Y-Not’s Strategy to Avoid Data Disaster in Lethbridge, AB and Canada

June 20, 2017 by Tony Whitney

My clients often tell me that their Data is the most important thing on their Computers. And I can see why it would be! With precious family photos and videos, important documents and so much more stored on our computers, a loss of data can be a disaster. This is why I talk about how important back-ups are so often on the site and to my clients. I want to focus on a service I offer that I feel gives everything needed to avert Data Disaster.

Y-Not Tech Services’ Gold Plus Package

For $44/month you get Virus and Malware protection as well as an off-site back-up.

The virus protection often saves you from needing to use the back-up at all. My Virus and Malware protection has been proven to provide protection for most of the recent attacks that either hold your data for ransom or just deletes it outright. However, new methods are always being developed and some might slip through. This is where the back-up comes in. If a virus or malicious program sneaks past our protection and affect your data, our back-up will ensure that you can get back up and running as soon as possible.

For less than the cost of a coffee a day, you can have peace of mind knowing your important data is safe and secure against threats like Viruses, Malware and Ransomware.

VIRUS AND MALWARE PROTECTION + OFF-SITE BACKUP = DATA DISASTER AVOIDANCE

Special Offer: Mention ‘Data Disaster’ and receive $5 off each month for the first year.

To start protecting your data today book an appointment:

PS For more special offers, tips and advice Click Here to get updates emailed to you.

Mac OS vs. Windows – Which Operating System Should You Use?

June 13, 2017 by Tony Whitney

Just like with my Android vs. iOS post, I will start this one with a disclaimer that I am a Windows user. I don’t own an Apple computer and don’t often use Mac OS. However, when I do use Mac OS it is an enjoyable experience. The only real reason that I don’t own a Mac is the price tag.

For most of my clients, the choice between Windows and Mac OS comes down to personal preference as both operating systems can handle all the tasks an average user could throw at them. So what factors should you consider when choosing which operating system to run?

Budget

Let’s get this one out of the way first. Apple makes premium products with a premium price tag to go with them. They do not cater to consumers looking to pinch pennies. Since they make the hardware, and the software they control every aspect of the process including the price. I’m not a great student of Economics, but I believe that supply and demand and lack of competition allow them to set premium prices. It’s important to note that they also use more metal in their design and metal costs more than the plastic found in most PC designs. In the world of Windows PCs, there are hundreds of manufacturers making similar devices. This causes some heavier competition and lower prices. That’s not to say that there are no Windows machines with high prices. Some manufacturers, including Microsoft with its Surface line, have begun using more premium materials and getting the price up there. They still tend to a bit lower priced than similarly specced Apple devices. As for whether the price is worth it, that’s up to you.

Compatibility

I think compatibility is probably the most important factor when choosing your operating system. It’s pointless to try and use a computer if it won’t work with the software and devices you need to use. Back when I worked at a big box store I would have customers want an Apple computer and then be upset that they couldn’t use Simply Accounting on it. A quick search tells me That Sage 50, the newest version of Simply Accounting is still not compatible with Mac OS. But guess what, there are also programs that Mac users can use that are incompatible with Windows. Ultimately, you need to have an idea of what programs you’d like to use and then we can look into whether they are compatible with the operating system you want. For most programs that aren’t compatible with the Operating System, you can find another program that is compatible with it that will serve the same purpose.

Hardware devices can also be a problem, although, for the last 5-10 years most common printers, cameras and so on have been compatible with both Mac OS and Windows. Many of my clients use iPhone’s and iPad’s and I have noticed that iTunes works a lot more reliably on Apple computers. This is because Apple makes every piece of the equation. They make the hardware of the Computer and the phone, as well as the software of iTunes itself AND the Mac OS operating system. This means they can test it fully. Itunes on Windows has been pretty iffy in my experience.

No matter what Operating System you choose, it’s important to look into compatibility with your software and devices.

