Backing Up

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Hard Drives fail, computers get stolen, it's a fact of life. So it is just plain silly not to have some kind of backup system if you work with any kind of data which would cause great pain at it's loss.

But what kind of backup system should I use?

It is important first of all to understand the difference between Backing up and ARCHIVING:

Archiving
Archiving is where; when you have finished working on a particular project; you don't really need it any more on your computer. But, would like to have access to it if necessary in the future. An example of this may be an article you have written. Once written, you do not need to edit it any more. It is essentially finished work. In this case the best thing to do is make a copy of it on to a particular media, label it, and put it somewhere safe.

A CD writer is the ideal archive tool. But NOT so for Backup (see below)

Backing Up
Backing up is all about protecting data that you are NOT finished with. Emails; regularly used documents; unfinished documents; all fit into the category. But of course THIS data is constantly changing. So it simply makes NO sense to burn a new CD every day to take account of the changes. If you do so, you will pretty quickly have a huge pile of CDs on your shelf. In addition, how do you copy your emails onto a CD? No, a CD writer is not an efficient way to back up.

In years gone by, the most common way was to use TAPE backup systems. However. these were (and still ARE) expensive. In my view they were also not reliable.

For many years I was looking for a solution to the backup conundrum. For there just was not any cheap and efficient way to do it. But about a year ago I finally came across what has since proved to be an IDEAL solution.

There are three components required for backing up: Suitable Media, Good Software and a sensible regime.

Suitable Media
The good news is that with advent of cheap portable external Hard Drives (which connect either via USB or Firewire), we have now the perfect solution for backing up incrementally on a day to day basis. There is simply no point in backing up your operating system, for you would still need to reinstall it if your hard drive failed in any case. Likewise with your programmes. So all you need to backup is your data. But the question that often arises is "where is it?" I am afraid that the answer to that question will vary according to your computer, operating system, and the kind of data you work with. It is simply not possible to detail here all the possible locations for your data. Of more use here is to consider just how much data you have and what SIZE it is. For this will dictate the size of the Backup hard drive you need. And so for instance, if you only want to backup documents, emails and the like; almost ANY drive will be more than adequate. However, if you are heavily into downloading music, video, and/or are involved with high end graphics programmes (such as Photoshop); then you may well need a large capacity backup drive.

Cost: As a rough guide, starting from about £100 upwards to £250 max. depending upon capacity.

Physical dimensions: This is one huge advantage. For you can now get very small drives indeed. Enabling you to pop them in your pocket (see below on regime)

Software
One of the reasons why it took me a long time to find a suitable solution to the backup conundrum, is because MOST software written for backup was; and is still; designed to backup to a non-standard file format. The problem with this is that you THEN need to have THAT software installed on a machine in order to restore your backup. I have always thought that was silly. Why not simply backup your data AS IS? And so you have all your files and folders on the backup EXACTLY as they are on your computer. Rather than ONE enigmatic file called "Backup2764839379.dat" or some such.

I have now found two pieces of software which do just that.

1. Backup Magic for PC. Cost: About £20
2. Tri-Backup for Mac. Cost: About £40

Both these packages not only MIRROR your data. By that I mean (once setup properly), it will ADD, DELETE and MODIFY and changes you have made to your data since the last time the Backup was run. In addition, they are BOTH extremely fast and well written. However, I should point out that BOTH these packages need to be correctly setup in order to ensure ALL the correct data is being backed up. If you do not know where your data is, then I recommend you get a professional to set this up FOR you.

Both programmes can ALSO be set to run automatically at predetermined times. However, I don't recommend this. And for the simple reason that as we know, things go wrong with computers all the time. So how do you KNOW if the backup is working as it should? It is also often a case of "Out of sight, out of mind!" No, I recommend that you should have to click on an icon on your desktop at the end of each working day, and then you will KNOW the job was done. Both programmes also generate a very simple LOG text file, which you can check from time to time for errors.

Sensible Regime
Here is a list of the most common causes of data loss, with the MOST likely at the top:

1. Hard Drive failure Note: 70% of the time we can save your data
2. Laptop Theft/or lost (statistics say 20% of all laptops get stolen)
3. User Error (i.e. Accidental delete or just simply LOST somewhere)
4. Letting some one else onto your computer with bright ideas (as they say, a little knowledge can be a dangerous thing). Advice: say NO!
5. Technical support helpline suggests you do a full system restore (NEVER agree to this). It usually involves formatting your hard drive
6. Virus damage
7. Break in to your home or Office

If you consider all of the above, it simply makes no sense to HAVE a backup system and NOT use it regularly. Similarly, if you have a backup drive for your laptop and you carry it around in the same bag as your laptop - well that's just plain silly. :) The same thing applies to your home/office computer. What use is it in leaving the backup drive attached to your computer while you are not there? If someone steals your computer, they will take the backup drive as well.

Here's what you SHOULD do…

A) consider how important to you the data you are working on IS to you in terms of the time you have put in. This will determine how often you should back it up. For most people a DAILY backup is sufficient. Say at 5 pm when they stop work or 11pm when they go to bed. Make it the last thing that you do. But if you are working SOLIDLY on say a book or project; why not backup every few hours? It is just a single click on your desktop and will usually only take a few minutes at most.

B) Once you have finished for the day, un-attach the backup drive. If you are in an office, TAKE IT HOME WITH YOU. If you are at home - well then it's okay to leave it attached overnight. But when you go OUT, and PARTICULARLY if away for the weekend, put it somewhere SAFE. I usually recommend somewhere SILLY. (i.e. Somewhere no-one would LOOK for stealable stuff. Like in a food cupboard behind the Baked Beans). :) Just don't do what my Mother used to do: Put it somewhere that is SO safe she could never find it again.

C) When you un-attach the drive ENSURE you EJECT it (for Mac) or STOP it (for PC). If you don't do this, you can damage the data. So don't just pull out the plug

D) About once a year you should reformat the Backup drive.

That's it. Feel free to email us or call for further advice.

Computer Genie
020-8368 0080

Email us

Terms and Conditions

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Please study with care:

We undertake to provide our services as (a) professional computer
consultant/s to you the client under the following terms and conditions:

1. That you the client employ our services at an agreed hourly rate for the duration of the task/s. Our rates (unless agreed otherwise through an alternative negotiation or where a per job rate is agreed), are as follows:

a) Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 p.m. £75 per hour
b) You deliver & collect to/from our address £70 per hour (Off-Site)
Note: this only applies where a quick turn around is NOT required, otherwise the normal On Site rates will apply

c) Telephone/Email Support (9 a.m.-5 p.m. – Mon-Fri) £8 (min. charge)
Pro rata per each 15 minutes thereafter


Please note: In calculating time On Site; any segment of time which falls inside 15 minutes will be rounded up to the nearest 15 minutes.

Please ALSO note: One half hour will be added to ALL On Site visits to cover travelling time.

See ALSO our RATE CARD


2. That we the contractor/s in this case undertake to rectify such problems as you are having with your equipment to the best of our knowledge and to the best of our abilities. (Please see below for installations and upgrades).

In the unlikely event that it is not possible to rectify such problems as you are having with your equipment (as clearly stated by you and agreed on between both parties before the beginning of the contract); there will be NO charge for an Off Site consultation, while in the case of an On Site visit, HALF the normal minimum charge will apply. This provision also exists whereupon it is our advice that it is uneconomical (whether due to the age of the equipment or the likely time involved to do so) to rectify such problems as are said to exist. We will in this case always provide an alternative approach and a likely range of options in order to meet the client’s needs.


