Welcome

Welcome

Finding the Right Solution for the Right PRICE

I am a local expert who provides IT services for small business owners and end users.

Learn More
IT Support You Can Understand

IT Support You Can Understand

Finding Solutions That Make SENSE

My solutions always consider your comfort level with technology to ensure I don't provide an overly complex solution that not supportable.

Learn More
Business Make Easy

Business Make Easy

IT That Makes Your Business or Life EASIER

I understand that the most technical solution may not be the best solution for you.

Learn More
Service

My Services

How I Can Help YOU!

01

Customer Services

My goal is to take the “stress” out of your IT experience(s) by providing “Gold Standard” customer service and support. This requires effective communication to ensure you have the skills/tools necessary to understand and use the technology deployed.

Read More
02

Cyber Security

Most issues have a root cause involving security. I will evaluate your current situation, recommend solutions, and ensure YOU understand what is necessary to maintain a secure environment.

Read More
03

Cloud an Artificial Intelligence (AI)

The advances and advantages in these areas swiftly outpace the average end user's understanding. I will help you understand, effectively deploy/use these technologies, and provide support/training on usage.

Read More
04

IT Management

Managing your IT environment is a contant moving target in skills, software, and hardware. My expertise and support will ensure you have the "right balance" of IT to keep current with technology but not needlessly update just for the sake of change.

Read More

My Support

Please call, text, or email me!

(657) 210-0619

[email protected]

Technical Support Information

My Blog

This blog will include posts on some of the most frequent or impactful issues my clients are dealing with....as well as solutions.

Passkey — What Are They and Why/How Are They Replacing Passwords

First — What is a passkey? This is a device specific authorization that uses the device authentication (i.e., pin, fingerprint, face scan, etc…) to allow access to a program/website. Think of it as a special authentication that is limited to a physical piece of hardware in your hands. There is no need for 2-factor authentication or passwords if the program/website is using a passkey.

Concern — How is that better, and what happens if that device is lost, stolen, or has a critical malfunction? Passkeys are better in 2 ways!

  • From the end user standpoint, a single passkey can safely access multiple different applications. This is very helpful for the human brain. The reason a password should not be used this way is because passwords are transmitted over the internet to the program/website. Passkeys are not. The only information transmitted is the approval status….not the actual passkey code!
  • If the device becomes unusable (lost, stolen, critical failure, etc…), how do I log in? First, remember that passkey technology normally is managed by a 3rd party using extensive encryption technology specially for retrieval when device changes/reformatting occurs. Assuming you are using something like Google Password Manager, iCloud Keychain, Microsoft Authenticator app, etc…, you can recreate a new passkey when your device is repaired or replaced that will have access to all the original content. Secondly, most websites/programs that use a passkey still have backup methods for access if passkeys are failing. Third, a passkey can be saved as a physical security key (special kind of USB stick). This makes the stick the authentication device so you can use it with any computer.

But what about when someone has access to my computer or laptop? First, if you are not physically present at your device, it should be locked. You should also have a timer set to automatically lock it after X minutes to ensure this happens just encase you forget to lock it when you step away. If a thief was going to get access, they would have to steal it when it was unlocked and use it before the timeout feature would protect your data. Assuming that they have access with it locked, the types of thieves that can break operating system security in a passcode are not the local kind. They are typically government backed actors, that most of us don’t need to consider.

What about if I need more than ONE passkey or profile? For example, my work has me use my personal laptop.

  • Typical passkey systems allow more than one to be created.
  • If you think you require more than one, talk to a geek! Just because you use multiple programs/website does NOT mean you require multiple passkeys. Your IT support (or me) can help you navigate this concern.

Some USB stick based security key options:

Home/Gate Locks — Smart or Not?

When consider installing or replacing existing locks on doors or gates, you should consider some features for smart or very not smart solutions that don’t require a key! Smart locks have one universal issue…power. Most of them have batteries that are very long-lasting, but at some point, you will probably be trying to enter your home, and it will not work because the battery is too low. At a minimum, you should not consider any smart lock that doesn’t have a key bypass override. Proactively replacing/charging batteries on a set cycle is also a best practice. Most smart locks include a phone app that allows you to set up more than one code, so you know who is coming and going. This is particularly good if you want to give a “worker” something temporary and not the easy to remember code you use for yourself.

