Signs Your Computer May Need an Expert Opinion | Prescott, AZ

Whether you use your computer for work or just pleasure, when something goes awry, it tends to cause a bit of panic, especially when you aren’t a computer expert. But when is the time to ask for help? For many of us, we are always unsure. But it is important to know that it’s okay not to know what is happening when your computer is on the fritz. So, if you find that your computer is acting funny, keep these tips in mind:

Little problems nearly always become big problems. There are several key things that a casual computer user does on a daily basis that can result in a massive problem down the road.

  • Overuse of cleaning programs and efficiency scanners
  • Refusal to acknowledge error messages
  • Failure to clean out old programs and files
  • Not getting routine maintenance

When you don’t correct these problems immediately, they get worse. Proper care of a computer and routine check ins with an expert are both important to proper health and your wallet.

Be able to relay what’s going on. Proper communication can mean you get your device back faster than if they have to guess what is wrong. Sometimes the simplest act of giving them a call, and describing what is wrong, can ease your mind about what is happening.

Everything expires. Even with steady replacement of bad parts, good care, and a proper use of a computer it will eventually die. Learning how to judge when enough replacing is enough is an art as much as it is a science.

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.

IT Services and How They Help You Stay Connected | Prescott, AZ

Information Technology is so woven into our lives that we may not consider the wide variety of services on offer. IT technicians provide the services that allow your enterprise to operate and grow. Here are some of the most common IT services our technicians share with clients to keep them up and running.

The Cloud. Cloud Storage refers to the ability for your computer to reserve space on its hard drive and retain files over the internet for remote access. This is great for teams working across distances or for team members who travel. Computer technicians can help maintain the cloud’s updates and storage, allowing your team members retain access to, and ensure smooth operation of the Cloud.

VoIP. This stands for Voice over Internet Protocol and is a communication tool commonly employed by businesses. It allows team members to communicate via the internet, rather than a phone line. This system is essential for national and international businesses as it bridges the gap in long-distance communications.

Backups. All too often, backing up our computers occurs whenever we get a new device and need to transfer files. Unfortunately, backing up files so infrequently is risky, as a crash can eliminate important documents without retribution. IT specialists can do their best to retrieve missing files, but we recommend backing up your computer at least 4 times per year, or once every three months to avoid a total loss or potential inability to recover lost information.

Network Security. A secure network is paramount to the operation of your business. A technician can build protective firewalls, install anti-virus software and private networks, and provide routine maintenance checks to ensure everything is running smoothly.

Remote Support. If you or a team member are in the field experiencing technological issues, our specialists can assist remotely. By accessing your computer via the internet, we can analyze what is causing your disruption and work to fix it in real time.

Curious about how you or your business could benefit from IT support? Call the team at Up and Running Computer Solutions at 951.737.8558 or visit us online at www.urcs.net to speak with a team member today!

Which Computer is Right For You? | Prescott, AZ

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!

When its Time to Call an Expert | Prescott, AZ

Utilizing the computer has become an essential part of most of our lives, so when something happens that we don’t recognize, its easy to become confused and worried about your information.

Thankfully, most of the time, we have simply pressed an odd key or are running low on battery. But, what about the times when that isn’t the case? What are the warning sings to get a second opinion?

Casual Disregard. The everyday computer operator can do something that causes their system to begin a steady decline.

  • Overuse of cleaning programs and efficiency scans
  • Ignoring error messages
  • Retaining outdated files and programs
  • No routine maintenance

These are the more common ways a little extra step sometimes can go a long way, as these seemingly small worries may spiral into major issues later.

Inability to Express Problems. Its okay to not be a computer wizard; that is what we are here for! Being unable to express to a technician what is happening to your machine, or the ways you may have been less-than-kind to your operating system, makes correcting issues that much harder. Pay attention to warning signs and if you are unsure, consult an expert sooner than later.

Expiration. Everything expires, your computer and its components are no exception. Even if you clean out file and wipe your hard drive down, you could still experience a crash due to the age of your components. Understanding how old your software is and when to replace them will go a long way in ensuring the health of your system.

To learn more about the services we offer, or more about best practices for your computer, visit us at www.urcs.net today.