Mac vs Windows Part 2

In the debate between Windows and Mac operating systems, each has certain advantages over the other – I reviewed the primary differences a couple of weeks ago (see article here). For some users, running Windows on a Mac or OSX on a PC allows for the best of both worlds.

Most Mac lovers will tell you that Apple makes reliable hardware, but there’s no denying that compatibility with 3rd party software designed for Windows can pose a challenge. One way to work around this is to establish a dual boot on an Apple computer using Apple’s Bootcamp software which comes preinstalled on OSX. Find a walkthrough here.

Setting up a dual boot requires that you partition your hard drive into three sections: one to run Windows, one to run OSX and another for your data. Upon starting your system you’ll select which operating system to launch dependent on the task you need to perform. You maintain access to your data when utilizing either OS. The primary challenge is that if you launch one OS and then need to utilize a program on the other partition, you’ll need to restart your computer and boot to the other partition.

Mac users that share files with Windows PCs will find dual boot to be particularly handy. Even programs that have Mac versions, such as Microsoft Office for Mac, often encounter cross-platform compatibility issues, particularly with formatting and appearance. Whether it be fonts that don’t carry over or spacing that becomes distorted, when you need to produce a document, spreadsheet or presentation for a Windows user it’s best to use a Windows OS.
There are also programs and applications (particularly games or less mainstream software) that don’t offer Mac versions. Establishing a dual boot will allow you to run just about any program, even if it’s Mac or Windows-only.

Some users prefer to use a software application such as Parallels to establish a “virtual machine” to run Windows within OSX. The advantages are that it allows you to run Windows and OSX simultaneously and it doesn’t require partitioning your drive - the Windows installation is stored in a file on your current drive and Windows launches in its own window on your normal desktop. This works great for running an occasional, resource-light Windows-only program, but since your system has to run both operating systems simultaneously it’s not a good option for running resource-heavy programs (like PhotoShop or games). Unless your system has a lot of RAM, running a “virtualization” is likely to lead to sluggish performance.

For those that want to run OSX on non-Apple hardware, the process is more challenging. It requires building your own PC with specific hardware, also known as a “Hackintosh.”

There are certainly advantages: OSX is less susceptible to malware and has some great software applications that are not compatible with Windows. Standard PCs offer more hardware flexibility than Macs, allowing you to upgrade certain capabilities (such as graphics processing in order to play high-resolution games) and PCs are typically less expensive.

On the other hand, building a “Hackintosh” may be more than the average user should take on. After selecting specific hardware and building your own PC, you’ll have to format drives and configure BIOS before installing the OS. Once complete, Apple won’t support your custom machine so you’ll be reliant on online forums and trial and error troubleshooting if you run into problems.

Lifehacker maintains an up-to-date guide for creating a “Hackintosh”  wherein they walk you through what hardware to buy and the steps to follow for building your own machine and installing OS X.

Upgrade to Windows 8

We received a great question from local reader Dorothy N. about whether or not she should upgrade to Windows 8.

I still have Windows XP.  I have read that Windows will not support XP after April of next year.  I like to have a start button and prefer using a mouse instead of my fingers to touch a screen, so have not bought a new computer.  I understand putting out a version 8.1, which will have a start button and be similar to the computer I am using.  I would be willing to buy a new one, if I can keep this feature.
I’m 77 yrs old, using my computer for e-mail and to look something up - I do not pay bills on-line, keep files, or send pictures. Should I wait for 8.1 to come out?  To buy... or not to buy?

Dorothy suggested in her email that others might have a similar query, and I agree. Here’s my reply:

 

First, just because Windows won't be supporting XP anymore doesn't mean that your system won't work anymore.  It just means that they won't issue new service packs so you may eventually notice compatibility concerns with new peripheral devices or software programs.  Also, there's a chance that XP will be more susceptible to malware if Microsoft isn't actively updating vulnerabilities in the OS any longer.

Also, while I have previously stated that Windows 8 is designed to work with touchscreen devices, you don’t have to ditch your keyboard and mouse to upgrade. The OS works on traditional systems as well as touch-devices. In fact, many of our technicians here at Nerds on Call prefer using a mouse and keyboard with Windows 8.


Windows 8 definitely looks different from Windows XP or Windows 7and the way you open programs, search and even shut down your computer is new.  Many people have made the switch and been perfectly happy after a few weeks of getting familiar with the new layout.  Based on the few tasks that you use your system to do, it probably wouldn't be too difficult to get used to Windows 8, even though your trusty Start button won’t be there anymore.

While I wish I could tell you that the 8.1 update will make Windows 8 more like XP or 7, it really doesn't.  The Start key won't give you the program list that you're used to seeing (at least it doesn't in the preview versions that have been released), it just gives you a way to quickly return to your desktop or metro start screen.

However, there are apps that will give you a Start button that appears and functions more like it does in Windows XP and 7.  While there are many choices available, my favorite is Start8 from Stardock (http://www.stardock.com/products/start8/, $4.99). Of the many that I’ve previewed, it creates a Start button that looks most like Windows 7 and includes most of the same functions (including a shut down and Run option). The app doesn't require the 8.1 update, so you need not wait if you’re otherwise ready to make the leap to Windows 8.

Windows 8 still defaults to the "Metro" interface upon start up which is more similar in appearance to a tablet with apps than the desktop startup screen you're familiar with. You can manually change some settings in Windows 8 to have the first screen you see on launch be more like the desktop layout you’re used to, but it takes some manual tweaking. Here’s a link to an easy walkthrough: http://www.pcworld.com/article/2043243/how-to-boot-to-desktop-mode-in-windows-8-1.html

All told, Windows 7 is much closer to the OS that you're familiar with.  It may make sense to opt for a new system with Windows 7 pre-installed instead of Windows 8. While it may seem counter-intuitive to buy a new system with old software, Windows will be supporting Windows 7 for many years to come and for the limited functions you’re looking to do it will save you the headache of relearning how to navigate your computer.

