Special data backup methods for small business in Prescott - Tips from SofTech Computers

Businesses need more security that the average user, we all know that. But when it comes to backups and data security, what exactly does that mean? SofTech Computers in Prescott is here to explain the different enterprise level data backup solutions for keeping you and your customers data safe and secure. Here are some options that you may want to consider if you run a small business.

If you store large amounts of data, you might want to consider using a Redundant Array of Independent Disks, or RAID. RAID is an enterprise level data backup solution that involves spreading information over multiple disks, which gives it the ability to recreate the information on the disks if one of them fails. This ability gives the option to have little to no downtime when it comes to the availability of your data, and doesn’t use up any additional system resources, and actually may improve performance. This type of configuration will require something called a RAID Controller, which generally runs about $100-600, depending on how many disks you would like to use together. Generally, this type of backup setup is only used in servers, so unless you have a small server, you may want to consider the next options.

If you have many files that are often changed, like client information spreadsheets or databases, you might want to consider an incremental backup solution. Incremental backups work in a way that every time you change a file, that file is updated in the backup without having to run a full backup again. It only saves the changes on top, which saves system resources and has a minimal decrease in performance associated with it. If you might need to eventually look at historical copies of a document, a differential backup is a good idea. It works in the same way as an incremental backup, but instead of overwriting the file that was changed, it just makes a new copy in the backup. This would allow you to go through and find any files that were changed previous to the changes made.

The next type of backup you might want to consider is an easily deployable and very cost effective, but very basic in its features. If you don’t make a lot of changes to files, and don't mind potentially getting set back a little bit in the case of a failure, you could use scheduled full backups. This method takes a full image of your data and stores it in another place for redundancy. This is by far the most basic, but is quite effective for what it does, and can easily be paired both with the first and the final backup solutions, as well as paired effectively with a server for increased security and management.

The final backup option that we would suggest is called a virtual backup. Virtual backups work using a server to manage backups, and can additionally benefit from RAID setups and can add an extra layer of data protection if you really need it. This type of configuration uses a server to process information sent to it and catalog it in a organized fashion so that it is not only synced with the computer that it came from real time, but is also easily accessible to other users. This method benefits from a phenomenon called double backups, meaning that if the server were to break, all of the data is stored in the individual workstations, and if the workstation crashes, the data is stored on the server. Pair this configuration with RAID and you can have data nearly impossible to lose.

Proper data security can save you financially, as well as save you a lot of time and stress. Now that you know what kind of business level data security you would like to use in your business, call SofTech Computers at 928-443-8770 or visit our website at http://www.softechcomputers.com for more information about data security, or to schedule a consultation.

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What should you use to backup your data in Prescott – SofTech Computers

With all of the different services and advertisements on backups, it can be very confusing to figure out what kind of backup solution you should use to keep your data safe. Luckily, SofTech Computer Repair in Prescott is here to help you decide what is right for you. There are 4 options that the general consumer would possible use, each with their own unique benefits and pitfalls.

The first option for backup solutions is probably the easiest, but least comprehensive: copying to a USB flashdrive or external hard drive. This method is, arguably, the faster of the 4 options, but only backs up what you choose to back up, meaning that if you forget a file that you want to keep, you could end up losing that file. One of the other benefits of this method is that the files are usable across all platforms, meaning that if you ever need to go to a newer or older computer, the files that you have don't rely on any proprietary program to work, they just do. If you have very few things that you want to backup, this method is for you.

The next option is the most common option, and arguably the best for most users: Windows Backup or another backup program. This method requires a little bit of money, because you’ll have to purchase an external hard drive that has the same capacity as your computer. These could potentially run you up to $100, so if money is very tight, this method might not be for you. One of the main benefits of this method of backups, however, is that you can restore your entire computer from one of these backups. If you ever were to get taken over by ransomware, you could solve all of your problems very quickly by using this method of backup in the first place. And another added benefit of this type of backup is that you can set it up to backup automatically, even when you aren't using the computer. If you are a typical user and none of the other backup types specifically apply to you, this is the best option for backups. Some common programs for this type of backup are Windows Backup, Macrium Reflect, and Apple TimeMachine.

