onSite Computer Repair

Welcome! Please scroll down the page to see my computing security tips, and stop in often to check for updates and new information. You won't be disappointed! (LAST UPDATED FEB 20 2008)

COMPUTER REPAIR VIA INTERNET & NOW ACCEPTING CREDIT & DEBIT CARDS!!! PLUS, SEE MY BLOG! YOU CAN POST THERE, TOO!

RANTS, RAVES & THE LATEST NEWS (See Below: UPDATED FEB 20, 2008 : General cleanup of website; new blog posts soon.)

-Installation of small networks (either wired or wireless) for the home or small business

How it all Works

---First, you contact me at the above phone number and explain your problem as thoroughly as possible (this allows me to be prepared properly to repair your computer on arrival).

---Next, we set an appointment for the said repair. I arrive, and (hopefully) within a couple of hours, you are back up and running again! That’s it! No unplugging of wires or hauling that pc somewhere to get it fixed; I fix it for you!

---Service area includes the entire Tri-State region—West Central Illinois, Southeast Iowa and Northeast Missouri. (Note that there is a small service charge on all service calls outside the immediate Quincy area. Please contact the phone number listed above for more information.)

Rates

It used to be that the typical home computer was pretty immune to attack by outside sources, namely because a typical home user’s computer was not considered a juicy target by hackers. Not anymore. Because of the widespread use of credit cards and various user names and passwords to access internet websites, hackers can now virtually do ANYTHING to your computer, including stealing your most-private data. But that’s only if you let them. Here are my suggestions to keep your computer safe from the nasties that lurk in the internet world.

First and foremost, install an ANTIVIRUS program! And most importantly, KEEP THAT PROGRAM UP-TO-DATE!!! I cannot stress the importance of keeping your antivirus protection up-to-date; the program you install is no good unless you keep it updated. Why? Because new viruses come out on a DAILY basis; if your antivirus protection isn’t up-to-date, it won’t be able to detect and eradicate that “new virus” that everyone and the media is talking about. And for sure, you’ll be the first to “enjoy” all the headaches that new virus causes. Granted, some virus threats are worse than others (matter of fact, most viruses are more of a nuisance than anything), but why take a chance? If the data on your computer is important to you, you should have a working (and updated) antivirus program installed on your machine.

So, you ask, how often should I update my antivirus program? Well, some programs offer an automatic update service; if you are the “set and forget” type of person, that kind of update is great, but I personally don’t like it. One, most programs begin their download of updates without your knowledge (clogging up your internet connectivity, especially on a dialup connection, just about the time you are trying to download data quickly with your internet browser). Two, what happens if something goes wrong with the update? Since it’s being done automatically, you may not figure out that your antivirus program isn’t working, until two months later when you catch a very bad virus. Automatic updating is fine; but just check your program to see if its virus definitions are indeed up-to-date. I can’t tell you where to go to check this for every program, but most have some sort of “control center” where you can find out this information. Personally, I recommend MANUALLY checking for updates at least once a week, or whenever you think about it. I check mine daily, but that’s just me…

And now the bigger question…which antivirus to install? I know what you’re thinking; Norton or McAfee, right? Well, no, I don’t think so. Here’s why; when they are working right, they are both fine programs, but when problems arise, they are a true headache to fix. And for that type of repair, you usually need to contact someone like me to get the remedy for the problem. I have also noted in my time as a computer repairman, both programs have a serious tendency to “bog down” older computers, and sometimes new ones! I’ve seen significant computer slowdowns magically “fixed” after uninstalling these programs. The two antivirus programs I recommend are both free (currently) and free to update. They are AVG 7.5 Free Edition and Antivir. I have used both successfully. The links to download both are noted below:

Second, USE A FIREWALL!!! In my opinion, the existing Windows firewall that comes with XP is perfectly fine for the typical home user. Also, if you are using a router with your high-speed internet connection, it will usually suffice as an adequate firewall; just use some kind of firewall protection.

Third, make sure you use WINDOWS UPDATE to keep your operating system secure from hackers, viruses, Trojans and other assorted bad stuff. THIS IS IMPERATIVE: you MUST DO THIS!!!! If you don’t, your computer will someday start acting strangely, and when it does, there may be no solution other than wiping your hard drive clean and starting over. You don’t want to do that, do you? Here’s a link describing how to use Windows Update properly:

Using Windows Update

Want to know other tips to keep your computer clean of Internet nasties? Call me at 217-440-3271 to set up an appointment so I can show you how.

