Effective Computer Optimization: The Essential of Speeding Up Your Computer

Most computers don’t have to slow down over time, whether it’s a desktop or laptop. If your computer has gradually become slower because it’s 5 years or older, there could just be a few reasons for that sluggishness.

As with all computer issues, don’t be afraid to give your computer a reboot if something’s not working properly. This can fix quite a few problems and is faster than attempting to manually troubleshoot and fix the problem yourself. If you don’t know how to do the reboot, you can request your subscribed technical support company to do it for you.

Upgrade to a Solid-State Drive (SSD)

If your computer is still using a mechanical hard drive, try upgrading to a solid-state drive or SSD if you can afford it. Undeniably, an SSD will offer you a dramatic performance improvement. An SSD ensures a faster CPU, faster graphic processor performance, and faster overall system performance.

Uninstall Programs You Don’t Need

Open the Control Panel, find the list of installed programs, and uninstall programs you don’t need and use from your computer. This can help speed up your computer as those unneeded programs might include background processes, autostart entries, system services, context menu entries, and other things that can slow down your computer. It will also save room on your hard drive and improve system security. For instance, you definitely shouldn’t have Java installed if you’re not using it.

Defragment Your Hard Disk

Defragmenting your hard disk today is much easier compared to the days of Windows 97 and XP because Windows will automatically defragment mechanical hard drives in the background. SSD’s don’t need traditional defragmentation and modern versions of Windows will “optimize” them. However, if you’re still using a mechanical hard drive and you’ve just put a lot of files on the drive – like copying a huge database of PC game files – those files might be defragmented because Windows hasn’t defragmented them yet. In this situation, you might want to open the disk defragmenter tool and perform a scan to see if you need to run a manual defrag program.

Free Up Disk Space

If your hard drive is almost completely full, your computer may run noticeably slower. You want to leave your computer some room to work on your hard drive. Start removing all unnecessary files that you no longer need, no matter how small. Unneeded pictures, wallpapers, videos, and uninstalled program folders should be deleted. You don’t need any third-party software; just running the Disk Cleanup tool included in Windows to further clean out your disk.

Clean Out Your Web Browser

Since you use a web browser a lot, it’s a good idea to use as few browser extensions, or add-ons, as possible since these slow down your web browser and cause it to use more memory. Go to your web browser’s Extensions or Add-ons manager and remove add-ons you don’t need. You should also consider enabling click-to-play plug-ins. Preventing Flash and other content from loading will prevent unimportant Flash content from using memory.

The Principles of Computer Optimization and Why This is Important

Even computers with the new and powerful third and fourth generation i7 Gigahertz processing power and Gigabytes of RAM need to be optimized. If you use your computer on a daily basis, you may not realize that it is getting slower by the day. The computer registry gets cluttered with useless registry keys and it just is not smart enough to get rid of the clutter on its own. The computer hard drive also gets cluttered with useless files that will slow and PC or laptop to a crawl if not properly optimized on a regular basis.

The computer is like the human body

You can think of a computer as similar to the human body with the computer registry being the brain and the hard drive running the rest of the body. You know what it is like to have a lot on your mind; too many things to do and not enough time in a day. The brain is a terrible thing to clutter up because it can easily slow your daily functions to a crawl while trying to access information that should be readily available. This happens to a computer registry as well. The registry has its own memory that remembers everything that is done on the computer, which in time will bog it down and make any computer run slower just to access information.

Optimizing removes unnecessary software

This may also be called “bloatware.” This unnecessary excess baggage will dramatically slow down any PC, and unfortunately, computer manufacturers are paid to include these. Also, you may have installed software or downloaded an app before that you no longer need. You need to get rid of this as well. In short, you need to get rid of anything from your computer you don’t need anymore.

Optimize to update Windows

The beauty of Windows is that it is built so average users can install updates without the help of professionals. Modern versions of Windows are even set to install updates automatically out of the box, so you may not even have to do any of this updating work on your own. You can view your Windows Update settings and manually perform updates from the Windows Update pane under System and Security in the Control Panel.

Optimize to free up disk space

If you’ve been using your computer for a while, you can probably free up disk space by running the computer’s built-in disk cleaner utility. It will scan your computer for temporary files and other unnecessary system files you can delete and so, free up space. It also cleans out the registry that also clutters up the computer’s speed if too much garbage builds up inside it. Another way of freeing up disk space is by manually deleting unwanted files like photos, videos, movies, and the like.

Optimize to improve startup

When you optimize, you improve the startup performance of your computer. For Windows 7, 8, and 10, you can open Task Manager by simply right-clicking the task bar and selecting Start Task Manager. From here, you can manage all startup programs without installing any other software.

