4 Steps to Keep your Computer Safe

Modern day computers need to be constantly protected, so to speak, thanks to the existence of viruses, spam, pop-ups and so on and so forth. If left unchecked, these unwanted applications or files can hamper our system’s performance.

So, here are a few steps by which you can keep your computer safe:

#1: Anti-virus Protection

Even though most systems these days come with antivirus protection, it’s important to understand that in order to enjoy maximum benefits, one should not forget to renew the service once the term if over. Ensuring that you have antivirus software at all will ensure that you are able to keep your computer clean from common issues related to viruses and spam.

#2: Check to see if Windows Defender or Firewall is turned on

The next thing that you have to do is to find whether Windows Defender or Firewall is turned on for real-time protection. First, you’ll have to find it in the Security section and either of them isn’t available, then you can download it from Microsoft’s official site.

You can run Windows Defender for a full computer scan after which you’ll be protected from any unwanted spyware. The same goes for Windows Firewall which will protect your computer from real-time attacks. You can also use Spybot Search & Destroy to scan your computer for unwanted spyware as well.

#3: Conduct a Port Scan

You can visit grc.com and allow it to conduct a port scan to see where your system is vulnerable to hackers, and then take the necessary steps to protect your computer after that.

#4: Download the latest updates, patches and service packs from Windows

By default, most systems with Windows allow for this to take place from time to time. However, it’s a good idea to check whether the ‘automatic updates’ option is selected in order to get the latest updates, patches and service packs from Windows.

3 Steps To Determine Whether an Apple Macintosh Or PC Is Right For You?

Apple Macintosh Or PCIf you are looking for a new personal computer, a bit of research will tell you that there are PCs available using platforms based on MacOS, Windows and Linux. What makes the decision of figuring out whether any of these PCs are right for you hard is because there is very little between them

Yet a comparison between their weaknesses and strengths will help you determine which PC is right for you, and so here are a few steps to do just that:

Step #1: List out what you want to do with your computer

While basic functions such as web browsing, scheduling and management, multimedia playback and document manipulation are usually no different on these platforms, there are certain advanced features that are best on certain platforms.

For example, if you’re a gaming enthusiast, then Windows would be your choice as opposed to the other two. Content creation, the other hand, is where the Mac reigns supreme, and is considered to be perfect for artists.

Step #2: Understand the strengths of each platform

No matter what you do, don’t think that, as a whole, only one of three platforms is the best. However, there are reasons why the Apple Mac, the pre and custom-built PC exist for customers. The Apple Mac is known for great support and service as well as great looks and features while the pre-built PC offers greater compatibility. Also, custom-built systems are not only available at a better price but their performance is excellent as well.

Step #3: Understand the weaknesses of each platform

When it comes to making a comparison between the weaknesses of these platforms, usually a pre-built PC and an Apple Macintosh is priced high. As for custom-built PCs, the issue of not being user-friendly will need non-technical users to learn more about components before attempting to put a computer together.

4 Steps to Buying the Right Assembled PC

Buying the Right Assembled PCAlmost anyone knows the difference between branded and assembled PCs, where the former is built to meet general computing needs while the latter is custom-built for purposes that cannot be met by their branded counterparts.

Although, there are advantages to both types, what becomes apparent is that a lot of thought must go into buying an assembled PC.

So here are steps that can help you buy the right assembled PC:

#1: Decide whether you want a laptop or a desktop

If you’re planning to work from one location, then a desktop would be a good idea. However, if you need to move around for your work, then a laptop would work well instead. What one must keep in mind is the fact that assembled desktops are common rather than laptops.

#2: Make a list of what you might use the computer for

As mentioned earlier, an assembled computer is usually built for specific needs. So, keeping these needs in mind, you can decide whether you want an assembled or branded computer.

#3: Determine how much you can afford to spend

For the most part, assembled PCs are cheaper than branded ones as it doesn’t come with pre-loaded software. However, with customization being its advantage, one can literally decide how much can be spent on the computer or its components depending on their requirements. Make sure you determine how much you can afford to spend.

#4: Look for a reputed computer assembler

Since most of us aren’t well-versed with assembling a computer which might take too long for us to learn, it’s a good idea to look for a reputed computer assembler. The advantages are that you can discuss component options with him or her and even get in touch with them for support or maintenance later.

