Call zip PC Repair: (718) 502-9507!
Questions About EMail
Can I use Outlook or Outlook Express instead of my ISP's mail client?
Yes, you can usually use any Email program in place of your ISP's mail client as long as you know or can find out the mail settings they use. For instance, if you want to configure Outlook Express to use with your Comcast email, just setup a new account in Outlook Express and input the proper POP3 and SMTP settings when asked. Comcast uses mail.comcast.net for POP3 and smtp.comcast.net for their SMTP settings.
Do I need a router?
If you only have one PC in the house then, no, you do not need a router. If you have two or more PCs, then we recommend a router because they are pretty inexpensive and also help secure your internal network from snoops by providing Network Address Translation (NAT). NAT means the router has an external IP address provided by your ISP and then provides your internal network with an internal IP address, such as 192.168.1.2. This means the outside world cannot "see" the internal computers.
Questions About Power Supplies
My power supply fan isn't moving. Can I replace it?
You can if you have experience working with a soldering iron, but we advise against it because the fan may not even be the source of the problem. It's also dangerous. So, We suggest to call zip PC REPAIR to do it for you.
Our computer's power supply has failed. What type should I get?
You'll probably find your power supply is a standard ATX power supply with a single 20-pin connector to the motherboard. You should replace it with one of equal or greater wattage. Spending more on a power supply with greater wattage will not improve performance, just allow you to run more devices.
Questions About Viruses/Spyware
How can I protect myself against viruses?
The first things you should do are :
1) Buy or download a free antivirus program. Update that antivirus program, then run a full scan of your system.
2) Do not open Email attachments--even if you know who they're from. Some Email worms will send mail from a friend or loved-one's computer, so the send might appear to be from someone you know, but might actually contain a virus.
3) Stay away from shady sites.
What exactly is Spyware?
The loose definition of Spyware is any program that monitors your computing behavior and reports back to a "home base."
The purpose of this is usually to serve you ads.
As a result, Spyware often breaks your system because it attempts to change system settings, such as your browser homepage.
How Much Memory Do I need To Run Vista?
Microsoft Wants at least 512 MB of RAM to run Vista. But to take advantage of the Windows Aero User Experience, you should have at least 1 Gig of RAM.
The more memory your PC has, the better it will run with Vista.
How Do I create User Accounts in Windows Vista?
Go to the Control Panel, then select User Accounts. If you're logged in as Admin, you can add user accounts and configure their access rights.
Usually, only one Admin account is necessary, with all users running in Standard User mode for security purposes.
How Do I back up My System Files?
Your system files are also very important and can sometimes become infected by viruses. These include files like:
c:\autoexec.bat
c:\config.sys
c:\command.com
c:\io.sys
c:\msdos.sys
In some cases, this procedure can save you from viruses like Chernobyl. You could just restore your system files and possibly be okay. This procedure is much like backing up your registry. You can back the files up in Windows safely by highlighting them all with your mouse (*not* the folders) and right clicking and choosing copy.
Then go to My Computer-C:-backup). Once there, right click and choose paste.
General Questions
How Do I Use My Computer Faster?
Learn to use the commands above and execute them quickly. Here's what they all stand for (Ctrl is the Control key on the bottom right of your keyboard, Alt is the Alternate key, 2nd key to the right of the Ctrl key):
- Ctrl-A (Selects All of the open document - web page here)
- Ctrl-C (Copies all of the currently selected material)
- Alt-Tab (Switches to the other open program(s). This key combination is VERY useful)
- Ctrl-N (Starts a New document in the current application)
- Ctrl-V (Pastes the currently copied material into the open document)
- Ctrl-P, Enter (Brings up the Print window for the current document, Enter prints it)
- Ctrl-S, A, Enter (Brings up the Save window for the current document, calls it A.doc, and Enter saves it)
- Alt-F4 (Just closes the currently open Window)