Tag: windows 10

Is Bloatware Dangerous?

Any term that ends in ‘ware’ is tricky when it comes to internet language. Malware, ransomware, and spyware are just a few of the types of malware that cause alarm since they are designed to infiltrate unprotected software. Hackers can then access personal information such as social security numbers or bank passwords as a result of this.

That is something no one desires. We want to be safe and secure when browsing the internet. I’m confident that we can all agree that our computer time should be enjoyable.

So, let’s talk about a different kind of ‘ware’ known as bloatware. So, just what is it?

Bloatware is just unnecessary, preinstalled software, to provide you with a rapid solution. And while it isn’t usually harmful, it might slow down your computer and eat up disk space. It comes in form of adware, applications, and other unnecessary tools.

Why is Bloatware a thing?

Simply put, it’s a way of making money. Manufacturers claim that these programs enhance an operating system’s functionality and are installed to meet user preferences. Sometimes, it could be shown as a free trial to give users the opportunity to pay for the software later.

In conclusion, bloatware isn’t necessarily dangerous. It’s more of a nuisance. You can remove software you don’t utilize on your own PC.

If you need any help with computer-related issues, please contact us at (480) 240-2946 or send us an email at dispatch@computerrepairchandleraz.com. Our mission is to fully resolve your computer problems quickly and affordably. We would be happy to assist. This blog post was brought to you by our staff at the Phoenix Computer Repair Service. If you need computer repair in Phoenix, AZ please call our local office at (602) 445-9862. 

Quick Windows Tip: Emoji Menu

Did you know Windows OS includes a hidden Emoji menu? It’s easy to unlock and utilize. Here’s how:

Simply press the Windows Icon + period symbol (.) together on your keyboard. Immediately, a window will pop up on the lower right-hand corner of your desktop.

If you need any help with computer-related issues, please contact us at (480) 240-2946 or send us an email at dispatch@computerrepairchandleraz.com. Our mission is to fully resolve your computer problems quickly and affordably. We would be happy to assist. This blog post was brought to you by our staff at the Brandon Computer Repair Service. If you need computer service in Brandon, FL, please call the local office at (813) 400-2865.

Watch Microsoft’s Event This Week

This week, Microsoft will be holding their major event, unveiling the newly updated Windows OS.

For months, any reports have circulated concerning the imminent Windows 10 update. Some speculated that Microsoft made it obvious that Windows 10 will be the final version. Others speculated that the software behemoth had something up its sleeve.

Last week, a leak produced a visual of what the new operating system would look like. End of support for Windows 10 revealed Windows 10’s retirement in 2025. And their Event announcement on their website might indicate the last hint that Windows 10 is no more, and Windows 11 will emerge.

Windows OS image similarly looks like the light coming through the windows is a number 11. Source: Microsoft

You can watch the free, livestream Event on June 24th at 11 am EST.

If you need any help with computer related issues, please contact us at (480) 240-2946 or send us an email at dispatch@computerrepairchandleraz.com. We would be happy to assist.

Windows 10 EoS Announcement

With the multiple rumors surrounding the upcoming overhaul of Windows 10, speculation set in with a possible Windows 11.

On the Microsoft Docs, however, a small but significant note was made for Windows 10 Home and Pro. The Support page shows a retirement date of October 14th, 2025.

When end-of-life happens, the operating system will no longer receive security or quality updates, although Microsoft may decide to extend the deadline slightly at some point in the future, as it did with Windows 7.
Once support ends, users will no longer be able to contact Microsoft for advice in the event of problems with that OS.

Source: BetaNews

What this states is simply clear: Windows 10 End of Support will be ending in 2025. This could mean that the Microsoft event happening on June 24th will be announcing the future of Windows OS – whether its name is Sun Valley, or Windows 11.

There are so much confusion, as well as many questions that Windows users are asking, but we have to wait a couple more weeks for the answers.

If you need any help with computer related issues, please contact us at (480) 240-2946 or send us an email at dispatch@computerrepairchandleraz.com. We would be happy to assist.

How to Uninstall Update

Windows 10 updates are crucial to lowering your PC’s risk of cyber attacks. It also comes with a plethora of quality improvements and fixes.

However, sometimes updates can cause other issues to your PC and the only fix is to uninstall the update to the previous version. It’s easy to do.

Follow the steps below:
  1. Go to the Settings app
  2. Click on Update & Security
  3. Go to Windows Update
  4. Click View update history
  5. Click Uninstall updates
  6. Choose the update you’re wanting to uninstall
  7. Power down your computer and turn it back on

If you need any help with computer related issues, please contact us at (480) 240-2946 or send us an email at dispatch@computerrepairchandleraz.com. We would be happy to assist.

First Major Windows 10 Update

Every year, Microsoft releases two major updates, with minor patches and improvements throughout. This Windows 10 May 2021 update should be released within the next couple weeks.

