Newsletter #13 - Backups, Printers, and IM Slang

Backups

Surely the frequency that we bring up automated backups (here, here, here, here, here, and well, you get the point) has convinced you by now that you need to get an external hard drive and purchase the right software. If you haven't already done so, don't hesitate to give us a call to set up an appointment.

But an important note for those of you who do already have automated backups setup . . . if you're using Iomega Automatic Backup or Microsoft SyncToy, we highly recommend making the switch to Sync Back SE. This is the program that we are now recommending for all of our clients and which we are using ourselves. Iomega no longer supports their backup software, and SyncToy is a decent program, but it doesn't have nearly as many features as Sync Back. If you're interested in learning more about the product, click on the link above. Otherwise, please don't hesitate to set up an appointment if you'd like us to help you make the switch from your old software.

And for all of you Mac users, if you've upgraded to Mac OS X v10.5 Leopard, don't forget to setup Time Machine. The latest version of Mac's operating system has a built in means for automatically backing up your computer.

Wireless and Networked Printers

We've had a few clients recently who bought printers recommended to them, only to get the printer home and out of the box and find out that their printer wasn't a true network printer. Almost all printers can be shared across a home / small office network, but most users would prefer a printer that can be used regardless of whether or not any particular computer in their house is turned on or not. Be sure that your new printer has an Ethernet connection so you can plug it into your router, or for even more flexibility, get a printer with wireless networking abilities that will allow you to place the printer in a location away from the router. Believe it or not, there are some great networked all-in-one printers (print, fax, copy, and scan) and laser printers as well. Let us know if we can help you find and install the right printer for your home.

IM Slang

Ever look over your kids' shoulders at what they're typing on the computer or their phone? BSafe (the Internet filter that we recommend) has put together a great list of IM slang. Check it out. That way the next time you see POS, MOS, or PLOS, you'll know that your kids know you're there.

Interesting Links

• Breast Cancer 3 Day
  Shameless personal plug - my sister is going to do the Breast Cancer 3 Day. Check out her page to learn more about why she's going to walk 60 miles in three days.
• How to help keep your kids from downloading spyware
  This is a great Microsoft Security article that will give you some of the most fundamental guidelines for helping prevent your kids (or you) from downloading malicious software.

Closing Thoughts

Please let us know how we can serve you. And if you appreciate this newsletter and / or our services, please forward this on to your family, friends, and coworkers. If this email was forwarded to you and you would like to join the list, please click here to sign up for your free subscription.

Don and Aaron