Tag: hard drive

Understanding The Cloud | Prescott, AZ

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“The Cloud” comes with a generally faint understanding by most people. It is this elusive idea that your information is stored somewhere “out there”. Its interesting to consider that such a unique and well-marketed concept is generally misunderstood by it’s users and potential users.  Here are the things you should understand about the cloud and how best to utilize it.

The cloud is a cute way to describe the way your data is stored. Rather than being held within your computer’s internal hardware, its accessed over the internet. Data centers around the world, not your computer’s storage, hold the information of cloud users.

It’s natural to wonder if that is safe, effective and why we would ever stray from knowing exactly where our files are stored? The goal of this system is to make access to these files stable and easy for the user. Once imported to the cloud, your files are encrypted and monitored against security threats. It’s effective because it ensures that a copy of your files are retained even if your computer crashes or internal microchips burn out.

Many people who use modern, mainstream technology know that Apple utilizes the cloud to send the photos you take on one device are automatically transferred to another. File sharing is one of the top three reasons to utilize the cloud; file sharing, file storage and backups.

According to Business Insider, benefits of the cloud include “slashed IT costs, more flexibility, increased efficiency, improved security, boosted performance, and the potential for innovation…”

While there are benefits, and many people across the world utilize the cloud for their files, it is important to note its not foolproof. Cloud services ring the bells of opportunity for hackers. Savvy hackers can gain codes that allow access to these files, even if they don’t know your passwords. Yet, they could do this to your personal device as well, should they be inclined to try. So- the real thing to consider about the cloud is ‘will it make me feel better to have this backup system’, and ‘is it providing me with technological benefits?’

The answer for many users is “yes.”

Interested in learning more about how to incorporate the cloud into your everyday? Visit us online at www.urcs.net or call us at 951.737.8558 today!

Keeping Your Hard Drive Safe | Prescott, AZ

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The world is full of online security products, because you can never be too safe. It seems there is always another virus or hacker trying to steal someone’s identity or private information. So, we have all of these ways to back up our information. The cloud is secure but can be hacked. It is important that you have a physical hard drive that can keep everything together, in case something happens to your information or internet storage.

Your hard drive is where all of the information on your computer is stored, but like everything, it will begin to develop natural wear and tear, and over time they will start fail. A failure could happen at any time, and without warning. Making sure your hard drive is backed up is also very important.

As your hard drive begins to age, it will begin to show these common signs. If you keep them in mind, you won’t be surprised if it happens to die on you at a moment’s notice.

  • If Windows is always telling you that it needs to check the consistency of your hard drive, it could be trying to tell you your hard drive is about ready to fail.
  • If your computer begins to make strange sounds you don’t typically recognize.
  • Files you use are beginning to suddenly have unexplained errors.
  • A computer begins to slow down doing regular tasks will eventually lead to a complete freeze or crash.

If your computer begins to give you trouble, there’s no need to panic. Make sure that you have everything backed up as much as possible and you won’t become overwhelmed by computer issues.

Call Up & Running Computer Solutions in Prescott, AZ 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 and all surrounding areas.

Which Computer is Right For You? | Prescott, AZ

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When purchasing a new computer for your home or office, it is important to understand the ways each option may work to better support your needs. With so many options on the market from different providers, we understand it can be a confusing, and sometimes frustrating process to find what is right for you.

We have compiled some of the most common questions we receive regarding computer compatibility to share with you. Of course, this is not a complete list of considerations, but we feel it can help guide you in the right direction.

Processing Power. Commonly referred to as CPU, the processor gives the computer instructions for how to complete a task. There are a lot of processor options for Windows, and Mac computers are being updated with every version. Consider what you are using your computer for; high intensity processors are great for gaming, whereas common processors will allow you to complete your daily tasks.

RAM. This refers to the computer’s memory, or how much you can do at once. Most of us can get away with 8GB of memory to support our daily usage needs. If you utilize your system for video editing or gaming however, you may want to consider a 16GB option, as it will allow you to work more efficiently.