Viruses, Malware, and Security

Mac OS wins the virus wars. Although not as soundly as they once did. In years past, it could be said that Mac OS didn’t get any viruses. That isn’t true today, but what is true is that Mac OS has far fewer viruses. The reason is very simple. Fewer people use Apple computers, so writing viruses for them is less profitable. According to netmarketshare.com, Windows Operating Systems accounts for over 90% of the market share, while Mac OS comes in at around 5%. It seems clear that hitting 90% would have a better return on the effort to code than only 5% so most write malicious programs for Windows. I always like to point out that the very first recorded virus was written for old Apple systems and just displayed a poem on the screen. I recommend users of both Mac OS and Windows use an Anti-Virus program and practice safe browsing to help keep their data safe.

Viruses and Malware aren’t the only security threats to your PC. Often bugs and otherwise overlooked problems with the OS itself can leave your computer vulnerable to attack. In the past, Apple hasn’t shown they are always on top of security issues. The number of patches and updates that come to a Windows machine every week show that Microsoft does take security seriously. The updates and the way they are delivered is actually one of the biggest complaints against Windows, especially in Windows 10. But these updates are necessary.

Gaming and Designing

I used to be a pretty avid gamer and I still try to keep up with news in the field. Windows wins PC gaming. Windows supports more graphics cards with higher power. Not only that, Windows has a higher compatibility with games. It’s getting better, but there are still games (including AAA titles) that simply will not run on a Mac OS device. Other times, the game will come out on Mac OS, a year or more after it is available on Windows. If you want to play the latest games, Windows is the answer.

I’m not a designer, but I know that Apple computers are often preferred by those that are. In the 80’s and 90’s you would find that most of the best software for designing was only available on Macs. This has changed and some designers I’ve talked to now prefer to work on a Windows machine citing faster speeds and greater compatibility with devices. That said, most design firms still supply and use Apple computers so if you’re going for a career in Design it’s a good idea to be familiar with Apple computers.

Upgradability and Repair

In general, Windows computers are easier to upgrade and repair with their components being of standard design and readily available. This isn’t always true though. As Windows devices get thinner and lighter the parts get more specialized and often glued in place making repair and upgrades more difficult. The same is true in almost all Apple computers. If you take your average Windows tower and compare it to an Apple iMac it is easy to see which one will be more easy to change or replace parts in. As a general rule, Windows computers win this category, but there are exceptions to this. The same design qualities that make an Apple computer attractive make it hard to repair and the same is true for Windows machines that follow that design look.

Flexibility

With hundreds of manufacturers making Windows PCs, plus the ability to build one from thousands of available components in endless configurations, Windows has infinite more flexibility than the 5 Computer lines from Apple – MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, Mac Pro, iMac and Mac Mini. As for flexibility, being able to choose parts and find a machine with just exactly what you want, Windows wins. But for many, the more simple approach from Apple makes life easier. The choices available in the Windows PC market can be almost paralyzing. With thousands of choices, finding the right one can be a challenge. With Apple, if you have an iMac that’s 4 years old and you want to replace it, you’d probably look at the current iMacs with their handful of configuration options (each option at a different price point so a budget can often dictate your choice) and away you go!

User Experience

Again, with user experience, it really comes down to personal preference. Many people find Mac OS to be more intuitive and simple to navigate and use. They find things like the dock make perfect sense and are easy to use. However, as someone who has used primarily Windows operating systems for the past 20+ years, I find things on Mac OS somewhat difficult. I would never think to double-click on a document’s title to rename it, but that’s how it’s done in Mac OS. At the same time, double-clicking on a document’s name to rename DOES seem like a simpler way to do it than clicking ‘File’ and then ‘Save As’ and finally typing in the new name. It really comes down to what you are used to. If you don’t have experience on either system, a Mac might be easier to learn. If you are familiar with one or the other and decide to make the switch, expect a bit of a learning curve.

Out of the Box Enjoyment

I think that the Mac OS experience is nicer out of the box. I’m talking about the first time you hook it up and turn it on. The setup process is more enjoyable and there are fewer updates waiting for you once you’re set up. The other thing I really like about the Mac OS experience is the lack of bloatware. On a Windows PC, you’ll almost always have it bogged down with Trial software and other useless software. The manufacturers have deals with software makers and get paid to put this software on your PC. The idea is for you to get to find new software you like. More often, it’s just annoying and actually decreases performance on your PC. Of course, this bloatware can be removed but it hinders the out of box experience, and sadly many people don’t know how to remove it so it remains on their systems, slowing them down. If you need help with bloatware removal, please contact me and we’ll get you cleaned up.

