions on how to solve this lockup issue. Return to Top of page - click here.
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| Microsoft Office
2010 Glitch Fixed
If you are using Word or Excel 2010, and getting strange crashes or Spool errors, the problem has been fixed. The main program that is used to open your documents has been changed from Virtualization DDE Launcher to Virtualization Handler. On my computer, the fix occurred automatically, changing from one program to another. If you are still getting the lockups and errors please contact me, and I will email you instructions on how to make the change. Its as easy as right clicking on an icon, and left clicking on the solution. This error appears to only effect the Microsoft Office 2010 programs which runs a 32 bit program in a 64 bit environment using a virtual window. The Office 2013 dropped this method, and opened like a normal program.
Return to Top of page - click here.
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| Transitioning to 6
month Maintenance
So therefore, I am in the process of transitioning my clients who were on the three month maintenance plan to a six month plan. If you have any questions about this please contact me. For my clients who are doing their own Maintenance, I will continue to remind you monthly, but if your PC computer has a Maintenance password, and is running Windows 7 or higher, you can also switch to a new schedule. If you are running the Malwarebytes program, and getting more then 50 infections, then please contact me for a checkup. "0" infections should be your goal. If you are doing your own PC maintenance, then I recommend yearly checkups from me. Return to Top of page - click here.
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| Free
Computer and Tech Classes
PC Class - November 11th 10:00 am Topic: Windows 10 App Store We will be exploring the App Store, how to keep from converting to a cloud account, how to install an app, and pin to your task bar. Apple Class - November 11th 11:30am Topic: Apple Desktop and Laptop Basic's class. How to setup your iMac desktop or Macbook laptop computer to make it work for you. We will be covering how to clean up your dock, how to change your Safari home page, etc. A minimum of 10 people are required, otherwise this class may be cancelled. If you would like to attend the free classes at Trilogy, please email me Please indicate in the email which classes you would like to attend. I will register you with the front gate and clubhouse. You must be registered to attend these classes. Deadline to register is Monday, November 9th. December - No Classes
Return to Top of page - click here.
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Kings Ridge Computer Club Guest Speaker
I have been invited back to the Kings Ridge community in Clermont to be a guest speaker at their November 4th Computer Club meeting. This is for the Kings Ridge residents only. I will be teaching on two subjects, the first hour, I will review the steps to set up a Windows 10 computer, to make it look like Windows 7. The second hour I will be reviewing the new Windows 10 App store. If you are a Kings Ridge resident, and would like to attend these classes, please contact Roy Gordon, his phone number is in your community directory. Return to Top of page - click here.
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Note: Saturdays will be normal hours (8am to 8pm) during the holiday's. Return to Top of page - click here.
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2016 Rate Increase As we start a new year, some of my hourly rates will be increasing. Starting January 1, 2016, the evening rate will be increasing to $60 per hour (6pm and after). The rate for the Trilogy Community will be $40 per hour. Thank you very much for your continued support. Return to Top of page - click here.
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A new record of 7,249 infections from a Malwarebytes scan was set in October. The previous record was 4,000. It was on a Windows 7 computer that was not protected by the Safe Setup. The grandkids also played a part in setting this record. Zero infections is the average result thanks to the Safe Setup and the Maintenance password. This is the goal we all want to achieve.
Return to Top of page - click here.
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Ink Jet printer not working? - Try to clean the Printhead I had a recent call for an appointment from a client who had purchased a new printer, and needed my help setting it up. As I was unpacking the new printer, I looked at the "old" printer, and asked how old it was. I was told it was only two years old, which startled me. Printers usually last four to five years, so I stopped unpacking the new printer, and started asking questions. The reason the client purchased a new printer was because no ink was coming out of the old one, and it stopped printing. My first question was - did they clean the printhead, and the answer was: "what is a printhead"? So I cleaned their printhead on the "old" printer, and a beautiful page printed out. The client is now returning the new printer, and saving $100. A printhead is the device that holds the ink in an inkjet printer. Over time, ink dries near the nozzle on the bottom which then prevents the ink from reaching your paper. Most printers have the ability to clean up this dry ink. If you are having problems with missing text or poor quality, then you can improve this yourself. On the printer look for a wrench icon, and tap it (if its a touch screen). On some models look for Settings. Then look for the word Maintenance, and tap it (or select it on non-touch models). Look for the word Clean Printhead and tap it (select it). On my HP Envy 5660 model, the option is "Clean Cartridges". The printer will then enter a self cleaning mode. At the end, a sheet should print out with a quality report. If you are happy with the printout, then you are done. If you would like it to look better, then follow the instructions on the screen to run the self clean again. When you are done look for a home icon, and tap it to return to the main screen. Cleaning the Printhead does use up a ton of ink so it is expensive to repeat the steps more then three times, in that case it may be cheaper to buy a new printer. If you get a message on the printer to "replace the Printhead" then its time to buy a new printer. Most Printhead sell for $80 or more, which is now the average cost of a new printer. If your printer does not have a display on the printer then look for the printer icon on your computers desktop and there should be a maintenance option available.