Why Mobile Internet is Faster Than Satellite Internet

If you live in rural America, you may be wondering how to get the fastest possible rural Internet service provider. Some of the popular choices for Internet for rural areas are frankly subpar compared to most traditional Internet service providers. Dial-up Internet and DSL are outdated, slow, and inefficient compared to the more modern choices that rural residents have access to. These choices include satellite Internet providers such as HughesNet or Viasat and mobile Internet providers like UbiFi.

While satellite Internet providers are popular for their accessibility and impressive performance, their potential is hindered when it comes to speed. While satellite Internet is relatively fast, it also suffers from high latency because of the distance Internet signals from a satellite have to travel to reach rural households. The long distance creates a delay that results in latency. If you play online games, this situation can result in unwanted phenomena such as lag and rubberbanding.

In contrast, mobile Internet providers like UbiFi use cell towers to transmit Internet signals. Since cell towers are closer to receivers on the ground, this creates much less latency, which is useful for users who need low-latency Internet for activities such as online gaming and video calls. Furthermore, if you are within the coverage area of mobile Internet companies like UbiFi, you can experience much higher speeds than most satellite Internet companies are capable of providing.

While mobile Internet’s performance is dependent on how close you are to coverage areas, its potential upside is much higher than satellite Internet if you happen to be in the right place to reap its many benefits. Be sure to check if you are in an Internet provider’s coverage area today.

What You Will Need To Host A Web Site

Hosting your own website might sound like a lot of work and relatively advanced for people who are outside the industry. End of the day, owning a business in Los Angeles takes a lot of time, so you need to find a company to host your website for you. This will ensure you can focus on the parts of your business you are good at.

Web Hosting Provider

Numerous web hosting companies, including Electric Kitten, provide all the services you and your business could require for LA web hosting. By hiring professionals, you can rest easy knowing that your business will be well taken care of.

A web hosting plan with extras like a free domain name, an SSL certificate, and one from a company with industry knowledge is worthwhile if you’re hosting a new website. Experts will ensure that your company receives the most outstanding results regarding the website’s online appearance.

Domain Name

If you still need to get one, get your domain name straight from one of the top domain registrars, like Google Domains. You can also register your domain name at any registrar. However, your web hosting company may already offer a free domain name in your package. This indicates that you are exempt from paying registration fees for the first year of operation.

Depending on where you purchased your domain name, there are many ways to connect it to your web server. For instance, if you purchased a domain name from your web host, it will be automatically linked to your web host. You will have to manually link your domain to your web server if you already have one.

Which RV Internet Option Should You Use for Entertainment?

Many factors can influence which provider you pick from the best RV Internet options. Your budget, the length of your trip, and your needs can all play a role in influencing your choice of Internet provider. RV travelers who plan to use the Internet to communicate with their friends and loved ones may choose a different Internet service from RVers who want to use the Internet for entertainment. If entertainment is your priority, which Internet provider should you choose?

The answer depends on which type of entertainment you plan to focus on. The best satellite Internet service providers are usually capable of streaming at high speeds, but streaming consumes fairly large amounts of data. If your satellite provider does not offer unlimited satellite Internet with no data caps, you may have to pay expensive overage fees fairly quickly.

If you plan to do some online gaming, live streaming, live chatting, or any other real-time activity, satellite Internet will likely not be enough for your needs. An option such as unlimited 4G rural Internet from a company like UbiFi may be better suited for these types of activities. Because companies like UbiFi use cell towers on the ground instead of satellites in space, they can transmit data to customers much faster than satellite Internet companies. Furthermore, UbiFi does not put any data caps on their service, so you won’t have to worry about paying overage fees after streaming video content.

If you only plan to watch video content, you can probably get by with a satellite Internet connection. But if you enjoy playing online multiplayer games that require precise inputs and quick reactions, mobile 4G Internet may be a better choice for you.

 

Why Dial-Up Internet is Still Alive in Rural America

man with laptop standing in a field

Many modern-day people who have observed the development and rise of the Internet consider dial-up Internet a relic of a bygone age. However, it may surprise you to learn that companies such as AOL are still alive and providing Internet for rural areas. There are several significant factors that have allowed dial-up Internet to flourish in rural America.