I'd recommend that you take a trip to an electronics store like Best Buy or Costco to explore what Windows 8 looks like and compare it to systems available with Windows 7 before you make your final decision.  If you can't get your hands on one in person, here's a video walkthrough that should give you an idea of how a new PC would look with Windows 8: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_E1UxI5I_jo

 

Microsoft Announces Windows 8.1 Preview: Fixes Windows 8 Frustrations

Windows 8.1 Preview Announced

Microsoft kicked off their build conference for developers this week. During the keynote speech, they announced the release of the preview version of Windows 8.1, the next version of their flagship Windows 8 operating system.  Windows 8 has suffered its share of complaints, and Microsoft aims to fix many of the issues that have kept users at bay from the program. The Windows 8.1 upgrade, previously named "Windows Blue,"  offers a number of fixes for common frustrations.


A New Start: One of the biggest complaints about Windows 8 was the disappearance of the start button from the taskbar at the bottom of the screen. While its functionality had been replaced with the new "Metro" interface, the change left many users confused and irritated. Windows 8.1 adds the start button back in, but its function remains essentially the same as opening the Metro screen. One addition is the ability to right-click the button to access power options, instead of having to open the "charm bar."

More Productive Screen-Splitting: Windows 8 offered the option to split the screen between two apps, but had limited options. Windows 8.1 offers a few new default modes for splitting the screen, and adds the welcome ability to snap as many apps side-by-side as desired. For those who work with their email, calendar, writing program, and music all open, this is a god-send.

Bing it On: Microsoft's search platform, Bing, has been implemented into Windows in Windows 8.1 for a more holistic search experience. Whereas the launch version of Windows 8 had a very limiting search ability, users of Windows 8.1 can search for any item from the start screen and see results from their files, system settings, as well as web search results, presented with large, informative previews.

Windows 8.1 offers dozens of other new features as well, but won't be available until the end of this year. The preview version is available  to those curious enough to risk their computer's stability, but the majority of us will have to wait. In the meantime, Microsoft promises to add and refine more new features.

Bing vs Google: The Challenge

The Bing vs Google Challenge

When it comes to searching the net, Google is the far and away market leader.  In the U.S., Google captures an average of 67% of monthly queries with the runner-up, Microsoft’s Bing, accounting for just about 17%.  Microsoft wants to change the public’s searching habits with their “Bing It On” campaign wherein users are asked to perform a blind, side-by-side comparison of the two search engines and vote on which they prefer.  Can Bing take-on heavyweight Google?


I started off by taking the “Bing It On” challenge at www.bingiton.com.  You’re prompted to perform five searches.  Results are presented side-by-side with ads stripped and the pages looked remarkably similar.  The first time Bing was favored 3-1 with one “draw,” the second time I ended up with a straight tie with Bing winning two, Google winning two, and one draw. This surprised me.  I found that while in many cases results were nearly identical, Bing’s results were somewhat more pertinent and from sources that I found more reliable.

I then performed the same searches using my favorite browser (Chrome) with Bing in one tab and Google in another.

Typing www.google.com into my address bar resulted in a plain white page with the search bar.  Going to www.bing.com produced full-screen, colorful beach play scene with the search bar prominently placed near the top.  At the bottom of the page is a scrollable bar of images related to “Popular Now” news and interest stories.

Bing was a more colorful search home page, which I found more appealing.  Google is designed to be completely customizable so that you choose your own background, appearance and interest tabs.  However, I’m a lazy surfer and in all my years of using Google have never taken the time to change its default appearance.

Google and Bing both softly pre-fill with frequently searched suggestions while you type your inquiry; however I liked that Google also provided sample search results as I filled in details.  This allowed me to start with a relatively generic search, “best family vacations” and use the suggested search options and actively updating results to modify my search.  I ended up with “best deals all inclusive family vacations” based on Google suggestions and results returned before I even finished submitting my query.  Bing doesn’t return results until you submit, so I found that I had to search and go back, search and go back, a few times until I was able to narrow down the results to the information I was interested in.  This resulted in Google returning more relevant results more quickly as it helped me figure out what I was really looking for.

This may explain Google’s higher “click-through” rate.  According to Slingshot SEO, the first result that appears on Google’s search engine results page is clicked (to see the resultant page) approximately 18% of the time vs. Bing’s approximately 10%.  This indicates that Google results are more often pertinent to what the user is looking for. Both search engines include ads, with “featured” results (paid listings) in a highlighted box at the top of the search results page.  However, Google’s right portion of the screen is dedicated to a list of additional ads while Bing returned only one ad on the right followed by a list of related searches.  I liked Bing’s related search options for quickly surfing for additional info.  I also find that a large amount of “sponsored results” can be visually confusing when looking for accurate results.

The amount of ads on Google is indicative of the popularity of their search engine and resultant appeal to advertisers.  If Microsoft is successful in gaining converts with their campaign it may result in an increase in sponsored results.

 

 

Nerds On Call: Complaints about Windows 8 lead Microsoft to Deploy Fixes

If you've used Windows 8 yet, chances are you have your fair share of frustrations with the operating system. Perhaps it's the lack of the start button, the way that snapping works, or otherwise it's just too confusing. In a welcome move, the maker of the operating system, the software giant Microsoft announced that it would be fixing a number of these problems in an update to Windows 8 that will be available on June 26. It will certainly be a welcome upgrade at Nerds On Call Computer Repair. Complaints about some of its more frustrating features have become commonplace among our Nerds. So what exactly does this promising update provide?