Return to Top of page - click here.
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Links: Maintenance: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Maintenance.html Computer Tips: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Tips.html Monthly Backup: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/MonthlyBackup.html Newsletter Archive - http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Archieve_NL.html |
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| If you do not want to do the monthly maintenance on your computer yourself, I can visit (if you live in Lake County, FL) and take care of it for you, on a semi-annual basis. Please contact me to setup scheduled visits, call 352-449-8561. |
| October 2015 |
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In This Issue |
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Windows 10 is here! Its now OK to install. Since I gave the green light at the start of September, I have completed approximately 20 upgrades from Windows 8.1 to Windows 10. When I first started, it was taking about three hours to do the upgrade per computer. Now I have that down to two hours, thanks to my creating a Windows 10 upgrade disk. The first step is to download the 4 gigabyte Windows 10 file that was taking about an hour when using the direct link on my website. The next step is to answer a few questions, and the upgrade process kicks in and does the upgrade. This step of the process takes an hour to complete, and is very boring to watch. I am now offering an option to "stop the clock" and save you money if I can work the timing out with another client in your community at the time of your upgrade. This option has worked out well. I leave for an hour to assist another client, then I return to finish the upgrade. Another option I am offering is to start the upgrade on one day and then to return the next day to finish. If you would like me to do the Windows 10 upgrade for you, please ask me about the "Stop the Clock" option. With the next day option you will not be able to use your computer until I return the following day.
Return to Top of page - click here.
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| Keep
Windows 7 - Turn off Get 10 nags
Once again, the purpose of Windows 10 is to make Windows 8 go away. Windows 10 allows you to setup your Windows 8 computer to make it look and act like Windows 7. So Windows 7 users have nothing to gain by going to Windows 10. The few people I have encountered that upgraded to Windows 10 from Windows 7 hated the program. You are giving 30 days to return to Window 7. There were two cases that I have encountered: the Windows 7 program became corrupted, and the computers could not return to 7. To avoid this from happenening to you there are two steps that you must take.
Click here for the steps or call to make an appointment.
Note: For my clients who have upgraded from Windows 8 to Windows 10 have loved the new Windows 10. The annoying bar that used to pop out from the right is history, and they now have the Start button back. The games also run in a window that allows you to see your taskbar, clock and other programs on your computer. Windows 10 is fun and easy to use, once it is setup correctly. Return to Top of page - click here.
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| Fake WOT (Web of Trust)
Alert -
The WOT (Web Of Trust) is still an excellent tool to
alert you of bad web pages but you need to be on alert because the bad
guys in the World are playing games, trying to trick up. The WOT rating is
ONLY placed on the right side of online searches. If a green icon appears
on the left, then it's Fake! In the picture above you can see the real
Microsoft website has a green rating, showing that it's a safe website. The
Microsoft Support Online is rated as RED, but is also rated as green on
the left side to try to confuse us. A good rule of thumb is to try to
avoid clicking on the first item on a search results page because most likely
the company paid to come out on top. Return to Top of page - click here.
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| Free Computer & Tech Classes
PC Class - October 14th at 10am - Topic: Windows 10 - How to customize your computer. Many people are now using the new Windows 10 but its confusing to find things when you first start using it. The purpose of Windows 10 allows you to make your Windows 8 computer look like Windows 7. So this class will be covering the steps you need to take to accomplish this task. Apple Class - October 14th at 11:30am (new time) Topic: iPad - Questions & Answers. Bring your iPad questions, and the class will help find the answers. The will be a basic hands on class, so please bring your iPads. If you would like to attend the free classes at Trilogy please email me Please indicate in the email which classes you would like to attend. I will register you with the front gate and clubhouse. You must be registered to attend these classes. Deadline to register is Monday, October 12th.