Recycle Your Old Android Tablet With These Useful Ways

Have you noticed lately that your ageing Android tablet can't keep up with your daily pace anymore? If it is but somehow it's not valuable enough to trade it or sell it on eBay doesn't mean you have to throw it in the trash or leave it eating dust on your drawer.

From turning it into a security camera to converting it into a smart remote or even handing it down to your kids, below are some great uses you can turn your old Android tablet into.

Security Camera

If you want to keep an eye on your home, you can use your old Android tablet as a connected security monitor. You can use either its front or rear cameras to keep an eye on your home or office. There are several apps that make it easy to convert your old Android device or devices for home security like the At Home Video Streamer. Just make sure that it is setup with a stand or mount and keep the device plugged in.

Universal Remote Control

Another useful thing that you can do with your old Android tablet is to use it as a universal remote that can change the TV channel, turn on your lights, or turn down the thermostat of your home airconditioning. Most smart-home apps operate over Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, and you can control many smart TVs over Wi-Fi.

However, if you're using a more traditional TV, you'll need your tablet to have an infrared port, also known as an IR blaster. This feature can be found on about 20 tablets only, mostly from Samsung and LG, but you can check if your tablet does by reading your instruction manual or looking for a small covered hole on the side of your device.

If your tablet doesn't come with a remote control app preloaded, Peel Smart Remote is a great choice, as are AnyMote Smart Remote or Irdroid. If your smart-home devices or hub don't already have an app, you could use iRule or OnHome.

Digital Photo Frame and Photo Album

You can save about $50 to $100 for digital photo frames by using your old Android tablet instead. Turn your tablet into a photo frame with the help of apps from Play Store, such as Photo Slides. You'll need to load all the photos you want onto the old tablet and then place the device somewhere near an outlet so it can remain plugged in at all times. If you have extra bucks, you can purchase an inexpensive stand like theAmazonBasics Adjustable Tablet Stand to keep your tablet propped up and easy to view.

Backup Drive

Your computer's storage drive contains tons of important data, from your family photos to your work files. But no matter how secure your laptop or computer is, a single hardware or software failure can easily wipe out all your years of memories and hard work.

You can install an app like the Wi-Fi File Server Free, which will allow you to turn your old tablet into a wireless backup server. This will help you keep a copy of your file available at all times on your local network or even on the Internet. This is particularly helpful if you have a tablet with a microSD card slot and a high-capacity card inside.

Reference Library

Does your profession require you to keep a lot of books for your reference? Well, good news because you can take your old Android tablet and use all of its available storage as a reference library for your books. In fact, many Androids tablets feature a microSD card that can expand your storage, helping you add many more books to your collection.

If you want to have a large storehouse of information available that doesn't require any Internet connection, you can download the Kwix app. This app lets you download offline Wikipedia, WikiLeaks, and other free reference materials. A good source from which to purchase reference materials would be either Amazon's Kindle Store (download the Kindle app first) or Google Play Books. There are lots of free titles that are free of charge, and you can search as many books as your tablet storage will allow.

Useful Secret Tips for Pokemon Go Fanatics

Pokemon Go is not just about exploring the land and becoming a master -- it's about knowing the game inside and out. It its current form, Pokemon Go doesn't provide much when it comes to in-game tutorial to show you how it's really played, but there are some tips, tricks, and even secrets to reveal outside of the game's core mechanics.

If you're looking for ways to get an edge on other players, here are some tips and tricks that you might find useful.

1. Get Pikachu as your starter character

When you start the game, the Professor will ask you to catch your first Pokemon -- traditionally Squirtle, Charmander, or Bulbasaur.

But instead of catching one of them, you can walk away -- in real life -- until your smartphone vibrates. You'll be prompted again to catch one of them. Walk away again until you get the next prompt and repeat this process five times. Then Pikachu will appear and you'll be able to capture it as your starter.

2. How to easily catch a wild Pokemon

Rustling leaves are used to show where wild Pokemon could be lurking. Once you're trying to capture one though, the game will shift and use your smartphone camera to show the creature in augmented reality.

The white ring surrounding the beastie will change depending on how likely you are to capture it -- smaller is better. When it turns to green, then it's time to throw your ball.

3. Spending Pokecoins

Although Pokemon Go is free to play, there are plenty of in-app transactions that can be made if you want to spend money.

This basically earns you Pokecoins that can be spent on in-game items. Another way to earn these is by winning battles at gyms. However, avoid using your coins to buy more Pokeballs though as these are often provided for free by visiting Pokestops. Go for lures instead and bring the critters to you.

4. Watch out for your battery

Pokemon Go uses a lot of your phone's features to work properly. It's pulling in GPS data and using the camera as well as your cellular connection. Therefore, as expected, it's going to heavily drain the battery on your smartphone. Both iPhones and Android phones have optional battery-saver modes that will help prolong battery life. We'd recommend activating this before stepping outside to play the game.