The third backup method is using an online cloud service to back up all of your data. This type of backup is a great compromise between the ease of the USB backup and using Windows Backup. This method is usually automatic, and very comprehensive, but cannot restore your computer completely (meaning that you will still need to bring your computer into a shop to be fixed in the case of ransomware or a virus). The main benefit of this type of backup is that you can access all of your files anywhere that you have an internet connection. If you find yourself frequently working from multiple computers and needing files off of the other computer, this solution is ideal for you. Some examples of these types of services would be Microsoft OneDrive, Google Drive, and Carbonite Backup Software.

The final backup method is one that most users will find too complicated, but is the most ideal out of all of the methods. This method is called disk-imaging or disk-cloning. Using a piece of proprietary software, you can create a “carbon copy” of your computer and put it into a file on an external drive. This is ideal because not only would any attacker need the same program that you used to restore the backup, but you can also easily password protect this file. But the real main benefit of this method of backup is the fact that you can restore your computer to the same state it was in before the data loss exactly. If you work with a lot of sensitive data, this method is arguably the best, because it is secure and the most comprehensive backup option out there. If you are an advanced user, this if for you. Some common pieces of software for this kind of backup are HDClone, Macrium Reflect, and Acronis Backup.

Now that you know which is best for you, put your backup plan into action! It’s never too early to be thinking about data backups. Call SofTech Computer Repair in Prescott today at 928-443-8770 or visit us online at http://www.softechcomputers.com for more information about backups and data security.

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Why Regular Computer Backups in Prescott are Important - SofTech Computers

Everyone has trouble with their computer eventually, so why not be ready in case of disaster? We at SofTech Computers would like to explain the benefits of regular backups and how they can help protect you from cyber-crime, ransomware, hardware failure, and theft.  By simply backing up your data once a month, you can save yourself a lot of frustration, headache, time, and money.

Scammers lurk around every corner on the internet, and will often try to extort money from you if you are caught in one of their traps. Many of these scams involve ransomware, or a computer virus that locks down your computer, and the only way to free it is to send the criminal money, sometimes upwards of $1,000. By keeping a regular backup of your computer, you can say “go ahead and keep it!” because all of your files will be conveniently ready for recovery. With just a click of a button you can be back up and ready to get back to what you were doing. And even if it isn't that easy for some reason, it makes the turnaround time at any computer shop much lower.

Another good reason to backup your data is to protect yourself from hardware failure. Just like anything else, computers break over time. They slow down, and come to a crawl, and then eventually crash for good. And, from our 21 years of experience, we can tell you that the most common part to fail on a computer is the storage device, also know as the hard drive. These fail generally after 4-6 years of use, but can be sped up significantly by drops, vibrations, and prolonged use. By backing up your data onto an external device, you can save you pictures, documents, and other important data from a hardware failure that would otherwise corrupt your information.

Imagine if someone were to break into your house and steal your computer: do you have a copy of your data to replace what was lost? Or perhaps you have a laptop that was stolen on vacation: where is your information? In these two situations, a backup to an external device would have saved all of your information. Most criminals probably wouldn’t look for an external drive with the computer, and, in the case of a laptop, your backup probably wouldn't have been near the laptop in the first place.

Finally, backing up your information is easy. You can manually move files that you care about to an external device, use a backup program or Windows Backup, or use a cloud backup service like Google Backup & Sync. All of these services have their own benefits and pitfalls, like:

• Manually Moving Files: Using this method, you use the least space to backup and can have the quickest backup, but you might miss something important
• Windows Backup or Another Backup Program: This particular method of backup is most preferable, but at the highest cost and longest time, may not be the best for everyone. The main benefit of this backup method is the ability to completely restore your computer, rather than just transfer important files, in the case of disaster.
• Cloud Backup Service: The main benefits of this type of backup service lie in its security, ease, speed, and ability to retrieve your files over the internet.

Backing up your information is key to your data’s security and your peace of mind when using a computer. By backing up your data, you can save yourself a lot of money and time if disaster strikes. So what are you waiting for? Call SofTech Computers today at 928-443-8770 or visit us online at http://www.softechcomputers.com for more information on backups.

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SofTech Computers in Prescott Gives Advice on How to Breathe New Life into an Old Computer

Computer running slow? Applications freezing all the time? Video or game stuttering and sound bugs? You’re probably thinking to yourself that it’s about time to buy a new computer. But wait! Rather than spending hundreds or maybe even thousands of dollars on a new computer, SofTech Computers in Prescott recommends you try these simple solutions to make your old computer run like new:

Adding More Memory - If you do a lot of work like photo and video editing, or if you recently were upgraded to Windows 10, you may need more memory, or RAM, that your system currently has. Memory upgrades are usually one of the biggest impacts you can have on a computer, and memory is relatively inexpensive compared to the cost of buying a whole new system.