Return of the Start Menu: So far Microsoft has announced a few key features for Windows 8.1, promising more to come. The first and most exciting announcement is the return of the start menu. It will appear on the taskbar as a windows logo in the same position that the lower-left icon now occupies. According to Microsoft, this change comes because "we also recognize there are many non-touch devices in use today – especially in the commercial setting. As such we’ve focused on a number of improvements to ensure easier navigation for people using a mouse and keyboard."

Search for Everything: Another new feature that Microsoft is including in the Windows 8.1 update is an improved search experience. The new version will integrate much more with Bing and will provide contextual information from the web based on your search. The previous, Windows 8, version of this feature only allowed searches for local files, settings, or apps. The new search bar promises to be more powerful. According to Microsoft, "It is the modern version of the command line!" Those who have been using the command line for years welcome an upgrade, like those of us at Nerds On Call Computer Repair. Complaints about the limited functionality of the search bar seem to have been fixed, although time will tell how users adapt to Bing's search engine. The move could gain Microsoft ground in their battle against Google's search superiority.

Make it Yours: Windows 8.1 will also be including more personalization options, including the ability to choose your own background for the start screen - including animated backgrounds. Windows 8.1 also provides the option to keep your start screen and desktop background the same, "creating a greater sense of unity and familiarity." The lock screen can now also be used as a slideshow so that Windows 8.1 running on a tablet device can serve as a picture frame.

Control Everything: Among the tech types like us at Nerds On Call Computer Repair, complaints have been high about the way that the control panel is set up in Windows 8. Windows 8.1 promises to "give[] you access to all your settings on your device without having to go to the Control Panel on the desktop. You can do things like change your display resolution, set your power options, see the make and model of your PC, change the product key, let you run Windows Update, and even join a domain – all from PC Settings."

There are a number of other minor updates to Windows 8.1 apps like SkyDrive, Internet Explorer, and the Windows Store and more changes are promised. This Windows 8 update looks to be a step in the right direction for Microsoft. If they keep this up, Nerds On Call complaints about Windows 8 will surely decrease. The release date of June 26 can't come soon enough!

Quotes from: http://blogs.windows.com/windows/b/bloggingwindows/archive/2013/05/30/continuing-the-windows-8-vision-with-windows-8-1.aspx

Before You Upgrade to Windows 8, Prepare your PC

Looking to Upgrade to Windows 8? Check this out first

Windows 8 officially hit the market on Friday, October 26th. I haven’t waivered in my recommendation that you use caution when considering upgrading to such a drastically different Operating System, but if you’re eager to join the ranks of early adopters, here are some tips to smooth your transition to the next generation of Windows.

First, make sure your computer is compatible with and able to support Windows 8. It actually doesn’t require many resources to run (one of its benefits – its streamlined nature helps it to boot up and run fast), so if your system was built in the last six years or so you’re probably good to go. The minimum requirements are: 1 GHz or faster processor, 1 GB of RAM, 16 GB of hard disk space, and a Graphics card with Microsoft DirectX 9 and WDDM driver.

Next, head over to Microsoft’s Compatibility Center (www.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/compatibility/win8/) to confirm that your peripheral devices (such as printers, monitor, mouse, cell phone, camera, etc.) are compatible. Most devices that work with Windows 7 will work with Windows 8, but its best to make sure before you upgrade.

Once you’ve determined that your system is ready for Windows 8, watch a few online walk-through videos to see the software in action. I don’t mean the glossy commercial-style videos produced by Windows and designed to sell you on the “coolness” of the product. I mean videos like those posted on CNN’s technology page or even those on YouTube (search “Windows 8 walkthrough”) - just prepare to weed through some truly atrocious amateur contributions.

This is the best way to get an idea of how drastically different Windows 8 will be. Keep in mind that it’s designed to be used with a touch screen device, so if you’re planning to install it on a standard PC with a mouse and keyboard, make sure you peruse some video coverage of how it runs without touch capability.

Now it’s time to hunt and gather – for all the installation disks, codes and/or drivers for your software and peripheral devices. Without a way to reinstall the software that supports your system’s hardware and peripherals, you could be left without a working display or way to input commands should Windows 8 fail to recognize the drivers for your monitor or keyboard. Be prepared to reconfigure your modem and/or router to get back online.

If you don’t have a handy keepsake box full of installation CDs (doesn’t everyone?), look up your devices online and download a backup copy of the drivers BEFORE you upgrade lest you be left without internet access after installing Windows 8.
Are you still on board? Now do a complete backup of your data. While upgrading to Windows 8 shouldn’t affect the programs and data stored on your system, performing such a major change always warrants backing up first. Backup your important files to another computer, an external hard disk, or cloud-based storage account.

Finally, prepare for the worst and make sure that you’re prepared to do a re-format of your hard disk in order to reinstall Windows 7. This will require a valid Product ID (it can be found on the System page where you found your system specifications) or Windows activation key (for Windows XP it’s often located on a sticker on the system itself.

Good luck on your new Windows adventure!

Windows 8 is Here! Now What?

Windows 8: A Simple How to

Windows 8 is finally here. If you've been reading our recent articles, you know that it’s promised to change many things about how we use our computers. If you’re one of those who have decided to make the switch, there are a few things you should know before installing it on your computer.

First, make sure that your computer is actually compatible with Windows 8. This shouldn’t be a problem for most computers made within the last six years or so. The minimum requirements are:

• 1GHz processor


• 1GB RAM


• 16GB of Hard Drive space


• Graphics card with DirectX 9 and WDDM driver

You can look these up by right-clicking on “my computer” and clicking “properties.
If you want to support the touch features, you’ll obviously need a tablet or monitor that supports it. Some laptops will support a few of the touch gestures on their track pads.