Conclusion

As I mentioned at the outset, the Operating System you chose is a personal one and should fit your needs. The only real reasons to pick one over the other is particular software compatibility and possibly the need to go with Windows if you’re a gamer.

If you need help figuring out which Operating System is best for you, or what specific features you need, I can help. Y-Not Tech Services offers a new computer consultation service. For more information or to set up an appointment.

PS I’ve started a Tips, Tricks, and Newsletter with exclusive information and deals. Click Here to get the goods delivered straight to your inbox!

Signed up? Great. Now enjoy a bunch of moderately funny ads where Apple tells you why you should buy a Mac.

Free Tune-Up Giveaway!

June 12, 2017 by Tony Whitney

Y-Not Not Tech Services has launched a new newsletter with exclusive content you won’t find here on our website. To celebrate, we’re giving away A free Computer Tune-up. Visit our Facebook page to learn how to enter.

Rules and Conditions: Prize has no cash value. The prize is available to anyone in Canada. If the winner is from the Lethbridge area the Tune-up can either be performed in Y-Not’s office or remotely. If the winning entrant is from outside my travel area, the tune-Up will be done remotely. The winner and Y-Not Tech Services will schedule a time for the Tune-up to be performed. Contest Ends June 26, 2017.

A Special Word for Windows 7 Users

June 7, 2017 by Tony Whitney

Y-Not Tech Services would like to issue a word of warning to users of Microsoft’s Windows 7 operating system. The recent WannaCry ransomware exploited a bug in Windows allowing it to spread like wildfire. What is interesting about this is that the particular bug that was exploited was actually patched back in March. Anyone who had their systems up to date with Windows Updates was safe from the spread of the malicious program.

Reports show that 97% of systems infected with the WannaCry program were running Windows 7. This isn’t surprising to me. I’ve run across many Windows 7 devices that take FOREVER to find and install new updates. I’m talking weeks before they are installed. And if you turn off your device or restart it, the process starts over. This results in many Windows 7 PCs stuck at ‘Checking for updates…’ and never getting up to date. This is a major problem as it leaves the system open to many vulnerabilities.

It turns out there are a handful of Microsoft updates that essential hang the update service when it tries to download and install them. Y-Not Tech Services has a solution and can get your Windows 7 PC up to date and secure against attacks like WannaCry and other copycat software.

Book an appointment with Y-Not Tech Services today to check on the status of your Windows Update. We can help get it up and running smoothly.

Additionally, it’s important for all systems to have a good Antivirus program and Backup Strategy in place.

PS To receive more tips and tricks in your inbox click here.

Free Alternatives to Expensive Software

June 6, 2017 by Tony Whitney

Here at Y-Not Tech Services, we know that using sophisticated software is a part of doing business. And for a small business, it can be an expensive part of the business. In this article, we’ll explore alternatives to some of the most popular (and expensive) software out there. After that, we’ll take a look at when it makes sense to use these free alternatives and when it doesn’t.

Microsoft Office

Microsoft Word is one of the most widely used software programs out there. It’s a standard in both the Education and business worlds. Sometimes, you’ll end up with documents made in Microsoft Word from school or work and find you can’t open them at Home. The same can be said for an Excel or PowerPoint file. That is where a free alternative will come in handy. There are a number to choose from here.

Libre Office. This is my go-to option when I need to open a file made in Office on a machine that doesn’t have Microsoft Office installed. It is a full-fledged office suite with many features. If you will have a need to open Office files somewhat regularly, but not often enough to warrant purchasing Microsoft Office, this would be my recommendation.
Office Online. Microsoft actually makes a version of Microsoft Office available online for free. You just need a Microsoft Account. Pretty simple to use, but depending on your connection using a web app can have varying performance. Office Online combined with One Drive, makes for a great on the go solution if you need to access the files from multiple devices. An added bonus is the collaboration options.
Google Docs/Google Drive. This option is very similar to Office Online. Google Docs was even available long before Microsoft’s free online offering. It offers online storage through Google Drive and collaboration options as well. I’ve used both Google Docs and Office Online and haven’t noticed any huge differences between them.