Fall Schedule: PC - November 11th 10:00 am Topic: Windows 10 App Store We will be exploring the App Store, how to keep from converting to a cloud account, how to install an app and pin to your task bar. Apple - November 11th 11:30am Topic: Apple Desktop & Laptop basics class. How to setup your iMac or Macbook to make it work for you. We will be covering, how to clean up your dock, how to change your Safari home page, etc. December - No Classes
Return to Top of page - click here.
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| New - Rent
A Geek Buy of the month :
I can help you with the research on finding you your next PC computer. If you would like to sign up for this free guidance, please email me at joe@computersbyjoe.com. Below is a sample of what I would suggest if you were purchasing a new PC computer this week. Many people just walk into the local stores, and tell the salesperson they need a new PC computer, and the salesperson suggests a computer that is usually over-priced, missing the basic elements that make PC computers fun. If you sign up, I will start the search for you, and each week I will email you my suggestions. Just give me your zip code, and I will start the search. If you are in Florida, give me a call for an appointment when you get the computer, so I can set it up the right way with my other invention, the "'Safe Setup Service". Laptop Suggestion - Windows 10: $279 Office Depot Toshiba C55D-C5271 Laptop with Windows 10. AMD CPU, 15.6" monitor, 4 GB RAM, 500 GB hard drive, DVD drive. - click here to view online. $379 Office Depot Toshiba Satellite C55-C5270 Laptop with Windows 10, Intel i3 CPU, 15.6" monitor, 8 GB RAM, 1 TB hard drive, DVD drive. Click here to view online. Desktop Suggestion - Windows 8.1: $219 Office Depot Dell Mini Desktop Inspiron 3646. Intel Celeron CPU,500 GB Hard drive, 4GB RAM, DVD drive - Click here to see online. This is a small desktop tower, they turned the dvd tray sideways to make the box smaller. Each month I will be suggesting a PC laptop and desktop based on the 34711 zip code. Please contact me if you would like to sign up for this free program. Return to Top of page - click here.
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| PC Tip of the month - How
to change your search provider in Internet Explorer. When
you search on Internet Explorer, it uses the Search Provider
that you selected when you setup your browser. Many times it is Bing,
which was selected by Microsoft. You can change it to Google or another
search engine of your choice.
Click here to see pictures that will guide you through these steps.
Return to Top of page - click here.
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| Suntrust Online Bank
& Google Chrome
If you use Suntrust online banking, you may have encountered a problem accessing your account. It looks like they are no longer supporting Internet Explorer or Firefox Internet browsers. I have not had any reports or problems on Apple products using the Safari browser. Some of my customers have called the bank support line, and the advice they were given got them into big trouble. They were told to look up Chrome on the Internet, and then install the browser. The problem is you cannot look up Google Chrome. If you do, you may end up with a fake malware program called Chromium (they are calling it a BoBrowser). In one case, it killed the PC computer, others, it slowed the computer to a crawl and had some crazy pop up windows. Once you install the real Google Chrome, the Suntrust online banking site loads smoothly, and works fine. So below are the steps to find and install the real Google Chrome.
After the browser loads, they will ask you to create a Gmail account. You can skip this step, it is not required to use this browser. Close all the open windows, and return to your account. Then open Google Chrome (there should not be a shortcut on your desktop), and type Suntrust.com into the top window. Once the website loads, I recommend making it your home page, and using this browser only for your online banking. Click here to see pictures of the above steps.
Return to Top of page - click here.
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New Newsletter Archive -
Click here to see the new Newsletter Archive.
Return to Top of page - click here.