3. In the case of installations and/or upgrades: If due to unforeseen circumstances it shall prove that the installation and/or upgrade will not provide the necessary solution to the initial problem, then, once again their will be no charge for the consultation for an Off Site consultation, while in addition there will ALSO be no charge On Site provided that the fault is attributable to mis-diagnosis on our part. Nor will there be any charge for the new equipment as provided by us the contractor/s. However the equipment will remain our property. If, however the client has provided the equipment, then this will remain the property of the client and in addition no obligation or financial penalty of any sort will be due to us the contractor/s. In the case where faulty equipment is provided by the client and is unable to be installed satisfactorily, then ALL time either Off or ON Site is FULLY chargeable.


4. Hardware warranties: In the case of NEW equipment provided by us, the warranty term will in all cases be strictly 12 months. Please note however that as we will be taking any such case of equipment failure up with the manufacturer/agent ourselves, it may not always be possible to provide you with an immediate replacement (depending upon the nature of the equipment provided). However we do undertake to provide a necessary replacement as soon as it is humanly possible, provided such a part (or near match) is still available. There will of course be no charge for the necessary work required to replace such items. Once the 12 month period has expired, we also provide a further 6 month parts only warrantee on our “build-to-order PC’s. In this case, you would not pay for any new parts, but would be liable for the labour costs.

In the case where the equipment was purchased and/or provided by the client, then this warranty remains a matter of negotiation between the client and the agent from where they purchased the equipment. We cannot and will not take responsibility for faulty equipment purchased by the client from a third party even if it is on our advice. However we will be happy to provide such advice as we are able to assist the client in negotiating satisfactorily the return and/or replacement of faulty equipment.


5. Software Solutions:In the case where a purely software related problem is the source of the contract: We, the contractor/s will endeavour to the best of our abilities to resolve the agreed problem to the client’s satisfaction. It will then be a matter for you the client, and ourselves as contractor/s to agree at the end of the contract that the problem has been satisfactorily resolved. Once this “fix” has been verbally agreed and satisfactorily demonstrated, the onus is then on the client to ensure (before we depart) that they are indeed satisfied with the situation. From that point on the responsibility lies squarely with the client as to the continued software functioning of their equipment. It is simply not possible for us as contractor/s to take on responsibility for every single error (and/or other unrelated errors from the initial contract) which may from time to time occur on your equipment. We will however, to the best of our ability, seek to resolve any software related problems we may find on your equipment during the term of the contract and give you the client such advice as we see fit to ensure the continued satisfactory functioning of your equipment. But in any case, once a period of three months has elasped since the completion of the work, NO negotiation will be entered into even if it appears to be a re-occurrence of the original problem.

Further notes on the above: Please note that due to the sheer size and scale and variety of software which often finds it’s way onto client’s machines in this day and age. Whether it be downloaded via the Internet, installed from computer magazine “free” CD-ROMs, or purchased by the client, or indeed even provided free with the machine on purchase: The potential for problems to arise whereupon different pieces of software “clash” with each other - is quite high. Therefore our advice will always be to keep your software installations to a minimum – particularly if you rely on your equipment for business purposes. With computers (as with most things), our experience is that simplicity is the key to satisfactory ease of use. More programmes (and/or bigger and newer software) do not necessarily equate with better efficiency and/or function.

In particular, be aware that newer software (in nearly all cases) requires faster processors and greater Memory and Hard Drive capacity. If you are unsure whether your machine has the capability to run the “latest version” then you should check the “read me” file prior to installation.

In all cases our advice has long been, that if “it’s NOT broken….. Why fix it”! In other words: If your current software is doing everything that you require of it, why would you want to replace or upgrade it?


6. In the case where a client has contracted our services to provide a software and/or system software upgrade whereupon they feel subsequent to the contract being completed that their machine needs upgrading (or replaced) due to the increased “overheads” that are now being incurred due to the “newer” software: The responsibility is the clients and the client’s alone for such performance degradation as may occur or be evident. We will always endeavour to provide the best possible advice and suggest options and alternatives to any course of action before we commence a contract. We will also, to the best of our ability, provide clear guidance as to the capacity/speed of the client’s equipment in comparison with the options they wish to have installed on their equipment. But once the contract has been completed, the client’s satisfaction with the speed at which the new software runs on their machine, is entirely their responsibility.


7. System Software installations: In the case where it is our advice that this is the only way and/or the fastest way to resolve a software/hardware fault on the client’s equipment; the following facts must be studied and understood with care:

There are two types of system software installation:

1. A standard install (over the top of the existing system)
2. A “clean” install (replacing entirely the existing system)

The advantages/disadvantages to each are the following:

Standard Install: None of the users “settings” will be lost. However there is always the possibility that the original problem may still exist after the installation is completed – requiring a clean install.

Clean install: All of the users “settings” will be lost. However, it is likely that any software incompatibilities will have been resolved. This does NOT mean that Any FILES will be LOST!

Where a clean install has been undertaken, it will then be necessary to “re-install” all the users “settings”. In particular, this may mean any or all of the following:

I. Your Internet dial up account and e-mail settings. Therefore you will need to have your username, password and dial up number (and TCP/IP numbers if necessary) to hand. It is NOT our responsibility if you do not have these although we will do our best to help you find them and/or note them before installation.

II. Any serial numbers required for the registration of such
programmes as you have which require these. Once again this is NOT our
responsibility if you do not have them.

III. Installation software for hardware peripherals (i.e. Printers, modems, network cards, scanners etc. – which are not “picked up” by the system software on installation. This is particularly relevant for any peripherals that you installed subsequent to your initial purchase of your computer equipment. Note however that there is usually a way to acquire such software (drivers) via the Internet (or we may even carry the relevant software with us if it is a common type). But in the case where you have lost the relevant software and we are unable to locate on your behalf the correct “drivers” – the responsibility is yours.

IV. Installation CD’s or diskettes for programmes which need to be re-installed subsequent to the “clean” system install (particularly relevant on PC’s - but less of a problem on a Macintosh). If you have borrowed a CD from a friend or “acquired” such software in any way shape or form, which is now not available to you as a result of the “clean install”- please note that we will never condone the use of “illegal” software, nor support it’s use. However the relationship that we have with our clients is something which we undertake in the strictest confidence. But in any case this remains YOUR responsibility.

V. Any other unforeseen issues which arise out of the carrying
out of this resort. We cannot be held responsible for every piece of
software that you have installed on your machine and it’s subsequent return
to satisfactory use following this. The onus is squarely on you as the
client to make us aware of the tasks you carry out (or wish to carry out) on
the machine prior to such action. However we will do our best to question
you carefully about what use you regularly put to your computer equipment
and also do a thorough inspection of your hard drive/s prior to aforesaid
action.


8. Terms and functions of the contract: We will always to the best of our ability question you carefully and at length as to the software you regularly use on your computer and it’s purpose. We will also ask you to think carefully about what it is you want to be able to “continue” to do with your computer equipment as well as what you would like to do (as a quality improvement) now and in the future. This is very much our “brief” as computer consultant/s – coming (as it were) from a position of greater knowledge, to advise you upon what is practical and what is economical. We take this responsibility very seriously, and so you may find that from time to time that we may wish to do some research before we offer informed advice. It is simply not possible to have “complete knowledge” on every subject in the computer industry (or any other for that matter), and so some consideration may have to be given at times.

