New Avant Browser available

Even though the automatic update feature, when you first open the Avant Browser, may not initially tell you there is a new version available because it was just released,  or if it does and you are not sure what to do, you can always get the latest version directly from my AVANT BROWSER page here. I say this because if you do click YES when prompted, it takes you the long way around and from past experience, some will click on the wrong thing ending up with malware and/or spyware that is NOT what you want.

Online Photo Editors Compared

The folks at CNET have done a great job explaining and comparing the photo editor websites available for photo buffs out there.

Computer Training-for free!

I am always being asked about lessons and computer tips so it is nice when I can direct people to some very good "free" training websites. Microsoft is now providing some online training for free .

Comet in the sky Monday

Green Comet in the sky Monday .

Yes, I do make housecalls, but is it necessary?

In most cases, if I have already worked on your computer, then I have installed logmein software so that I can help you remotely. A recent response to a client with some email issues when they tried opening a 'wmv' (windows media video file) but it would not open.  Since there are many reasons why this would not open I explained a few...

As for the video issues on the email.. you do have to realize with many 'attachments', depending on how they were sent, they can either include a link to a website in which you would open within your web browser (avant browser ), and by simply clicking on the link from within an email may or may not always work. This is mostly due to the security levels and settings of the computer. I won't say necessarily that it is your computer, but it could also be that of the computer that initially sent the email or 'forwarded' it from someone else, as is the case with many jokes that get passed on through email.  Unfortunately, the ability to 'embed' code within a video or image that is viewed is quite possible, especially if you are viewing it over the internet through a web browser.. just one more reason to always be up to date with your web browser and on that note, I suggest pretty much every time you do get prompted that there is an update available or something that is stating it needs updating.. just shoot me an email and I will connect and get it up to date. That way I am finding the connect time to your computer is mainly to update and optimize and NOT spent uninstalling and removing the malware as a result of installing the wrong product.

Fact is, if I have installed logmein on your computer, then you should be taking advantage of contacting me any time you get notice of some update or other prompt that you are unsure of what to do.

The only time I should really be making a house call is to be there to remove your computer for bench work, better known as "the hospital".. so don't let your computer get this sick in the firstplace!  It's all about PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE.  Use the TIPS if you want to try doing things yourself, and use the SOFTWARE/SUPPORT page to get all the necessary tools to do this if you so choose. 

Just remember, I can be a simple key click away! 

Do you Skype?

Skype  is no stranger to the messenger line of software and now version 4.0 has been released for Windows (XP/Vista). If you are using Skype, be sure to use the most current version as this sort of software you always want to be using the most current version of due to the security issues that typically crop up over time. Having an older version installed is only asking for troubles when it comes to security issues. You can download the latest version here. 

If all else fails, RESTART THE COMPUTER

If all else fails, RESTART THE COMPUTER... it really is sometimes that simple!

The fact that we are connected to the internet constantly and our computers pretty much remain on all the time, it is not that uncommon (and if you have a stable enough operating system), you might find it weeks before you actually HAVE to restart your computer. Maybe the fact that the operating systems are actually getting better is a sign when we forget the obvious that the system being restarted quite often solves the problems, simply because you are clearing out the memory and cache of the system.  As well, if you aren't already using programs like CCLEANER , then I suggest visiting the SOFTWARE/SUPPORT page for all the optimizing and tweaking software for your computer.