Hard Drive. Your hard drive storage is an important factor for a computer. This is where all your digital content will be stored. While you will have a certain amount of hard drive space on your computer, hard drives can be internally upgraded or externally added, allowing you more storage options as your enterprise grows.

Software. While hardware refers to the physical components of your computer, software comprises all the programs and procedures. Software allows your computer to open and run search engines and remembers your computer preferences. It is important to operate on the latest software updates to maintain computer health.

Graphics. Depending on what you seek to accomplish on your computer, there are two different options for graphics: AMD and NVIDIA. AMD is a great option for gaming, where as NVIDIA works well with Adobe programs.

Still need help deciding which computer configurations are right for you? Call the team at Up and Running Computer Solutions at 951.737.8558 or visit us online at www.urcs.net to consult with a team member today!

4 Tips to Stay Safe on the Internet | Prescott, AZ

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There are millions of people uploading pieces of data in the trillions onto the internet all the time. As the internet has expanded, so has the ability to utilize it as a tool with good and bad intent. Its hard to keep up with every development of the internet, and how to keep ourselves and families safe.

Here are a few ways you can avoid getting involved in potential scams and keep your information safe.

Mind your Clicks. Cyber hackers utilize tools such as emails and text messages to pop-ups that work to distract and entice the target. Be cautious when investigating any links to or from unknown sources through email or any kind of instant message service. What may look like a normal link can implant a virus on your computer that can do anything from generate annoying advertisements to stealing private information.

Update Regularly. Updating applications and software on your computer and phone are an easy way to ensure your devices have the latest security features. Regular updates fix any holes in your security, as well as implement code to combat the latest in internet trickery so you can avoid issues all together.

Passwords. Cyber criminals can be quick to discover patterns in your passwords, and create algorithms to uncover them. By keeping passwords varied, it makes it more difficult to learn. Worried you won’t remember them all? We suggest an encrypted excel sheet to store your passwords.

Personally Identifiable Information. Information that identifies you specifically is precious. These are things like your social security number; it is extremely important to keep this information private and only share it with sources you know are legitimate.

Incorporating these tips and tricks will go a long way in protecting you and your family from potentially serious and damaging internet scams and hacks.

For more information about how you may protect yourself online or how IT management may protect your business, call the professionals at 951.737.8558 or visit us online at www.urcs.net today.

How To Tell If Your Hard Drive is Going Bad | Prescott, AZ

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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

            Strange 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 Operating Speed. 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.

            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. If its 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. We will evaluate the problem, run diagnostics and fix the gaps in your operating system, ensuring your data and operating system are secure.

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.

Slowing Down the System | Corona, CA

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computer consulting

Technology has sped up all of our lives in many aspects. That’s why it is somewhat alarming when our PCs begin to slow down. A slow running PC can start occurring after years of having it, or in some cases it occurs after only having your PC for a few months. It could be caused by bugs in the operating system, failing hardware, or even static electricity from carpet. Before taking your computer in for repair or buying a new PC all together, try out these quick fixes:

Unused programs. When buying a new computer, it usually comes with programs pre-installed and over time your computer compiles more programs. Delete these programs.

Temporary files. When you use the internet all of your browsing history remains deep in your computer, and the same goes for when you install something. Get rid of clutter to free up space on your system.

Hard drive storage. If you have too much on your hard drive, it will affect the speed of your computer. Recording media or video is likely to cause your hard drive to become full.

Unnecessary start-ups. Every time you start up your PC, there are some programs that automatically start to run in the background. Every application that is running will use your PCs memory and slow it down. You can stop this.

Clean it up. Dust gets sucked in by the cooling fan and can clog the airflow of the computer causing it to overheat and slow down. Use a vacuum on a low setting to gently clean out the insides. Make sure your computer is disconnected from all mains.

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.

Keep Your Hard Drive Safe | Corona, CA

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The world is full of online security products, because you can never be too safe. It seems there is always another virus or hacker trying to steal someone’s identity or private information. So, we have all of these ways to back up our information. The cloud is secure but can be hacked. It is important that you have a physical hard drive that can keep everything together, in case something happens to your information or internet storage.

