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SSD: Make Your Old Computer Your New Computer-Computer Repair San Antonio

February 13, 2019 by Jerry Stainthorpe

SSD: Make Your Old Computer Your New Computer

The solid-state drive (SSD) has swiftly become the go-to upgrade to breathe new life into an aging computer, and for good reason too.  An SSD swiftly brings an old laptop or desktop up to date with modern machines in just a single step.

The price of solid-state memory has fallen dramatically in recent years. As costs have dropped, the popularity of the technology has increased exponentially.  At one time an SSD was a rare treat for serious PC enthusiasts, now it’s cheaper and more readily available than ever. No other single solution is as cost-effective, quick to swap, and impressively effective as swapping out an old hard drive in favor of the faster and more modern SSD.

Out with The Old

The hard disk drive (HDD) is a technology that dates back as far as the 1950’s.  They became the default solution all PCs would use for decades to come.  Most old laptop and desktop machines still contain their original, worn hard drives they left the factory with.

The HDD was a mostly mechanical device.  Inside a solid outer casing was a series of spinning disks arranged in a delicate stack known as a platter. Each disk could read and save data using a tiny needle moving across the disk’s surface.

The technology looked and worked much like a miniature record player.  Like a record player, widely in use at the time that hard drives were developed, the hard drive had some serious drawbacks in their use.

The series of tiny disks and needles that made up the HDD were incredibly fragile.  Vulnerable to dust or movement, computers commonly succumbed to hard drive failures that rendered the machine and its stored data unusable. Occasionally, simply moving a laptop while reading or writing data can damage a hard drive’s spinning disk.

In with The New

The primary reason to switch to a more modern SSD, on top of their impressive durability, is the incredible increase in speed.  The SSD has no moving parts at all, working more like a digital camera memory card than a vinyl record player.

An SSD simply makes the process of retrieving and saving data to storage many times faster.  Eliminating the mechanical component, removing the need to move a physical disk, and not needing to physically pick up the data means a much faster and smoother operation.

Computer startup, where the operating system loads all its data from storage, can take as little as one-quarter of the time of a comparable HDD.  Additionally, loading regular applications and data from an SSD takes a fraction of time of an HDD.
An SSD completely breathes new life into an old machine.  Computers with an SSD replacement for the hard drive feel like using an entirely new machine for a fraction of the cost.

Replacing the main mechanical component additionally eliminates wear and tear working to break down your machine.  While a HDD slows over time, degrades, and can eventually suffer mechanical failure; an SSD remains as durable as the day it was purchased.

Ideal Laptop Upgrade

In a laptop setting, the SSD makes complete sense.  They require less power than older hard drives, making the most of your battery charge.

In addition, not needing a large disk platter, mechanical parts, or protective outer case means they are about half the weight of a mechanical drive.  Making an old machine lightweight brings it another step closer to a modern machine.

They run almost silently too.  The familiar click-clack of the hard drive inside a laptop is a thing of the past.  Many users comment on the noise their laptop used to make starting up and loading programs.  Noisy laptops are a tech throwback we’re happy to leave behind.

For many who feel like their old laptop or desktop is showing its age, the prohibitive cost of purchasing a whole new machine keeps them invested in their old one.  A simple, fast SSD upgrade can make your old machine new again at a much smaller price. If swapping long startups, and slow load times sounds right for you, consider upgrading to an SSD.  You won’t look back.

Give us a call at 210-549-6477, and we can give your machine a new lease on life.

Filed Under: Company News, SSD Drive Tagged With: 78154, 78209, 78216, 78217, 78233, 78239, 78284, Computer Repair, Computer Setup, Laptop Repair, Laptop Screen Replacment, Refurbished Computers, San Antonio, SSD Drive

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Computer Repair San antonio-New Year’s Resolutions for Your Computer

January 9, 2019 by Jerry Stainthorpe

New Year’s Resolutions for Your Computer

Running the Best Security Software

Most computers today run at least some form of basic antivirus.  In the modern day however, threats have evolved to be more sophisticated, more damaging, and much more common.   Ransomware, malware, phishing, and zero-day attacks all work to attack unpatched systems without strong security.

