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As you probably suspect, I see a lot of the same issues that people are having with their technology. I’m asked all sorts of questions, but there are a few that I constantly hear.
#1: Is this email a scam?
The rule of thumb is – if you have to ask, it probably is. Look for improper grammar, funky punctuation, typos, and stuff that isn’t common in this country, such as mm/dd/yyyy formats, the the “+1" in front of phone numbers, etc. Check the sender’s address – that’s always a tell if it’s a problem. Another clue is that there’s always an urgent request to click on a button or link. And finally, if you have to check the status of an account, ALWAYS log in using a legitimate link, NEVER via a button or link that was sent to you in an email!
#2: Is my data backed up?
Well, that depends, maybe you can tell me! Not trying to be a wise guy here, but either it is or it isn’t. (I can let you know in 7.5 seconds whether is or it isn’t enabled.) Do you have an external hard drive attached to your computer to back up your data? Apple has built-in software (Time Machine) that allows your Mac to automatically back up to an external device. But, of course, it has to configured manually. As for other backups, there is iCloud (see my article above), as well as other pay-to-play services, such as Carbonite, Mozy, Backblaze, among others. Again, these have to be proactively configured. And paid for...
#3: Do I need antivirus software?
Viruses are a rarity in the Apple world, but there are all sorts of nasty things that can get into your computer by visiting a funky website, downloading sketchy software, or simply by clicking a link on some seemingly legitimate web page. Again, there are free anti-virus programs for the Mac, I like the free version of Malwarebytes (link in section below). Malwarebytes, like others, has a free and a paid version. There is Norton, which has partnered with LifeLock, offering more than simple virus protection, and then there are some that offer credit checks and stuff like that. For a price, of course!
#4: How can I increase my Wi-Fi signal strength?
If you’re using the wireless router that your internet provider gave you, chances are the signal strength and range is somewhere between OK and downright lousy. Even if they give you a booster, same issue. Best way to handle? Bypass their network and buy your own mesh network – eero is the best out there. Yes, you’ll still need the modem that you’ve been given, but you can piggyback your network off its equipment. And best of all? You can give your network the name (and password) you want.
#5: I was informed that my ______ (Fill in the blank - iCloud, Google, Dropbox, etc.) storage is nearly full! What should I do about it?
First of all, go back and reread question #1 above, and determine if it’s legit. Then, after checking that out (carefully!), you have two choices: Either delete stuff (data, mail, photos, or whatever is the data hog) or simply pry open your wallet and pay the minuscule monthly fee. Somethings throwing money at a problem is the easiest way to solve it.
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