Performing a System Cleanup - Often times, your computer can be slowed down by temporary files or malicious files clogging up your processor and memory. A simple virus removal and system cleanup can and will certainly make a difference in the way your computer runs, and, in some cases, even protect important data and keep your computer safe.

Cleaning your Startup and Unused Programs - Ever install a program or two, use them once, and then forget about them? We all have. The problem with this behavior is that it will significantly slow down your computer after repeated offenses. Cleaning up these, or simply removing them from starting automatically, can free up system resources and save you money.

Performing an OS Reload - Windows can become corrupt over time, and may be “unfixable”, so so an OS reload could be the solution to your problem. If you find your computer turning of or getting “blue screens”, this might be your best option.

Physically Cleaning Your Computer - Often times, if your computer gets too dusty and dirty, your cooling system could work efficiently and reduce performance as a consequence. By cleaning your computer’s fans and cooling systems, you could reduce what is called thermal throttling and increase performance.

Adding a Solid State Drive (SSD) - Adding an SSD to your system, in place of a traditional hard drive, could speed you up by a factor of 5 or 6 times. Another added benefit of having an SSD in your computer is that it makes the computer more resistant to wearing out, increases battery life slightly, and is more resistant to drops and vibrations as well. Do keep in mind that Solid State Drives are a bit more expensive than a normal hard drive, so it could be more cost effective for you to just replace your drive with a traditional drive instead.

Adding a Dedicated Graphics Card - If you work with photos, videos, graphics, or play video games, a video card is a must. Not only can a high quality dedicated video card dramatically increase performance while working with these types of programs, but can also reduce freezing on video playback, and increase general performance as well.

If you are still experiencing freezing, stuttering, or crashing, it might be time to get a new computer. Many computers may just be too old to help. “But what about all of the money I spent on trying to get this computer speedy?” you might ask yourself. Well, worry not: almost all of the items you may have purchased will also speed up a new computer as well!

These maintenance procedures could drastically increase your computer’s performance and potentially allow you to hold off on getting a new one for 3 or 4 years. If you are unsure how do any of these things, or would like to know beforehand if your investment will be worth it, call SofTech computers at 928-443-8770 or visit us online at http://www.softechcomputers.com.

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How Often Should I Clean My Computer in Prescott? - SofTech Computers

Keeping your computer clean is essential to the overall health and longevity of your computer in Prescott. It’s one of those things that we don’t think about. We take our quality clean air for granted, but during a dry spell, or when we have windy conditions, extra dust can accumulate. How often should a computer have its dust cleaned or blown out? SofTech Computers has the answer, “well, it depends.”

That doesn’t sound very technical, but a lot of this has to do with where you use your computer and how you store it, if you have filters on your intake fans, or if you have pets (there could be not just Intel, but fur inside). We’ve scoured the Universe and we came up with more than one answer. Here are a few:

•    Depends on how dusty the area is around your PC. Storing it on the floor will cause more dust buildup. Cramped spaces such as a cubby or open cabinet can cause more buildup.
•    If your have an air purifier, vacuum weekly, and have filters on the intake fans, then clean out the dust maybe once a year.
•    If you live in a large city where there is lower air quality, clean out your computer once a month.
•    Do you have hairy pets, or multiple pets? Blow out your computer at least once a month.
•    If you install filters, clean the filters only- once a month and maybe the heat sink, the inside will stay basically clean.
•    We keep our work space clean and dust-free, so every 4 months or so is good for us.

How do you clean out a computer? First: Shut down and unplug your computer. Next: disconnect cables and peripherals (monitors, printers, mice speakers and keyboards). A can of compressed air and a small brush is all you need.

When you blow dust off the fans, make sure that you don’t let the fans spin. This can damage them. If you’re cleaning a desktop computer, once you’ve opened the case, start from the top and work your way down. This allows you to sweep out all the dust that settles on lower components with just a few strokes. Avoid touching anything inside and never use a vacuum cleaner. Hold the canned air upright, and at a working distance that protects the components. Don’t breathe any dust. Make sure everything is clean including the heat sink.

