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9 Tweaks I perform for a new client’s computer

When I meet a client’s computer for the first time, I go through a little routine to check for problems, improve performance, and speed up boot times. You can do it to your own computer too.

  1. Use Task Manager to see how many processes are running and determine how much tweaking I have to do to startup.
  2. Use msconfig to streamline the startup process
  3. Install CCleaner to cleanup temporary files
  4. Check on the amount of RAM in the computer. If less than 1 GB for XP or less than 2 GB for Vista or 7, I recommend an upgrade.
  5. Pull up Crucial.com and run the memory scanner to determine what type of RAM and how much RAM can be added. Print out the results and add Crucial’s phone number.
  6. Talk about Read More »9 Tweaks I perform for a new client’s computer

Slow computer or slow Internet?

A common problem I hear throughout my week is “My computer is slow.” I finally learned to ask, “Is your computer slow, or is your Internet slow?” The computer user usually pauses, thinks and often responds that it is his or her Internet that is slow; not the computer.

When I sit down at a client’s computer, I can quickly determine the health of a computer based on how quickly I can perform simple tasks like checking background processes, determining how current and what security products are being used, free hard drive space, and how much RAM is installed on the machine. Generally speaking, if a computer was bought any time after Read More »Slow computer or slow Internet?

Net neutrality – It isn’t a political issue

High Speed Internet on Commercial - Roland in Vancouver 2053
photo credit: roland

The issue of net neutrality is rearing its head again lately. In a nutshell, net neutrality means that anyone who pays for access to the Internet should get full, unfettered access to the Internet. Opponents want to allow Internet providers to charge for priority access to the Internet. In other words, if you forward an email with a funny joke or pictures of your family, it would take longer (albeit not much longer) for it to reach its destination unless you paid extra to have priority treatment.

On one hand, some compare it to shipping or mail services. If you pay more, it can get there faster. However, we have that now already with Internet service. If you pay more, you can get a fasterRead More »Net neutrality – It isn’t a political issue