Tag: Up & Running Computer Solutions

Secure Your Cyber Fortress | Corona, CA

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Data BreachWithin the Department of Homeland Security lies the National Cyber Security Division. Every October they team up with the National Security Alliance to sponsor National Cyber Security Awareness Month, every October to focus on encouraging individuals to be cautious and to use protection while accessing the internet.

Seems every time we blink there is a new story about someone getting hacked or their identity stolen. And since we use the internet to connect with family and friends, to handle business and other services supported by online systems. Technology has prompted advancements in business, healthcare, music, government and many other industries. Unfortunately, as things become easier, they are also more prone to tampering. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to keep yourself, your assets and personal information safe online. So, in honor of National Cyber Security Month, take a look at your current online presence. If you find you could be too exposed, follow these helpful tips. They can not only help you to stay safe from identity theft and other account tampering, but it can also protect your family and friends:

  • Create strong passwords and keep them private by downloading apps and other resources available to protect your passwords from being stolen
  • Keep operating system, browser and other critical software up-to-date
  • Limit the amount of personal information you share online and use privacy setting to avoid sharing information widely
  • Be very cautious about what you receive or read online – if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is

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

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

When You Experience a Power Outage | Corona, CA

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computer repairWith all of the crazy weather, it is important to think about running your business without thinking about emergency precautionary measures. What will happen if you have a power surge? Do you have the proper backup equipment to keep your company moving if something interrupts the power?

Power outages can be devastating to your computer. Not only can you lose files and any vital information, but your computer itself could bear the brunt of some pretty devastating damages. If this happens to your computer, the first move is to seek immediate computer repair. They will be the best at trying to salvage anything that may become lost. But there is something you can do that can keep your computer stable through a power surge – a UPS, or uninterruptible power supply.

A UPS is a battery-containing device that supplies backup power to your computer in case of a power outage, as well as brown outs and electricity spikes. The battery will keep your computer running temporarily during a power surge, giving you the time to save your work and shut down your computer properly without losing data. Not only will this save important documents, but money from costly computer repair.

The UPS will come with power management software that can be configured to sense an outage and safely shut your computer down in the event you are not in front of your computer at the time. You can also set your computer to come back on when power is restored.

It is important to think about emergency plans when you start a business. Not only for your assets, but for your office equipment.

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

Is Your Hard Drive Going Bad? Here’s How to Tell | Corona, CA

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Has your computer started making funny noises? If you know nothing about computers, you aren’t alone. We buy our technology to make our lives easier, but when they begin to act strange, we have no clue about what to do with them. What are the components that make up our machines? How do we make sure they are running at top form?

If you find that your computer has begun to make noises you don’t recognize, it is possible that your hard drive going bad. Your hard drive is the brain of your machine, where all of your information is stored. And while there are plenty of reasons it is acting funny, they usually crash because of a virus, mechanical failure or electrical surge.

Unfortunately, a hard drive failure could happen at any time without warning, so you need to make sure you back up your hard drive on a regular basis, because valuable data that cannot be retrieved. 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. Your computer runs like we do and can develop symptoms of deterioration, so make sure you don’t ignore the signs.

If you think your hard drive might be going bad, we can run a diagnostic test and let you know if you need a new one. In addition to testing, we can order and install a new one for you.

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

This Summer Heat Isn’t Just Bad for You | Corona, CA

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During these hot summer months, we are all trying to stay as cool as possible. After all, the heat makes us feel sluggish and in no mood to do much as far as work is concerned. So, we try to stay hydrated and keep our pets as comfortable as possible. But did you ever think about your technology? We aren’t the only ones that can suffer from overheating. The causes can range from being a severe problem to something very minor that may not need repair. Here are a few of the main reasons your computer may be getting a bit too hot:

Dust buildup. Dust buildup on the vents and the internal components of your computer can begin to block the vents and prevents airflow, while dust on the internal elements traps heat. Keeping a can of compressed air can keep those dust bunnies off your equipment.

Poor location. Where do you keep your computer? Make sure your computer isn’t located in a room with poor ventilation or one that has little to no climate control, away from windows and in a temperature-controlled environment.

Poor ventilation. Most computers have vents in the casing that allows for proper air flow. However, when covered up, it will block airways, causing warm air to build up inside the case. Make sure that your vents are clear and are allowing for proper ventilation.