Second, you’ll want to make sure that your programs and external devices are compatible with Windows 8. Most that work with Windows 7 will work with Windows 8, but if you’re not sure, check Microsoft’s Compatibility Center to figure out if everything will work.

Now that you’re absolutely sure Windows 8 won’t have any major issues with your computer, do some cleaning to prepare it. Uninstall programs you don’t use anymore. Download CCleaner for free in order to do some maintenance. You can completely uninstall programs, and clean up your registry from here.

Once you've done this, update all your software. Open Software Update from your control panel to download all the features for Windows that may not have been updated recently. Once you’ve done this, go to the programs left on your computer after the cleanup and use the “Check for Updates” feature (usually under the “help” menu) to make sure that you’re running the latest version. This will ensure that the most current version compatible with Windows 8 will run smoothly when you upgrade.

Now, unless you absolutely don’t care about the data on your computer, you’ll want to back your computer up. You can plug in an external hard drive and use Windows’ built-in backup utility. When it connects, it will ask you what to do with the drive and you can tell Windows to use it as a backup drive. Once you’ve backed up, make sure that the files are correct by testing a few of them to make sure they open. If you use an online backup solution, make sure to force an update so that the latest versions of all your files are on there.

Finally, make sure you have all the drivers for your devices, like your video card or printers. These should have come with your PC. If you don’t have them, locate them online BEFORE you install Windows 8. If you don’t, you could be stuck without functioning internet access and no way to get the drivers later. And for any programs that require keys to install, track those down too.

Nerds On Call Reviews Windows 8

Windows 8: Finally, Microsoft ahead of the Curve

It's been a few years since Microsoft came out with their last operating system, and in those years there have been some big changes to computing technologies. Windows 8, scheduled to release on October 26, attempts to evolve software in a direction that is compatible with the changes that have come to the hardware world since then. So how well did they do? Even more importantly, how well does it introduce users familiar with the old methods of computing to the future that Microsoft is looking to build?

Touch screen Trends:

Windows 8 attempts to capitalize on the current trend towards touchscreen computing. The entire feel of the operating system has been redefined. The first example that users will immediately notice upon starting Windows 8 for the first time is the tutorial video that explains how to use the new operating system. When you create an account, the video explains how to "swipe in," making a gesture from the edge of the screen to trigger certain actions. Touch interactions like this have replaced many of the obtrusive buttons in previous versions, and for the first time in almost 20 years, Windows no longer has a start button.

Gone Metro:

This new design aesthetic is referred to as "Metro." Instead of the familiar desktop, with the start bar and icons, there is now a grid of colored, changing tiles. If you've set up a Microsoft account with Windows 8, your email, calendar, and contacts will be automatically added, a welcome feature. If your Microsoft account is linked with your Facebook, your brand-new computer will seem almost eerily familiar, with friends' statuses and photos already scrolling across one of the tiles on your screen.

Navigation:

Most of the navigation is obviously meant for touch devices, but translates well to the mouse, as long as you can familiarize yourself with the new gestures. Fortunately, most commands have touch, mouse, as well as keyboard commands, so that no matter what you're familiar with, you can learn quickly. Swiping from the right will bring up the "Charms," five icons for a number of basic tasks. It will also show the standard time and date, as well as battery life and network status. Unlike previous versions, the date and time are not constantly displayed on screen, which can get frustrating if you're used to it.

There’s a Store:

What is arguably the biggest change to Windows 8 is the Windows Store. Similar to the app store born on the iPhone and bred in the Android marketplace and Mac App Store, this is a centralized location from which users can download verified apps directly from the publisher. Microsoft is attempting to create a unified source for apps that look, feel, and behave the same across all devices. The reason for this is that once purchased with your Microsoft account, apps will be available on all computers that you use, including some that carry between Windows Phone 8 and the desktop counterpart. The selection is limited for the time being, but will certainly explode in the future.

Internet Explorer now Intuitive:

There are thousands of new features in Windows 8 - and it will no doubt take a while to get used to them. A few of the downsides like limited Windows Store availability will be ironed out in time. For the number of new directions that Windows 8 has gone in, it succeeds remarkably in them, and will certainly improve as Microsoft responds to consumer demands. For those who have no need of the newest technology, it's probably not worth an immediate upgrade - at least wait until "that guy who's good with computers" gives it a shot and can help you use it. But Windows 8 it certainly ushering in a new trend in computing, and does it with style.

Photo used by permission Ceo1O17

Windows 8: Worth the $40 Upgrade?

Do We Need Windows 8?

In just a few days, Microsoft will release the newest version of its flagship product: the Windows operating system. Named Windows 8, this piece of software promises to completely overhaul the PC computing experience, while adding functionality, security, and efficiency.

Didn't Windows 7 Just Come Out?

Windows 8 has been in development for three years. Earlier this year, Microsoft released the Consumer Preview to registered Microsoft users, which allowed the public to see the direction that the operating system was heading in, and allowed them to give their feedback.

On August 1, it was finalized and shipped to the manufacturing plants to be physically created and packaged for purchase. It releases worldwide on October 26, 2012.

What's Different?

The operating system is optimized for tablets, like the Microsoft Surface which releases this year, as well as the many tablet computers being made by manufacturers like Sony. The layout is more touch-based than previous iterations, and uses large colored tiles in what is called the “Metro Interface.”

The Metro interface is a full-screen management system that allows the user to keep track of running applications, check up on messages, Facebook posts, weather, and new applications to launch. It uses large colorful icons, which are geared towards those using a tablet, especially those not familiar with the technology. Microsoft promises increased usability with the new feature.

Windows 8 is the first Microsoft operating system in almost twenty years not to have the start button on screen, traditionally in the lower-left corner. It remains to be seen how consumers will react to this drastic change.

Windows 8 Has an App Store?

