Is My Hard Drive Failing? | Computer Repair Corona, CA

The health of the hard drive in your computer is important to the vitality of the whole system. A failure can happen without warning or proper preparation, potentially resulting in the total loss of information.

The three main causes of a hard drive crash are because of a virus, mechanical failure, or electrical surge. None of these events are necessarily predictable, and without proper preparation, can be a disaster for your business.

Symptoms of deterioration for your hard drive are the following

            Whirling Noises. If it sounds like your computer is struggling to operate, that is a warning sign that the drive could be on the brink of burning out.

            Slow Loading. If your computer is not operating as efficiently as it once was, it may be because the hard drive is overwhelmed with files and needs to be cleaned out to avoid a crash.

            Aggressive Pop-Ups. Typically, unexpected or the new presence of pop-ups on your screen could mean that your hard drive has been compromised by a virus. Viruses are sent to your computer by a third party and could cause your system to crash.

While it is always good to be mindful of these warning signs, your hard drive is the life blood of your computer, and it needs to be maintained.

Our experienced professionals will evaluate the problem, run diagnostics and fix the gaps in your operating system, ensuring your data and operating system are secure. If it’s been a while since you have replaced your hard drive, or taken steps to avoid total loss in case of a crash, call the team at Up and Running Computer Solutions today.

To learn more about our services, and how we can help your system function efficiently, visit us online at www.urcs.net or give us a call at 951.737.8558 today.

Proudly serving Corona, Riverside, Norco, Riverside County, Orange County and all surrounding areas!

Computer Maintenance | Computer Repair Corona, CA

Computer maintenance may seem like something that is best left to the experts. While you should seek advice and have your computer components cleaned by an IT professional, basic maintenance can be easier than you think. It’s also important; caring for your computer before things get out of hand goes a long way to the life of your computer.

One of the most important elements of care for our computers may seem like the most simple. It’s important not to eat or drink around your computer and to utilize a padded case whenever it is not being utilized. Over time, seemingly small things like crumbs or a bit of water along the edge of the computer on the desk amount to gunk between the keys. Keeping the components clean will help keep your computer running efficiently for as long as it may go.

External drives are a great investment for computer care. Our computers have limited storage and memory capacity, so when there is an abundance of files it starts to break things down. Transitioning older files or completed projects to an external drive will help keep the amount of files you computer has to track to a minimum. This allows it to become more efficient with other processes and ultimately keeps the hard drive from becoming overworked.

Another great way to continually maintain your computer is to allow for software updates. Updates patch holes in the system or bugs that outdated technology may leave behind. Rather than an inefficient necessity, updates should be viewed as part and parcel to the longevity of your system. Updates also allow your system to handle files sent from others whose computers could be on the latest version so you aren’t left out.

Properly shutting down you computer, putting it to sleep and keeping the brightness at an appropriate level for the lighting conditions also makes a difference. It helps maintain battery life and tells your computer when it can recover; rather than leaving it on all the time which ruins efficiency over time. We recommend charging your computer when it is off, rather than in use to help maintain the battery life.

For more information on computer maintenance and IT Managed Services for your business, call us at 951.737.8558 today! Visit our website at urcs.net.

Proudly serving Corona, Riverside, Norco, Riverside County, Orange County and all surrounding areas!

Online Shopping in a COVID-19 World | Corona, CA

Online Security Protection Internet Safety

Let’s face it – 2020 has been a wild year and on that has us relying on the internet to take care of our families. Whether we are working from home or ordering groceries, being online is a way of life. And this is why it is more important than ever for us to protect ourselves from online hackers and identity theft. Make sure that you have all your security measures in place. The holiday season is a time where cybercriminals are still very much at large, so let’s start this new year safer than ever. The following tips are recommended while you’re doing your shopping online:

An amazing deal. One common tactic that cybercriminals like to use is using very low prices on popular items to lure potential victims in.

Credit over debit. Use your credit card instead of your debit card because if your credit is used for something that you didn’t purchase, it’s easier to resolve issues with your credit card company than with your bank.

Stay alert. Take advantage of your credit card alert features. These instant alerts can alert you when there’s abnormal activity so you can get issues resolved immediately.

Safe apps. For safe online shopping through apps, you must make sure they are downloaded from a trusted source, like the Apple store or Android market. Be sure to read through the various permissions the app is asking you to grant.

Update security features. Keep your cyber information safe by ensuring that all of your security software is updated. Once an update is available, cybercriminals have all the information they need to attack your device.

Call Up & Running Computer Solutions in Corona, CA for help with your computer issues at 951-737-8558. Learn more at our website at www.urcs.net.

Up & Running Computer Solutions proudly serves Corona and all surrounding areas.

Windows 10: Working from Home | Corona, CA

Now that many of us are adjusting to the new way of doing business, we are looking for quick new ways to streamline our schedules in the easiest way possible. And while Windows 10 has been available for a while, many of us haven’t really explored its features – features that can make juggling work, home-schooling and family a bit easier during these challenging times.