If none of the reasons list above are causing your computer to overheat, it may be time to take your computer in to a professional. Call Up & Running Computer Solutions in Corona, CA for help at 951-737-8558. Learn more at our website at www.urcs.net.

 

Having Computer Problems? You Aren’t Alone | Corona, CA

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headache over computer problems

In this day and age, having some type of computer is necessary. Whether it be a desktop, a laptop or a tablet, we all have some way to connect to the information superhighway. Otherwise, kit feels like we are out of touch. Unfortunately, like everything else, that computer will eventually have problems. These problems could be big and complicated or small and simple to fix. It’s especially a problem if you don’t know as much about computers as you would like. The good thing is, if you have little computer knowledge or don’t have the time to learn, a computer repair company can help get you back on your proverbial feet. But while you wait to get your computer looked at, here are five common computer problems and what is going on internally:

Malicious software. Otherwise known as viruses, spyware, adware, etc. Either way you look at it, all versions can harm your computer and attain access to your private information.

Computer won’t turn on. One of the more basic of issues, power issues could be due to a loose cord or a power supply that has gone bad.

Slow computer. All deleted files and applications are still on your computer taking up space and need to be cleaned up. Low hard drive space and not enough RAM can also cause your computer to be slow.

Blue screen of death. This happens when your computer freezes, resulting in a blue screen with an error message. This could be many things – overheating, hard drive failing, or buggy software.

Noisy computer. A fan, or your entire hard drive could be going out. Back up your files immediately so you don’t lose anything in the process.

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

Don’t Let Your IT Needs Overwhelm You | Corona, CA

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Online Security Protection Internet Safety

When you start your own business, there are just so many things that you need to consider. Products, services, startup supplies – it can be enough to drive a business owner mad. But now that the world is run electronically, you now have to throw IT service in the mix. For most business owners, this is one of the more overwhelming tasks to do when opening their proverbial doors. Now would be a great time to research IT companies that can manage all of these services for you.

Budget-friendly. It may seem unnecessary but there are many benefits to using managed IT services. A managed services contract allows you to quit worrying about your network, while also allowing you to have this area locked into your budget with no costly surprises. You decide what your budget is and what services you need.

One less employee. Keeping a staffed IT employee on payroll can become very expensive. By outsourcing to a managed IT services company, you only pay for what you need.

Experience counts. You already know IT services is entirely too complicated for you. When it comes to your computers and network you want a trained, experienced and certified IT to repair any technical issues and grow along with your business’ success. Having managed IT services monitor your network, servers and computers will be like having a security guard watching your business 24/7/365. Instead of waiting for something to break, routine maintenance is done to keep your system up and running.

Your business is already a labor of love. Let a managed IT services company take care of the technical stuff.

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

What Is The Difference Between Malware and Viruses? | Corona, CA

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Data Breach

It’s very important to know the difference between malware and viruses. A virus is just one kind of malware, but the actual term is largely used by the public. The term “malware” refers to any type of malicious software that’s designed to infect your computer or mobile device, including a computer virus.

What is Malware?

Malware is a software that’s designed to specifically hard and infect host systems. This includes viruses along with other kinds of malicious software such as Trojans, worms, spyware and adware. Ransomware is also another type of malware that’s used to commit financial fraud and extort money from those that use computers.

Common Malware:

  • 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. Viruses are often spread by sharing files or software between computers.
  • 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- This is one of the most dangerous Malwares. Torjans 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. The request for money is usually in the thousands.

In order for you to protect your devices from the malware mentioned above, you must use an effective anti-virus. If you suspect that your computer is infected with malware, contact Up & Running Computer Solutions in Corona, CA at 951-737-8558 today. We can repair your computer and get you back up and running! To learn more about our company or to put in a service request visit our website at www.urcs.net.

What Is Cryptolocker? | Corona, CA

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Cryptolocker is a ransomware that’s designed by cyber criminals. This malicious malware attacks operating systems by encrypting all of the files from the machine. According to security researchers there has been an exponential growth in ransomware infections in the last year. Ransomware such as Cryptolocker and newer versions like Locky are now utilizing new methods to attack machines and encrypt their files before their victims have any idea. Tens of thousands of machines have been affected by this ransomware. These victims are either forced to pay a ransom or hope they have backup recent enough that they don’t lose too much data.

To help prevent your machine from being infected I have complied a few tips on how you can avoid this malicious malware.