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| Glitch with Office
2010 - No fix at this time
If you are using the Microsoft Office 2010 Starter program that includes Word and Excel, you may have noticed this strange pop up window (above). If you have not witnessed this error on your computer, one day it may soon happen. At this time Microsoft does not have a fix that works. I know because it happened to me, and I have tried them all. My computer is running Windows 7 64 bit, and the Office 2010 is a 32 bit program that runs in a virtual window inside the 64 bit operating system. Due to a bad windows update last month, these two environments are no longer working together. Recently, I have discovered that opening Word, and then opening Excel seems to prevent the error from popping up. I am still not sure why this would work, but I will continue to do testing, and when I find a solution I will include the steps in this newsletter. The other option is to purchase the Office 2013 Home and Student program which is selling for about $140 at local stores.
Return to Top of page - click here.
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| Website
Links: Maintenance: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Maintenance.html Computer Tips: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Tips.html Monthly Backup: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/MonthlyBackup.html Newsletter Archive - http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Archieve_NL.html |
| If you do not want to do the monthly maintenance on your computer yourself, I can visit (if you live in Lake County, FL) and take care of it for you, on a semi-annual basis. Please contact me to setup scheduled visits, call 352-449-8561. |
Return to this months Newsletter
| September 2015 |
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In This Issue |
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Windows 10 is here! Its now OK to install. Many people who updated to Windows 10 in August ran into this scenario: When you turned on your computer, and got a message that a Windows Update is installing, another message came on saying it was undoing the update. It would restart 20 times until you shut off the computer. Then you search online, and discover that Microsoft released a bad update. Their advice was to turn off your computer for a few days or weeks until a fix is released. This was why I was recommending that users wait until now to install Windows 10. Windows 10 has changed this month, and the version I installed and upgraded during the first two weeks in August is different from the version I installed in the last week in August. Many of the bugs have been worked out, and the install and upgrade process has improved. Depending on the speed of your Internet, it takes two hours to upgrade to Windows 10 (10 MBPS or higher recommended). For Windows 7 users, my advice is to wait until next Summer to decide if you want to upgrade to Windows 10. Windows 7 is supported by Microsoft until the year 2020, so if you want to keep Windows 7 you can. Otherwise Microsoft will be offering Windows 10 as a 'free' upgrade for the first year, which means you have time to decide if you want to upgrade. For Windows 8 and 8.1 users my advice is to upgrade. This Fall, when you are ready, you can contact me for an appointment, and I will do the upgrade for you or guide you so you can do it yourself. Note: Windows 8 users will need to upgrade to Windows 8.1 before getting Windows 10. So to recap, Windows 7 users can wait until next Summer for this upgrade, but Windows 8/8.1 users this Fall is for you. Call or email me for an appointment to upgrade. Return to Top of page - click here.
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| Portable
Power Bank -
If you have a smart phone or tablet you know how annoying it is when your battery is low. A power bank may be the solution. A power bank is about the size of 2 C-batteries end to end. It comes in many shapes, sizes and colors, and works like a portable power generator you plug your devices into to charge them. The device comes with a cord that has a USB connector on one end, and a smart device connector on the other. Most of the time it does not come with instructions. To charge your device, plug the USB connector into the power bank, and the other end into your smart phone or tablet. Your smart phone or tablet should then display a message that it is charging. Depending on the power bank it can take up to an hour or longer to charge your device. When it is done, unplug your device and you are all set. The power bank will also need to be recharged. To accomplish this, you need to reverse the power bank cord, plug the USB connector into the wall jack that you currently use to charge your device with. Then plug the other end of the cord into the power bank. Depending on your power banks features, you should see some light indicator that shows the power bank is charging. It should also display a light indicator when it is 100% charged.
Staples Power Banks - Click here
Amazon Power Bank - Click
here Return to Top of page - click here.
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| Free Computer & Tech Classes
PC Class - September 9th at 10am - Topic: Windows 10 - An Introduction to Windows 10. This may be your first look at this new operating system. I will be reviewing how to upgrade to Windows 10. Then I will be giving a live demo on my new Windows 10 computer. We will explore the New Start Menu, The Edge Internet browser, PC Settings, Floating Apps, and Virtual Desktops. If you have Windows 10 on your laptop, you can bring it to class. Otherwise bring a notebook to take notes. Mac/Apple Class - September 9th at 11:30am (new time) Topic: iPad Apps - What are your Favorite Apps? After you setup your iPad, and add your email, then the fun starts by adding applications (called Apps) to your iPad. We will be exploring the Apple Store, and some of the fun apps that are available. This is a hands on class, please bring your iPad. If you would like to attend the free classes at Trilogy please email me Please indicate in the email which classes you would like to attend. I will register you with the front gate and clubhouse. You must be registered to attend these classes. Deadline to register is Monday, September 7th.