According to WindowsLatest, “Microsoft also explained that Windows 10 version 21H1 will be rolled out in phases and users won’t be able to download it immediately.” Thankfully, though, they explain that Microsoft includes Update Assistant and Media Creation tools if you would prefer to update your PC manually.

And just for clarification, while this update is the first “major” one to come out in 2021, there’s nothing major about it in any way. There are no high-end features (those will be released in the October update) and only a handful of improvements will be included:

  • Windows Hello Camera Support
  • Enterprise advancements
  • Windows Search Improvements

Note for Windows Insiders: The preview may carry bugs that can affect your device. To become part of the Windows Insiders Program and try out upcoming features before anyone else, sign up here! Be sure to read the Important Notice before agreeing to join, as it adds a variety of risks to your computer.

If you need any help with computer related issues, please contact us at (480) 240-2946 or send us an email at dispatch@computerrepairchandleraz.com. We would be happy to assist.

Why Use 2-Factor Authentication?

2-Factor Authentication, simply put, is just extra security. But why utilize it? Cyber attacks are reportedly one of the top rated risks in 2020. It’s expected for these attacks to double in size by 2025.

As the Covid pandemic continues, more and more people will work remotely as a safety precaution. However, with that comes a dire need for extra security. Thankfully, 2-Factor Authentication can help lower the risk for any potential attacks – even if someone knows any of your passwords.

With a trusted phone number, you will be provided with a verification code to a newly signed-in computer. When you put the code in, you’ll be able to access your accounts. It may sound annoying going through additional steps, but it saves the hassle of potential hacks that could harm your computer or steal your personal information.

iOS

On your iOS device, go to Settings. From there, you’ll click on your name at the top, and then to Password & Security. Turn your Two-Factor Authentication on. You will then put in the phone number you want getting verification codes.

Mac

On the Apple menu go to Apple ID in your System Preferences. Under your profile picture, go to Password & Security. Turn on Two-Factor Authentication.

Microsoft App

In the Google Play Store, you can download the Microsoft Authenticator app. Once installed, add your personal account in the app.

Microsoft Web

Sign into your Microsoft account on your computer. Once that’s done, click on the Security tab and turn on the Two-step authentication. Follow any instructions given to process and confirm.

If you need any help with computer related issues, please contact us at (480) 240-2946 or send us an email at dispatch@computerrepairchandleraz.com. We would be happy to assist.

New Display Option to Improve Battery Life

Windows Insiders is a Microsoft program for users to see and test new features before they’re sent out to the public. Currently, Insiders are testing many upcoming features, such as camera settings, news and weather on the taskbar, and more!

Another improvement included in this year’s major update sheds light on battery life on laptops. This one is named “Content adaptive brightness control disabling“, or CABC, and unfortunately comes with a restriction.

The preview build states that while CABC disabling enhances the performance of the battery, the downside involves the lack of image quality.

CABC helps improve battery performance on PCs, but with the trade-off of decreased image quality. It can result in distracting brightness changes that interfere in experiences where image quality is of high importance such as for creative professionals looking for color accuracy. 

Source: Windows Insider Blog

This feature is said to be rolling out over time with certain Dolby Vision and VESA DisplayHDR devices, so keep a look out for it.

If you need any help with computer related issues, please contact us at (480) 240-2946 or send us an email at dispatch@computerrepairchandleraz.com. Our mission is to fully resolve your computer problems quickly and affordably. We would be happy to assist.

Copy and Pasting

Most Windows 10 users know of the useful copy and paste shortcuts (CTRL + C / CTRL + V). Clipboard History, a Windows 10 feature, shows a list of items copied to the clipboard.

Mike Tholfsen, the Product Manager on the MicrosoftEDU team shared an amazing tutorial on how to utilize of Clipboard History on TikTok, shown below:

If you need any help with computer related issues, please contact us at (480) 240-2946 or send us an email at dispatch@computerrepairchandleraz.com. Our mission is to fully resolve your computer problems quickly and affordably. We would be happy to assist.

Windows 10 Update Fixes Printer and BSOD

Reports recently came out of the blue screen of death appearing after users attempted to use their printers.

what is blue screen of death?

Certain printers, such as Zebra, Kyocera and Ricoh were among the few printers affected by this Windows 10 issue. However, Microsoft released an update to correct it.

Updates an issue that might cause a blue screen when you attempt to print to certain printers using some apps.

Windows Support

If you are among the users seeing this issue, you can find this optional update under the Windows Update in the Settings app. From there, look for Windows 10 KB5001567. Then download and install it.

If you need any help with computer related issues, please contact us at (480) 240-2946 or send us an email at dispatch@computerrepairchandleraz.com. Our mission is to fully resolve your computer problems quickly and affordably. We would be happy to assist.