Who should pay for Microsoft Office? Almost anyone using it for business. You’ll find that many documents will lose part of their formatting when going from Microsoft Office to other software. This means that if you are using documents that colleagues created in Office, they might not look the same and may lose some functionality. I had to make the switch to Office when I started getting business documents made up for me to use with Y-Not Tech Services. I got some marketing materials made up and they looked horrible in Libre Office, Office Online and Google Docs. I decided to get Microsoft Office and they looked as intended.

Adobe Photoshop

The industry standard for image manipulation. Adobe Photoshop contains WAY more features than this humble technician could ever hope to use. I have never owned a copy of Photoshop, although I did use CS3 in school for a while. I’m not a Graphic Designer or a Photographer or anything else that gives me a reason to have a deep understanding of Photoshop. Keep that in mind as we explore some free alternatives to Adobe Photoshop.

GIMP. GIMP is an open source image manipulation software. I use it regularly. I’m told it has nearly all the features and options of Photoshop, but I can’t personally vouch for that. Anything I need or want to do, it is able to handle. One of the features I like the most is its ability to read .PSD files so I can open up files that my designer sends me and make small tweaks, text adjustments without needing to send the file back to them and request these small changes that I can do myself. Want to cut a person and add them to another picture? You can do that in GIMP. That and so much more.
Pixlr.com Pixlr is a web app (like Office Online and Google Docs) for image manipulation. It’s designed to work similar to Photoshop and can work in a pinch if Photoshop and GIMP are not installed. I’ve found myself using it from a client’s device on occasion when they need an image re-sized or touched up a bit. It can also be useful on machines where you are not granted installation privileges.
Microsoft Paint. No, MS Paint, doesn’t compare to Photoshop. It doesn’t come near to having the features that come with Photoshop. So, why is it on the list? Although Paint is not comparable in features to Photoshop, it can often be a simple alternative. When all you need to do is crop a photo or something else that MS PAINT CAN DO, there’s no need for anything more complex. BONUS: Check out this great artwork done in MS Paint because the artist didn’t know Photoshop. Impressive!

Who should pay for Adobe Photoshop? This one is a bit harder to answer. Graphic Designers and Professional Photographers will probably want a copy of Photoshop. But there are many hobbyists that will also want it. Ultimately, if you’re not sure you need it try GIMP out. If it doesn’t cut it, look into purchasing Photoshop.

Microsoft Outlook

OK, this is technically part of the Microsoft Office family, but since it’s a program with a unique purpose I thought I would cover it separately. Outlook is a widely used Email and Calendar application. It has robust features and is a mainstay in the business world. It handles E-Mail, Calendar, Contacts and more.

Mozilla Thunderbird. Thunderbird is a very popular alternative. It handles E-Mail in a streamlined and easily managed way. The base program does not include a calendar or Task list, but these can be added using add-ons. Thunderbird is probably the first program to try if looking for a free dedicated e-mail program.
Windows Mail. Many of my clients mourned the loss of Outlook Express, Microsoft’s free basic version of Outlook, when they upgraded past Windows XP. The essence of this program has continued to live on in Windows Live Mail in Windows 8 and now, Windows Mail in Windows 10. This program is probably pre-installed on your computer if you’re running Windows 10 and if it’s not, you can find it in the Windows Store. It’s easy to set up and integrates great with Windows 10, so check it out!
Gmail. Web app based email has great functionality. I’ve always found it the easiest to use. There is virtually no set up required and you can use it from any internet-connected computer in the world. I actually have my business e-mail forwarded to my Gmail account so that it’s easily accessible where ever I am. I generally have my own laptop and smart phone with me, but on the rare occasions I don’t and I need to check on something or send an important e-mail I can usually find a computer to borrow and get it down with ease.

Who should pay for Outlook? The biggest group of users who should pay for Outlook are those that work for a company that uses Outlook. This way they can access Meeting invites, Task Lists and Email without worrying about any interruptions to the work flow and probably get some limited tech support from the IT department to get it all setup and working with the companies Exchange Server (assuming we’re talking about a work account that is). I really don’t see a need for Outlook for personal use. The only thing might be familiarity if you use it for work and know the program well. Your time is valuable so if purchasing Outlook saves you a few hours setting up and learning a new program you’ll come out ahead!