First, much of rural America lacks the infrastructure to support broadband access. Though the government has acknowledged the rural broadband issue and is taking measures to improve rural regions’ infrastructure, progress has been slow. For many people, it is easier to rely on old tricks such as using their phone lines for Internet access. Furthermore, some mainstream Internet service providers choose not to do business in rural areas because to them, it is not worth their investment. Since rural America has fewer people per square mile, there are fewer chances to make money, making business a riskier endeavor.

While many rural residents still use dial-up, there are also other types of rural Internet service providers that provide faster and better service. Satellite Internet service providers such as Starlink provide high-speed Internet access nearly anywhere in the world. Furthermore, mobile Internet providers such as UbiFi reach rural areas with unlimited 4G rural Internet access. While satellite Internet is a high-performance solution, you may want to consider a mobile provider like UbiFi instead if you want high-latency Internet or Internet with no data caps. Unlike satellite Internet, UbiFi does not charge overage fees for using data, so keep that in mind if you wish to leave dial-up behind and switch to a more advanced Internet provider for a more civilized age.

Learning from Create Abundance by Zhang Xinyue – “The Moment”

Create Abundance by Zhang Xinyue is a collection of teachings and words of wisdom for mind-body-spirit cultivation.

Often when we are faced with people or situations that we feel intimidated by we become anxious or nervous. We struggle to control our emotions and physical sensations such as breaking out in a sweat or trembling. These can easily be seen as fear and insecurity within ourselves. This is the moment we need to assess and examine.

Zhang Xinyue explains as moments or “the moment …” which she suggests can have a different and more positive outcome if we stop and consider how we are reacting to situations. The moment we evaluate ourselves and accept that we always have the same result in these situations is the moment that we can change what is not working for us.

The moment we stop complaining about how these outcomes are affecting our lives is the moment we grow and start to create abundance for ourselves. We can start with the abundance of knowledge that we can meet a leader without feeling intimidated. We can substitute that feeling for one of gratitude that we are in the presence of a great person and enjoy the experience.

Create Abundance by Zhang Xinyue explores the idea that all negative feelings are born out of fear. She teaches that the way to overcome negativity lies in dealing with the fear rooted in the past. Zhang Xinyue is an amazing author and Create Abundance was written in 2012. It has become a bestseller and translated from Chinese into many languages

For more information visit Create Abundance

Top Five Business Improvement Tips

Goal setting is the most important factor in business because it holds you accountable. It also serves to remind you of why you’re in business. If you don’t have objectives, then why even bother? Another important function of goal setting is that it allows you to narrow down what you have to do within a certain period of time so you can create abundance.

For Example: I have to sell 5 books each business day to reach my goal of selling 25 books in 5 business days. That’s a simple and clear goal that is achievable.

Setting goals allows you to establish a specific, measurable, and achievable objectives that you are capable of doing. You can easily sell 5 books per day … no sweat! If you should sell 30 or 40 books in one week, how does that make you feel? You’ve pushed yourself farther and accomplished much more than you planned and this builds your inner confidence level and helps create abundance.

If you’re just starting out, then consider these 5 tips:

Work temporarily for a business that is similar to yours. Don’t be afraid to do the dirty jobs. Learn all you can at every level.

Find a mentor or coach. Look around your community and see if there’s someone successful in sales who would be willing to coach you.

Hire an assistant who can do many of the menial or repetitive tasks.

Enroll in a business class. Every larger town has a community college where you can find various classes that can help you improve your sales skills.

Take advantage of courses online. Watch for seminars in your area that feature well-known experts in the field. This can also give you an excellent opportunity for networking.

The book, Create Abundance by Zhang Xinyue offers wisdom for relaxing and enjoying your business and your personal life. Learning to meditate and let go of worries is so beneficial.

What is web hosting?

Blog provided by Electric Kitten

Web hosting is essentially the service that stores and delivers your website files to users around the world. When someone types in your website address (URL), their computer connects with the host server where your site is stored and served up as HTML pages.

There are many different types of web hosting services available, but shared hosts are typically the most affordable option for small businesses and large businesses alike. Shared hosts place multiple websites on one server, splitting up the resources (bandwidth, storage space) accordingly. This makes them an economical choice for those who don’t need all the bells and whistles that come with more expensive plans.

It’s important to note that with shared hosts there is always potential for another site on the same server to affect your experience and downtime if it uses too much bandwidth or storage space. Check with the provider on contention ratios on the server.