However, once recommendations are made and advice is accepted and a contract has begun: We will not be held responsible if you as client have with held (whether deliberately or otherwise), information which may determine the terms of the outcome. Nor will we be held responsible if you as client choose to change the terms of the contract (whether by “changing your mind” or “remembering something”) once the contract has commenced. We are fully prepared to be as flexible as we can be and at the end of the day we do not live in a perfect world where everything always goes according to plan, so in that regard you will find with us that there is always room for manoeuvre. But consider carefully the advice that we offer prior to the beginning of the contract for it is simply not possible for us to be held responsible for unrealistic expectations or lack of knowledge on the part of the client that may lead to disappointment.


9. Scope of our knowledge: One of the problem that we often come up against in the computer industry is that some clients seem to expect that if you are a computer consultant then you have a “complete” knowledge of every piece of software ever written and/or every piece of hardware ever built. We do not believe for one moment – such a person exists. Apart from anything else, what with the rate of growth and speed of development in this industry: it is simply not possible to keep abreast of every development worldwide. Nor indeed to keep up with even what ONE major software company (such as Microsoft) is doing in one country. I personally have been involved in this industry for the greater part of 15 years. And in that time I have learned that I am good at what I do because I keep my ear to the ground, I listen to what people tell me and compare it with my own knowledge and draw my own conclusions. In addition I am tenacious and almost always refuse to “give up”. Indeed this is the ROOT of my knowledge. But realise that computers are a lot like people in the respect that they are all different, not so much in terms of the hardware (although this is partly true) but in terms of what software has been installed on them. Much like people, they may take a little while to get to know. So please try to remember that part of the money you are paying us goes towards us “getting to know” your configuration and your requirements.

It is extremely rare that we cannot find either a total “fix” for any given clients’ needs or a “work around” given time. This is one of the reasons that we offer a “no fix – no fee” arrangement. But please read carefully the last paragraph and be sure you have understood this. The simple fact of the matter is that there will be times when we cannot even tell a client HOW we have fixed their computer or indeed what was causing the original problem. Our knowledge exists in terms of having a good overall FEEL for what is occurring (gained over many years in the industry) and providing the fastest and most economic solution. If you take on board all that is written above then we feel sure that we will have a fruitful and satisfying client/consultant experience wherein both parties gain in terms of knowledge and practical advantage.

(March 2008 - subject to change without notice)

Thank you for your interest and custom.

What Computer to Buy

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We use both PC's and Macintosh computers, plus we also build our own PC's, so are we not biased either way. However, any machine has it's own particular strengths and weaknesses. And this will of course be highlighted depending upon what tasks you need to perform. Cost of purchase is also a factor. There are a lot of myths and misunderstandings about computers generally. Here we will try and debunk such myths, and give you an easy to understand guide to buying/upgrading your computer.

Contents:
Upgrading
A New Desktop Computer. Choices..
PC
Mac
Prices
What Operating System should I have?
Windows
Mac OS
Macintosh

Upgrading
People will often think of upgrading their computer when it is running slowly, because they think it is the hardware that is slow. But often the hardware is perfectly adequate. It is just that the sheer amount of programmes running in the background; (spyware and over-the-top security programmes [i.e. Norton/Macafee Internet Security or such like] are common causes); are gumming up the works. Sometimes, also, the operating system ITSELF has become damaged in some way. In this case, all that may be required is either (what we call) an MOT, Where we remove all the stuff that is slowing it down. And/or we can perform a clean install of the Operating System. (Usually Windows or Mac OS). Note: In either case you will not lose any data.

An MOT can usually be carried out in 1-2 hours. However, a clean system install can take 3-4 hours. So the user MUST decide whether they really HAVE their heart set on a new computer, and whether they would then prefer to put the £100-250 involved in either of the above options towards a new computer, or not. As a guide to making this decision; as a general rule of thumb; if you have a PC with a Pentium 3 processor or above, there is no need for you to upgrade unless you use (or want to use) graphic intensive programmes such as Photoshop. A P3, is fine for most normal computer use, provided you are NOT running Windows XP (which we NEVER recommend [see below]). Similarly; if you are on a Mac; if you have a G3 and are running Mac OS 9 or below, then you are fine. However, if you are running (want to run) Mac OS X, then you really need a G4 or above.

Assuming that you have "failed" all the above tests, then you should buy a new computer. But before we get into that, a few words about hardware upgrades:

The only upgrade that makes sense these days is a MEMORY upgrade. So for instance if you have only 128MB of Ram, then doubling is always a good idea and you WILL usually notice a difference. What's more it takes only a few minutes. But forget about processor upgrades. It can be a good idea, though, to put in a bigger Hard Drive if you are running out of storage space. But do bear in mind, that if you are planning to REPLACE the existing hard drive, this involves reinstalling the Operating system (3-4 hours). Although you CAN just install it as a second drive provided you ensure you install any new programmes to the "D" drive and NOT the "C" drive. In summary, be wary of upgrades, for they can add up very quickly to the cost of a new PC.

A new Desktop Computer. Choices…

1. A PC or an Apple Mac:
PC cost: from £400 (from Dell) to £1500 (average)
Mac cost: from £400 (Mini-Mac) to £2000 (for a top end G5)

Pros and Cons of either platform:

PC:
a. It may be what you know.
b. You may have bought all the PC software you already want and don't want to have to buy it again for Mac.
c. You may need to run certain programmes which are not available for Mac (Sage is an example).
d. If you just want the cheapest, a PC is the way to go. Dell are now doing extremely cheap PCs WITH a flat screen monitor for under £500. Nobody can compete with that. However, be wary of Dell's warrantee. I have heard good stories but I have also heard HORROR stories. things aren't always what they seem. Generally, I recommend buying from a local PC shop. For then you can always take it back in and shout at the owners. Whereas with Dell (or any of the other big companies), you are likely to be talking to someone in India talking you through from a Flip-Book or Database. Besides: Why not support your local businesses? :) Bear in mind, most technical support helplines are staffed by people on low pay, and with limited knowledge. It stands to reason; if they knew a lot; they would be working somewhere else at £50 per hour, rather than £6 (or even less in Bangalore). A final warning: If you data is important to you - never agree to do a full system restore as suggested over the phone. You may lose everything.

Mac:
a. If you already have a Mac, then you simply will NOT like a PC, unless you have specific reasons for wanting to move over.
b. It used to be that Macs were more expensive. However, unless you buy a top end G5, this is simply no longer the case. You can now buy a Mini-Mac for the same price as the cheapest Dell - albeit WITHOUT a monitor, keyboard and mouse. But you might already HAVE those.
c. What most people don't realise is that (at the current time - and for the last 10 years) people just don't write Viruses for Macs. You may wonder why Apple doesn't advertise this fact: But can you imagine what the virus writers would do if they DID? If you think about it: Virus writers are like kids doing graffiti. They want the maximum impact (for their egos) for the minimum effort. Most computer users are PC users. Plus, a lot of viruses these days are made from virus "kits". (i.e. built on someone else's code) All, PC oriented. It's just too much effort to write for Mac. That is not to say that this may not change in the future.
d. The new Mac OSX is built on a UNIX core. You may not know this, but Unix is an "industrial strength" OS, upon which MOST of the Internet is built. As a result, it almost NEVER crashes.
e. Fed up with Fatal Exception Errors? Try this: Mac programmers have a sense of humour. How about: "...oops, I don't think you meant to do that"?
f. Style. This may not be important to you. but to some it is. Suffice to say, Macs look good.
g. Finally, the MAIN difference between a Mac and a PC is that with Mac's the same company make the Software AND the Hardware. It's integrated.