I covered three of the most popular software’s out there, but there are free alternatives to almost anything! To find a replacement for most anything, check out https://alternativeto.net/. Be sure to read your EULAs to make sure you are following any license restrictions these alternatives might have. Book an appointment if you have any questions or you’d like guidance on alternative software.

PS I’ve just launched my newsletter containing tips, tricks and deals. Sign up here!

Y-Not’s Recommended Antivirus Software

May 30, 2017 by Tony Whitney

Here at Y-Not Tech Services, we have seen a lot of virus and malware infected systems. Dating back to my days at the retail store, I have been dealing with badly infected systems on a regular basis. Some of these systems were using free antivirus software like we talked about last week. Others had paid versions of Norton, McAfee, Trend Micro or Bit Defender. And of course, some of them had no virus protection at all. This last group I didn’t feel too bad about breaking the bad news to. I feel as a computer owner, it is our responsibility to have some protection on them. Especially if we are browsing and downloading indiscriminately. Those with the free software (remember, I was one of those for years!) thought they were protected and I felt bad breaking the bad news of infection to them. But those that paid money to one of the big Antivirus companies, only to feel betrayed when they still got infected I felt horrible for. The worst part was that they had often bought the software from the store I worked at, or even from me personally! And the only way I could help them now was to charge them $200+ and wipe their computer clean as per company policy. YUCK! Look, new viruses and malware are being developed all the time. They can slip through even the best Antivirus software.

How a Virus Gets In

I’m not saying that Norton, McAfee or Bit Defender are bad products (well, McAfee I’m not so sure about…). So, what goes wrong when systems running these programs gets infected with malware? It could be a number of things, really. The number one thing I see is when the software isn’t getting updates and the user doesn’t notice this. When this happens, even new viruses that the antivirus company has found can get through because the user’s system isn’t getting updates from their servers. Secondly, a brand new, undiscovered virus can slip through and infect the system. Ideally, these viruses will be picked up on the next scan, once the virus is in the software’s database, but often it’s too late at that point. The virus may have mutated and hidden in the system files. It’s surprised me how much Emsisoft can pick up, that these other, well-known software misses.

Emsisoft – Tony’s Current Favourite

Upon discovering Emisoft, it quickly became my current favourite antivirus. I say current because my antivirus of choice changes over time. A long time ago, on a computer system far far away, AVG Free was my favourite antivirus. Then they stripped out features and pushed users toward their paid version. Norton took up residence as my favourite next (although this was somewhat pushed on me by the retail company I worked for, my personal research showed it to be a strong and surprisingly lightweight program). When I saw systems running Norton come into the shop with infections too often, I shifted to become a fan of Bit Defender. I still feel Bit Defender is a strong contender. I went through a time where I relied on Free Antivirus Software but was dismayed to find malware slipping in. I searched for and tested a number of Antivirus programs that were recommended to me by colleagues in the technician world. One stood out to me for a few reasons:

Emsisoft Anti-malware. When I installed this on my system it found malware that my previous antivirus software missed. I was also impressed with the minimal resources that Emsisoft used. I have never noticed a performance hit, even while it’s running a full scan.

“Hey Tony,” you might be saying “Are you sure it’s not just your favourite because you sell it?” This is a valid question. And the answer is no. I could have chosen to re-sell almost any of the top names out there. They all have programs for technicians and software salespeople. I chose Emsisoft based on its performance and value to you, my client. There were a few other contenders, but they all lacked one key feature, I love about Emisoft. When I install Emsisoft on a device, I can monitor it from my own computer. I can see if you have the latest virus definitions, when the last time a scan was performed on your system and what the result of the scan was. To put it simply: It allows me to manage your Antivirus software so you don’t have to. Why not let Tony deal with it? I haven’t found a client that ENJOYS the chore of looking after their Antivirus software. With Emsisoft, you don’t need to worry about it at all. I handle it.

“But Tony, you said that some viruses can get through even the best antivirus programs. Can they get through Emsisoft?” It’s possible. That’s why with your subscription to Emisoft with Y-Not Tech Services, I include unlimited free Malware and Antivirus removals. You read that right. I really don’t want you to worry about viruses or malware. Let me handle it all.

$19/Month

Want to handle Emsisoft on your own? Click here for a free 30 day trial.

