Computer St. Louis Blog/News
Tips for optimizing your mobile hotspot
Did you know you can keep your laptop connected to the Internet in areas without a Wi-Fi connection? All it takes is a portable, low-cost 4G router to make a private wireless network for their devices. These tiny devices are a great investment for employees working from the road, and we’ve got some tips on […]
Mobile devices in the field
Field workers. You see them every day. And you notice that they, too, use mobile devices, as now more than ever do they need to stay connected with their organizations to stay in business. This is where mobile performance management, a critical factor for any field worker to perform and finish tasks on time, comes […]
The management drawbacks of virtualization
IT managers turn to virtualization to effectively scale down on cost, boost efficiency, and maximize space in their server rooms. Yet, what they didn’t expect were the drawbacks involved in this technology solution. It’s therefore essential that you’re aware of the following management issues before going all in: Backup Incorporating a robust backup system in […]
4 things to do before deploying Skype
From instant messaging to video conferencing, Skype for Business offers many communication features many companies need to be productive. But before you start making calls on Skype, there are four things you should do to ensure crystal-clear quality. #1. Conduct a preliminary network assessment By conducting a comprehensive preliminary network assessment, you’ll be able to […]
Office 365: New security updates
Microsoft recently rolled out security updates to Office 365 for business and home users. These enhancements aim to increase safety when sending or receiving an email in Outlook, sharing links in OneDrive, and alerting users of possible malware infection. Files Restore in OneDrive Previously available only to Office 365 business users, Files Restore allows users […]
The top 4 new features in the Windows 10 update
Microsoft has claimed that Windows 10 will be the final version of the world’s most popular operating system. Instead of bundling new features into a new Windows release, Microsoft has been issuing free updates to the current version since 2015. The latest update is almost here, and it comes with some exciting improvements. Timeline Replacing […]
Beware of watering hole attacks!
Hackers have plenty of ways to breach your systems. They can use complex programs to exploit software bugs, send emails to dupe you into downloading malware, or insert a malware-infected USB drive directly into your computer. However, another increasingly popular hacking method is a watering hole attack. What are watering hole attacks? Much like phishing, […]
How to enjoy real cloud cost-savings
If you want to increase collaboration, productivity, and security all while keeping costs down, the cloud is the perfect solution. But if you’re not careful, hidden charges can creep up on your monthly bill, preventing you from truly reaping the benefits of the cloud. Fortunately, there are some things you can do to bring these […]
4 ways to speed up mobile charging
Whether you use an iPhone or a Xiaomi, your mobile will sooner or later run out of battery. When this happens, you want it to be charged to 100% quickly, but not everyone knows how to do it. Read on to learn four ways about how you can charge your mobile faster. #1. Optimize your […]
3 Surprising applications of blockchain
Most people associate blockchain technology with Bitcoin, the infamous digital currency that rose to fame in 2017. But blockchain technology is not tied to financial transactions, and it’s creating all sorts of exciting opportunities for faster, more secure information exchange — see for yourself! What is blockchain? Blockchain, like the cloud, is more of a […]
3 ways to ensure your FB data is private
The public went into a frenzy when reports surfaced that Cambridge Analytica, a UK-based data analytics firm, retrieved millions of Facebook users’ private information without their knowledge. But that doesn’t mean you can’t do anything about it, and here are 3 ways to guarantee your data remains private. Download your Facebook data The thought of […]
Windows Server 2019 announced
If Microsoft’s latest server software is any indication, the virtualization trend shows no signs of slowing down. The first preview of Windows Server 2019 was released in March and includes a number of features focused on IT efficiency. Let’s take a look at the most valuable updates for small businesses. Windows Server 2019 In March, […]
How to calculate the TCO of VoIP
Choosing whether or not to deploy VoIP phone systems is an easy decision. But choosing a system that works for your business can be difficult, with all the products, vendors, features, and data plans available. Oftentimes, however, selecting a VoIP system comes down to calculating the total cost of ownership (TCO). What is TCO? The […]
Microsoft announces new features for Teams
Microsoft has recently announced new features for Microsoft Teams. These features are expected to bring users greater convenience and improved communication, and ultimately increase its appeal to a wider market. Cortana Integration One new feature that Microsoft will bring to Teams is Cortana, Microsoft’s virtual assistant. By integrating Cortana with Teams, users can use voice […]
Windows 10: New accessibility features
Microsoft is working on improvements for Windows 10’s accessibility features, which will be introduced later in the year. Some of these are already available to preview through the Insider Program, but everyone else will have to wait. Here’s what’s coming: Better Ease of Access settings Some users rarely tinker with their computer’s accessibility settings because […]
Ready for tax season phishing scams?
As tax season looms, so do phishing scams. For cybercriminals, this is the ideal time of year to deceive unsuspecting individuals into releasing sensitive private or company information. Businesses must therefore take extra precautions between now and April 17th to avoid hackers from selling your confidential data in the dark web. Phishing baits to watch […]
Can private browsing keep you safe?