Also, it's worth picking up a power pack to help sustain your phone if you're planning to play the game for a while.

5. HTML Code Works for Pokemon Names

If you want to add a little flair to your Pokemon's name, you can use HTML markup to change the style of the text. Wrap the Pokemon's name in tags and watch the italicizing again.

6. Easy XP Trick

You might be tired of seeing Pidgeys by now, but you should be catching every single one you come across for some easy XP. Evolving a Pokemon grants 500 XP, but you can double that to 1000 XP with a lucky egg. With an abundance of Pidgeys, Caterpies, or Weedles, you can go on an evolution spree and power yourself to absurd levels.

7. Paw Prints are Used for Tracking

After you've caught your starter, you can click the window in the lower right hand corner to see nearby Pokemon. What the game doesn't tell you is that the paw prints under each creature is actually their distance from you. One print means they're pretty close, whereas three prints means you're up for an adventure.

8. The Box Directs You

If you open the bottom-right window, you can focus on tracking a specific Pokemon by clicking it from the menu. The box will then pulsate green if you're moving the right direction.

Essential Things You Need to Consider Before Starting a Business

Opening a startup business? Make sure all your bases are covered before even launching.

There are literally hundreds of business ideas you could start with, thanks to good old-fashioned ingenuity and some new technology. However, before even starting anything, make sure you’ve covered these first few essential steps before venturing into a startup.

Do your market research

Just because you created it or sell it doesn’t necessarily mean anyone will buy it. The first essential step is to research your potential market. Who needs what you are offering? Is there space for your product or service in the market or is the market saturated? Is it a niche? Can you define your ideal customers? These are all questions that need to be answered before you even consider starting a business. Make sure there are enough people on this market and that it’s not too limited, or else don’t even think about it.

It’s all about the money, it’s all about the…

Capital. And you can’t move without it. Determine what you have, what you will need, and how you will go about getting it. If you plan to seek investor funding or financing, start writing a business plan and practice your pitch. Research the costs associated with your business. Know how much money you really need.

Decide on a business name

It may seem obvious and simple, but the name is how your business will be known and how that name will stick in the minds of people. The right name says a lot about your company. Make a list of potential names and narrow the list down to the one that best describes your company in a few words, while being catchy, easy to remember, easy to pronounce, and easy to spell. Coupled with this, you might want to start searching for a good business lawyer, a good accountant, and deciding what business structure you want such as sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, or limited liability corporation.

Get all necessary licenses and permits

A business permit and business license is definite must in any city. Depending on the type of business and local laws, you may need to get additional licenses, if necessary. Specialty licenses are needed to manufacture and/or sell specific products like liquor, firearms, or even lottery tickets. Research all licenses applicable to your business. It’s also extremely important to know the zoning laws before you open a business. Your business lawyer and accountant will come in handy at this stage.

Set up a dedicated tech support team or outsource to one

Regardless of the nature of your business, technology will always play a part in it, and this means, computers, Internet, and its related gadgets. Since you need to purchase, set up all this, and consider other things like knowledgebase, maintenance, etc., it would be a good investment to set up a dedicated tech support team to handle all the technology side. For businesses with minimal technology needs, outsourcing to a professional technical support team can save a lot of overhead.

5 Things Every Business Mobile App Needs to Stand Out

Online shopping is becoming a growing demand whether we like it or not. The percentage of sales happening on mobile devices is climbing on a steady pace. Large and small businesses are on the race when it comes to launching mobile apps in the hopes of capturing ecommerce dollars. But for every successful app, there are dozens that go down the drain.

Ever wonder what makes a top-rated app stand out from those that disappears over time in iTunes and Google Play? Here are five things every business mobile app needs in order to succeed.

1. Interactive content

For some mobile apps, we would notice that they are just plain and canned version of their company's website, which makes it unimpressive to the users. Let's take the Gap app for example: it's nothing but a packaged website, which makes the reviews not very favorable from the consumers. It doesn't make sense installing an app when you can just view the same thing on your mobile device's browser, right?

On the other hand, successful apps like the Nike+, gives the users to install it as it interfaces with fitness apps to track your activity, delivers advice from athletes based on your interests and needs. Nike+ encourages you to play with it and provides users something useful in return, which keeps them coming back. Making a business app as interactive as possible will surely catch your customers attention.

2. A reason to keep coming back

A good example for integrating a brand with a platform is Under Armour's MapMyFitness app. MapMyFitness offers running, biking, walking, hiking, and calorie-tracking apps; you can shop Under Armour gear in all the apps, but that's not the actual reason why they're so in-demand.