What Other’s are Saying About Emsisoft

You don’t need to take my word for it. Hopefully, you trust me, but if you’re new to my site and my services (welcome!) I get that you would want other opinions. So here are a few.

Pcmag.com says, “Excellent scores in our malware blocking tests. Good scores in lab tests. Effective behavior-based detection can even spot ransomware. Clean, simple user interface.” and, “Emisoft Anti-Malware focuses on the core task of keeping your PCs free of malware. It does a good job, and with a clean, simple interface, it looks good too.”

Bleepingcomputer.com has this to say: “Emsisoft AntiMalware has become a favourite at BleepingComputer.com. It’s dual scanning engine consists of BitDefender definitions as well as definitions created by Emsisoft themselves allow for very good and up-to-date detections. Emsisoft is routinely used in our virus removal guides as it is … on top of the latest viruses.” They add, “Overall, we have been very pleased with the performance of Emsisoft AntiMalware and would definitely recommend it as a necessary component of your security toolkit.”

Digitalcitizen.life claims Emisoft, “offers a very good antivirus engine: it detected and removed all the samples we used in our tests, scanning our test computer was reasonably fast and we were swiftly blocked from visiting dangerous websites.”

You can read more at https://www.anti-malware-reviews.com/

Book an appointment to learn more or to have Y-Not Tech Services handle all your PC Security needs.

Emsisoft can be installed remotely at no additional cost!

Android vs. iOS Which should I use? | Y-Not Tech Services – Lethbridge, AB

May 16, 2017 by Tony Whitney

I’ll start by saying that I am pretty firmly in the Android camp. I’m almost an Android fanboy. But I do see the appeal of Apple products, and I know that they are a better fit for many people. With that in mind, I am always subjective when helping a client decide which one to buy. Among my friends, it’s pretty much common knowledge that I am a fan of Android products. So when one of my close friends got an iPad as an anniversary present she was almost apologetic when showing it to me. “Sorry, I know it’s not an Android.” She said. What she didn’t know at the time was that her husband had come to me for advice when looking for a tablet to buy her. I had shown him the option (both Android and iOS) but ultimately recommended he buy her an Ipad. She had a very specific need she wanted to fill with a tablet and the best solution I found was an iOS app. Between that and the fact that she used an iPhone regularly, the iPad seemed like the best choice. Often, when you already have a smartphone, it is wise to get a tablet that matches the phone’s type. You know how to use it and often app purchases can transfer between them. Of course, if you’re not happy with your smartphone, this wouldn’t be the best choice!

Ultimately the choice between Android or iOS is a matter of personal preference. Both ecosystems have matured to the point that almost anything you can do on one, you can do on the other as well. So wait. If they can do the same thing, then why would it matter which one you use? It comes down to the way you want to use your device. Generally, if you want to tinker and customize your device, Android would be the better option. While iOS lacks some of the customization options that Android offers, this makes it easier to use out of the box.

VS

When looking at Android devices, you will be met with a flood of options. Hundreds of manufacturers build Android phones and tablets. And each of those manufacturers will have multiple devices released each year. This can be a good thing because there will be a device of every color, size, performance, and budget available. But the options can be overwhelming, even paralyzing. Apple makes all iOS devices themselves. This means they have control of everything from start to finish. Hardware and software are all designed by Apple, meaning that it will all work together. Apple generally only puts out one or two models a year, so there aren’t as many options to choose from, but this makes it easier to choose your device when it’s time to upgrade. If the myriad of options for Android or Apple devices is overwhelming, I can help.

Other Considerations

While the app stores for iOS and Android devices are both growing, and continually gaining more parity to each other, some apps remain exclusive to one ecosystem or the other. Therefore, if there is an app or feature you cannot do without, be sure to check the corresponding app store before making your decision. This is especially important when making the switch from Android to iOS or vice versa. Another consideration to keep in mind is compatibility with business networks. If you plan to use your device as part of ‘Bring Your Own Device’ program with the company you work for be sure to check with your network Admin/IT department to make sure the device you are considering is compatible with any additional security measures they may have in place.

Other Options?