Today, to keep up with increasing threats, you need a supplemental AV to add to Windows Defender.  A layered system means more than just virus scanning.  A comprehensive security package includes prevention, detection, and system monitoring at a minimum.   These layers work together to provide security many times stronger than a stand-alone system.

Reliable, up-to-date, security keeps you safe online.  It’s a resolution you simply can’t afford to skip.

Clean Up Files

Cleaning up unnecessary files is the number one way to gain additional storage space on a typical device.  It’s cost-effective without any extra hardware purchases.

Almost all computers have files hanging around from old software, data or applications they no longer need.  Just like tidying the spare room or de-cluttering the kitchen, clearing files off your desktop and organizing your emails will leave your computer feeling refreshed and new again.

Restart Your Computer

Fully shutting down a computer and rebooting can take time.  When you are watching the clock, waiting to start a task or get work done, it can feel like an eternity.  Most of us enjoy simply opening the lid or powering on the screen to have everything ready to run.

At times, a computer may not be fully restarted in weeks or even months.  Our poor habits can cause issues with running software and the operating system too. Hardware updates, security patches, and critical updates often wait for a reboot before they install.  Waiting too long can leave security flaws open and the system vulnerable to attack.

Merely performing a reboot every once in a while (we recommend weekly) can secure your system and help get rid of software problems.  Often updates prevent new issues from cropping up too.

Special Note: Just shutting down a computer using the shutdown button does not accomplish the same thing as a RESTART..

Keep Your Computer Away from Dust

Dust, hair, and household debris are one of the major causes of premature death for computers.  Fans, used to cool components, suck in house dust as well as the air they need.  This dust often clogs up the inside of the device and overheats internal components.

If possible, keep a tower PC off the carpet, don’t run your laptop sitting on the floor, blanket, or soft furnishings.  Cleaning out your device is as good a resolution as any, and there’s never a better time than now.

For a little help sticking to your digital new year resolutions and starting off on the right foot, give me a call today at 210-549-6477

Filed Under: Company News, Windows News Tagged With: 78209, 78217, 78233, 78247, 78261, backup, Computer Repair, Computer Setup, Cracked Screen, Data Backup, Free Estimates, Laptop Repair, Microsoft Registered Partner, Refurbished Computers, San Antonio, Virus Removal

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Computer Repair San Antonio-More Than A Virus, Common Malware to Watch Out For

December 2, 2018 by Jerry Stainthorpe

More Than A Virus, Common Malware to Watch Out For

The term “virus” is often used to describe many different types of infection a computer might have.  Virus, when used as a blanket term, can describe any number of potential computer programs. What these programs have in common are they are typically designed to cause damage, steal data, or spread across the network.

Malware describes software designed to act maliciously on a personal computer.  The name ‘malware’ is a shorthand for ‘malicious software’ and describes exactly what it is. A computer virus is a single type of malware that can cause harm to your PC, but it is only one of many.

Adware

Short for advertising-supported software, adware is a type of malware that delivers advertisements to your computer.  These advertisements are often intrusive, irritating, and often designed to trick you into clicking something you don’t want. A common example of malware is pop-up ads that appear on many websites and mobile applications.

Adware often comes bundled with “free” versions of software that uses this intrusive advertising to make up costs.  Commonly it is installed without the user’s knowledge and made excessively difficult to remove.

Spyware

Spyware is designed to spy on the user’s activity without their knowledge or consent.  Often installed in the background, spyware can collect keyboard input, harvest data from the computer, monitor web activity and more.

Spyware typically requires installation to the computer. This is commonly done by tricking users into installing spyware themselves instead of the software or application that they thought they were getting. Victims of spyware are often be completely unaware of its presence until the data stolen is acted on in the form of fraudulent bank transactions or stolen online accounts.

Virus

In technical terms a computer virus is a form of malware that is installed inadvertently, causing damage to the user.  A typical virus may install a keylogger to capture passwords, logins, and bank information from the keyboard.  It might steal data, interrupt programs, and cause the computer to crash.