Fall Schedule: October 14th 10:00 am Topic: Windows 10 - How to customize your computer. October 14th 11:30 am Topic: To be announced November 11th 10:00 am Topic: Windows 10 App Store November 11th 11:30am Topic: Introduction to El Capitan Mac 10.11 December - No Classes Return to Top of page - click here.
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| New - Rent
A Geek Buy of the month :
I can help you with the research on finding you your next PC computer. If you would like to sign up for this free guidance, please email me at joe@computersbyjoe.com. Below is a sample of what I would suggest if you were purchasing a new PC computer this week. Many people just walk into the local stores, and tell the salesperson they need a new PC computer, and the salesperson suggests a computer that is usually over-priced, missing the basic elements that make PC computers fun. If you sign up, I will start the search for you, and each week I will email you my suggestions. Just give me your zip code, and I will start the search. If you are in Florida, give me a call for an appointment when you get the computer, so I can set it up the right way with my other invention, the "'Safe Setup Service". Laptop Suggestion - Windows 10: $399 Staples Toshiba Satellite C55-C5270 Laptop with Windows 10. i3 Intel CPU, 15.6" monitor, 8 GB RAM, 1 TB hard drive, DVD drive. - click here to view online. $269 Staples Toshiba Satellite C55-B5240X Laptop with Windows 10, Intel Celeron N2840 CPU, 15.6" monitor, 4 GB RAM, 500 GB hard drive, DVD drive. Click here to view online. Desktop Suggestion - Windows 10: $399 Staples HP Pavilion 550-110 Desktop. Intel CPU i3,1TB Hard drive, 8GB RAM, DVD drive - Click here to see online. This is a small desktop tower, they turned the dvd tray sideways to make the box smaller. Each month I will be suggesting a PC laptop and desktop based on the 34711 zip code. Please contact me if you would like to sign up for this free program. Return to Top of page - click here.
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| PC Tip of the month - Add
a website to Favorites
Click here to see these instructions online. Return to Top of page - click here.
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| Mac
Attack - Your iMac/Macbook needs the Safe Setup
Apple has released an update to fix these issues and to protect your computer, so you should install the updates now if you see the notice that an update is available. An even better way to keep your iMac or Macbook safe is to have it setup using the Safe Setup Service that I invented. I have tested it, and it works. If you encountered one of these recent threats, you would have been safe if your computer was setup correctly. If your computer does not have a Maintenance account, please contact me for an appointment. Note: VSearch, MacKeeper and Genieo are malware programs. If you have these programs on your iMac or Mac book, these are fake programs, and may be causing your computer to run slowly. Return to Top of page - click here.
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New Newsletter Archive -
Click here to see the new Newsletter Archive.
Return to Top of page - click here.
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| PC:
Dump AVG - Switch to Avast -
AVG was an excellent free anti-virus program that ran quietly in the background and kept your computer bug free. Over the past year things changed. The annoying pop up ads arrived, and took over your computer, stopping you from doing anything until you interacted with the ad. I tried my best to educate everyone on how to respond, but many accidentally installed some of the junk software the ads were promoting. Some even installed the trial software, and when the trial ended, it turned off the program demanding money to turn it back on. So last month I switched to Avast free, and I have control of my computer once again. Avast still has ads, but these only appear for 20 seconds and then automatically close. Even better, you can ignore the ad, and continue with what you were doing. AVG would not let you do that. If you would like to switch, please contact me to schedule an appointment. If you want to try to do it yourself, I have created a website that gives you step by step instructions - click here to view. Return to Top of page - click here.
