Q. Should I turn off my computer or leave it on?
A. Almost all computers are configured to go into sleep mode even when you select “shut down.” Leaving a computer in sleep mode is actually better for the system components when “Waking up” where as doing a fresh boot requires more power and is more taxing on the hardware. It is ok to leave your computer running or allow it to go into sleep mode on a frequent basis.
Q. How often should I check for windows updates?
A. Windows is configured to update automatically and doesn’t require much action from the user. However, windows is set to install updates when it is restarted. Users should “Restart” their computer at least once a month to allow windows to install any new updates it may have downloaded but not yet installed. Restarting your computer also allows windows to restart services that may have stopped running or crashed, you would be surprised how often restarting your computer fixes an issue.
Q. What is a UPS? And do I need one?
A. UPS stands for “Uninterruptible Power Supply”. It is a surge protector that has a built-in battery backup system in case power fails. When the power goes out in your home the UPS will kick on and run off of battery power for a certain amount of time. A UPS is not required for all home setups but is recommended for anyone who has a desktop computer that they leave running for extended periods of time. This will prevent the computer from abruptly shutting down causing damage to internal components that have not been able to shut down properly (i.e. Hard drives). Devices that are recommended to be plugged into a UPS are: desktop computers, landline modems, routers, home phone systems, computer monitors, and printers.
Q. Will Microsoft ever call me?
A. The answer is usually no. Microsoft and other manufacturers such as HP, Dell, Toshiba, or Lenovo do not have your number on file and they do not cold call customers. There are many Illegitimate Tech support companies out there that will claim to be working for one of these major brands and claim that your computer has been compromised in some way. They will request you allow them to remotely log into your computer, so they can fix the issue. Once inside your computer they will claim issues and demand payment to fix them. Most of the time at this point if a customer does not pay they will cause a major issue with the computer making it unusable. If you ever get a phone call like this the best thing to do is just hang up the phone, eventually they will stop bothering you because you are wise to their scam.