2. Price
One of the myths is that you get what you pay for. This is true in one sense, in that you if you go for the cheapest, well then, the components generally ARE cheap. And so you should not be surprised if you only get a few years out of your new machine. However, you should ALSO be aware of the fact that ALL consumer components are driven by market forces. And so therefore; as the evolution of any particular component/s progresses; they will become cheaper, while at the same time - lower in quality. As an example of this; consider the first CD players that appeared on the market: I used to have a NAD player which was HEAVY and solid. It lasted me for years. And then I foolishly decided to get rid of it and buy a newer model with more features. I couldn't believe the difference. Nor the fact that it lasted barely a year. This is the same way things are going with the low end PC components these days. However, it is not ALL bad, provided you pay particular attention to the issue of warrantee. The sensible purchaser of a computer will allow at least 20% of the cost to be earmarked for warrantee. Here at Computer Genie we provide the normal 12 months warrantee. But this is ON-SITE and with no quibbles. In addition we provide a further 6 months LABOUR only. This means you don't pay for the cost of any new components, just the cost of our labour. More importantly, we try our best to source quality components. But with all the best will in the world, things DO go wrong from time to time. So nice to talk to the person with the ACTUAL responsibility when this happens.

At the same time, there is simply no need to buy the highest spec latest thing. You will always pay a price premium for this. Take the latest processors: They are typically 40% more expensive. And for what? Usually for a 10% at best speed increase. The reason for this is also market pressures. The people who buy the NEWEST thing are subsidising the producers research. In addition, they are also (unwittingly) TESTING it. I ALWAYS recommend staying ONE back from whatever is the LATEST. One (or two) down will be cheaper, more reliable, and you won't pay a price premium. This is DOUBLY true with software.

In actual fact, there is not a huge difference between the price of various PC components. The REAL issue with this is keeping an eye on what company's components have had the most failures. But this can be a full time job. Through experince we have learned the HARD way, that there are two aspects to this process: 1. Having a transparent, effective and reliable source of warranteed parts. 2. A good and honest dialogue with the suppliers about what is good, rather than what is just CHEAP (although bear in mind, sometimes the cheaper component is actually better). Note: A good supplier will usually be on the same wavelength as us. Nobody likes chasing warrantees.

In summary: An industry standard spec is usually fine. It is a reliable supplier that is MORE important than bang for the buck. Consider also that a great many people don't really understand what the specification list means. In other words, it makes sense to find a supplier you feel you can trust, and whom is also going to be around in the future. As a general rule of thumb with regards to price: As of March 2005; the industry standard spec is 2.6-3 gigahertz processor; 256 or 512 MB of Ram; CD rewriter or DVD rewriter; 60-120 Gigabytes hard drive. (Note: hard drive size is RARELY an issue these days - they are ALL huge); keyboard; mouse and 15-17 inch flat screen monitor. This spec CAN cost you under £500 from Dell. But up to £1500 from some suppliers. Particularly if you go for EXTRA high-end video cards; sound cards; spangly speakers systems; and so on. You really should NOT be spending any more than £1,000 for an industry standard spec. But as I said, pay close attention to the warrantee and your feeling of trust towards your supplier. Trust your instincts, and don't be afraid to ask some searching questions. (i.e. how many PC's have you sold? Or, how many returns do you get?)

3. What operating system should I have?
This is a difficult one, for the simple reason that most of what I am going to recommend is almost completely contrary to what nearly ALL companies provide as standard. Note: I am only referring to Windows here (see comments on Mac OS below). A little background is required here: You should know that AS Microsoft has virtually (sic) a World monopoly on PC's, then THEY dictate the terms to nearly ALL hardware manufacturers. Therefore, while Dell for instance may be charged, say, £30 per copy for Windows XP; they will be discouraged from installing Windows 2000 on their machines because of the fact that they will have to pay, say, (and I am GUESSING here), £50 per copy. Further to that; we are again dealing with market forces here. Money is MADE in the computer industry as in ALL consumer industries, by way of built in redundancy. I like to think of it the same way as food. You eat it, you gain energy from it, and then you need more. Good news for the manufacturers. Problem is: What if your meal lasts you a good long time? What if you didn't even CONSIDER a new computer for 5 years or more?

An interesting metaphor is the motor-car. Not so many years ago, cars used to rust. Then ONE day, one of the car makers had the really STUPID idea to design a car with a galvanized body and a 5 year body warrantee. The result? The other companies had to follow suit. I believe this will also eventually happen with computers. But it may be a good long while yet. There is still MUCH money to be made before the hardware/software reaches maturity - along with the user base.

I digress slightly, but it IS important to see things in context. But in any case, the reason I have shared all this is to point out that all is not what it seems. Windows XP is almost IMPOSSIBLE to avoid if you buy a new PC. And yet, it is essentially the worst operating system I have seen from Microsoft since their ILL fated Windows 3.o. The way I like to describe it is this: You know when you are writing a letter in Microsoft Word and a little "wizard" pops up and says "hey, you're writing a letter, would you like some help with that?" I would wager 90% of people just find this annoying. Well, Windows XP is like the WHOLE operating system is trying to be your Mother. It is constantly monitoring you; and there are a multitude of "wizards" constantly popping up and asking you stupid questions. This wouldn't be so bad if the wizard got it right. Unfortunately, this is not true. All too often they just get in the way. In addition, all this "monitoring" means that lots and lots of sub-programmes are running in the background. Therefore, while processors have become exponentially faster in recent years: Windows XP has eroded (if not overtaken) ANY such advantages.

To cut to the chase - the plain fact of the matter is that Windows 2000 professional is a far superior opearating system to Windows XP. As a result, when we build a computer for a client, we REFUSE to install Windows XP on it. This is because we know from experience that we will get MORE calls from clients complaining that their PC is misbehaving if Windows XP is instaled on it, than if it has 200o on it. It is not always easy to explain to a client that their difficulties are software related, and that THIS is not covered by warrantee. Therefore it is just common sense if you wish to build a good and lasting relationship with your clients, to have a coherent strategy up front. This is why we recommend Windows 2000 professional. We also have no real argument with Windows 98 SE (special edition). Although, it is NOW becoming a bit long in the tooth. However; as mentioned earlier; you may have difficulty obtaining ANY PC WITHOUT Windows XP. Good luck!

A final word on Microsoft Windows: Even though I have levelled a great deal of criticism towards Microsoft, and at Windows XP in particular: I would like to point out that because of the nature of the PC industry (in that there are so MANY different pieces of hardware in the world at large) it is actually surprising that the great majority of PC's work as well as they do at ALL. In addition, Microsoft have always worked VERY hard at making MOST of their software "backwards compatible". This means that a lot of effort is taken to ensure that users running OLDER software, are not left out in the cold each time a new version of either Windows and/or "Office" is released. Of course, this does not always work out. But at least the effort is made. In other words, I would olike to point out that I am not a Microsoft "basher". Rather, I believe that Microsoft is aware that it has a HUGE responsibility to it's user base, and is doing it's best to fight what is often a losing battle.

Mac OS:
When Apple brought out the new OSX (Roman numeral for 10), it was a risky thing. It was a complete change. It was also not only courageous on the part if Apple, but absolutely not before time. OS9 had gone as far as it could.

To be continued....

Printers and Scanners

Coming Soon

Lost Data

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Before I go into more depth about the subject of Data recovery, first a brief warning and a piece of advice:

You should note that when something is deleted from your computer; (even IF you have emptied the Recycle Bin (or Trash on a Mac); the deleted files aren't REALLY deleted in the true sense of the word. Essentially, what the operating system does is MARK the area on the disk where the files are as being AVAILABLE to write new data onto. Therefore, provided that you have not loaded (or downloaded, or installed) a lot of new files onto your computer, there is a good chance that we can get it back for you. Consequently, PLEASE NOTE: If you have got data that you accidentally deleted and urgently need back, do NOT put ANY new files onto your computer UNTIL we have had a chance to look at it for you. If you DO, then you reduce the chances of us being able to restore your files. In fact, the best thing to do if the files really ARE very important to you, is to shut down your computer and do not start it again until we can get there. Then call us immediately.