Although there are several things you can do to keep your PC in fighting trim, the three things I suggest are quite simple and should help to keep your computer relatively trouble-free, or at least, notify you if there is some kind of problem. They are: one, perform Scandisk; two, perform Disk Defragmenter and three, clean out lots of temporary files by using Internet Explorer and/or Disk Cleanup. Regarding the three, I believe they should be done AT LEAST once a month, if not once a week, and I’d perform them in the order mentioned above. You can find out how to do each one of these items by clicking on the links below.

NOTE: Scandisk and Internet Explorer cleanup usually takes less than 5 minutes each, while Disk Defragmenter can take SEVERAL HOURS, depending on the operating system (Windows 98) and the time lapse between the last Defrag and the current one. Also, Disk Cleanup has a tendency to “hang” in Windows XP; if it does, and you’d still like to use this utility, it’s best to call an expert like myself to resolve the problem for you. One other thing; if your hard drive continually comes up with errors after performing Scandisk, your hard drive may be on its way to the computer graveyard. Keep that in mind.

***(Feb. 20th)Decided to do some cleanup of irrelevant info on my website. Also, I will soon be posting on new subjects on my blog, which you can see by clicking on the post noted just below. I've been very busy since last July; thanks for all your business!

***(Jul. 1st)I have decided to post the majority of new material on a new blog that I've started instead of this webpage. Why? Because it allows you the reader to post your comments or questions, should you wish. I welcome those comments! The webpage is located at the following: http://onsitecomputer.wordpress.com/ . Just click on the link to go there. I still will post updates here, but the majority of new info will be found on my blog. I have new items there regarding Windows Vista, my ratings of the local high speed internet providers, and (gasp!) death threats via email (well, sorta)?!? See ya there!

***(Feb. 26th)So, you've heard about Vista, have seen the ads on TV and you're ready to jump into the deep end, right? Well, problem is you'll wind up with a broken neck, because that deep end is, right now, a kiddie pool. Let me explain; I've seen Vista in operation (and am awaiting arrival of it to try on one of my machines), and the fact is, it looks nice. But, the BIG problem with it is that there are software programs that do not function well with Vista. That will be remedied, but I'd say wait on Vista until at least the end of this year, if not until next. Same goes for software drivers to run your printers, cameras, etc.; I've already had a customer discover this issue the hard way with a printer. Again, my opinion, but there's no need to go Vista. Yet.

---I have tried yet-another web browser. It is called Opera and available here. I have experimented with it before, but now view it as a good, free alternative to IE. Many security experts believe Opera is the most-secure web browser out there (over IE or Firefox), so maybe that's a good enough reason for you to try it.

---The biggest problem I've always had with using different browsers is, how do you keep all of those bookmarks synchronized between browsers? I've found a slick program that will do so for all three (IE, Firefox and Opera). It's called BookmarkBridge, and is available for download here. Pretty straightforward to use; any questions on how to? Just ring me up at 217-440-3271. Handy-dandy little utility.

***(Oct. 28th)---In the interest of keeping up with the computer "times", I've tested the current Firefox browser 2 and must say I don't like it. It just feels "weird" compared to the old 1.5.0.7, and has some (now) standard features that are rather annoying, like the mysterious disappearing tab bar that you have to arrow back and forth with to see certain websites if you have a lot of tabs open. Plus, naturally, very few plugins that used to work on the old version work on 2. BTW, if you want to go back to 1.5.0.7, uninstall 2 first, then go here to get that old version.

---Not to be outdone, Microsoft has finally released Internet Explorer 7 for public download (available here ). Since I don't necessarily want to test drive any software that might foul up my computer (as IE6 is an integral part of XP), I'm reluctant to download and install it. Early indications from several websites are that it is better than 6, but still not up to par feature-wise as compared with Firefox. Like a first-year car model, wait to see when MS has the bugs worked out, then install it. From what I gather, it looks to be difficult to revert back to 6 once you go to 7, hence the warning.

---I've just seen this twice lately, so pay attention if you have Office XP or 2000. KEEP THOSE CDS AND PUT THEM IN A SAFE PLACE! Why? Well, sometimes, the folks at MS are nitwits. See, they want you to PROVE you have a legitimate copy of the software you installed, so guess what? They figure if you installed a copy from one of your friends, you won't be able to download ANY critical updates necessary for the proper operation of Office, UNLESS you can provide your CDs to "verify" that your install is legit. Had two customers recently that had to dig up their disks in order to install the proper updates. For some reason, when you start certain programs, a Windows Installer relating to Office begins and yells for that CD until you go online and get those updates. Sometimes it won't even let a totally unrelated program (to Office) start, so you have to get that so-called "update". Ergo, keep those disks and put them in a safe place.