For those with multiple computers, such as a laptop, desktop, and tablet, the Windows Store has been added as a digital distribution platform which allows users to purchase software that is linked to their account and can be installed on any computer owned by that user. Similar to the Apple App store, it offers a centralized location to download apps that have been verified, which can cut down on security breaches.

Is This The End of Viruses?

For security, Windows 8 is equipped with the new WinRT system, which allows programs to run in a “secure sandbox.” This means that potentially malicious programs will not be able to modify the essential files of the computer, which is how viruses propagate traditionally.

On top of these changes, it comes with a multitude of new features, including Internet Explorer 10 and a host of hardware fixes, including support for USB 3.0, which allows for faster transfer of files.

How Much?

For those running an older version of Windows, all the way back to XP, Microsoft offers an upgrade for only $40, the cheapest price that they have ever offered on an operating system. However, this is only available as a digital download – the disc will cost another $30.

More than Just Computers?

Windows Phone 8 will launch three days after Windows 8, and will include many of the same features as its big brother on the phone architecture. Nokia, Huawei, Samsung, and HTC will all offer phones based on this operating system. Many of the features will be compatible between the two systems, including some Windows Store apps.

Photo used by permission Ceo1O17

How to Remove a Virus

How to Remove a Virus: The Best Anti-Virus Software

Do you remember back when your computer was shiny and new, it likely came with pre-installed Norton or McAfee antivirus software. It would periodically pop up little notices that it had downloaded the latest updates, and you felt snug and secure when you surfed online.

Then that trial membership expired. You may not have even noticed the lapse in coverage, assuming that the icon in your toolbar was a sign that all was well -- or, like many, you may have been wary to spend your hard-earned cash to subscribe. This story is so common that it's one reason why Panda Security reported in January that approximately 50 percent of the world's computers are compromised by some form of malware.

While I fondly remember the days when viruses were primarily built to annoy their victims, today's viruses are far more dangerous. Infected computers attack other computers. Hackers use these vast networks of infected computers or "botnets" to send spam, break websites and infiltrate corporate networks to steal credit-card data and customer information. Before you decide to unplug your computer, rest assured that there are some easy ways to protect yourself.

The 4 Best Anti Virus Programs for removing a virus

#1 McAfee Anti-Virus:

If you're already running an anti-virus program and making sure that it is up to date, kudos! If you elected to shell out the dough to keep your Norton or McAfee running after the trial ended, keep in mind that these two programs dominate the consumer security space. This makes them the biggest targets for hackers and virus writers who study their code to find vulnerabilities. While I am not suggesting that you look for an unknown, untested antivirus for your computer's safety, there may be good reason to consider switching to one of the great free anti-virus options available.

McAfee Anti-Virus For Mac:

McAfee also has an antivirus solution for Mac Computers. I know people say that you can't get a virus on Macs and to a degree that is true. So far, Mac computers are not vulnerable to traditional viruses, however they can be targets of  malware, phishing scams, identity thieves and hackers. Anti virus software for Macs will help secure your data and keep malware off your computer. Another solution worth mentioning is Avira.  Avira anti-virus has a Mac virus protection program called MacKeeper.

#2 Microsoft Security Essentials:

One of my favorite anti-virus programs for the basic user is Microsoft Security Essentials. It's free, easy to use, updated frequently and provides great protection from most Internet-born parasites. The fact that it's made by Microsoft, the company that makes Windows, is a great benefit. Who is better equipped to know which Windows vulnerabilities hackers are targeting? Programers can then integrate the fix seamlessly into Windows.

#3 Avast!:

If you just can't get past the idea of trusting Microsoft to protect your Windows PC, or if you are running an alternate operating system, consider Avast! free antivirus. Avast is one of the highest-rated antivirus programs, according to AV Comparatives, an independent antivirus program reviewer. Avast offers both a free and a paid version, and boasts one of the fastest virus scans on the market. It also uses fewer system resources when scanning, so you can continue to use your computer normally while the scan runs in the background. Anyone who has been held hostage by a seemingly endless scan that makes everything else on your system slow to a useless crawl can appreciate this benefit. Fun side note: You can select different voices to proclaim, "Ding! Avast's virus definitions have been updated." I am quite partial to Pirate.

#4 Sandboxie:

Finally, if compromised or lost data would devastate your productivity, check out Sandboxie. Sandboxie is an applications that allows you to run certain programs "virtually," like putting them in quarantine. Essentially, you open your web browser or email in a "sandbox," so an infected website or virus-laced email attachment won't compromise the rest of your system. When you close the program, you destroy the sandbox's contents, including any infections. However, cookies and temp files go, too, so if you like to auto-login to websites you frequent, this solution will likely annoy you.

Don't surf naked -- get some protection. If you're already suffering from and nned help to remove a virus or for more ways to be safe on the scary wide web, visit www.callnerds.com/andrea. 

[transcript]
Hi, everybody. I'm Ryan from Nerds on Call. Today we're going to be talking about how to remove a virus from your PC. Back in the day, when you first got your computer, it probably came pre-installed with something like Norton or McAfee. Those are great protection, but usually they expire after about a year. Then what do you do?

One of my favorite anti-virus is Microsoft Security Incentive. Just go to Microsoft.com and search for Microsoft Security Essentials, it's free, it's easy to use, it's frequently updated, and it's really fast. If you don't want to use the Microsoft product, you can always use a program called Avast, it's also a free anti-virus software. And one of the coolest parts of it is, when it's all done scanning your system, it will say "Hey, ding, we're all done looking for viruses." And you can change that voice to anything you want. So my favorite is "Pirate" It will go "Argh, no viruses found." Thanks for watching. I'm Ryan, from Nerds on Call.
[/transcript]

Can An iPad Replace A Laptop

iPad vs. Laptop: Can an iPad replace a laptop?