Task scheduler. Type ‘task scheduler’ in the search box and follow the instructions to add necessary tasks.

Microsoft defender. Windows antivirus protection is better than it’s ever been before, so for many of us, a third-party company isn’t necessary. But if you host or communicate sensitive, business data, you may want more protection.

Lost disk space. All you have to do is type ‘disk clean-up’ in the search bar and a new Windows utility will pop up showing you all the files you can get rid of and it’s a simple one-click to Clean Up System Files.

Computer stickies. Are you a note taker? Do you have notes scattered everywhere? Now there are stickies you can post on your desktop, keeping every reminder in one place. Just type ‘sticky’.

Remote assistance. With the new Windows 10 you can even get assistance without downloading any additional tools from technical assistance by simply typing ‘remote assistance’.

Print to PDF. No reason to download a third-party PDF maker. Microsoft now has “Print to PDF” as an option.

Screen activity recordings. A big step for Windows 10 that many people were waiting for was the ability to record your screen and activity.

Document search. If you’ve ever forgotten the title of a document? Now documents and Office documents to be completely searched including the entirety of the document’s contents.

Reminders. Windows 10 made their new reminders much more detailed so you can save images to them, more details, and even add them from a locked screen to make it easier for you to stay on task.

Call Up & Running Computer Solutions in Corona, CA for help with your computer issues at 951-737-8558. Learn more at our website at www.urcs.net.

Up & Running Computer Solutions proudly serves Corona and all surrounding areas.

Mythbusters: Computer Repair Edition | Corona, CA

headache over computer problems

There is nothing worse than having a computer on the fritz. We rely on this piece of technology so much that without it, we feel lost. But then we are faced with the question – can you repair it yourself? Unless you’re a computer repair technician, that answer is a no. And it’s likely because there are many myths and misconceptions when it comes to computer repair. So, let’s take a minute to debunk those myths:

Myth #1. My computer technician can fix some problems I’m having with a website.

Unfortunately, no. A technician may be able to tell you why you’re having problems or tweak some setting, but they won’t be able to do much more.

Myth #2. I would know if my computer was infected with a virus, spyware or other malware.

Malicious software is typically designed to run quietly in the background so it can log the keys you press, website you visit, and attempt to steal data and passwords, sending them back to the culprit/hacker.

Myth #3. I found a computer for less than $500, so it’s better to replace my computer than repair it.

Computers that you can buy for $500 or less are typically very low-end, cheaply made machines. They’re usually equipped with low-grade processors, little RAM, small and slow hard drive, and are cheaply built.

Myth #4. I need to be a computer technician to repair every problem I have with my computer.

There are many things that you can do before you have to take your computer to a computer repair technician. Check websites with tutorials and tips about computer repair. It may be something simple.

Call Up & Running Computer Solutions in Corona, CA for help with your computer issues at 951-737-8558. Learn more at our website at www.urcs.net.

Up & Running Computer Solutions proudly serves Corona and all surrounding areas.

Which Type of Network Is Best? | Corona, CA

Which Type of Wireless Network Is Best?

When it is time to start up a small business, it is important to make the right choices for your company. This includes your wireless network. Some may think all networks are the same, but that isn’t true and choosing the correct one for your needs will not only keep things easy to maintain but can also plan for future expansion.

At Up and Running, we can help you choose the best wireless network for you, and help you manage the one that you choose. You will have three options – centralized deployment, converged deployment or cloud-based deployment. Here is a quick breakdown of each to give you a basic idea:

Centralized deployment. If you have a cluster of buildings or networks close by, centralized deployment will make upgrades easier and can handle advanced wireless functionality by consolidating the wireless networks because controllers are installed in a centralized location.

Converged deployment. For those companies with branch offices, your network may work best by using an access switch. This will increase wireless consistency and connects wireless and wired devices together. It is a basic mixture of centralized and converged deployments.

Cloud-based deployment. We all have used a cloud in way or another and this deployment is no different for businesses – dashboards are used to manage all of the network devices. Because the cloud is used, devices can be used at various locations, but still visible by anyone with access to the dashboard.

Once you have your network set up, we can offer a managed services program that can not only give you peace of mind about future complications, but will allow you to achieve the successful business you’re looking for.

Call Up & Running Computer Solutions in Corona, CA for help with your computer issues at 951-737-8558. Learn more at our website at www.urcs.net.

Up & Running Computer Solutions proudly serves Corona and all surrounding areas.

Staying Virus-Free | Corona, CA

Now that we have been quarantined to our homes, we are using the internet more than ever in order to keep ourselves entertained. Coronavirus has taken over our lives, but there is one more virus we need to keep in mind – the computer virus. Because we are going to be using the internet for things like searching for information, work, shopping, schoolwork and even banking, it is important that we prevent our computers vulnerable to hackers with the personal information held in there. Here are a few tips to lower your risk of contracting a virus:

Anti-virus software. Having an anti-virus program installed is a great benefit for your computer. The ant-virus programs scan for viruses that try to get into your emails, operating system or files. Make sure your anti-virus is set to update automatically for the most protection.