---Regarding Windows Vista, if Dell's Chief Executive says a Vista computer will run "great" with 2 gigabytes of memory, don't you think it's gonna take lots o' beef to run this thing? My early tests say yes, because I have 2 gigs in my machine, and the first release candidate ran like a Yugo towing a tractor trailer.

---I close with a further comment on Norton products, specifically Norton Internet Security and Norton Antivirus. I've had many customers contact me lately, saying they upgraded to the newest version of either program and are having problems. Basically, in a nutshell, Norton products will likely "work" on a machine of the same year's vintage, and maybe about two years' beyond. But if you (for example) bought a machine in '03, had NIS or NAV, and now have to move on to Norton's '07 version, chances are your machine either won't run or will run poorly. I believe this is planned obsolescence on Norton's part; problem is the new program often takes the modern-day horsepower to run it properly. Just another reason why I'm not a fan. Look, if it was an awesome program, I'd have a reseller's account with them and sell it to every one of my customers. Since I don't, well, I think you can figure out the rest.

***(Aug. 12th)If you're one of the many folks that still has a computer running Windows 98 or ME, well, it's time to move on. Microsoft ended support for both on July 11th. What this means is MS will no longer be issuing any patches for 98 or ME, even if new loopholes are found in them. If your computer is an old one, buy a new one. Prices for low-end machines are now between $300-$500, and in some cases laptops can be had for less than $500. Plus, you'll get Windows XP, which isn't going anywhere soon.

---Which brings up Windows Vista, the next OS Microsoft is working on. I've had the chance to test it on my home computer, and can tell you it is a sled. By that, I mean it runs very slow on my not-so-antiquated machine. It looks neat, and has some nice new features, but in my opinion, I'd wait to install it if I were you. It's not due to be available for purchase until early 2007 anyway. And keep this in mind; if you're going to purchase a new computer for XP, get one now. In my opinion, the prices will never be lower, because once Vista comes out, it will take more horsepower (read cost you more money) to run Vista, therefore the prices on PCs will go up. What I'm reading so far is that if your XP machine is (currently) two years old or newer, it PROBABLY will be able to run Vista, but you'll have to add mucho memory and a better video card. By the way, I can do those upgrades for you.

---For those of you in rural areas not able to receive broadband, a solution may be coming, although not real soon. The FCC has recently confirmed its support of Powerline Broadband. Basically, this means your electric company (should they wish to do so) will be able to provide you high-speed Internet access via your power outlets. It's still in the testing stages, but I'm guessing it may become widespread by 2009 or 2010. And why wouldn't it? More services to offer equals more money for the power companies.

***(Feb. 28^th)I'm pleased to announce that I now have the ability to work on your computer remotely, as long as your internet connection is still working; isn't that awesome? In other words, I can remotely “tunnel” to your computer, look at your Windows desktop in real time and repair your PC. Further, I now have the ability to accept credit or debit cards as payment! This allows you flexibility regarding payment options, and I'm glad to help.

---I have noticed a disturbing trend in online virus scanner programs; that is, they want you to download and install their program, scan and then AT THE VERY END (if you have viruses), they'll offer to remove them, IF YOU PAY FOR THE PRODUCT!!! Quite sneaky and downright unprofessional in my opinion. The only one that I know of that is FREE and WILL remove items is from F-Secure, and can be found here.

***(Nov. 18^th)If you're one of those folks who lives in a rural area that high-speed internet just can't quite reach, Verizon Broadband may be able to come to your rescue. As I've discussed with the company, currently they have a service available that is about 112 kbps, which is about double what a typical 56k dialup modem can do, and if you live in the country, I'm sure your speed rarely gets above 26! More importantly, once Verizon has expanded it's “Broadband” service to this area (which I'm being told will be soon), your speeds through the same service will jump to between 400-700 kbps, and that puts you in the “high speed” category. Is it cheap? No; it's around $59 a month if you have a Verizon phone, plus you have to be able to get a cell phone signal where you are trying to use this internet connection. But for those that cannot afford satellite internet, this may just be the ticket. Of note, U.S. Cellular offers something similar, but from talking with the folks at their local office, they do not intend on ever making the service “broadband” in nature (i.e. 112 will always be the max), due to the expense in bandwith.