As the new school year approaches, the question I get asked most often is, "Should I buy a laptop or a tablet?" Apple's Steve Jobs has asserted that we are living in a "post-PC world". can an iPad replace a laptop?

To test the theory, I traveled to Florida with my 2-year old, bearing my iPad 2 but no laptop. When an article needed editing, I realized that while it would be possible for the iPad to do everything I needed, it wasn't going to work for me straight out of the box. It needed modification.

If you are considering ditching your laptop, whether it's for a trip or for good, here's my guide to making it possible.

Touch screen vs keyboard

Microsoft Word vs iWork
With or without a keyboard, creating or editing a document or spreadsheet on your iPad isn't going to be easy unless you make an aftermarket modification. Microsoft Office isn't available on the iPad, but Apple's iWork suite will give you most of its functionality at a fraction of the cost. Pages, Numbers and Keynote handily replace Word, Excel and PowerPoint , and cost $5 each through the Apple app store. All the content you create in these programs is cross compatible, so if you edit a Word document on your iPad using Pages, you can open and edit it later in Word with no difficulty.

As much as we'd all love to be paper-free, there are inevitably times when you need to print something. You can search the iPad for a USB port, but to no avail. Printing something off your iPad will require accessing a printer wirelessly. To make the process as painless as possible, look for a printer that is compatible with Airplay, Apple's proprietary wireless application.

Universal Acsess
Finally, sometimes I need a particular program that isn't compatible with the iPad, or I need to transfer content to another device. The lack of a USB port or disk drive can make this challenging. But with Logmein Ignition ($30 in the app store), you can remotely access your home or office computer via the Internet. Install the companion app on your laptop or desktop and leave it running while you are away. Now you can access everything on your home or office system from your iPad, from World of Warcraft to your accounting software.

What do you think? Can an iPad replace a laptop? If you're still nervous about unplugging from your laptop or desktop, share your thoughts with us in the comment section below.


[transcript]
Hi, I'm Ryan from Nerds On Call and today we're going to talk about whether you can replace your laptop with your iPad. There's nothing cooler than an iPad, but when you start using it, after a while you start to think do I really need both a laptop and an iPad? Well, one of the first things you're going to notice is when you start using an iPad there's no keyboard, you tap on the screen. Well, that can be fantastic for short emails or Tweets or Facebook updates, but let's say you have to do a long email or a very long document. You'll find that tapping on the screen can get kind of tiresome and correcting is really difficult, but if you buy a keyboard like the one from Zagg.com, you could connect it to your iPad with Bluetooth and it turns it into a laptop.

With or without a keyboard, editing a document on an iPad is kind of difficult. While you get the touch screen so you can move around your cursor and decide exactly what you want to edit. It's not as intuitive or easy to use if you're used to a mouse and a keyboard. Another thing to keep in mind about the iPad is if you're used to using Microsoft Office for Word and Excel, you don't get those on an iPad, but what you do get is Apple's version called Pages or Numbers. So you'll have to learn a new kind of software just to get some of the basic stuff done that you're already used to.

As much as I'd like to live in a paper-free world and have everything go digital, I still have to print things every now and then. Well, with a laptop it's relatively easy, I don't even have to think about it anymore. But with an iPad only AirPlay enabled printers will work. One of the saving graces for the iPad though is a little piece of software called LogMeIn. For $50 in the app store you can use your iPad to access your computer or your Mac and do everything that they can do. So can you replace your laptop with your iPad? Yeah, it can be done, but you're going to have a lot of compromise and if you're willing to take that step, it could be kind of cool.
[/transcript]

Online Computer Repair: Is It Safe?

Online Computer Repair: Is It The Force or Magic?

These days, we want everything fast, from food to computer repairs. If you've seen the TV ads for iYogi.net, you may have wondered, "How can a tech in India fix a computer in Nantucket?" I'm here to unravel some of the mystery of Internet-based tech support or online computer repair.

Whether you take a faulty computer to a repair shop or have a tech come to you, it can take days or even weeks to get your system back on its feet. The major benefit of online computer repair is that in many cases it's immediate. Answer a few questions, click a few buttons on your computer, and you can often have a tech working on your system while you make dinner or catch up on your scrap-booking. It can actually be quite fun watching a remote desktop session in progress.

Many companies, (including ours) offer extended hours for their online computer repair, allowing you to fit computer repair around your schedule. Besides, if you have to have your computer fixed, it's a slightly less distressing experience if you don't have to get out of your pajamas and bunny slippers.

But there are some drawbacks to having your computer fixed remotely. A tech working from afar can only fix software-related issues, involving viruses, spyware, program corruption and operating-system glitches. While these account for the majority of repair issues, lots of problems will require you to be a more active participant in the repair. If you suddenly can't print, for example, the tech probably will need you to check wires and do a manual restart before he or she can install drivers, etc. If you're unable to get online, expect to spend some time on the phone while the tech walks you through basic troubleshooting.

If your computer needs hardware replaced or upgraded, techs likely will be able to diagnose the issue. But to get it resolved, you'll need to have a tech put hands on your machine.


Choose wisely when contracting a company for online computer repair. Many companies require that you provide a credit card number up front, and they'll have virtually unfettered access to anything stored on your computer. To research companies, get recommendations from friends or family, use online review sites, and Google the company's name. For more computer-security tips, see the Federal Trade Commission's OnguardOnline website at OnGuardOnline.

The reality is that dropping off your computer at a repair shop isn't any safer than online computer repair. When you're in front of the machine, you can see exactly what the technician on the other end of the line is doing. This actually may give a little more comfort to those of us who like to retain a measure of control over the process. A remote desktop repair might be perfect solution to your next computer tune up.

