The following are examples of types of Internet service that may be available to you:

1. Fiber optic: A form of broadband Internet delivered using a newer passive optical network technology. The data is transferred to your house using three different wavelengths in the infrared spectrum:  one for television, one for upload, and one for download. Fiber optics is usually associated with having the fastest residential speeds due to the higher bandwidth capabilities of the infrastructure. A typical fiber infrastructure uses the following wavelengths:
   • 1310 nm wavelength for upload data rate at 155 Mbit/s
   • 1490 nm wavelength for download data rate at 622 Mbit/s
   • 1550 nm wavelength for QAM cable television with 870 MHz of bandwidth
2. Cable Internet Access: A form of broadband Internet access that uses the cable television infrastructure to distribute Internet for business and residential applications. This usually requires coaxial cable (television cable) and Category 5 cable (Ethernet cable) for installation. Your Internet is often installed into an existing network (called a local loop) and your actual speeds might fluctuate depending on your local loop’s current data usage (peak data usage times). The data bit transfer download rate typically ranges from as much as 400 Mbit/s for business and 100 Mbit/s for residential service.
3. ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line): A form of broadband Internet access that uses the telephone infrastructure to distribute Internet for business and residential applications. ADSL is an older technology, but widespread availability has made it hugely successful. The data bit transfer ranges between 256 Kbit/s to 40 Mbit/s download rate, and is heavily dependent on the DSL technology, line conditions, and service-level implementation.
4. Satellite connections (3g and 4g type connections): A form of Internet access that uses the cellular infrastructure to distribute Internet for business and residential applications.  The cellular network is constantly improving and each new generation of hardware provides improvement from the previous generation’s bandwidth capabilities (e.g. 2g, 3g, 4g). The most current generation of cellular towers and network coverage is called 4g. One of the advantages of having a cellular Internet access is the widespread coverage over the air.  Satellite connections such as Verizon, Sprint, ATT, and T-Mobile are not ideal for business applications due to high latency. The cellular network is a very convenient option for residential applications when any of the other connections are not available.

We hope that this helps you determine the best type of Internet service for your business or home. If you need more information or further assistance, please do not hesitate to call us at Tech Helpline.

Contributions to this article were made by Devin Sag, Tech Helpline Technical Analyst

About Tech Helpline
The Tech Helpline goal is to provide superior technology support services to all. We have been in operation for ten years, and our talented, US-based analysts share a passion for technology and are here to help you with your technology questions. Remember to contact Tech Helpline for your computer support needs.

Being one of the more popular platforms for smart phones today, the Android operating system is a great asset to casual and business users alike. But just like the Windows platform on your computer, this popularity and open-endedness for apps has exploded with many opportunities for some great and not-so-great apps to be downloaded to your mobile device. According to a 2011 Mobile Threats Report by Juniper Networks’ Security Intelligence Center, viruses and malicious software went from 0.5% market on Android compared to other platforms in 2010, to 46.7% in 2011, which is quite alarming. These infected devices create risks for companies and business. So, what is a Realtor or business professional to do?

The first thing that is important to realize is there is no perfect security – for your computer, for your life (even the safest cars can get into accidents), or for your mobile device. The best hope for protecting your information lies in antivirus software for your mobile device. In the last year a lot of software has come out with features for backing up, remotely wiping the device of all information, remotely locking the device, and GPS tracking, but all these bells and whistles are not where their greatest use lies in protecting you. This being the case, we at the Tech Helpline have researched some viable options for your mobile security.

AV-TEST.org ran tests to find the most effective security software for Android devices. Forty one virus scanners were run against 618 types of malware. 65% of those types of malware were not detected by two-thirds of the scanners. This makes them unreliable and unsuitable for your security, as the firm writes. The software that came out on top were: Avast, Dr. Web, F-Secure, Ikarus, Kaspersky, Lookout, and Zoner. The other software was not entirely useless, though, as they had features to protect you from theft such as remote wipe and remote lock, but did not do so well against malware.

At the Tech Helpline we have given many recommendations for Avast software for the PC, so it is very comforting to see a known name in that group that we have trusted in the past. The Avast software for Android is free, as well as many of the others mentioned.

This is a new age of technology. Apple has dubbed this the Post-PC Era, in which portable devices make use of a lot of the things we did – and still do – on PCs. It’s important to take care of your information with proper protection and there is no time better than now.

Contributions to this article were made by Allen Williams, Tech Helpline Technical Analyst.

About Tech Helpline
The Tech Helpline goal is to provide superior technology support services to all. We have been in operation for ten years, and our talented, US-based analysts share a passion for technology and are here to help you with your technology questions. Remember to contact Tech Helpline for your computer support needs.