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| Website
Links: Maintenance: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Maintenance.html Computer Tips: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Tips.html Monthly Backup: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/MonthlyBackup.html Newsletter Archive - http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Archieve_NL.html |
| If you do not want to do the monthly maintenance on your computer yourself, I can visit (if you live in Lake County, FL) and take care of it for you, on a semi-annual basis. Please contact me to setup scheduled visits, call 352-449-8561. |
Return to this months Newsletter
| August 2015 Newsletter | |||
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In This Issue |
Kings Ridge |
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Windows 10 is here! Its here, but please wait! Over the next few weeks you may see a white window icon appear in the system tray (by the clock). Please do not click on it, and most important do not "Reserve a Copy" of Windows 10. Many people have clicked and reserved a copy, which means that Windows 10 will start downloading to your computer. You do not want this version. Please ignore this icon, and save yourself some grief. To see a preview of the upgrade process, click here. On Saturday, July 18th, I upgraded my Windows 10 test computer to Windows 10 Pro. As I was upgrading the computer I took photos of the process. For Windows 7 users, my advice is to wait until next Summer to decide if you want to upgrade to Windows 10. Windows 7 is supported by Microsoft until the year 2020, so if you want to keep Windows 7 you can. Otherwise Microsoft will be offering Windows 10 as a 'free' upgrade for the first year, which means you have time to decide if you want to upgrade. For Windows 8 and 8.1 users my advice is to upgrade, but wait until this Fall when all the bugs are worked out of the program. This Fall, when you are ready, you can contact me for an appointment, and I will do the upgrade for you or guide you so you can do it yourself. Note: Windows 8 users will need to upgrade to Windows 8.1 before getting Windows 10. So to recap, Windows 7 users can wait until next Summer for this upgrade, but Windows 8/8.1 users the Fall time is for you, the time to get rid of the Crazy 8. I have started accepting appointments for September for the upgrade. Please contact me if you would like to make an appointment. Return to Top of page - click here.
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PC & Mac/Apple - Ransomware Attacks
Last month I was very busy helping my clients with their computers that were hijacked by some very bad people. Ransomware stops you from using your computer. Sometimes it holds your computer or files for ransom. One of the attacks that I encountered was a fake BSOD (blue screen of death) window that appeared on an iMac in Safari. The message on the screen indicated it was from Microsoft and gave instructions to call the phone number on the screen. Another attack used the computer speakers to yell that the computer was infected and shouted instructions to call the phone number on the screen. If this happens to you, do not call the number on the screen, call me first! If you call the number the crooks will ask for money to 'fix' the problem, usually from $250 to $400. Once they get your credit card they are gone, and you have to fight with your credit card company to get the money back. There is a nasty version that will encrypt (lock) your files until you pay the ransom. This is why its very important to backup the documents and pictures that you have on your computer. I have received many calls over the past two weeks of a nasty ad on Facebook that seems to self activate (when you move your mouse over the ad). It locks your Internet browser
and you hear a voice telling you that you must call a number on the screen to 'unlock' your computer. Return to Top of page - click here.
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| Free Computer & Tech Classes
The Computer classes are on Summer Break. No classes
this month. PC Class - September 9th at 10am - Topic: Windows 10 - An Introduction to Windows 10. This may be your first look at this new operating system. I will be reviewing how to upgrade to Windows 10. Then I will be giving a live demo on my new Windows 10 computer. We will explore the New Start Menu, The Edge Internet browser, PC Settings, Floating Apps, and Virtual Desktops. If you have Windows 10 on your laptop, you can bring it to class. Otherwise bring a notebook to take notes. If you have Windows 7, you can keep it. If you have Windows 8.1, I recommend upgrading to Windows 10 this Fall. Mac/Apple Class - September 9th at 11:30am (new time) Topic: iPad Apps - What are your Favorite Apps? After you setup your iPad, and add your email, then the fun starts adding applications (called Apps) to your iPad. We will be exploring the Apple Store, and some of the fun apps that are available. This is a hands on class, please bring your iPad. Return to Top of page - click here.
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| New - Rent
A Geek Buy of the month :
I can help you with the research on finding you your next PC computer. If you would like to sign up for this free guidance, please email me at joe@computersbyjoe.com. Below is a sample of what I would suggest if you were purchasing a new PC computer this week. Many people just walk into the local stores, and tell the salesperson they need a new PC computer, and the salesperson suggests a computer that is usually over-priced and missing the basic elements that make PC computers fun. If you sign up, I will start the search for you, and each week I will email you my suggestions. Just let me know your zip code, and I will start the search. If you are in Florida, give me a call for an appointment when you get the computer, so I can set it up the right way with my other invention, the "'Safe Setup Service". Laptop Suggestion - Windows 8.1: $429 Staples HP Laptop AMD CPU, 8 GB RAM, 1 TB hard drive, DVD drive - click here to view online. Desktop Suggestion - Windows 8.1: $399 Office Depot Dell Desktop Intel i3 CPU, 8 GB RAM, 1 TB hard drive, DVD drive - click here to view online.