Modern virus programs commonly use your computers processing power and internet bandwidth to perform tasks remotely for hackers.  The first sign of this can be when the computer sounds like it is doing a lot of work when no programs should be running. A computer virus is often spread through installing unknown software or downloading attachments that contain more than they seem.

Ransomware

A particularly malicious variety of malware, known as ransomware, prevents the user from accessing their own files until a ransom is paid.  Files within the system are often encrypted with a password that won’t be revealed to the user until the full ransom is paid.

Instead of accessing the computer as normal, the user is presented with a screen which details the contact and payment information required to access their data again.

Ransomware is typically downloaded through malicious file attachments, email, or a vulnerability in the computer system.

Worm

Among the most common type of malware today is the computer worm.  Worms spread across computer networks by exploiting vulnerabilities within the operating system.  Often these programs cause harm to their host networks by consuming large amounts of network bandwidth, overloading computers, and using up all the available resources.

One of the key differences between worms and a regular virus is its ability to make copies of itself and spread independently.  A virus must rely on human activity to run a program or open a malicious attachment; worms can simply spread over the network without human intervention.

If you would like us to make sure your systems stay safe from malware, give us a call at 210-549-6477.

Filed Under: E-mail, Ransomware, Security Alerts Tagged With: 78154, 78209, 78216, 78217, 78218, 78233, 78247, 78258, 78261, 78284, backup, Computer Repair, Computer Setup, Cracked Screen, Free Estimates, Laptop Repair, Malwarebytes, PC Repair, Refurbished Computers, San Antonio, Virus Removal

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Don’t unplug your Computer to Shut It Down!-Computer Repair San Antonio

January 31, 2018 by Jerry Stainthorpe

Can I Just Unplug My Computer to Shut It Down?

You may damage your computer.

By pulling the plug or forcing a power-off by holding down the power button, you risk corrupting data on your hard drive and damaging hardware.

I’m not sure what kinds of problems you’re having with the power button, but even that needs to be used correctly, or you could end up with the very problems you’re seeing.

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Repair, Security Alerts, Software, Windows News Tagged With: 78209, 78216, 78217, 78233, 78247, 78261, Computer Repair, Computer Setup, Data Backup, Free Estimates, Laptop Repair, Malwarebytes Authorized Reseller, San Antonio, Virus Removal

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HP Recalls Batteries for Notebook Computers and Mobile Workstations Due to Fire and Burn Hazards-Computer Repair San Antonio

January 6, 2018 by Jerry Stainthorpe

HP Recalls Batteries for Notebook Computers and Mobile Workstations Due to Fire and Burn Hazards

Consumer Contact:

HP toll-free at 888-202-4320 from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. CT Monday through Friday or online at www.HP.com/go/batteryprogram2018 or www.hp.com and click “Recalls” for more information.

Description:

This recall involves lithium-ion batteries for HP Notebook computers and mobile workstations.  The batteries were shipped with or sold as accessories for HP ProBooks (64x G2 and G3 series, 65x G2 and G3 series), HPx360 310 G2, HP Envy m6, HP Pavilion x360, HP 11, HP ZBook (17 G3, 17 G4, and Studio G3) Mobile Workstations. The batteries were also sold as accessories or replacement batteries for the HP ZBook Studio G4 mobile workstation or for any of the products listed above.

Remedy:

Consumers should immediately visit www.HP.com/go/batteryprogram2018 to see if their battery is included in the recall and for instructions on how to enable “Battery Safety Mode” if their battery is included in the recall. The website provides consumers instructions on how to initiate the validation utility to check their battery and what to download if their battery is included in the recall. These batteries are not customer-replaceable. HP will provide free battery replacement services by an authorized technician.

Incidents/Injuries:

HP has received eight reports of battery packs overheating, melting, or charring, including three reports of property damage totaling $4,500 with one report of a minor injury involving a first degree burn to the hand.

Sold At:

Best Buy and other stores and authorized dealers nationwide and online at www.Amazon.com, www.hp.com and other websites. The batteries were shipped in notebook computers and mobile workstations sold from December 2015 through December 2017 for between $300 and $4,000. The batteries were also sold separately for between $50 and $90.