When talking about mobile devices today, Android and iOS rule the debate. There are other options out there. For one thing, ‘dumb’ phones are still readily available and might be the best choice for you. They are certainly a more budget-friendly option both in the device cost and the monthly carrier fees. Another option is Windows Phone. While I like the idea of Windows Phone, they just don’t have the app support to make them a real contender in my eyes. It’s sad, really. My first smartphone was an HTC Touch running Windows Mobile 6.1 Professional. I loved that phone, and when Microsoft announced Windows Phone, I was excited and ready to make the switch from the Android ecosystem I had been using for a few years at that point, but when Windows Phone came to market, it felt half finished, and even today a lot of the apps I depend on and use daily aren’t available. It’s because of this that I have a hard time recommending Windows Phone.

If you are still having trouble deciding what type of device you should get or need more information, you can contact me and set up an appointment to go over your needs and find the perfect mobile device for you! Why not let Tony help?

WannaCry Protection in Lethbridge, AB | Y-Not Tech Services

May 15, 2017 by Tony Whitney

Over the weekend a new RansomWare infection has spread widely. WannaCry uses a combination of malicious e-mail links and a vulnerability in Microsoft’s Windows OS to spread. It is interesting to note that the vulnerability in Windows was patched by Microsoft in March via Windows Updates. Is your system up to date? When was the last time you checked for updates?

It’s always a good idea to follow safe practices any time you are clicking on links from e-mails. Even if you know and trust the sender, they might have been infected and unaware that they are spreading viruses.

WannaCry is ransomware. It encrypts your data and only gives you access if you pay them. Reports say the cost starts at $300 and goes up to $600 before finally, they delete your data.

At this point, there is no way to decrypt the data without paying the developers of the virus.

How to Protect Yourself

If you aren’t infected with WannaCry make sure Windows is up to date! This stops the spread and can keep you protected. Don’t click links in e-mails without inspecting them first. The link could be hidden, meaning the text in the e-mail will say one thing, but take you somewhere else. Hover your cursor over the link for a few seconds and a tooltip should come up giving the exact link address.

Y-Not Tech Services offers a bundle that protects your device from Ransomware and other attacks. Our Gold Protection Package offers Emisoft Anti-Malware that detects threats like this and blocks them and Windows Patching that keeps your System up to date with Security Patches that cover this and other exploits. I also recommend a comprehensive backup strategy centered around the 3-2-1 philosophy.

Y-Not’s Gold Security Package – $19/month

Y-Not’s Gold Security Package plus Off-Site backup – $29/month

The internet is a wonderful place, but it is also full of people trying to take advantage of others with viruses, malware and more. Click here for my quick run down of internet safety.

Book an Appointment with Y-Not Tech Services to sign up for our protection plan or to learn more.

Keylogger Found in HP Laptops | Y-Not Tech Services – Lethbridge, AB

May 11, 2017 by Tony Whitney

It has recently been discovered that the audio driver used in some HP laptops has keylogger built into it and has been recording all the keystrokes that are made on the computer. That means that everything typed on the computer is being saved to a file. Passwords, Credit Card numbers, e-mails, chat logs… it’s all in there.

This is certainly cause for alarm. While the audio driver may not be doing anything with this log, it watches what is pressed to look for key combinations that control Microphone and Speaker shortcuts, other malicious programs could certainly access it. This is especially true now that the exploit has been made public. I would bet that virus and malware coders are currently hard at work targeting this. After, the hard work has been done for them!

Here is a list of the known models that are affected:

   HP EliteBook 820 G3 Notebook PC
   HP EliteBook 828 G3 Notebook PC
   HP EliteBook 840 G3 Notebook PC
   HP EliteBook 848 G3 Notebook PC
   HP EliteBook 850 G3 Notebook PC
   HP ProBook 640 G2 Notebook PC
   HP ProBook 650 G2 Notebook PC
   HP ProBook 645 G2 Notebook PC
   HP ProBook 655 G2 Notebook PC
   HP ProBook 450 G3 Notebook PC
   HP ProBook 430 G3 Notebook PC
   HP ProBook 440 G3 Notebook PC
   HP ProBook 446 G3 Notebook PC
   HP ProBook 470 G3 Notebook PC
   HP ProBook 455 G3 Notebook PC
   HP EliteBook 725 G3 Notebook PC
   HP EliteBook 745 G3 Notebook PC
   HP EliteBook 755 G3 Notebook PC
   HP EliteBook 1030 G1 Notebook PC
   HP ZBook 15u G3 Mobile Workstation
   HP Elite x2 1012 G1 Tablet
   HP Elite x2 1012 G1 with Travel Keyboard
   HP Elite x2 1012 G1 Advanced Keyboard
   HP EliteBook Folio 1040 G3 Notebook PC
   HP ZBook 17 G3 Mobile Workstation
   HP ZBook 15 G3 Mobile Workstation
   HP ZBook Studio G3 Mobile Workstation
   HP EliteBook Folio G1 Notebook PC