Another thing worth considering when choosing a host is their level of customer service – what happens if something goes wrong on your site? Will they be able to help you troubleshoot quickly? Test out their customer support system by asking some basic questions via email or chat before committing yourself long-term.

If you need LA colocation or dedicated server provider you can trust, contact Electric Kitten today. They’ve provided reliable web hosting services for almost two decades. If you are in the Southern California area, give them a call at 877-821-HOST or email them at sales@electrickitten.com.

The Importance of Affordable Options in the Hearing Aid Market

Hearing aids are a crucial tool for improving the quality of life for hard-of-hearing individuals. Unfortunately, many high-quality hearing aids are priced like luxury items. You’ll often see hearing aids retail for thousands of dollars after a quick Google search. Since not everyone can afford premium hearing aids, customers need affordable options to suit their budgets.

Some big-name brands have noticed the need for affordable hearing aids in the market. Household audio company Bose has manufactured the SoundControl hearing aids, which it has outfitted with digital technology and smartphone compatibility for adjustable sound quality. At $849 a pair, SoundControl hearing aids are more affordable than the average hearing aid, but still not economical enough for many people’s budgets.

Fortunately, there are hearing aids that only cost a few hundred dollars or less on the market today. For example, the lowest-priced hearing aid products we could find were on HueHearing.com, where Hue Hearing aid products are sold for as low as $68 per hearing aid. According to HueHearing, the company’s hearing aids are comfortable, compact, and invisible for the most convenient listening experience. Of course, you’ll want to read HueHearing Reviews online to decide if HueHearing’s products are right for you.

At the end of the day, it pays to do research on hearing aid prices, comparing the most affordable competitors to see who offers the best value on affordable hearing aids. Don’t settle for overpriced hearing aids when a more affordable option will give you all the tools you need for a satisfying listening experience.

Upgrading your business technology

As technology has advanced throughout the decades, different fields of business and commerce have found novel, inventive ways to use technology to boost productivity. Here are a few modern innovations that your business might use to stay ahead of the competition.

VoIP Phones

Voice over IP or VoIP phones can improve communication efficiency by allowing users to make phone calls through IP networks such as the Internet rather than traditional office telephone systems. This results in more reliable call quality, lower operating costs, and efficient scalability. Javier Loya, CEO of OTC Global Holdings says, “At OTC Global Holdings, VoIP phones have completely revamped our communication practices. It’s been more convenient to scale using the Internet-based VoIP system rather than building a new communication infrastructure.”

Communication platforms

Communal messaging platforms such as Slack have been able to meet the needs of businesses better than traditional forms of communication or social media websites. Slack is designed to keep office communication organized by topic, group, or content. The app even allows you to search for content in previous conversations so that no one forgets important information pertaining to your office projects. The app’s user-friendly and collaborative interface has become widely used by many major companies such as Target and iRobot.

Multi-device keyboards

In offices where multitasking on multiple devices is the norm, multi-device keyboards are a revolutionary piece of technology. These devices allow you to seamlessly switch between typing on your phone, tablet, and computer during busy workdays. Some of the best multi-device keyboard models such as the Logitech K780 are compatible with up to three devices.

 

5 Tips for Buying the Right Computer for Your Lifestyle

Once you’re ready to buy a new computer, there are a few considerations to think about before you go shopping. It’s good to think about exactly what you will be using this computer for. If you are looking for something to use for surfing the web and checking on your social media pages, then there’s no reason to spend lots of money. But if you are a graphic designer wishing to use the computer for your work, then you will definitely need a faster computer with more features.

If you’re short on cash, then look for computer financing deals. Below are our top five tips to help you buy the right computer that will meet all your needs:

Decide on a budget and stick to it.

Do you want a laptop or a desktop? Laptops are more expensive but nice to have because you can take them anywhere.

Do you need lots of RAM? Maybe. It depends on the type of work you’ll be doing. RAM makes the computer move faster and operate more efficiently.

What brand should you buy? Everyone is different on this issue. Some people swear by Apple MacBook Computers, while others like regular PCs. Brands like Dell and HP are popular.

Do you need a touch screen? These are popular but not necessary for most of your computing needs. You will often pay more for this feature as well. If possible, visit a local computer store and try this out to see if you like it.