Tech Stuff
Protecting Your Digital Life in 8 Easy Steps
NY Times' tech guru offers simple steps to remain secure online.
Build a Website for Free
This site was put together in hours using Weebly. I love them. Website can be edited and published in a minute or two. I have not been down or hacked in ten years! There are many other inexpensive options.
I am to computers what Dilbert is to the efficient office, but the nature of my medical practice makes me very dependent on technology. My experience might save you some tech grief. I seek inexpensive and effective solutions.
Stay Safe
Defend Yourself
Guard yourself. I like the free anti-virus programs Avast and AVG. Malwarebytes is a powerful anti-malware tool. CCleaner is a safe, easy to use registry maintenance utility. SuperAntiSpyware also very good. Be aware that there are times when you may have to temporarily inactivate to perform some online activities.
Your Computer is Going to Die! Prepare.
Whether it is malware overwhelming your defenses or a hard drive showing the blue screen of death, you will experience catastrophic issues with your computer. Prepare for the worst. Back up your PC to the cloud daily and to an external hard drive at least weekly.
Password Protection
Use a Password manager! I use LastPass, but there are other freeware options. I pay $3 a month to use LastPass on my smartphone. Strong passwords are essential.
Don't Google It!
Google is actively mining your internet habits with every click. Consider using DuckDuckGo the search engine that doesn't track you.
Avoid All Social Media
Monetization of social media pits neighbor against neighbor.
Watch The Social Dilemma.
Watch The Social Dilemma.
Use A Browser That Does Not Steal Your Data
I use Firefox which includes an adblocker, but Apple users will do well with Safari. Try not to use Chrome which steals and moneteizes your data!
Access Your Computers Remotely
If you need to access computers remotely consider using Chrome Desktop.
Store Precious Stuff
I store data in the cloud using DropBox. I also back up precious info to an external hard drive regularly.
Consider a VPN- Virtual Private Networks Protect Your Privacy
Creating a Virtual Private Network provides an encrypted, private connection over the top of a public, less secure network. I use NordVPN, the largest VPN in the world, but there are many reliable VPNs. Avoid "free" VPNs- they are problematic.
What to do when a Windows Update screws up your computer
Forbes Tech section is the best source I know of to discover problems with Windows updates. Fix Win for Windows 10 is best, safest tool to fix Windows problems.
Manipulate PDF Documents
Here is a free tool I use to annotate PDF files: www.pdfescape.com
What tech stuff should I buy? Where to buy stuff...
alatest.com is the internet's premier review site, but you may need a VPN connected to Great Britain to successfully access the site. Where should you buy tech gear? I like New Egg. Prices reasonable. Reviews of products very helpful. I like their refurbished products- great value!
The Wirecutter is my go to consumer review site, not necessarily techy.
The Wirecutter is my go to consumer review site, not necessarily techy.