Importer(s):

HP Inc., of Palo Alto, Calif.

Manufactured In:
China
Recall number:
18-077

Filed Under: Battery Recall, Company News, Repair, Security Alerts Tagged With: 78154, 78209, 78216, 78217, 78218, 78233, 78239, 78247, 78261, Computer Repair, Computer Setup, Data Backup, Free Estimates, Laptop Repair, Laptop Screen Replacment, Microsoft Registered Partner, PC Repair, Refurbished Computers, Virus Removal

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Windows Meltdown-Spectre fix: How to check if your AV is blocking Microsoft patch SAPC Upgrades

January 5, 2018 by Jerry Stainthorpe

Windows Meltdown-Spectre fix: How to check if your AV is blocking Microsoft patch

Antivirus firms are gradually adding support for Microsoft’s Windows patch for the Meltdown and Spectre attack methods that affect most modern CPUs.

As Microsoft warned this week, it’s not delivering its January 3 Windows security updates to customers if they’re running third-party antivirus, unless the AV is confirmed to be compatible with it.

Microsoft’s testing found some antivirus products were producing errors by making unsupported calls into Windows kernel memory, resulting in blue screen of death (BSOD) errors.

Third-party Windows antivirus products need to support Microsoft’s security update and set a Windows registry key for customers to receive the update via Windows Update.

To make matters more confusing, only some antivirus vendors are actually doing both, while others require admins to set the registry key themselves, using Microsoft’s instructions. Additionally, some antivirus companies haven’t completed compatibility testing.

Microsoft hasn’t said which antivirus products are compatible beyond its own Windows Defender and Microsoft Security Essentials. However, security researcher Kevin Beaumont has created a public spreadsheet that may help IT admins prepare for installing Microsoft’s mitigations for the attack techniques that affect CPUs from Intel, AMD and Arm, albeit to differing degrees.

windowspatchav.png
Third-party Windows antivirus products need to support Microsoft’s security update and set a Windows registry key for customers to receive the update via Windows Update. Image: Kevin Beaumont

Credit. http://www.zdnet.com/article/windows-meltdown-spectre-fix-how-to-check-if-your-av-is-blocking-microsoft-patch/

Call 210-549-6477 with questions

Filed Under: Security Alerts, Software Tagged With: 78154, 78209, 78216, 78217, 78218, 78233, 78239, 78247, 78261, 78284, Computer Repair, Data Backup, Malwarebytes Authorized Reseller, Microsoft Registered Partner, San Antonio, Virus Removal

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Laptop Repair in San Antonio Texas-SAPC Upgrades

January 4, 2018 by Jerry Stainthorpe

If you are looking for the best Laptop Repair in San Antonio Texas and surrounding areas like Live Oak, Converse, Windcrest, Selma and Schertz consider SAPC Upgrades for affordable fair priced Laptop Repair

  • Protecting your DATA is our #1 goal
  • Fair Flat Rate in shop pricing
  • Free Estimates
  • Malwarebytes Authorized Reseller
  • Friendly, honest communication, no “geek-speak”
  • Professional, experienced technician
  • Microsoft Registered Partner
  • Locally owned and operated since 2003
  • We strive to build lasting relationships with our customers

SAPC Upgrades offers many quality computer repair services.

Laptop Repair San Antonio

Laptop Repair

 

  • LCD Repair
  • Laptop Repair
  • Fast Support
  • Honest Estimates
  • Virus Removal
  • Attention To Detail
  • Malware Removal
  • Data Backup
  • Trojan Removal

Computer Repair San Antonio, Texas-SAPC Upgrades

Filed Under: Repair Tagged With: 78154, 78209, 78216, 78217, 78218, 78233, 78239, 78247, 78261, 78284, Data Backup, Laptop Repair, Laptop Screen Replacment, Ransomware, San Antonio, Virus Removal

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Computer Repair in San Antonio-SAPC Upgrades

January 3, 2018 by Jerry Stainthorpe

If you are looking for the best Computer Repair in San Antonio Texas and surrounding areas like Live Oak, Converse, Windcrest, Selma and Schertz consider SAPC Upgrades for affordable fair priced Computer Repair.