Do you have any computer problems, you'd like to fix right now? We would love to look at your computer for free. Click here to get started with online computer repair today.


[transcript]Hi, I'm Ryan from nerds on call, and today we're going to be talking about online computer repair. These days we want everything fast. Fast food, fast computers, fast everything. So it's kind of a pain when you have to take your computer into a shop to get it repaired.

Well, that's the beauty of online computer repair. Now you can connect to somebody on the internet and have them fix it for you, while you make dinner, or finish your scrap-booking, or whatever you like to do. Just watch Star Wars again.

Despite the on-demand service that online support provides, the only problem is, they can't fix anything hardware related. So hard-drives, cracked screens, printers, all of that stuff can't be fixed online. But one of the cool parts is, if you got a virus, or spyware, or something like that, you can sit back and watch them as they control your computer while it's being fixed.

A lot of people are concerned that online computer repair isn't as safe as taking it to your local computer repair shop. Keep in mind, that a lot of major retailers are already using online repair to do the work for their people in the stores. So you don't have as much risk, because you can sit there and stare at the screen, as somebody is fixing your computer for you. Unlike when you take it into a repair shop and they take it into the back room.

I'm Ryan from nerds on call. Thanks for watching.[/transcript]

Computer parts: CPU, Hard Drive, Giga...what?

Computer parts - do they have to name them such dorky names?

Going Back to school is a great time to take advantage of retailers competing for parent's dollars, and finally upgrade from that old Windows 98 machine limping along in your basement. In fact, please do yourself a favor, if you still have windows 98, please upgrade!

However, between gigabytes and megabytes, the component descriptions can be harder to decipher than your teenager's last six text messages. From RAM to hard drive to software, how does the non-nerd decide what's worth upgrading, and what to forego to save a few bucks? Allow me to demystify some of the tech terms so you can confidently tell that sales rep exactly what you want.

Tech Term #1 What is a CPU: The CPU is like your computer's brain. It controls every action your system performs, so spending some upgrade dollars here is a good way to ensure your new computer stays viable longer.

You are most likely to see the CPU described in terms that may look like gibberish to the average consumer. Intel or AMD will be your most common choices, and while I could make arguments for the benefits of both processors, for the sake of simplicity I like Intel because it is easier to decipher descriptions. Most Intel systems will come with the option of i3, i5, or i7 and speed and performance of your system will increase as you go up in number.

Tech Term #2 What is a Hard Drive: The size of hard drive you select determines how much data you can store on your computer. When deciding whether or not to pay more for a larger hard drive, think of your planned usage. The larger your hard drive, the more Gigabytes you can store.

Tech Term #3 What is a Gigabyte: To give you some perspective, you can store 150-200 high quality photos in 1 GB. Video files vary greatly based on length and quality, but storing an average standard definition DVD on your drive will take about 2-5GB. Documents and drivers don't take much space.


Tech Term #4 What is RAM: For most users, RAM will be the most noticeable upgrade. The amount of RAM in your system is the primary factor in how fast it can boot up, launch a program, navigate between them, and generally respond to your inputs.

If you have too little RAM for the amount of tasks you ask your system to perform, it will run slowly, freeze, or crash. Based on the demands of current operating systems and software, I would recommend aiming for 4GB of RAM and upgrading as your budget and system permits. Windows 7 32-bit can't recognize more than 4GB (more on that in a minute). It's cheaper to upgrade now than later, and while you may not need all that speed now, software upgrades you install in the future will require more RAM than that same program does today.

Tech Term #5 How Many "Bits" Do I Need: While the lion's share of new PCs will come pre-loaded with a Microsoft Windows operating system, you may be presented with the choice of Windows 7 32-bit or 64-bit. If you don't have many programs to install after getting the new system home, we'd recommend selecting the 64-bit version of Windows as it's the newest architecture, what all computers will eventually run standard, and currently somewhat less attacked by virus writers.

If you need to run older software on your new system, they will likely run more smoothly on Windows 7 32-bit. While the 64-bit operating system has an emulator that promises to allow older software to run, there may be compatibility issues.
If the tag on the new computer you're considering still looks like it's written in a foreign language, send me a note at www.callnerds.com/andrea for help deciphering the code.

[transcript]Hi, I'm Ryan from Nerds on Call, and today we're going to be talking about decoding PC specs. One of the first things we want to talk about is the processor. It's usually made by Intel or AMD. Now when you buy a processor for your computer, or when you are looking at a processor for your computer, you want to make sure you get the fastest one available for your budget. This is the main part of your computer where all the thinking is done, so all of the things that you open or close or programs you run, they're all going to need a fast processor in order to do it, so you want to pay close attention to what that is.

The next part of your PC that we want to talk about is your hard drive. Now your hard drive is long-term storage, that's where everything is stored. From your pictures, to your movies, to your documents. So you want to make sure you have a nice large hard drive to store all your stuff. One of the most important but often overlooked specs on a machine, is the RAM. You want to make sure you get as much RAM as you can. Now RAM is your short- term memory, so every time you open a program, save a document, look at photos, all of it has to load into RAM first, as it's going to the processor. So, the more RAM you have the faster your machine will seem, so get as much RAM as you can possibly afford for your machine. These days when you buy a Windows machine you get a choice between a 32-bit operating system or a 64-bit operating system.

I usually recommend that people go to the 64-bit operating system, because that's sort of the wave of the future. It's where everything's going, so if you get something in a 32-bit, in a few years there's not going to be very many programs written for 32-bit. Plus, 64-bit is a little more secure. Not a lot of virus writers are writing 64-bit code just to infect your machine. Hey, thanks for watching. I'm Ryan from Nerds on Call.[/transcript]

Best Computer Repair: Secrets They Don't Want You To Know.