Here is a list of the most common causes of Data Loss with the MOST common at the top:

1. Hard Drive failure (Note: 70% of the time we can save your data)
2. Laptop Theft/or lost (statistics say 20% of all laptops get stolen)
3. User Error (i.e. Accidental delete or just simply LOST somewhere)
4. Letting some one else onto your computer with bright ideas (as they say, a little knowledge can be a dangerous thing). Advice: say NO!
5. Technical support helpline suggests you do a full system restore (NEVER agree to this). It usually involves formatting your hard drive.
6. Virus damage
7. Break in to your home or Office
8. Accidentally overwriting a file with the same name

I will cover these one at a time:

1. Hard Drive Failure
Your Hard Drive is a small (6 inches by 3.5 inches) rectangular shaped device inside the computer upon which the Operating System, your programmes, and documents are stored. It contains an electromagnetic platter which spins at high speed, and is read by a "stylus" much like a record player. After the Power Supply and cooling fan for the processor, the Hard Drive is the next noisiest thing in your computer. You will hear it "ticking" and "spinning" away - particularly when your computer is starting up. Some hard drives are just plain noisy (and even annoying). They also generally get noisier with age.

Hard Drive failure is more common than people realise. Indeed it is the MOST common cause of data loss. Hard Drives (like all "consumer" items) are mass produced. And so there are always going to be a percentage of them that fail. As to WHEN they fail; that really depends upon the following factors:

a) How old the drive is
b) How much use the computer has had
c) How much data is on the drive
d) How much Memory (RAM) is in the computer
e) A Warrantee (factory) fault (i.e. Within the first 12 months)
f) Power cuts and surges
g) A blown Power Supply
h) Unknown Factors

a) Hard Drives like ANYTHING with moving parts, have a limited lifespan. Typically 3-8 years. Older drives (in my opinion) are more solidly built than newer drives. This is true of MOST computer parts. One only has to pick up an older desktop machine to feel the weight of it, and then compare this with a new machine to realise the parts are lighter and so therefore less sturdily built (Although this will vary from machine to machine - but it is a general trend). One could put the argument that computer parts have improved, and therefore THAT is why they are lighter. I would say, yes, computer parts HAVE become "better", but at the same time, the overall build quality (driven by economic factors) has DECREASED.
Note: In my experience, percentage of Hard Drive failures has increased in line with reducing prices.

Therefore, if your hard drive is ALREADY 3-5 years old, it may last another few years. However, if your hard drive is only a year old, you might want to consider that it may not last much longer than another 2-3 years. But this will ALSO depend upon the other factors listed above.

b) It stand to reason that if you only turn your computer on in the evening, check your emails and do a bit of surfing, then your hard drive will likely last longer than if you work from home and are on your computer ALL day.

c) Similarly, if your Hard Drive is literally crammed full of loads of programmes, downloads, etc; it stands to reason that the hard drive will be spinning a lot more and accessing more of the disk. It is therefore a good idea to uninstall any programmes you don't use and indeed clear off ANY data you don't need from time to time.
Note: Memory (or RAM - Random Access Memory) are small chips (1 inch by 4 inches) inside your computer which only hold data when your computer is turned on. Memory is much FASTER than a Hard Drive and it is the Data stored in Memory which you are actually interacting with when using your computer. The only time you are interacting with the Hard Disk is when you SAVE or LOAD something. Basically what happens when you turn your computer on is that the necessary PARTS of the Operating System (Windows or Mac OS) LOAD INTO MEMORY. The same applies when you open a programme. IF this were not so, things would be a LOT slower. Although, in actual fact, memory is a required part of how a computer works.

d) The reason the amount of Memory (RAM) has a bearing on Hard Drive life is because of a thing called "Virtual Memory". VIRTUAL Memory was introduced years ago when Memory was still relatively expensive. Beraing in mind my description of Memory above; BEFORE Virtual Memory was invented, you could ONLY load up (work with) as many programmes and/or bits of the Operating System as you had memory for. This could be problematic if you tried to load a programme which was bigger in size than you had memory for. For the computer would then either "hang" or just refuse to open the programme.

Virtual Memory was a solution to this. The way it works is that the Opearting System "allocates" a portion of the hard drive to be used as "pretend" memory. It is designed in such a way that this portion of the disk and the REAL memory, are constantly interacting. When a limit to the amount of programmes that can be opened is reached, the Operating System will "swap" parts of the system and/or programmes you are not right then using, to the DISK, thus freeing up the REAL memory for what you ARE working on right now. Thus, why this virtual memory is also called a SWAP file.

But of course (as we have already established), the Hard Disk is much slower than Memory, and so this is not an IDEAL solution. The IDEAL solution is to have as MUCH memory as you need to be able to load programmes. It stands to reason therefore, that if you have only, say 128MB [Megabytes] of Memory, your Computer will be "swapping" a lot more to and from the disk than if you have 512MB Memory. Advice: Find out how much memory you have and make sure you have at LEAST 512MB. Your computer will run faster and your Hard Drive will spin less and last longer. Note: It is not necessarily the case that putting massive amounts of Memory in your Machine will speed it up yet further. Virtual Memory is an essential part of modern Operating Systems, and so there is a LIMIT to how much REAL memory will actually make a difference - depending upon which programmes you are using.

A final note about Virtual Memory: Virtual Memory is essentially a legacy system. In my view it is NOT a good thing, although we are of course "stuck" with it. For sure it DOES mean that you can open as many programmes as you like and KEEP them open. But as they are being swapped back to disk ANYWAY, it is almost (to my mind) the same thing as re-opening when you come to access them again. However, the evolution of programming being such that the drive is always towards bigger and bigger programmes, MORE functionality (much of which the average user never uses), and essentially more bells and whistles; there is simply no way (at least at the present time) that the amount of memory you can put in your machine will EVER catch up with the constantly growing demands for Memory Space.

It's a shame really, for I do personally believe that a machine could be built which does not even HAVE a Hard Drive; which contains EVERYTHING that it needs in "Flash" Memory; which has programmes on it which ONLY contain the most commonly needed facilities; which boots up in seconds rather than minutes; and NEVER crashes. But of course the problem with a machine like this is that you would never want to upgrade it. Not good for the computer industry. Plus, I would ALSO likely be out of a job. :) In addition, the FACT of the Internet means that we are ALL forced (whether we like it or not) to constantly upgrade our programmes and machines. Without which, we would fall behind, not be able to visit websites (without the latest browsers, plug-ins, etc); and so on. I am certainly not AGAINST this constant progress - marching forward. Although I do believe that a lot of so called "improvements" are CHANGES that don’t always ADD to the usability of a programme. A common example is Microsoft Word. What a HUGE monolith of a programme this has become. Is it actually any better NOW than it was 10 years ago? What do MOST people do in MSWord? Write, and spell check. Okay, so you can now do tables and insert pictures. But the way it handles this is not actually very good. There are actually other programmes out there which do a much better job with combining text, tables and images. Why cannot we have Word Pad or Text Edit with a spell check for the great MAJORITY of users? Those who really NEED to combine text and graphics would be better off with a good DTP (Desktop Publishing Programme) in ANY case. Something (DTP), MSWord TRIES to be, but fails at.

e) A Warrantee (factory) fault (i.e. Within the first 12 months)
This is where you get your new machine and you use it for a few weeks or months and BANG! - The Hard Drive dies. This is more common than you might think.