Each month I will be suggesting a PC laptop and desktop based on the 34711 zip code. Please contact me if you would like to sign up for this free program. Return to Top of page - click here.
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| PC Tip of the month -
How to change your
Internet browser Home Page:
An Internet browser is a program that you use on your computer to view the Internet. The first page that loads is called a Home Page. Sometimes a virus program will change your home page, and sometimes the bad guys will do it to hijack your browser. Below are instructions on how to change it back to what you want. Internet Explorer:
Click here to see these instructions online. Firefox:
Click here to see these instructions online. Return to Top of page - click here.
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| Malwarebytes
for Mac - Its finally here!
For years I have been using Malwarebytes to clean up PC computers. It is an excellent program for getting rid of the junk that the bad guys put on computer. They have now released a free version for the iMac and Macbook computers. OSX 10.7 Lion or higher is required. The program is Not in the Apple Store, it must be downloaded from the Malwarebytes website. Please contact me for an appointment so that I can setup your Mac using the Safe Setup method and install this new anti-malware program. The scan runs very quickly. Return to Top of page - click here.
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| Kings
Ridge Residents Only - Windows 10 Classes
I have been invited to teach a class on Windows 10 in the Kings Ridge Clubhouse. The class will be held on Wednesday, September 2nd at 1pm. I will be explaining how to upgrade to Windows 10, and then showing screen shots of the upgrade process. I will then be clicking around my Windows 10 computer, explaining the new features as I go. Roy Gordon, KR Computer Club President, will be emailing members the details. Contact him directly if you have questions. I will be returning to Kings Ridge in November to do a follow up class on Windows 10. Bring your questions, and get ready for some informative answers as we explore Windows 10 together. Return to Top of page - click here.
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| Mac
- Tip of the Month: How to clean up bad email
addresses
Mail email program is a simple program on your iMac or Macbook that you can use for all your email accounts. If you had 3 email accounts, you may have to visit 3 different email websites to log in, and work with your emails. This is time consuming. An easier way is to add each account to the Mail program. Then when you open the program it automatically goes to all 3 email servers and brings your email to you inside this program ad free! The item that drives some people crazy is that when you write a new email and there is a typo, the bad email address is 'saved' to your computer. Then when you start a new email and type the person's name, the bad address appears and you may click on it by accident. Then you click the Send button, and the Mail program tries to deliver the email. Then you see the dreaded mailer-daemon Delivery Status Notification (Failure). So when you notice bad email addresses in your list, follow these instructions to clean them out. I have added this item to the new Mac Tips and Tricks page. Click here to see more details and pictures of these instructions.
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| Website Links: Maintenance: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Maintenance.html Computer Tips: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/Tips.html Monthly Backup: http://www.computersbyjoe.com/MonthlyBackup.html |
| If you do not want to do the monthly maintenance on your computer yourself, I can visit (if you live in Lake County, FL) and take care of it for you, on a semi-annual basis. Please contact me to setup scheduled visits, call 352-449-8561. |
Fall Creator Update Version number 1709 (Service Pack
4) -
This update was released between October and November. Some computers
are still stuck on Service Pack 2 (1607). If you are having trouble
installing the updates, then open the Control Panel and run the Windows
Update Troubleshooter in your Administrator account. This will run a
program that searches and fixes problems with the downloaded Windows
Updates. 
Last
Call for 
I
am getting approximately one call a day from a panicked client who just had their
computer locked up by a fake virus. CTRL + ALT + Delete, then
Signout is still the method that makes the bad stuff go away. Nothing installs on the
computer because it is not a virus, just an ad from a website that your
mouse passed over. I found an interesting TV station interview that does a
good job explaining what happens during an attack. 
Safari
11 is now available in the Apple Store. Click on Updates icon at the top
of the page. Then click on Update next to Safari 11. It has many new
features that you can use to control how websites are loaded. Open Safari
Preferences, then click on Website's tab for more options.
