Tech Tips

The Loading Circle Icon What does it mean?

When you see the gray circle moving slowly counter-clockwise it means the computer is trying to find the website then the circle will turn clockwise and spin faster which means your computer found the website and is loading it. Spin of the circle is directly related to the speed of your internet.

What is the Windows Operating Systems Life cycle (Windows 95, XP…)?

An operating system is a software on a hard drive that enables computer hardware to communicate and operate with the computer software. Microsoft has phased out supporting operating systems which include Windows XP and Windows Vista. Currently they do not support any operating system created before Windows XP which includes Windows 95, Windows 98, Windows 2000, Windows ME, etc. They also do not support Windows Vista without any Service Packs. In addition Microsoft will not be supporting Windows Vista with Service Pack 1 (SP1). Therefore, if you have Windows Vista you are only supported if you have Service Pack 2 (SP2) until Tuesday, April 11, 2017. There is a plan already to phase out Windows 7 by January 14, 2020 followed by Windows 8 and 8.1 by January 10, 2023.

So what does the fact that Microsoft is no longer supporting these operating systems mean exactly?

It means that an unsupported version of Windows will no longer receive automatic updates from Windows Update nor technical support from many companies. Windows Update is located at your task bar at the bottom right corner of your screen, next to the date and time along with other icons like volume. When you restart your computer sometimes you will see a message on your screen indicating your computer is downloading updates and you should not shut down the computer. Those updates include updates for default Microsoft software like Internet Explorer, Hardware Updates (printers, cameras etc..) and Security Updates. Most consumers are concerned about the Security Updates because they protect your computer from malicious software like viruses and spyware. Malicious software has the high potential of stealing your personal information and locking up your computer leaving you without full access to your computer or giving you a false sense of security.If you have an operating system that is not supported your computer will still turn on and run but the functionality will, if it has not already, change. Be diligent about your security and regularly check to see if you are shutting down your computer after each use. Sleep mode and Hibernate mode are not recommended Web Design by A Blake Tech for operating systems that are no longer supported. CONTACT US today if you have any questions about your computer today!

Watch our Video on How to Prevent Identity Theft with Technology on YouTube. Subscribe today!

Wireless Connectivity Issues

Believe it or not simple items in the home like the microwave and the materials in the walls of your home can cause wireless interference that can and will interfere with your signal. A Blake Techs are very knowledgeable about how the wireless and Bluetooth proof your home. There is an exhaustive list of other possible interference including: location of your wireless router in the home, 2 or more routers in the home interfering with each other and exhaustive devices like game consoles, old computers, Smart TVs and Apple devices (including Mac, iPad, iPod etc…) not connected with the optimum settings. For more info CONTACT US so we can further assist you in getting the best possible signal strength for your home. Full list of potential wireless interference from Apple

Drivers

There are few instances when updating your Ethernet or wireless network adapter will resolve your internet connectivity issues in a giffy, so here links to a few…

Windows 7 Wireless Network Adapter for Lenovo

Windows 7 Ethernet Network Adapter for Intel

Windows 8 Wireless Network Adapter

Windows 10 Wireless Network Adapter

Browsers

Google Chrome will no longer be supporting/updated for Windows 95, XP and Vista. Therefore, if you are experiencing any internet related issues and have these operating systems please check to see if you are using Google Chrome. The icon looks like a circle with red, green and yellow swirls.

Laptops

Just like phones if you leave your laptop plugged in 24/7 you WILL burn out the battery converting your laptop into a desktop, meaning the only way you will be able to use you new laptop is with the power cable plugged in. Save yourself around $100 and unplug your laptop from it power cable every other day or so. Your welcome.

Speed

There is a difference between your computer’s speed which is limited to the memory (RAM) and your internet speed. One or both of them may be causing you to pull your hair out, but before you go bald take a speed test and see if at least the internet speed is correct. Usually if you mouse is dragging or when you click on an icon on the desktop then the delay may be caused by your dare I say computer, meaning something malicious may be on there or an update needed. CONTACT US to identify the cause.

Revised 6/20

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