To be continued...

Accessing Email Abroad

Coming Soon

Going Wireless

Coming Soon

Broadband Advice

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What is Broadband?
Other names for the same thing:

1. High Speed Internet
2. ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line) - BT; Easynet; etc.
3. Cable Internet (Blueyonder; NTL)
4. Leased Line (often called T1, T2, or T3)

Note: ISDN is NOT broadband. If you still have ISDN then you are likely paying far too much for a SLOW connection

There is a lot of misunderstandings surrounding Broadband. Here we will try to provide an easy to understand guide and advice about where to get it and how to make the most effective use of it at minimum cost.

The best way to understand Broadband is to compare it with a standard (and now old fashioned) DIAL-UP Internet connection:

Dial Up
When you connect to the Internet via DIAL-UP, you must have a DIAL-UP modem installed in your computer. Such modems reached the LIMIT of what they could deliver in terms of speed a few years ago. That is; 56 kilobits. You will know you have a dialup connection, if, when you connect, you hear the typical sound of a touch dial phone number being dialled, followed by the instantly recognisable sound of a MODEM connection "handshake". This is similar in sound to a fax machine, only STRANGER. What is happening here is that YOUR modem is talking to ANOTHER modem at the other end, and they are trying to work out between the two of them if they are going to TALK to each other or not. Thus, the "handshake". Your computer via the modem will also be sending your username and password, while the other computer will be checking these against it's database. Assuming they BOTH agree, you are away and you can now surf the Net and/or check your emails.

Essentially however, what you have just done is make a STANDARD telephone call using a MODEM rather than a telephone. If someone is trying to call you on that line, they will get an engaged signal or "call waiting". You will also not be able to make any calls while you are connected. This is why MANY people have TWO phone lines in their house.

Real World speed of Dial-up
If say your daughter sends you some nice pictures as an attachment in an email (let's consider there are about 6 and the total size is 1 MB [Megabytes]); you are unlikely to obtain a faster transfer rate of more than about 4 kilobits per second (see below). Thus, it may take anything up to 30 minutes for the email with those pictures attached to arrive in your inbox. Some people have no real concept of how big file sizes are, and so may send HUGE image files adding up to 10 or more MB. As should be clear, on a dia-up connection this may take HOURS to send out, and a similar time to download at the other end if they TOO are on dialup.

I occasionally get support calls where people say their email has stopped working. But it turns out that it is NOT that it has stopped working, it is just that there is a MASSIVE email trying to download. Advice: BEFORE you send BIG attachments, ASK the other person; are they on a DIAL-Up connection? And ALWAYS check the file sizes before you send (even on Broadband). As a general rule of thumb, you should not send a combined attachment over 1 MB =1024k). It is not a good way to make friends. To check this, have a look at the file size once attached. It will tell you in brackets after the name.

Note: 56k does not mean a transfer rate of 56k. It equates in real world terms to about 4k per second. Therefore, there are some things on the Internet which are; if not closed to you; certainly PAINFULLY slow. Examples: Running Windows or Mac OS update: Downloading Video clips: Visiting high graphic/animation content websites. Note: What you may NOT know is that very FEW modems connect at 56k. Most connect between 38-48k.

Finally, the other thing about Dial-up is that you may be paying for the cost of your telephone calls on TOP of any subscription you pay to your ISP (Internet Service Provider). Although, many now offer monthly packages where you dial a FREEPHONE number. But consider this: How much are you PAYING for this package? And, if you are ALSO paying call charges; how MUCH do these add UP to per month? Finally, if you have TWO phone lines, how much is the line rental on the second one? For you see you do not NEED two phone lines with Broadband.

Broadband
Did you know that you can frequently SAVE money by moving to Broadband? The average starter package is now between £15-20 per month. Plus there are no call charges. In addition, Broadband does not tie up your phone line. You may even be able to get RID of one phone line if you have two or more.

What Broadband IS
Essentially Broadband is similar to Dial-up except much faster. The average Broadband speed at the moment (although this is fast changing) is 512k. Straight away you can see why this is OFTEN advertised as being TEN TIMES faster than Dial-up. Dial-up is 56k; Broadband is 512k. However; as with Dialup; 512k does not mean transfer rates of 512k. In reality you are lucky to get 100k per second. The average is more like 50-60k. But even so, if you compare this to 4k per second, you can see what a BIG difference it is. And so to use our example from above of a 1 MB email attachment. THIS will download in just a few minutes as opposed to 20 minutes.

Similar to Dial-up, you also need a modem (OR, a router - see below) to access Broadband. But this is NOT the same thing as a dial-up modem. It will usually be EXTERNAL and connect via USB. There is also software to install to make it work (called drivers). Usually the modem will be supplied by the Broadband company. Typically, they will charge £30-90 for this. But in some cases it will be free. They will usually ALSO charge a connection fee. This is because YOUR telephone number has to be "turned on" to accept Broadband at the exchange - in the case of ADSL. (For Cable Broadband; i.e. Blueyonder and NTL; see below). Connection fees can vary from FREE to hundreds of pounds for a Business installation (also see below on Business broadband). But average is £40-80.

Connection with a Broadband modem is much faster. Typically a few seconds rather than MINUTES for a dial-up. In addition, it is designed to be an "always-on" service. Therefore; and because there are no CALL charges involved; you do not need to keep connecting and disconnecting. You simply connect at the beginning of your computer session, and leave it on all day if you wish. It won't make Any difference to your bill. However, there are dangers to this when using a MODEM (See - Why you should get a ROUTER - below).

You will also be supplied with (what are called) MICROFILTERS. These are little white "splitters" which you need to plug into any extension you have in your house, and then plug your normal phone IN to. This is because ADSL broadband uses the SAME copper wire that your phone line is on to CARRY the SIGNAL. But this generates NOISE on the line. Microfilters take care of this. They SPLIT the two signals so that you do not HEAR the noise. Once again; these may be free or anything up to £25 each. Note: If you have a dedciated line for you Broadband and don't use it for voice calls, then you will only need one of these. Even if you have a fax machine on this line, that's fine. ADSL should not effect faxing.

Potential problems with Microfilters
You should know that you can only have ONE Microfilter on EACH extension. IF your extensions were installed correctly by BT, you should have no problems. However, in some cases what you THINK is a proper extension is actually just a cable plugged in via a doubler, and then run to another room. If you plug one microfilter in to the doubler, and another one in at the other end; you have actually got two microfilters on ONE extension. In which case your ADSL will probably not work. To rectify this, remove either one or the other.

Finally, when ordering ADSL, make sure you have a phone socket close to where your Computer is. You should ALSO be very clear (in the case where you have more than one line) WHICH phone number it is to go on. You also cannot get ADSL on a NON-BT number (i.e. Telewest) Note: You cannot take your existing ADSL account WITH you when you move house. You must cancel it and start a new one. Connection charges apply.