If
you are signed up for me to do the maintenance on your computer, I will now
be asking to see your smart devices. If you have a smart phone or tablet
please have it available for me to do a brief checkup to make sure its
safe to use. I will be checking to make sure its been updated, confirming
space issues and other problems.
The
Classic Shell Start Menu is the best
way to setup your computer the way you want it; not the way some geeks at
Microsoft want it. See my Tips page for details. I will be teaching
a class on the Classic Shell in Trilogy this month. See below for more
details. It hides the crazy Windows 10 menu.
If
you purchase a new printer and run into trouble setting it, up do not call
the phone number in the printer manual. That manual may be old, and
the phone number may have been disconnected from the printer manufacture.
The bad guys are scooping up these phone numbers, and waiting for you
to call them. When you call, they claim they work for HP or Brother (or
from the
printer that you purchased), and tell you they can solve all your problems.
These bad guys trick you into giving them remote control of your
computer. They also discover 7,000 Trojans on your computer and for the small payment of
$300 they claim they will fix your computer. This is all a SCAM! Do not call the number in the manual,
please call me.
Some
local residents are getting voicemails from a caller claiming to be from
Microsoft or Apple. They claim that your Computer Operating System has
expired. They ask you to call an 800 number to discuss your options. This
is another scam! Please do not call these bad guys back; just delete the
message.
Since
last October, I have been part of a Technical Committee that was formed in
Trilogy to select a new vendor to supply TV, Phone and Internet Services
for the community. In July, the Trilogy HOA Board voted for Spectrum based
on the committees recommendations. It was a very interesting and
educational process. I would like to thank my clients from other nearby
communities that gave me some good advice, and insight they
experienced in their own communities. 
Trilogy
will be getting a new website this month, that will continue to be managed
by the clubhouse staff. The Tech Bar will be a group of volunteers
that will help residents log into the new website, and set up their
preferences and profiles. I
have volunteered to help residents with this new website by being part of
the Tech Bar. This website will be connecting all Trilogy
communities nationwide.
I
am getting approximately one call a day from a panicked client who just had their
computer locked up by a fake virus. CTRL + ALT + Delete, then
Signout is still the method that makes the bad stuff go away. Nothing installs on the
computer because it is not a virus, just an ad from a website that your
mouse passed over. I found an interesting TV station interview that does a
good job explaining what happens during an attack. 
The
next time you turn off your Apple/Mac computer, please un-check this
option. Malware is slowly creeping into the Apple computers so this option
can be a bad one to have on. I had a recent infection on an iMac, where the
bad guys program was open on the computer. I managed to turn it off, but
when I restarted the computer it reopened on start up. You cannot delete
a program that is open in the background as this presents a big problem. I
was finally able to stop the loop by unchecking this option. I restarted
the computer, the bad program did not open, and I was able to delete
it. So the next time you turn off your computer, please uncheck this
option.
There
has been an unusual spike in Windows 7 hard drives crashing out of the
blue during the month of February. If you have 
Do not call the number
on the screen - It's a Scam!
)
If
you have watched a Western movie you may have watched a scene where a
salesman was selling cure-all medicine, nicknamed snake oil. Well, its
back, but now they are calling it a cure-all USB drive. For only $50, you
can plug it into any computer, and it will cure all the problems you are
having on the computer. Unfortunately these devices may cause more
problems then you had before. Please do not fall for these snake-oil like
scams, just call me if you are having a problem with your computer. 
Many people have
been giving some great feedback on my
newsletter but they have said that they wish there was a way to go back to
the previous month's newsletter. Thank you for that feed back, I have now
started an archive page. I will include this link in each issue at the
bottom of the newsletter, so you can go back to previous newsletters to
look up a tip or two.
August
was a bad month for the Apple/Mac computers. The bad guys created some bad
bugs that Apple had to scramble to patch. One of the scary ones was a
firmware virus that if your computer became infected there was no fix.
Reinstalling the Operating System would not clean it out because the
firmware loads before the operating system loads when you turn on your
computer. You would not be able to use it, so you would have to toss it
and buy a new computer, which could cost up to $2,500 to replace if you
had a nice 25" iMac. The other infection was being delivered by email
in what they call a phishing scam. The email may look like its from your
bank or another company that you trust. It might contain an attached file
that you would have to install to view and then its all over. 
