When you install a program like Quicken from Intuit, the installation program automatically sets up multiple small applets to automatically load when the computer is turned on.  When you install a new piece of hardware such as a new printer from HP, the installation program loads not only the printer driver, but several support applets that are set to load automatically when Windows is turned on. What do these various applets do?  Their functions vary, but some examples are checking for updates on the Internet, providing a wizard to upload digital photos to a website, or checking to make sure that a particular application is the default application for a given file type.  Generally all of these functions can be performed when you manually load a particular application, so there's no need to have these applets running in the background all of time consuming resources.

The easiest way to disable most of these applets is to use the MSConfig utility, which is built into Windows 98, Me, and XP.  Use the following sequence to load the utility:
          Start -> Run -> MSConfig
Go to the Startup Tab and uncheck these non-essential applications.  Make sure that you leave your antivirus software enabled!

Are you sure that your AntiVirus software is up-to-date?

It’s common for AntiVirus software to not update properly.  We can check your AntiVirus software and make sure that it’s really protecting you from the latest viruses.  If your AntiVirus software subscription has expired or if you don’t have any AntiVirus software, we can install low-cost, high-quality AntiVirus software that reliably updates itself.

Are you confident that your files are being backed-up?

Even if you don’t own a tape drive, we can setup an automatic backup job that copies your data files across the network, onto a Zip disk or CD simply by double-clicking on an icon.  Or we can schedule the backup job to automatically run in the middle of the night.

Are you protected from voltage sags?

The power being fed to your computer should be about 120 Volts.  Frequently the power will momentarily dip to 80 volts or less.  Here in southwest Florida, this happens almost daily.  When this voltage “sag” occurs, it can corrupt data in you computer.  A UPS (uninterruptible power supply) can correct the problem.  However, not all UPSs are created equal.  Most of the low-end UPSs purchased from retailers don’t actually protect against sags.  We can check out your system and recommend UPS models that provide voltage regulation.

How much time do you spend trying to figure out minor, but annoying computer problems?

If you have one or more minor problems but don’t think that these are important enough to merit a service call, write them down on a list.  Keep the list near the computer so that you can jot the problems down when you think of them.  You will be surprised how quickly you can get half a dozen items or more.  Then call us in and we’ll fix the problems in one fell swoop.

Are you interested in finding an alternative to the expensive Microsoft Office Suite of programs?

There are several low-cost or free application suites available that are comparable to Microsoft Office.  Ask us about them.