  • Protecting your DATA is our #1 goal
  • Fair Flat Rate in shop/remote pricing
  • Free Estimates
  • Malwarebytes Authorized Reseller
  • Friendly, honest communication, no “geek-speak”
  • Professional, experienced technician
  • Microsoft Registered Partner
  • Locally owned and operated since 2003
  • We strive to build lasting relationships with our customers

SAPC Upgrades offers many quality computer repair services.

Dell,HP,Lenovo,Acer,Sony,Toshiba,ASUS

We Service

 

  • LCD Repair
  • Laptop Repair
  • Fast Support
  • Honest Estimates
  • Virus Removal
  • Attention To Detail
  • Malware Removal
  • Data Backup
  • Trojan Removal
  • North East San Antonio
Computer repair San Antonio Texas

Google 5 Star Rating

Filed Under: Company News, Online Shopping, Ransomware, Repair Tagged With: 78154, 78209, 78216, 78217, 78218, 78233, 78239, 78247, 78261, Computer Repair, Computer Setup, Data Backup, Free Estimates, Laptop Repair, Laptop Screen Replacment, Microsoft Registered Partner, PC Repair, Refurbished Computers, Solid State Drive Upgrade, Virus Removal

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All You Need to Know About the WannaCrypt Ransomware

May 15, 2017 by Jerry Stainthorpe

WannaCrypt is a ransomware program targeting Windows. On Friday, 12 May 2017, a large cyber-attack using it was launched, infecting more than 230,000 computers in 150 countries, demanding ransom payments in the cryptocurrency bitcoin in 28 languages.

 

It was being spread primarily by phishing emails (most commonly links or attachments) and as a worm on unpatched systems.

The attack affected Telefónica and several other large companies in Spain, as well as parts of Britain’s National Health Service, FedEx, Deutsche Bahn and LATAM Airlines. Other targets in at least 99 countries were also reported to have been attacked around the same time.

WannaCry is believed to use the EternalBlue exploit, which was developed by the U.S. National Security Agency (NSA) to attack computers running Microsoft Windows operating systems. Although a patch to remove the underlying vulnerability for supported systems (Windows Vista and later operating systems) had been issued on 14 March 2017, delays in applying security updates and lack of support by Microsoft of legacy versions of Windows left many users vulnerable. Due to the scale of the attack, to deal with the unsupported Windows systems and to contain the spread of the ransomware, Microsoft has taken the unusual step of releasing updates for all older unsupported operating systems from Windows XP onwards.

Shortly after the attack began, a researcher found an effective kill switch, which prevented many new infections and allowed time to patch systems. This significantly slowed the spread. It was later reported that new versions that lack the kill switch were detected. Cyber security experts also warn of a second wave of the attack due to such variants and the beginning of the new workweek.

As always, be sure your Windows is up to date. XP users should consider upgrading where possible. The vulnerabilities for that operating system will not go away. Don’t click links in an email. Don’t open file attachments.

And, our longest running advice; back up regularly. You can back up to the cloud, or another drive. Programs like Macrium Reflect can Image your drive essentially restoring everything at any time.

Filed Under: E-mail, Ransomware, Security Alerts, Windows News Tagged With: 78154, 78209, 78216, 78217, 78233, 78239, 78247, 78261, Computer Repair, Data Backup, Malwarebytes Authorized Reseller, PC Repair, Ransomware

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Animated Map of How Tens of Thousands of Computers Were Infected With Ransomware

May 13, 2017 by Jerry Stainthorpe

https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2017/05/12/world/europe/wannacry-ransomware-map.html

Filed Under: Company News, Ransomware, Scam, Scammers, Security Alerts, Software, Windows News Tagged With: 78154, 78209, 78216, 78217, 78218, 78233, 78239, 78247, 78261, Computer Repair, Data Backup, Free Estimates, Malwarebytes Authorized Reseller, Microsoft Registered Partner, Ransomware, San Antonio, Virus Removal

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