The rules for cleaning a laptop are similar – if you can get in there easily - most laptops are not designed to open easily. It’s possible to remove the access to the bottom panel(s), but you could void the warranty in doing so. Always power it down, unplug it and remove the battery. SofTech Computers in Prescott is here to help with cleaning and maintenance issues for your computer. Don’t be afraid to ask a techie a simple question. Call us at 928-443-8770 or visit http://softechcomputers.com/ for more information and useful articles.

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Hang Up and Call Softech Computers in Prescott - A Simple Warning

The phone rings and we want to be a good sport, pick up the phone and say hello. With the smart phone it’s easy to tell who the caller is, if the number matches one in our contacts. When it’s a number we don’t recognize, some of us want to do the better thing and answer the phone to save time and take care of the situation now. The voice claims to be Microsoft warning us that our computer has a virus. Before you panic and wonder what to do next, hang up! That’s right, hang up! These are two words of the wise from SofTech Computers in Prescott.
   
You’re thinking that this is rude, but it’s not. What the person on the other end of the line is attempting to do is far worse. We see victims on a daily basis – people who stayed on the phone long enough to be intimidated and scared half to death while thinking that someone from places unknown is about to take the computer out of peril. This is a scam. It is a crime. This doesn’t happen only in Prescott, it’s a global issue. Phone scammers get away with this because they’re difficult to stop and monitor.

Here is what they do:

•    They will trick their way in and call you on your cell phone – It doesn’t take a landline anymore.
•    Claim that they are employees of Apple, Google, or Microsoft.
•    Install harmful malware onto the device, desk top computer, laptop, or smart phone.
•    Install a program that will in turn install a virus and monitor every keystroke you make to steal passwords.
•    Steal your data.

Most of these calls take place during the middle of the day targeting the elderly or unemployed. These are the most vulnerable and gullible groups. The only way to stop this crime is to be aware; it’s all you can do to protect yourself. There’s no way to know what these criminals are getting away with, or how much money they are making.

Softech Computers would like to remind you that you have the power to hang up. Hanging up is the most useful tool we have in fighting off these scammers. If you receive a call like this and you’re still not sure, hang up and call Softech computers for advice at 928-443-8770. We’re happy to take a look and show you in person whether or not your computer has a virus. Put your trust in us, your local computer guys, to diagnose any problems and remove any potential virus. Check our website at http://softechcomputers.com/

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Fake Computer Virus Warnings from SofTech Computers in Prescott

Stop! Read this. Chances are, your computer doesn’t have a virus.  If a virus warning suddenly popped up on your computer, don’t believe it, don’t call the number.
Don’t get trapped with an alert is flashy, full of technical sounding words convincing you that you have computer damage, data corruption, a virus, or infection. We ask that you please don’t click or call! It will only lead you to a more intimidating situation.
   
Microsoft or Apple will not contact you directly, or ask you by other means to directly contact them. Apple and Microsoft are in the business to sell and promote new computers, not convince you to fix the one you already own. At SofTech computers we would like to tell you, don’t believe everything you see. Get in touch with a local specialist instead.

Here are more examples of what happens when you get caught in their trap:

•    Convince you that you have a computer problem, when you don’t
•    If you ask who they are or where they work, they will tell you Google, Microsoft, or Apple, or anything to convince you to move along with the scam.
•    If you tell them too much, it will be used against you to further their agenda
•    Here’s where it gets really scary. The next thing they will recommend is a download of some software into your computer. Would you give this to a stranger? This allows a remote connection, giving them live control of your computer.
•    Next, they will run fake scans – proof that there is a “problem.”
•    Now these infections have supposedly been detected. They will ask for a fee to remove them.
•    Here is where it gets worse: You agree to pay them with a credit card while they “fix” your problem. By now, they’re installing software that could monitor your computer and steal your money, identity and passwords. So, while you paid them to correct the issue, they now have access to more than you’d give your next door neighbor.
•    At this point, you could refuse, but you will get locked out of your computer

To some of us, using a computer can be a daunting task. If you’re new to the computer world, this is especially true. SofTech Computers in Prescott would like to remind you that whenever you’re using your computer, keep your common sense. Don’t panic. Don’t believe everything you read. Don’t give a stranger access to your computer. Above all, call a technician you can trust at 928-928-443-8770 or visit us at http://softechcomputers.com/

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