Install a firewall. Firewalls can help alert you of any suspicious activity, while also blocking viruses, hackers or worms from attempting to download malicious programs onto your computer. Some systems have a built-in firewall but are usually shipped in “off” mode, so be sure to turn your firewall on. Make sure to keep your firewall updated regularly.

Pop-up blocker. Avoid clicking on pop-up ads by using a pop-up blocker. Most pop-ups are created by advertisers, but they may contain a harmful or unsafe code.

Use spam filters. Emails can contain computer viruses, so before opening an email, make sure you’re receiving it from a known address or sender.

Strong passwords. Make sure to choose a strong password to protect yourself for potential hackers. Don’t choose something simple as your password; some hackers have a program that can try every single word in the dictionary.

Call Up & Running Computer Solutions in Corona, CA for help with your computer issues at 951-737-8558. Learn more at our website at www.urcs.net.

Up & Running Computer Solutions proudly serves Corona and all surrounding areas.

The ABCs of Malware | Corona, CA

Virus Alert

In the day and age that revolves around the internet, it is important that we make sure to protect ourselves from anything that can affect our way to stay in touch online. That is why it is very important to know the difference between the things harming your computer. You may have heard of the term virus, but a virus is just the common term for a bigger threat – malware. The term “malware” refers to any type of malicious software that’s designed to infect your computer or mobile device, including a computer virus and is designed to specifically hard and infect host systems. Let’s break them all down:

Virus. This is a contagious program that attaches itself to another piece of software, and then progresses to reproduce itself when the software is running.

Adware. Adware is the least dangerous and most profitable malware. It displays ads on your computer.

Spyware. This is a software that spies on you by tracking your internet activity in order to send adware back to your machine.

Worms. This is a program that replicates itself and destroys data and files on your computer. Worms are designed to “eat” the system operating files and data till the drive is completely empty.

Trojan horse. The most dangerous, Trojans are designed to discover your financial information and take over your computers system resources.

Ransomware. If you see a screen that warns you that you have been locked out of your computer until you pay for your cybercrimes, you have ransomware. Even if you do pay to unlock your system, you are not free from of it locking you out again.

Call Up & Running Computer Solutions in Corona, CA for help with your computer issues at 951-737-8558. Learn more at our website at www.urcs.net.

Up & Running Computer Solutions proudly serves Prescott Valley and all surrounding areas.

The Importance of Backing Up Your Business Server | Server Repair Corona

Backing up your computer data is important to making sure that your most important files are well-protected. This is especially important when we’re talking about business servers. 

Not only will backing up your business servers keep much of your data safe from hackers and the occasional hardware failure, but it’s also much easier to move data – and prevent data loss – if you back up regularly.  

If you still aren’t convinced that backups are essential, be sure to check out the following reasons below on the importance of backing up your business sever.  

  • While backup servers aren’t cheap, they could end up saving you a lot of money in the long run. Case in point, in the event of any unprecedented data loss, your business won’t have to lose any data permanently. So, even if your original business server crashes, it’s still possible to recover your data. This is also where off-site backup hosting plans justify their extra cost and come in handy, as they can essentially serve as backups to your backups.  
  • Depending on the nature of your business, your business server may also contain data from other users. Some of this information can be considered sensitive, especially if you’re hosting a large social media website of sorts. Your users and clients rely on you to keep their sensitive information not only secure, but also safe. Having backups just in case something goes wrong is a great way to gain the trust of your customers.  
  • Having backups ready and available also makes it a lot easier to migrate data from an old server to a new one. There’s also less chances of a server downtime when using backup for data migration, helping you save both money and time.  

Is Backing Up Data A Time-Consuming Task? 

Not at all! Although manually backing up your files every day can be time consuming, it’s an outdated method that’s no longer recommended these days. Instead, many of today’s backup server systems operate automatically, usually after office hours. Such systems also help streamline the whole process by making sure to make backups only of files that were changed throughout the day. And, because it doesn’t require you nor any of your employees to do anything, such server backup systems will quickly prove to be an invaluable tool for your business.  

Of course, most experts will recommend that businesses do another weekly backup in addition to the automated daily ones. Having a physical data backup stored in an off-site safe or off-site server adds another layer of protection and security, without really costing the business much.  

Back Up Your Business Server Now! 

Take a proactive approach to your data and invest in backing up your business server today. Think of it as an insurance policy of sorts for your business sever, a way to protect your business’ valuable data from both internal and external threats.  

Remember, choosing not to back up your business sever today puts your business sever at risk for data loss, hardware failure, malicious viruses and hackers that may end up costing your business a lot more money in the end! 

Call Up & Running Computer Solutions in Corona, CA for help with backing up your server at 951-737-8558. Learn more at our website at www.urcs.net.