Privacy is a precious commodity in this era. Every website you visit or app you download leaves a digital footprint that can be tracked by anyone. Fortunately, major web browsers all offer private browsing features to keep your internet activity somewhat safe from prying eyes. What is private browsing? Your web browser — whether it […]
4 reasons for slow mobile internet speeds
Have you ever gotten frustrated with your phone because the browser took more than five minutes to load? Before you start blaming your old phone, check out these four reasons that might be the cause of sluggish internet connection. Router location One simple yet overlooked reason why your WiFi-connected phone may be experiencing internet lag […]
Endure tech disasters with external support
Three decades ago, the notion of hiring specialists in information technology was virtually unheard of. Nowadays, the majority of businesses are digitally operated, which means technology specialists are a must, especially given the huge increase in different types of security breaches. Determine how external support can back you up in times of technical distress. Access […]
Hypervisor security vulnerabilities
Regardless of how complex the technology, hackers always find a way to exploit it. In the past, virtualization was thought to be an extremely secure solution businesses could rely on to improve IT management and save money. But it does have exploitable vulnerabilities. Hackers can attack the hypervisor to access your systems. What is a […]
4 reasons to record your calls
Call recording is not a new feature in VoIP but rather one that is underutilized especially in businesses with less focus on customer communication. When used correctly, it can boost customer satisfaction and strengthen business reputation. #1. Improve customer service One of the most important reasons why businesses should always record their calls, no matter […]
Make the most of Office 365
Maximizing your Office 365 investment is easier said than done. Sure, you use Outlook and SharePoint all the time, but there are loads of features you’re probably not using. If you’re looking for ways to make the most out of your Office 365 subscription, you’re in luck because that’s what we’re discussing today. SharePoint SharePoint […]
How to speed up Windows 10 updates
Keeping up with Windows 10 updates is absolutely critical if you want the latest features and security fixes on your computers. However, the updates can take hours, especially when a major new feature is being released. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to speed things up. Why do updates take so long […]
More leaks from Equifax breach
The Equifax breach in 2017 exposed the personal information of 145.5 million people in the US and some parts of the UK and Canada, but the number of victims keeps increasing. In the beginning of March, the credit-reporting company revealed that more personal information was leaked. Read on to find out more about this latest […]
5 social media marketing tips
Nearly everyone uses social media. And whether you run a small- or medium-sized business (SMB) or multinational conglomerate, social media platforms are great for their broad audiences, low costs, and high returns. But without careful planning, marketing in these communities can do more harm than good. Here are five tips on how to use your […]
How to make Alexa your office assistant
Amazon’s Alexa has come a long way from performing basic functions like setting alarms, streaming music, and providing weather updates, to an all-around office assistant superstar. As Amazon continues to develop Alexa, businesses can expect to see her become more relevant in an office setting. Create and manage to-do and shopping lists You have meetings […]
Google Drive improves comment feature
Google recently launched a new feature on Google Drive that will improve collaboration. Users can now use a combination of Microsoft Office and G Suite while working with their teammates and clients. This update allows them to conveniently comment on Office files, images, and PDFs in the ‘Preview’ pane of Drive. Learn how you can […]
The importance of HTTPS
Very few internet users understand the meaning of the padlock icon in their web browser’s address bar. It represents HTTPS, a security feature that authenticates websites and protects the information users submit to them. Let’s go over some user-friendly HTTPS best practices to help you surf the web safely. HTTPS Encryption Older web protocols lack […]
Virtual desktops vs. Containers
Even if you’re aware of virtualized containers, it’s probably difficult to explain how they differ from virtual desktops. Thankfully, all you really need to understand is whether containers are the better option for your business — and we can answer that in under ten minutes. What are virtual desktops? Imagine all you have is a […]
VoIP Hardphones vs Softphones
You have just decided to use VoIP as your telephony solution, but now your technician is asking how you want to use it. Do you want traditional desk phones (hardphone) or software-based devices (softphone)? Read on to discover the benefits of each and which ones are most suitable for your needs. What’s a hardphone? A […]
Tips for using Outlook more efficiently
Outlook is arguably the best tool that businesses use to manage their email, set up meetings, and coordinate projects. It’s much more than a basic email program and includes features that help you organize your work, contacts, and business communications. Let’s take a look at a few tips you may have missed. Clean Up your […]
Windows 10 Home, Pro, or 10 S?
When buying new hardware, you have to choose which operating system (OS) to install. And if you go with Windows, you’ll have to make even more decisions, as there’re Windows 10 Home, Pro, and 10 S. Although they contain many similar features, there are significant differences between them. Here’s a quick rundown of each OS […]
Tech support scam alarms Chrome users
With evolving technology comes evolving threats. Recently, a researcher revealed that a new type of scam freezes Google Chrome and tricks users into believing that their network security has been compromised. Little did they know that following instructions listed on the screen will lead to an actual security breach. The End Game The scam works […]