The MapMyFitness platform keeps users coming back every day to track workouts, record routes, participate in challenges, and log meals. Research suggests branding on mobile devices improve purchase intent, and even minimal brand impression can build a positive association. The Under Armour name may not be so much "in your face" in the MapMyFitness platform, but there's enough chance for it to be noticed.

3. Added value

It's not enough that a mobile app is successfully installed in someone's mobile device -- it needs to have a bigger reason why a consumer should use it and spend money with your company. Starbucks' mobile app, for instance, lets users order straight from their phones and pick the order up from the store. Starbucks then bills the app as a way to avoid falling in line and wait to get your ordered coffee, which is a major added value for its customers.

Without the app's special feature, the Starbucks app would simply serve as a store locator and a points tracker, which is a common thing for most mobile business apps. Offering customers that option to order through the app is something innovative and provides a lot of convenience, which gives people a good reason to install it, while giving the company a leg up in the competition.

4. A good interface

Again, there are several apps that possess poor interface. Businesses should keep in mind that they should not mess with the basic ways users interact with their device. If your app, for example, doesn't allow swiping to go back a page, nor does tapping on the top of the screen return you to the top. These are two gestures that iOS users are greatly familiar with, and if you want your app to succeed you need to leave these -- and other basic commands -- in place.

Apps that get bad reviews can affect your brand in a negative way, while high ratings can drive a huge amount of business opportunities. User interface is fundamental to an app, and no amount of added value, uniqueness, or interaction is going to overtake a clunky homescreen.

5. Regular updates

Regular updates, both for quality improvement and feature addition, can increase an app's success rate by roughly three times than that of less updated ones. If you're not sure it's worth updating an app frequently, it's better to check the app's ratings section on iTunes or the Google Play page. Each update brings a new flood of complaints and requests, and keeping up with them is easily a full-time update schedule.

It's also a good idea to include feedback function in the app itself. While it doesn't guarantee users will respond, it at least encourages them to submit comments directly to your team.

5 Tech Tools That Will Help you Easily Live Independently

As back to school draws nearer for every school and university across the nation, it cannot be denied that more students are becoming aware that they will soon shoulder the burden of living on their own, and do their own daily living expenses. For some of us who have already experienced or are currently living on our own, we know that those estimates and budget lists go to the trash when the first bill arrives and reality slaps us hard in the face.

If you're planning of moving out on your own, you don't need to worry that much because there are already great tech tools out there that can help you come up with more accurate budgeting costs. So if you want living your life away from home easier, check out the list we have for you below.

1. Cost of living Calculator

The most important thing that you should know if you're planning to move out is to understand the average cost of living in the city you're moving in to. Even if you're moving from a suburb of the city you plan to move to, costs could very greatly due to market demand. So, in order for you to get a better and clearer idea of what your expenses might look like, try running your information via the cost of living calculator. This tool will help you get a general number in mind before into more personalized estimate tools.

2. Utility cost calculator

No matter who you are or where you move, utilities are an essential cost. This is why calculating costs for things like water, gas, and electricity prior to leaving the nest is an important step in identifying what your monthly spending will look like. Utility costs usually very depending on the time of the year, your intended usage, and your location. Smart energy-saving tips like moderately setting AC and heat settings and turning off the lights when you leave a room can help, but it can still be tough to control how much you will be spending.

You can use a utility cost calculator to help you calculate the average cost of electricity in your home based on the information you provide about your location, usage, and number of people in your household.

3. Insurance calculation tools

Not only as an important part of protecting your home, but renter/home insurance is also required by most rental situations and necessary to get a loan approval if you're planning to purchase a home. Although the cost of insuring your home is usually pretty low, it's still important for you to get an estimate for the service that you can figure in to your estimated living costs. And if by leaving your home means you'll also be required to pick up your auto insurance, you'll want to include the costs for that as well. Luckily, most insurance companies allow you to bundle your renter/home insurance with your car insurance plan.

To help you know how much your insurance might cost you per month, consider using an insurance calculator to determine your potential needs based on the coverage your specific situation requires.

4. Gas Buddy

Aside from those expenses mentioned, you also need to determine your overall spending in gas. Although it can be pretty difficult to predict exactly how much you'll be driving/spending on fuel, a rough estimate can help at least get an idea of the amount you will be spending on your daily commute to work and school in a new town or city. With this, use the Gas Buddy tool to assist you generate fuel cost estimates for the route you will be taking regularly. This will help you get a better visibility of how much you should add to your monthly expenses in terms of fuel.

5. Level Money App

Once you have all of your estimated monthly bills, use the Level Money app to add them up and compare them against your monthly income. From here, the app will generate a monthly budget that can guide your financial decisions for budgeting expenses for things like entertainment, leisure, and shopping.