Some options are:

Some Patio Door Options:

Some Gate Options:

Now, if you want to go “old school” but hate having to carry keys, you should consider a keyless mechanical lock. No battery issues here. No connectivity issues. Complete privacy.

Give me a call/text/email if you want some help finding the right solution.

Laptop Bags — What To Consider

If you have a laptop (including most tablets) you need to have a good bag/case to carry it. A bag needs to be strong/thick enough to protect your laptop. Looking good, being a convenient size/shape, etc…. doesn’t matter if your device is damaged while in the bag. The bottom of the section that holds your device can be reinforced with a piece of high-density form, which will help cushion your device every time you set down your bag. The straps and handles need to be strong enough to handle the weight. You do not want the strap to fail and cost you a laptop as well.

Consider using a “laptop sleeve”. This is a small case that you put on the laptop first, then put it in your bag. It gives your device just a little more protection AND a wonderful solution for when you suddenly must “check” a bag but still want your laptop. A sleeve is not enough protection on its own to prevent damage if you drop it, but short of that will give you protection for bumps and scrapes. Combined with a good bag, it can really save your laptop.

When picking a bag, make sure you get the correct size. You want your laptop to fit securely, but not so tight that you have to “fight” to get your device in the bag. For a typical 12–13″ laptop and using a sleeve, I would get a bag rated for 15″ laptops. Make sure you consider side USB ports. If you want to leave a mouse USB receiver plugged in, you will need another 0.25” of horizontal space to ensure your bag is not damaging the laptop over time by putting pressure on that port.

Laptop or Tablet Bag Options

Give me a call/text/email if you need some help getting the right bag for your device and needs.

Induction Ranges — Pros and Cons

The latest in cooking stoves or ranges is induction. It requires approximately 30% less energy than electric and 80% less energy than gas. It heats up faster than gas, but never creates a safety issue with out-gassing toxins or hot surfaces. Because the cook surface has no openings and is smooth (typically made of tempered glass), clean-up and maintenance are a breeze.

The most telling drawback is all your cookware will need to be replaced with induction cookware. Your pots and skillets will need to be compatible with the electromagnetic fields in order for heat to generate. This cost typically can be offset by the various government rebates and subsidies, even before considering the energy savings.

Some cooking options are:

Some cookware options are:

Give me a call if you have questions about induction cooking and would like to make this upgrade in your home!

Browsers — What Are They and Which One Should I Use?

Browsers are applications that are used to navigate the internet. Think of the internet as a highway system or network of roads. Various websites and domains are the destinations you reach when you use this road system. Browsers are the “vehicles” on the roads. Just like vehicles have different purposes and features……browsers do too. Some are better a privacy protection, some are faster, some handle graphics better, etc.….

The most common browsers are the default ones that come with your operating system. Apple users therefore tend to use Safari and Microsoft users tend to use Edge (formerly known as Internet Explorer). Because of Google’s relationship with Android, and it’s search engine, Chrome is very well known. Some lesser-known options are Firefox, Opera, Vivaldi, Netscape, AOL Explorer, SeaMonkey, etc….

Everybody should have at least 2 browsers on each of their devices. If one is damaged, you most likely will need to “use your car” to “go get a repair”. If you don’t have another browser to use, that can be really difficult.

For the average end user, FireFox is a good alternative because if one of the big three are not working, it is built differently and typically will work without issues. What browser you should be using really depends on end user usage and preferences, what software you are already using, and the hardware involved. There is no one right answer. Give me a call if you need some help making an informed decision.

Monitors — Features to Consider

Your monitor will have a huge impact on how much you enjoy/tolerate using a computer. You do NOT need to be a “gamer” or “high-end user” to benefit from a good monitor.

If you are experiencing any issues with your eyesight, including those related to aging; you need to consider a large monitor. If when you use a computer, you typically involve multiple screens, a large monitor will significantly improve your productivity. If you are sitting at a desk or table and using your laptop screen, you need to invest in a monitor. I have had multiple clients that really didn’t think they wanted/needed a large screen and after purchasing one (typically during a laptop/computer refresh) it was more impactful than the increased computing performance.

Some large monitor options:

You can use a standard TV as a monitor but remember while it is large it does not have the resolution that even an inexpensive computer monitor will have.

Using multiple screens can be a huge advantage and are frequently used by “geeks”. If you are uncomfortable with computers or technology, you will find a single large screen to be much easier to navigate.

Give me a call if you would like some help finding the “right” solution for you.