It Matters Where You Get Your New Computer From

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It’s probably not a surprise to you to hear that not all computers are created equal – but if you’re in the market for a new computer, did you know there’s a big difference in the quality of what you can buy at your local retail shop versus the business class computers we can supply to you?

When you work with Info-Tech, we always ensure to source high-quality, high-performance business class computers for your office that work within your budget. Don’t let the higher upfront cost scare you; if you’re looking for a great new computer, in the long run, they carry much more bang for your buck.

“Better quality” can be vague, so we’ve broken down the differences in your run-of-the-mill retail computer (think something you can buy at your local Best Buy, for example) and business class ones.

 

  Retail Business Class
Cost $$

Typically lower than business class.

 $$$

Only slightly more expensive than retail-grade.
Warranty Come with a basic warranty which usually lasts a year. You’re required to bring your computer into the store, and your data is at risk. Typically a 3-year Next-Business-Day warranty. Some models even include on-site repair.
Functionality Low functionality with basic performance levels. High functionality; best-in-class as per the chosen model and it’s desired use.
Upgrade Path Due to things like a limited ability to swap parts and minimal memory capacity, it’s usually not possible to upgrade your retail computer down the road. Can be upgraded with the addition of more disks, more memory, etc. as your needs change.
Durability Minimal durability. Many components, such as power connectors, are entry level, which shorten the lifespan of the computer. Robust and last for 7+ years. Some models can handle a drop with minimal to no damage.
Compatibility Because they are made for home use, they are outfitted with personal versions of Windows and/or Office. Typically, they cannot be integrated into a work environment with a server or Azure AD. Business Class computers come with the proper version of Windows to connect to a server in an office environment.

 

Generally, we never recommend customers purchase their new computers, but especially do not recommend retail products. As the chart above shows, although they generally have a cheaper upfront cost, they are also very cheap in construction, have inferior components inside, come with only basic warranties (for no extra cost) and the wrong version of Windows to work properly and effectively within your office environment.

Even if you are looking for a new computer for home use, we have better options for that, too. The business class computers come with unbeatable bang for your buck. The case for retail computers can only be made if you are accepting that they will need to be replaced in a year or two, or if your budget simply does not support a business class level machine. In those cases, we at Info-Tech would still like to assist with finding you the best model available to you.

If you’re due for a new computer or have questions about the equipment you use in your office, give us a call today at (514) 634-4636 x 101. We’re always happy to help ensure you get the best deal for your specific situation and budget.

 

Windows 7 Dies Today: Here’s What You Need to Know

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“Microsoft released Windows 7 in October 2009. Now, more than a decade later, it’s being retired. Your Windows 7 PCs will keep working, but Microsoft is no longer issuing security patches as of January 14, 2020.

Windows 7 will keep working normally, just like Windows XP does. If you have a PC running Windows 7 or Windows XP, you can use it on January 15, 2020, just as you could on January 13, 2020. Microsoft won’t stop you from using your PC. You may see some nags informing you that “Your Windows 7 PC is out of support,” but that’s it.

We recommend you avoid using Windows 7. If you do keep using this operating system, it’s now especially important that you have security software (like an antivirus) installed and take steps to secure your PC.”

Click on the link below for more information.

 

How to Set a Password Expiration Date in Windows 10

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“To maintain your cybersecurity, it’s a good idea to change your computer’s password every once in a while. Windows 10 makes this easier because you can set a password expiration date.

The steps to do this vary, depending on whether you use a local or Microsoft account to log in to your Windows PC, so we’ll look at the process for both.” See link below.

 

Why You Need A Proper Domain Name and Email Address

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Believe it or not, we’re already into 2020! January is the time of year when business owners often implement new strategies for growth: new processes, new goals, new sales and marketing tactics. But if you’re a new business owner and are still using an @gmail.com email address to communicate with clients, then your first priority this month should be to secure a proper domain name and email address.

I see this often at networking events. I meet business owners who have a successful, growing company, and often even have websites already set-up, but when we exchange business cards, their beautifully-designed cards suddenly lose a level of professionalism when I see the email address: “companyname@gmail.com.” Unfortunately, using gmail, hotmail, or any of these free email providers sends the wrong kind of message.

Having a domain name secured and the appropriate email addresses set up for your company goes a long way to demonstrating to potential clients just how qualified you are. Whether you’ve yet to purchase a domain name, or if you have a website set-up but haven’t transitioned your email yet, we can help get you set up so you’re ready to scale in 2020.

Domain Names Are Inexpensive

The first step, if you haven’t already, is to purchase a domain name. Generally, these are relatively cheap – often around $25 / year. Your business name is the best option, but if this isn’t available we can help you find one that works. Almost all hosting packages offer free entry level email as a starter, but there’s also an option to upgrade to a fully synchronized mail server mailbox from Office365 or G-Suite.

Free Email Accounts Let You Create Multiple Aliases

Once you have a domain name and your free email set up, you can actually create addresses as you wish – usually up to 10. You can even create aliases which are additional email addresses that are sent to and from the same inbox free of charge, that do not count against your ‘real’ mailbox count. This allows you to set up a info@companyname.com, marketing@companyname.com, accounting@companyname.com, and any other addresses your business might need. These aliases will all flow into your one main inbox, so it’s easy for you to track incoming messages.

As your team grows, you can create additional email addresses (up to a certain limit) with their own inbox also free of charge. Just be conscious of the amount ‘actually’ needed; as later on if you decide to move to a fully synchronized mail server, each mailbox will cost about $7 a month.

Don’t Wait to Make The Switch

Often, entrepreneurs are hesitant to begin using a new email address for fear of confusing those contacts and clients they’ve already secured. However, we at Info-Tech Montreal can help set up email forwarding for you so you don’t miss anything sent to the old address. It’s better to make the switch early; the longer you wait, the more clients you will have to notify and the more areas (website, business cards, email signatures, online directories, etc.) you’ll have to update.

Having a proper domain name and email address that accurately represents you and your business goes a long way in helping portray your company as a qualified, professional option for your clients. We can help get you set up so you’re ready to take on 2020. Reach out to us today to get started or to answer any questions you might have.

What to Do if Your Windows 10 Keyboard or Mouse Aren’t Working

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Keyboard and mouse failures aren’t uncommon, especially with regular usage. If your keyboard or mouse has stopped working on your Windows 10 PC, here are a few steps you can follow to resolve the issue. Click below.

 

How to Use One Drive’s “Personal Vault” to Secure Your Files

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“Microsoft’s OneDrive cloud storage service now includes a “Personal Vault” for your sensitive files. These files are encrypted and protected with additional two-factor verification, even when they’re synced to your Windows 10 PC.

OneDrive’s Personal Vault became available worldwide on September 30, 2019. It works on Windows 10, Android, iPhone, iPad, and the web.”

Click on the link below to learn more.

 

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How to Fix a Frozen Windows PC

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“Windows PCs freeze for a variety of reasons. One instance might be a fluke, but repeated freezes suggest a problem you’ll want to fix. Here’s how to unfreeze and recover a stuck PC—and stop it from freezing again.”

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“After Windows starts up, it waits about ten seconds before opening your startup programs. This “startup delay” lets your desktop and Windows services finish loading, making everything run a bit smoother. If you have apps you’d rather run immediately, you can do it with a simple Registry hack..”

 

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“Windows computers sometimes do get viruses and other malware, but not every slow or misbehaving PC is infected by malware. Here’s how to check if you actually have a virus—and whether that suspicious process is dangerous or not.”

 

https://www.howtogeek.com/441321/does-your-computer-have-a-virus-heres-how-to-check/