Best Computer Repair Company, How To Choose Wisely.

Computer repair is like taking your car to the mechanic, at least for most of us. As much as I depend on my car, it's a mystery how all the parts work together to get me down the road. This lack of fundamental understanding of the car's inner workings makes me feel vulnerable and out of control every time the mechanic tells me what's wrong, and what needs to be done to fix it. If he tells me it's the flux capacitor, how would I know if I was being taken for a ride? That makes it especially hard to find a mechanic and finding the best computer repair professional puts most people in the same uncomfortable position. Here's my guide to the questions you should ask to ensure your trusty PC is in good hands.


#2 Who will fix my computer? Many larger chains outsource repair work overseas to reduce their overhead. This can make it difficult to get questions answered after service. Anyone who has spent an hour searching for their music files after having Windows reinstalled can attest to how frustrating this can be. If you're considering an independent repair person, what happens if they encounter a question or problem they don't know the answer to?

#3 Can I get a free fixed estimate? It frustrates me to pay for an estimate. In know it's broken. I want to know how much it will cost to fix it, not pay someone else to confirm it's broken. When I started my company, it was rare to find a computer repair person willing to look at your computer without charging something, but these days there is so much competition in the industry that free estimates are much easier to come by. What happens if the technician's original estimate or what he/she thinks the computer will require isn't going to work? This is not uncommon. When will you be provided with a new or revised estimate and can you decline at that time without charge?

#4 Do you charge by the hour, or do you offer flat pricing? If you pay by the hour, a computer repair technician is inherently motivated to work slowly. If they aren't initially familiar with your problem and need to research or work through trial and error, you pay for their inexperience.

#5 What happens if I have a problem after service? This is especially important if you are considering a small or one-man operation. If there's only one person doing the work and they're likely to be busy with another customer when you call, how long are you going to have to wait to get help? What sort of guarantee or warranty do they offer on parts and service? Make sure that the company stands behind their work before you give them your trust.

If dropping your laptop off at the shop makes you as nervous as leaving your child at their first day of preschool, contact me for more tips to select the best computer repair professional!

[transcript]Hi, I'm Ryan from nerds on call, and today were going to be talking about how to hire a computer repair professional. We came up with a list of things to look for when you're when you're hiring a computer repair guy. Now if you take your entire computer apart and haul it into a shop you might think that they're going to fix it there. But not always, especially if you go to a large retailer. A lot of times they will take it in and they will either ship it out to someplace else to be fixed, especially if it's a laptop or they will connected to the Internet, and somebody from another country will fix it.

Well if you're like me, I'm going to be a little bit more leery about somebody else but I've never seen before touching the stuff inside my computer. Like my pictures and my documents and things that I don't everybody seeing. Always ask who's going to be fixing it, where is it going to be fixed and how is it going to be fixed It's really frustrating to have to pay for an estimate. You already know it's broken, so why pay some body for the details. Basically, you want to make sure that when you get your computer fixed, you find out up front how much it is going to cost before they even start work.

Next you want to find out what happens after service is there warranty or some kind of guarantee? You want to make sure that after your computer comes back to you 30 or 60 days later, if the same problem occurs. What is the computer repair shop going to do about it? You want to make sure that you get it in writing or at least speak to somebody like a manager and find out exactly what is going to happen, if something goes wrong in the future.[/transcript]

Why You Should Upgrade Windows NOW!

Upgrade Windows now, seriously, we can wait...started yet...?

Your computer’s operating system is the most integral part of how your machine functions. It determines how you view and launch programs, how stable software runs, and how your desktop looks and functions. Whether you’re nursing a trusty Windows XP machine or have resigned yourself to living with Vista, the prospect of "upgrade windows" can be daunting. There are a number of reasons to consider making the leap.

Let’s face it, change isn’t always good. Anyone using Windows Vista can attest to that. It seems Microsoft is doomed to release a dud every decade; before Vista it was ME (Millennium Edition). No one would blame you for being wary of Windows 7, but it’s legit – I promise. If you’re one of the millions that still haven’t made the leap to Windows 7, here is why you should consider a windows upgrade:


New software programs are written for Windows 7. If you haven’t already found a program that isn’t compatible with your older operating system, that day is coming. Every piece of hardware that runs on your machine, from internal components like graphics cards to external components like monitors and printers, have software (known as “drivers”) that allows it to be recognized by your operating system. When the time comes to replace a piece of supporting hardware, you may find that there are not drivers to make it run on your machine.

Many users that are resistant to upgrading windows live with annoying errors and system crashes. These are often caused by bugs that are no longer a priority for Microsoft to fix, or incompatibility between a newer software program or device and your older operating system. Upgrading windows will typically fix these glitches.

More and more programmers are moving to Windows 7’s 64-bit architecture. Comparing XP’s 32-bit to 64-bit is like comparing a go-cart to a car. Both get you where you need to go, eventually, but the car will be more stable, faster and last you longer.

You may be wondering why I’d suggest you move to Windows 7 when Windows 8 is slated to release before the end of the year. When it comes to Microsoft operating systems, there’s no prize for being an early adopter. Windows 8 is dramatically different from all previous versions of Windows in appearance and functionality, being more like the interface you may be used to seeing on a mobile touch screen device (think, tablet or Smartphone). There are inevitably going to be early holes and bugs. Why give yourself the headache of finding them for Microsoft?

Finally, there is a small risk that the release of Windows 8 will make it harder to upgrade to Windows 7. When Microsoft released Vista it immediately stopped shipping XP. Consumer anger eventually persuaded them to allow Dell and other distributors to offer buyers a choice between XP and Vista when buying new machines, but if they follow the same model with Windows 8 you may miss out on the stability of Windows 7 if your system requires upgrading after the release of the new OS.