Cable Internet
The BIG difference between ADSL (the most common) and CABLE Internet is that it is a HARD WIRED physical installation. With ADSL, you already HAVE the cable in the form of your phone line. Cable requires that they come physically to your house and run a BIG (usually white) coaxial (same type as TV) cable into your house. You must think VERY carefully about where you want this. For it will cost you to have it moved to another room. You also will have no choice in terms of modem. They HAVE to provide the modem and that's that! (Please also see section on ROUTERS - below) Other than that, there is not much of a difference other than the following DISADVANTAGES and ADVANTAGES (although speed may become an issue later on - see below):

Disadvantages
1. You cannot use your Cable Broadband anywhere in the house (unless you go for Wireless - see separate article - Going Wireless). For as I have already mentioned, it is a physical CABLE installation. Whereas with ADSL, you can simply plug it into ANY extension.
2. You are also not as FREE as you are with ADSL to chop and change suppliers as FASTER and CHEAPER deals become available. You can of course CANCEL with cable after a year. But in practise, most people just stay with it.
3. The connection is NOT so easy to pick up as ADSL. All Broadband suppliers have their "outages" (downtime - whether for maintenance or equipment failure). But ADSL will usually pick up the connection again easily. Whereas SOMETIMES with Cable, you have to restart your computer repeatedly and unplug the modem a few times before it grudgingly picks up the connection again. Note: this is not a common occurrence. But I do get a few calls about this from time to time.
4. Quite simply, they may not have got around to running the cables to your street yet. So you can't get it.

Note: Nearly ALL Broadband providers have a webpage where you can check availability at your address. This includes ADSL.

Here are links to them:
Blueyonder

NTL

BT - (if BT offer ADSL in your area, then many other ISP's will too)

Advantages
1. Cable companies often do some enticing combined packages. Blueyonder for instance offer a combined Cable TV, Free local and National telephone calls AND Broadband package for an all inclusive price. Quite tempting, and good value for money.

Why you should get a ROUTER
A router is a replacement for your modem (if you are on ADSL) and an ADD-ON if you have cable. But what is it, and why should I get one?

To explain this, first a few words about how the Internet works:

The Internet is essentially built on top of a "protocol" (an agreed way to communicate) called TCP-IP. The way this works is that any computer or other device which is connected to the Internet must have it's OWN unique INTERNATIONAL "IP number". Think of it as being like your own UNIQUE telephone number. IP numbers have a standard format like this XXX.XXX.XXX.XXX Where XXX is a 3 digit number between the range of 1-255.

Thus, whenever you connect to the Internet via Dial-up or Broadband, you are assigned one of these numbers.

The problem with this however; once you are on an "always-on" Broadband connection; is that you are "visible" on the Internet and therefore vulnerable to unscrupulous "hackers" - amongst other things. Note: A hacker is someone who accesses your computer without your knowledge - either to just cause mischief (just for fun), to try and get your personal details (i.e. Credit card details), or to use it's processing power for other things. But please do not become paranoid. This is not that common. If you think about it, of all the millions of computers in the Internet, what do you think the chances are of you being the one - an actual real live person attacks. Pretty slim. But nevertheless it does happen. I HAVE had a client call me to say his mouse was moving on it's own.

More likely is that you will get what is called a Trojan Horse. A Trojan Horse is a form of virus (see separate article on Virus advice) which installs one or more communication programmes onto your computer without your knowledge which then set about "broadcasting" your whereabouts (IP number) on the Internet in a particular way, once again without your knowledge. Note: EVEN IF you virus software is up to date, the Trojan may install these programmes BEFORE your virus software gut's rid of it. In addition, once these programmes are installed, they may not necessarily be classified as viruses by your virus software. For they can be actual versions of perfectly legitimate software. (ICQ is a case in point) Once this has happened, if you are completely "naked" on the Internet, the chances of your computer being affected and/or "attacked" in some way is far higher. And it need not even be a real live person involved. It could be an automated programme.

This whole subject with regards to hacking and Trojans is a HUGE one. Too huge to enlarge upon any further here. But if you are interested in an example of HOW and WHY people do these sort of things, there is very good article/story here...

LINK to

Suffice to say, it is preferable to have some kind of protection once you are on Broadband so you are NOT "naked" on the Internet. One way of achieving this is to install Firewall Software. Examples of this are Norton Personal Firewall; MacAfee Internet Security; and Zone Alarm. While also with Windows XP and Mac OSX, a basic Firewall is built into the operating system. I don't generally recommend software firewalls - and in particular I really DON'T recommend ANY of the COMBINED suites of security software as mentioned above. They can have a massive effect on the speed/functioning of your computer. If your simply MUST have a software firewall, then ZONEALARM is to my mind the BEST. It is FREE and SLIMLINE. Download it here:

Zonealarm

You can also find the download link on the top right side of this page.

A much better solution to this issue is to get a router. A router (as I said) is a replacement for your ADSL modem (or an add-on to your cable modem). It is a small box which usually has FOUR ports on it for up to 4 computers to plug in (see also separate article on Going Wireless about WIRELESS ROUTERS). There are two types. The ADSL type plugs into the phone socket instead of your modem. While the CABLE type plugs into your Cable modem. The way it works (and the main REASON I recommend them) is that the ROUTER is the device that connects to the Internet, NOT your computer. Thus, it is the ROUTER which is assigned a UNIQUE INTERNATIONAL "phone number". Once your computer is plugged into one of the four "ports", the router then assigns you (what is called) a LOCAL "IP" number. This is a number which will not work on the Internet, and, as a result, you are to all practical purposes "invisible" on the Internet.

In addition to this, most routers have (what is called) a HARDWARE firewall built in. This means that they will be automatically configured (in most cases) to accept and reject traffic based on typical criteria. This is excellent. But it is by far the fact that you are not directly connected to the Internet which is the biggest advantage.

Note: Another advantage to a router is that you can have more than ONE computer SHARING the Internet connection. Something you CANNOT do (well at least not easily) with just a modem.

Note also: Everything I have said here applies to BOTH ADSL and CABLE Internet.

Cost: Routers are now not much more than the cost of a modem. (i.e. From £80 upwards) For recommendations on which ones to buy, feel free to call or email.

Speed of Broadband
As I said earlier, as at the current time (March 2005) 512k is the usual speed. But this is changing very quickly. For instance: My own provider (Plusnet) have just recently informed me that they will be upgrading to 8MB in April. WOW! I currently have 2MB, which I found AMAZING when I initially upgraded from 512K. So what is 8MB going to be like? ;)

Once we get up past 8MB, downloading full size videos becomes a REAL and effective possibility. Bear in mind however, that no matter HOW fast your connection, you are STILL dependent upon the overall speed of equipment on the Internet at large. This is of course being upgraded all the time. But consider (for example) you are trying to download something from a website which is HOSTED (physically stored on their computer) via a humble 512k Broadband connection: There is simply no WAY your super fast connection will make any difference to how fast it can be uploaded from the other end. In addition, if you are trying to access something on a website which HAS a fast pipe attached to it, but 5000 OTHER people are ALSO trying to access the same thing at the same time, well, you can imagine the result.

A note on CABLE Internet: At the current time it APPEARS that the ADSL speeds are pushing ahead FASTER than the Cable speeds. How this changes in the future, as yet, remains to be seen.

Upgrading your Broadband - A warning
Some ISPs will not TELL you that they are now offering a service to NEW customers which is FASTER and CHEAPER than the one you are currently on. This is particularly relevant where you may have had your Broadband for a number of years. For of course prices have come down hugely. So while it may have cost £60 per month for 512k several yeas ago, you can now get it for £15. But if you don't ask them, they won't always tell you. Why SHOULD they? You have been paying them £60 per month all these years. Why should they want to earn less money from you? Personally I think they SHOULD tell you. In some cases (particularly Business accounts) they may even make it DIFFICULT for you to "upgrade" to a contemporary (more for less) account. Forcing you to accept things as they are, or move elsewhere. Something you may not want to do. Hardly FAIR. Advice: If you have a long standing account: Firstly check your ISP's website and find out what they are NOW charging. Then negotiate a better deal. If all else fails, go elsewhere. You could save a LOT of money, AND get a much faster connection.