  • Be sure to update your operating system and security software on a regular basis.
  • Always backup important data and keep it on unconnected storage.
  • Be sure to keep up with the most recent security patches and other fixes.
  • Always keep your anti-virus and internet security up-to-date.
  • Never open any attachments from suspicious email addresses.
  • If you suspect that your machine has been infected make sure to change network passwords and online account passwords immediately.

If your machine does become infected and you don’t have any backup copies of your data, paying the ransom not recommended. Paying the ransom is never a good solution, as this only turns the malware business into a thriving and profitable business.

If suspect that your machine has been infected with Cryptolocker or another type of malware, contact Up & Running Computer Solutions in Corona, CA at 951-737-8558 today.

Proudly serving Corona, Riverside, Anaheim, Irvine, Newport Beach, Tustin, and all surrounding areas.

A Few Simple Steps to Clean Computer Towers | Corona, CA

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Just like cars, boats and homes, your computer tower too needs a good deep cleaning every now and then. According to sources, your computer tower should be cleaned at least three to six months to prevent dust build, which can cause your computer tower to overheat. By eliminating debris and dust buildup will increase your computers overall performance and will keep it preforming smoothly. We here at Up and Running Computer Solutions have complied a list of a few simple steps you can take to clean your computer tower, which include the following:

1.       Gather up a soft brush, can of compressed air, electronic safe wipes, a vacuum and a screw driver to remove the computer towers panel.

2.       Be sure to shut down your computer, unplug cords from any outlets, and let the computer cool down before you start cleaning it.

3.       Begin by wiping down the outside of your computer tower with the electronic safe wipe you collected, then proceed by gently and carefully vacuuming out the computer towers vents.

4.       Next, remove the panel from your computer tower and cautiously vacuum the inside of the towner, be extremely careful not to touch any of the computers components.

5.       Now that you’ve vacuumed the loose debris and dust, take the soft brush and brush away of the remaining debris and/or dust. For the extra dusty areas you can use the can of compressed to help loosen the debris.

6.       Finally, replace your computers panel and plug back in the cables. Now your computer tower should be all cleaned up and ready to go!

There are many advantages that stem from cleaning your computer tower on a regular basis. Debris and dust buildup is one of the main factors that cause a computer to overheat, so don’t but your computer tower cleaning on the back burner.

If you suspect your computer may be damaged from excessive debris and dust buildup, contact Up & Running Computer Solutions in Corona, CA at 951-737-8558 to get your computer back up and running in great condition. For additional information regarding the sevcies we offer visit our website at www.urcs.net.

Proudly serving Corona, Riverside, Anaheim, Irvine, Newport Beach, Tustin and all surrounding areas.

Tips to Avoid Viruses this Halloween | Corona

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Data Breach

Halloween is one of the most celebrated holidays, and cybercriminals want to be a part of the fun. As Halloween approaches, many hackers take advantage of popular Hollywood titles to spread computer viruses. For example, Google and other search engine results with keywords that are related to popular topics that are used to trick users into clicking on the malicious link.

Another popular form of spreading computer viruses is through spam. Hackers used typically Halloween characters to trick users and lead to where they want. This way, in addition to getting your personal information, hackers will redirect you to other websites selling prohibited products. We must educate ourselves and must be aware that hackers will try to deceive us with practical jokes. However, these practical jokes introduce malware to our equipment which will lead to a huge headache. The following includes a few tips on how you can avoid viruses this Halloween.

  1. Don’t open emails or messages that are received from social networks that come from an unknown source.
  2. Never click links that you get by email, unless you know it’s a reliable source.
  3. If you do click a link in an email, it’s important to look at the landing page. If you do not recognize it, close the browser.
  4. Never download attachments from unknown sources. During this holiday we must pay extra attention to files that come with Halloween related names.
  5.  If you don’t see anything out of the ordinary on a page but it’s requesting a download, do not accept.
  6. Never buy from online stores that don’t have a solid reputation. To be sure that your purchases are safe and secure, look for a security certificate, they’re typically located in the lower right corner.
  7. Don’t use shared computers to preform transitions that require you to enter a password or personal data.
  8. Be sure that you have an Anit-virus installed and updated.

If you think your computer many have a virus, contact Up & Running Computer Solutions in Corona, CA at 951-737-8558 today. We can repair your computer and get you back up and running! To learn more about our company or to put in a service request visit our website at www.urcs.net.