If you’re a Google user, you have recently seen a notice regarding their new privacy policy. This notice includes two options: “Dismiss” and “Learn More.” This pop-up is appearing across all the Google based services, and encourages users to learn how Google is handling your private information.

First, it is important to understand how Google currently handles and monitors traffic before one can appreciate Google’s latest changes. A website’s privacy policy is created to regulate and communicate how they are handling data they receive when you log in, browse content, and register for a website. Google’s objective is to collect and compile user information (including browser language, telephone numbers, and search queries) while you are logged onto a Google based account (e.g., Google Search, YouTube, Gmail, Google Plus). They then take that information and store it in a central location for analysis. Google uses this information to create customized advertisements and tailor search results to be unique to each individual user.

Google claims that they will not sell or share any of its information it collects with any other third-party companies. It’s important to note that the most recent policy change is not going to change how Google handles your information; surprisingly, Google has been using this method of gathering information for years. The biggest and most important change is that instead of having different sets of data across separate services, now Google can combine that data to get a bigger picture. Google is going to be able to combine the data to a central location to get a more accurate and realistic representation of usage of services. As more user-based business appear online, it is imperative to stay educated on how companies such as Google handle such sensitive information.

A major feature of this new policy change is the ability to opt out of these services by turning off search history while logged into your Google account. The best way to opt out using Internet Explorer is to go into your Internet Options to disable the collection of browser history from the general tab. Mozilla Firefox requires that you go into the privacy settings to choose “never remember history.” Google Chrome has possibly the easiest way of opting out by using Google Chrome’s built in Incognito Mode. Allowing Google to gather and use your search data will start to modify results towards your trending usage.

A good example of a positive change for the individual begins by pretending that you search frequently about political subjects. Eventually, Google will recognize that you are viewing websites with a particular bias. Over a set period of time, websites that display an opposite bias will begin to have a lower priority in your search results. Another example of how Google will use your information to your benefit is interest-based advertisement. Google will use your trending searches along with other data to create “smart ads.” For instance, if you search for bicycling and outdoor sports regularly on YouTube, you might see adds generated that will display local bicycle shops the next time you do a search on Google’s homepage. As you can see, Google’s policy does not appear to be all as bad as some may try to tell you.

If you have any questions or need help adjusting your privacy settings, please contact us and a Tech Analyst will happy to assist you.

Contributions to this article were made by Devin Sag, Tech Helpline Technical Analyst

About Tech Helpline
The Tech Helpline goal is to provide superior technology support services to all. We have been in operation for ten years, and our talented, US-based analysts share a passion for technology and are here to help you with your technology questions.

Google Chrome is a web browser similar to Internet Explorer and Firefox. The browser is preferred by many over the more commonly used Internet Explorer for personal use due to its superior speed. While it is true that Google Chrome is arguably the fastest web browser available, unfortunately, many websites such as the MLS and Form Simplicity are not compatible with Chrome. We here at Tech Helpline have researched and found a way for this browser to be useful in all aspects. Best of all, we will gladly make these changes for you or assist you with them if you’d like.

IE Tab

IE Tab is an add-on extension for the Chrome browser which allows Internet Explorer’s Engine to be used in the currently open tab whenever the IE Tab icon is clicked. This creates a second address bar primarily for Internet Explorer browsing and functions exactly as if you were using Internet Explorer without losing the preferred speed of Chrome, thus allowing you to view your MLS, Form Simplicity, or other normally incompatible websites without opening Internet Explorer.

Installation

Installation is easy and we will gladly assist you over the phone or through our chat system.

1. Open Google Chrome. Browse to “www.ietab.net/home” (without the quotation marks).
2. Click on “Get IE Tab for Chrome.” A new page open.
3. In the new page that opens click on the blue “+ Add to Chrome” button at the top right.
4. Click “Install” in the window that opens.

To run the tab you currently have open with Internet Explorer’s engine, click on the IE Tab button located between the Star on the address bar and the Wrench on the right top of the browser.

IE Tab has a couple of great options to help make life easier. To access them click on the IE Tab icon, then, when the second address bar appears below the first, click on the wrench and screw driver icon.

Auto URLs, IE Compatibility Mode

Auto URLs is an option that allows you to type in a full web address to add to a list, which is then identified to be opened with IE Tab. For example; if you add your MLS website address to this list, any time you visit your MLS it will open with IE Tab, allowing it all the perks of Internet Explorer.

The IE Compatibility Mode option controls which version of Internet Explorer IE Tab is emulating. This is great for some websites that do not work with newer versions of Internet Explorer, such as the MLS, by setting the Compatibility Mode to a prior version of Internet Explorer.