Business Broadband
Coming soon

Virus Advice

Coming Soon

Spyware Advice

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Did you know that spyware is the biggest single problem affecting PC users at the moment? Note: Antivirus software does NOT detect spyware…

Did you know that every time you go on the Internet, it is likely that small programmes (spyware) are installed onto your computer without your knowledge? Programmes that “track” your habits and then try and sell you stuff, or do much worse?

(Note: at the current time (2005) Mac users need not concern themselves with Spyware)

So, what to do?

I have for a long time held off from recommending Spyware removal programmes to clients. This is because many of the companies who sell spyware programmes, market them by using spyware. I consider this hypocritical. It is a bit like creating the problem and then ALSO the solution. However, things have become SO bad with spyware, that it is one of the most common reasons for support calls. Therefore, we have chosen a "good" spyware removal tool, which does NOT use spyware for marketing. It is also (in our opinion) one of the best available. And what's more it is FREE.
Here's what you do to firstly get RID of spyware and then PROTECT yourself.

1. Download Ad-Aware Spyware removal tool to your desktop from here:

http://www.snapfiles.com/php/download.php?id=100156

You can also download it by clicking on the "Ad-aware" link in our "Essential Downloads" section over on the right hand side of this page.

Then install it by double-clicking on the Icon for the installer on your desktop, after which allow it to update itself and run a full system scan. This may take some time (between 10-45 mins.) You will know when it's finished becasue it makes an alarming "farting" sound :). You should now see a list of all the spyware components it has found. Right click on any one of them, then choose to select all objects. This is so you don't need to tick every box individually. Once they are all ticked, simply click on FINISH, and the programme will get busy quarantining the spware. In some cases, the programme may appear to freeze. But don't worry about this. If it seems still frozen after about 20 minutes, re-start your computer.

Note: You should run this about once a month, or if you think you may have picked up some Spyware. Please also note: Ad-aware is not like a virus programme, so does not run in the background to protect you. There are some spyware programmes that do this, but I do not recommend them. As ever, the least you have running in the background, the better.

You should also now, got to Control Panels; Add-Remove Programmes; and remove anything which looks like it might be an "advert" type programme. If you have any doubts about doing this, call us for advice on 020-8368 0080.

2. Then download an alternative (Firefox) Browser to Internet Explorer onto your desktop from here:

http://download.mozilla.org/?product=firefox&os=win&lang=en-GB

Once again, you can also download it by clicking on the "Firefox" link in our "Essential Downloads" section over on the right hand side of this page.

(The reason for this is that at the current time (March 2005) 99% of Spyware is aimed at Internet Explorer (on a PC). Therefore you can stop MOST of it by not using Internet Explorer.

Once again, install this programe by double clicking the installer on your desktop. Just agree with any questions it asks. Including importing favourites and cookies from Interent Explorer. Also choose to make it the default browser. Remember, from now on use Firefox to go on the Internet, NOT Internet Explorer. Although, realise that if you use Windows Update, you will HAVE to use Internet Explorer. But this can't be helped.

If you come unstuck at any stage of these proceeding, we will of course be happy to either talk you through on the phone, or book in a visit.

Contact Us

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Landline Telephone: 020-8211 3194 | Main Mobile: 07941-88 55 09
Fax: 020-8211 3194 (please call first)

Address: 40 Brunswick Crescent, New Southgate, London N11 1EB
Email: info@computer-genie.co.uk
Manager's Email: timothy@computer-genie.co.uk


Office Hours: 9 am till 7 pm (Mon-Fri)
After Hours Number in Emergency only please: 07941-88 55 09

Testimonials

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“Since we put our network in the hands of CG it's been about as trouble-free as these things get. When things do go wrong with machines they are there for you and get things back up and running. We cannot afford any downtime. The network they have built for us now runs smoothly and we are very satisfied.” (Roger Diski. Owner, Rainbow Tours – voted best Tour operator by the Observer, 2004)

"As a writer who is continually stressed out by deadlines as well as someone who is a computing virgin and inevitably panics when my PC – whose inner workings I don’t even pretend to understand – lets me down. Fortunately Timothy Leitch really is the computer genie and he has saved my bacon (and often the whole hog too) time and again. I unreservedly recommend him." (Alan Frank: Film Critic - The Daily Star)

Our Services

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• All PC and Mac Software and Hardware problem-solving
• PC's built to order from £450
• Email problems solved
• Upgrades and Repairs
• Windows and Mac OS Installations (with NO loss of data)
• Wireless Networking a speciality
• Server Installation and maintenance for the small to medium business
• Plain speaking advice on Virus protection, Spyware, and Spam
• Domain and Email forwarding accounts from £25 per year
• Moving House? We can get everything up and running again quickly
• Advice on Which Broadband to choose
• Advice on accessing your Email from anywhere in the world
• Need plain speaking advice about a website? We can help
• Want to set up an Office database? Give us a call
• In fact, just about anything you can think of, we have it covered

About Computer Genie

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Computer Genie is owned and managed by Timothy Leitch BSc. (Hons)
Timothy has been in the IT industry for over ten years

Rate Card | As of 1st May 2010

OFF SITE | (You bring/send your equipment to us)
Flat rate of £70 per hour except in the case of an emergency rush job which requires overnight work. In which case £80 per hour. In most cases this is not necessary.
ON SITE | (Your location)
£75 per hour - Mon-Fri 9-5 pm

Out of hours: negotiable

CONCESSIONS | If you are on a low income, please ask about my reduced rates for those in receipt of benefits or similar financial hardship. I'm always willing to help if I can.

Please note:

1. The 1st hour of any On Site appointment will
be charged at one & a half times the normal rate to allow
for travelling time. (i.e. Mon-Fri 9-5 pm; first hour
is £112.50. Subsequent hours are £75 per hour).
2. My minimum charge is 1 hour.


TELEPHONE & E-MAIL SUPPORT
One telephone call* and/or e-mail will be charged at a minimum rate of £8. Subsequent time is charged pro-rata. It therefore makes sense to make a list of questions BEFORE calling, to maximise value for money. We encourage e-mail enquiries, for then you will have an email to refer to both then and in the future. However, if your question is about your email not working... :)
Note: Support calls/emails and remote access are invoiced quarterly.

* Please try to call us between 9.00 am and 12.00 noon. (As we will then be able to give you our full attention and will also have access to a computer to help talk you through things.)


COLLECTIONS & DELIVERIES
If you wish us to collect/deliver your machine, we charge a minimum of 1 hour. (This is because we will need to make a special trip by car - while we generally travel by Motorcycle).
Note: This is over and above any time On Site. You may prefer to deliver/pick up your machine yourself and/or arrange a taxi. In the case of a laptop where we are already On Site or scheduled to attend in any case, there will be no delivery charge.


CANCELLATIONS
We require a full 48 hours notice for cancellations in order to give us the chance to schedule in other clients. Cancellations between 24 and 48 hours will be charged at half the normal rate. Cancellations inside the 24 hour period will be charged at full rate.
Note: This INCLUDES the extra half hour for travelling charged for On Site visits.

Please ALSO see our Terms and Conditions of Service.


Address: 107 Hampden Way, Southgate, London N14 5AU (nearest Tube is Southgate on the Piccadilly line)

Free parking is available at all times.
Telephone: 07941 88 55 09

Landline: 020 8362 8153 (but please try the mobile first as you are more likely to get me).
email: info@computer-genie.co.uk | web: www.computer-genie.co.uk