If you or someone you know uses any of these models, please contact Y-Not Tech Services so we can help clean up the log and keep you safe! This can be done remotely so feel free to contact us even you aren’t in the Lethbridge area.

Why not let Tony keep your private information private?

Computer and Technology Lessons in Lethbridge, AB and Area

May 9, 2017 by Tony Whitney

Learning new things can be hard. Even worse, it can be frustrating when you are trying to learn something you need to use every single day. Maybe a new software update has made tasks you used to do regularly seem like a nightmare. Or a new smartphone doesn’t make you feel smart at all. The tablet you got as a gift and were told you would love just sits in a drawer without use because it just feels awkward.

Y-Not Tech Services can help! I love technology. I love learning about technology and how to use it. I have developed a way of explaining technobabble in a more easily understandable way. When I worked in Retail selling Computers and other technology items many of my customers expressed their gratitude at the way I explained things. Some would refer to me as the plain-English speaking geek.

Computer Lessons in Lethbridge, Alberta | Y-Not Tech Services

Visit us for one on one training in our office, or I can visit you where it’s convenient

Now, I offer that experience to my clients. If you want to learn about your computer, smart phone, tablet, or almost any other device I can help. I have a knack for learning this stuff. I don’t know everything. There’s a good chance that what you want to learn, I don’t know. Yet. But I’ll learn it and then pass that knowledge onto you in a way that is easy to understand. I strip out the technical language found in manuals and online tutorials and put the information into simple terms that are understandable and you’ll remember. Below are two components of a computer. On the left are common descriptions of them and on the right is how I describe them.

Technical Explanation	My Plain English Explanation
A hard disk drive (HDD), hard disk, hard drive or fixed disk is a data storage device that uses magnetic storage to store and retrieve digital information using one or more rigid rapidly rotating disks (platters) coated with magnetic material.	A Hard Drive is like your computer’s library. It stores all of your files and programs like books on a shelf. The larger the Library, the more files, programs, photos, videos and music can be stored before running out of shelf space.
RAM is an acronym for random access memory, a type of computer memory that can be accessed randomly; that is, any byte of memory can be accessed without touching the preceding bytes. RAM is the most common type of memory found in computers and other devices, such as printers.	RAM is like a desk you sit down at and spread out your work on. It is where everything you work on is stored while you work on it. Windows or MacOS need some space on your desk, and the rest is available for the programs and anything else you have open.

The customers I served in the Big Box Store I used to work in always appreciated those explanations and it helped them choose the computer that best fit their needs. I planned to develop set Lesson Plans for popular subjects, but as I started helping clients I found that the subjects they wanted to learn were unique and numerous. I still might develop plans on some subjects, but in the meantime, I am enjoying learning whatever a client needs to know and then passing the knowledge onto them in easy to digest lessons.

A few examples of lessons I have taught:

Garmin Fitness Tracker syncing to iPhone plus online calorie counter website
Building a Facebook page for an organization to promote an event through
Other basic Facebook uses including how to find friends and unfriend someone
E-mail attachments
Basic WordPress and other website set up (using pre-made themes only, no design)
Smart Phone Data limit restrictions and warnings (so you don’t get dinged with a huge bill)
Accessibility options on computers and smartphones to help clients with eyesight and hearing loss
Getting started with Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and other social media platforms
I have even shadow wrote for a client writing up promotions for online sales

The list goes on, really, and is always growing. What would you like to learn? Contact me to set up an appointment. I want to be your ‘Computer Guy’.

No current plans, but If the opportunity arises, I’ll do some classroom style lessons