***(Sep. 14)In talking to several of my customers lately, I'm noticing a trend. Seems customers will tell me they spent hours on the phone with their internet provider, specific computer part manufacturer, etc. trying to fix a problem before they finally called me. I know and understand why the typical consumer does this; I used to do the same thing: you don't want to spend the money to fix something that you can do quickly yourself. However, what many of my customers find out is that they will spend two to three nights on the phone for 3-4 hours at a time and STILL not have a resolution to their problem. The tech support folks on the other end of the line are not to blame; they're doing their best. What I've often found is that upon my arrival, the repair is not anything NEAR what I thought it was from the initial description given to me over the phone. In other words, a tech on the phone can't truly “see” what your problem is unless he or she is right there with you. Therefore, oftentimes, a customer would be better off contacting me first instead of as a last resort. I guess it all depends on how valuable your own time is to you. Keep that in mind the next time your scanner/camera/CD-Rom/modem, etc. doesn't work.

***(Mar. 27th)Regarding Critical Update patches from Microsoft, even though the company claimed they were supporting Windows 98/ME until June of 2006, apparently they are not, or at least are being very slow about releasing patches for those older operating systems. When significant security loopholes are found in Microsoft's operating systems, the first to be patched are XP and 2000. 98/ME fixes usually come out months later, if at all, and this has gotten worse over the past six months. Another significant item to note is that a LOT of software companies are no longer making their software "backwards compatible" with Windows 98/ME (i.e. software is only for 2000/XP). I've especially noticed this in the spyware removal/antivirus/firewall area. Knowing all of this, here's my current opinion on the state of affairs. If your PC is from the year 2001 or newer, I would SERIOUSLY CONSIDER installing Windows XP as your operating system, so that your computer can stay up to date with the latest software and security patches. If it's older than that, it's likely your machine is too slow to run XP, and you should consider purchase of a new computer. Contact me at 217-440-3271 for an upgrade appointment.

***(Nov. 3^rd)For those who think that just because they own a Macintosh or Linux computer they are not susceptible to viruses and/or spyware like folks who use Windows, read this from Larry Seltzer at eWeek.com. I am in complete agreement with his article; in short, no matter what operating system you use, you still have to take security measures to protect yourself and your data.

***(Aug. 17^th)I want to clarify my opinion on the use of Mozilla Firefox as your “only” Internet browser. I realize that some web pages simply will not load properly when using Firefox; for those, you will either have to use Internet Explorer or the latest version of MyIE2, called Maxthon, which is available for download here. Maxthon has a great popup blocker, plus allows for tabbed webrowsing of pages. That said, 90-95% of your webpage surfing can be done (in a much safer manner, I believe) by using Firefox.

***(Jun 17) Just had this problem recently regarding LASER PRINTERS; so keep this in mind if you use one. Make sure to plug a laser printer directly into a wall outlet!!! Under no circumstances should you a)plug it into an extension or surge bar, or b)plug it into a battery backup (UPS). The printer may not work because it can’t get enough juice to fire itself up, plus you can destroy a UPS by plugging a laser printer directly into it. Laser printers take an incredible amount of wattage to fire up upon actual printing, which can overload the UPS, causing it to fail.

---That reminds me; NEVER PLUG A VACUUM CLEANER INTO A UPS OR SURGE PROTECTOR either!!! If you do so while a computer is plugged into the UPS (especially if the comp is still on), you can severely damage the computer’s sensitive electronic innards, so much so that the PC may no longer function, plus likely ruin the UPS or surge protector. You don’t want that, do you?

---If you use Microsoft Outlook, Outlook Express, Eudora or any other email program that is separate from your web browser (these programs are called email clients), and you begin to receive strange email in your Inbox that looks as though they are being returned back to you, even though you never sent an email, whatever you do, don’t open it! This is a technique called “email spoofing”, a method which many viruses use to multiply. The email itself usually isn’t the culprit, it’s the attachment that comes with it. I would first rule out that you don’t have any viruses yourself by doing a complete scan on your own computer, but more than likely, it is not you that has a virus, it is someone in your Address Book who does. People don’t like to be accused of sending others infected email, but in this situation I would kindly point them to TrendMicro’s Housecall online antivirus scanner (see above under Security Tips). They can use this as a double-check just to make sure they indeed are not infected themselves (and spreading the problem around). At this time, there really is no other solution besides attempting to help your friends, but hopefully, you’ll be able to take care of your problem in this manner.