Your hard drive is where all of the information on your computer is stored. But like everything, it will begin to develop natural wear and tear, and over time they will start fail. A failure could happen at any time, and without warning. Because of this making sure your hard drive is backed up is also very important.

As your hard drive begins to age, it will begin to show these common signs. If you keep them in mind, you won’t be surprised if it happens to die on you at a moment’s notice.

  • If Windows is always telling you that it needs to check the consistency of your hard drive, it could be trying to tell you your hard drive is about ready to fail.
  • If your computer begins to make strange sounds you don’t typically recognize.
  • Files you use are beginning to suddenly have unexplained errors.
  • A computer begins to slow down doing regular tasks will eventually lead to a complete freeze or crash.

If your computer begins to give you trouble, there’s no need to panic. Make sure that you have everything backed up as much as possible and you won’t become overwhelmed by computer issues.

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.

When Your Hard Drive Goes Rogue | Corona, CA

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In a world when clouds are getting hacked left and right, many have relied on backing up their information with a hard drive. And thus, hard drive failure can be quite devastating for most people, because our hard drives are typically full of important files like personal information, photos, audio files and videos. Few people fail to realize that just like any other electronic devices, hard drives have a limited life span as well. The average lifespan of a stationary hard drive is about 5-10 years and will start to show signs of failure before facing a meltdown. Here are a few signs and symptoms to watch out for before it’s too late:

Computer freezes. If your computer is freezing while trying to access particular files, you should shut down and restart your computer. If it continues to freeze while trying to access that same files, it may be hard drive failure.

Corrupted data. If your files are starting to disappear or are failing to open even though they were saved with no error, you should worry a bit. This could be a possible sign of gradual hard drive failure.

Strange sounds. When you start hearing noises coming from your hard drive such as clicking or grinding, start worrying. This common sign of a failing hard drive is known as the “click of death”.

CHKDSK command. If every time you start up your computer, it automatically runs the CHKDSK command while its booting up, this may indicate hard drive failure.

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 serve Corona and all surrounding areas.

Computer Issues? Let’s Make Sure. | Corona, CA

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Virus Alert

There are plenty of reasons a computer will need some type of technical support, whether it be from something simple to something much more complex. Because computer issues are more a headache if you don’t have any idea what is going wrong, here are three of the ore common reasons your computer is on the fritz:

Malicious software. Viruses, adware, spyware, worms, trojan horses and any other type of software that is designed to cause mischief with you or your computer. You can get malware anytime you’re browsing the internet, downloading an email attachment, accessing a different computer through a network, or when you’re plugging in an infected flash drive.

Slow computer. Like a new home or car; if you don’t take proper care of your computer, you’re going to have problems so it’s very important to make good use of your computer resources. Every computer has a limited amount of storage space, ram memory and processing speed. The more programs, documents, music, videos, pictures and tool bars you have, the slower your computer will run.

Hard drive failure. If you’ve been hearing your computer make loud noises it’s never made before, be scared because those noises could be coming from your hard drive. The hard drive is where everything is stored and hearing a clicking noise when you access data is one of the first signs of hard drive malfunctions. Hard drives can stop working for a myriad of reasons, but they typically crash due to mechanical failure, a violent shake, electrical surge, or even viruses.

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 serve Corona and all surrounding areas.

Is It Malware or a Virus? | Corona, CA

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headache over computer problems

In a world where it seems everything is getting hacked, it is easy to panic when something goes wrong with your computer equipment. The slightest glitch or stall and we are thinking the worst. And when we think of the worst thing that can happen to this equipment, we will generally think about computer viruses. Yes, the evil computer virus is the original enemy of the typical computer user, and in this day and age, it is impossible to not use some type of computer in our daily lives.

Then you hear about malware and a whole new set of questions and concerns come to mind. Let’s break it down – a virus is just one kind of malware, but the actual term is largely used by the public and the only way to protect yourself is to have some type of an anti-virus. The following are various types of malware designed to infect your computer or mobile device:

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

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

Worms. A worm replicates itself and destroys data and files on your computer until the drive is completely empty.

Trojan horse. One of the most dangerous malwares, Trojans are designed to discover your financial information and take over your computer’s 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.

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

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