For more information about IE Tab please visit http://www.ietab.net/faq or contact us to assist you in configuring Google Chrome and IE Tab.

Contributions to this article made by Allen Williams, Tech Helpline Analyst

About Tech Helpline
The Tech Helpline goal is to provide superior technology support services to all. We have been in operation for ten years, and our talented, US-based analysts share a passion for technology and are here to help you with your technology questions.

Get ready this season for some great discounted technology sales. Don’t worry if you missed this year’s Black Friday; there are still deals to be found online throughout the months of December and January.

Flash Drives:

Know someone still using tapes or burning DVD’s for backups? If you know a working professional that needs easy file transfer capabilities and storage, do him or her a favor and take a look at the USB flash storage devices on sale this month. There are only a couple simple things to keep in mind when trying to decide what flash drive to purchase:

1. Transfer Speed? USB 3.0 is the newest standard and will transfer data faster when using a USB 3.0 compatible computer (if your computer is a few years old, you might not see a great difference in transfer speed over 2.0). The USB 3.0 flash drives will likely be backwards compatible, but will cost more money for the same storage size.
2. Storage Size? The cost per GB (Gigabyte) of data storage appears to be right around $1 per GB. At the storage size of 64GB, the cost per GB will rise to a higher amount so keep that in mind when shopping.

MP3 Players:

Purchasing the right mp3 player can seem overwhelming at first because there are a lot of features to choose from. The majority of these features are choices that will not reflect the performance of the device, but are personal preferences.

1. Mixed media device? Or pure music? The average mp3 player has evolved into something more than playing just music. Some of the more expensive mp3 players will have a small screen to view videos and games and will often come with a touch screen interface. The more expensive mp3 players will also be able to play a wide variety of music and video formats. While this seems impressive, a lot of the touch screen devices will come with a standard storage device instead of flash memory.
2. Storage type and size: If you plan on using your mp3 player while stationary (sitting or light activity), consider getting an mp3 player with non-flash memory; you will be able to get more storage space for your music for a lower price. If you do plan on using the device while participating in heavy activities (running, or biking), purchase an mp3 player with flash memory storage. The flash memory will ensure that the music will not skip, and the lifetime and performance of the device will not suffer from jolting movements.

Laptops:

Is your computer running slow or not working as well as it used to? If you have had your laptop for over 4 years, it might be time to upgrade (older computers might be more expensive to repair than buying a brand one new!). Expect to pay around $450 for an adequate entry-level laptop. Here is a quick breakdown to look for when purchasing a laptop:

1. Screen size: If purchasing a computer as a desktop replacement, take a look at getting a 16” screen or larger. This screen size will make objects easier to seeand will offer less strain on the eyes over time. If you plan on moving this laptop back and forth from work, you may want to consider a screen size of 15.6” or smaller.
2. CPU: CPU (central processing unit) is the ‘brain’ of the computer and is the center of most computers operations. For both road warriors and desktop replacement laptops, take a look at the Intel i3 or i5 series; they will offer you high performance, reliability, and lifespan without the price tag of some other processors.
3. Memory: Do not purchase a laptop with less than 2 GB (Gigabytes) of memory.  This is a standard and should be seen as a minimum for even the most basic of basic computers. If you plan on being a heavy user (e.g., 15 browser windows Excel, Word, and Outlook open at the same time), you will need at least 4 GB of memory.
4. Hard Drive: 350 GB is a baseline for storage space. A 350 GB hard drive will hold all of your programs and updates, and will leave enough space for pictures, downloads, and videos. Ignore any laptop deals that have storage less than 250 GB.
5. Price: Expect to pay around $450 for a brand new laptop. Price will vary for a variety of reasons, and you will often find the best deals in online stores such as  Newegg and CompUSA.

Happy shopping!

Contributions to this article were made by Devin Sag, Tech Helpline Technical Analyst

About Tech Helpline
The Tech Helpline goal is to provide superior technology support services to all. We have been in operation for ten years, and our talented, US-based analysts share a passion for technology and are here to help you with your technology questions.

Tech Helpline has compiled some helpful tips to consider when deciding what to purchase for your business needs in the ever-changing world of technology.

Macs
Mac computers have many loyal users and for good reason. Macs rarely have problems and are visually appealing. For business use, they are comfortable and easy to use. Since Mac computers are not the prevailing force in the computing world, many websites are not Mac compatible. However, with an increase in Mac users over the past few years, this may soon change. It is definitely recommended to do some research before buying a Mac to see if it will fit your needs and is compatible with websites you frequently visit.

Netbooks
Netbooks is a new classification of laptop. They are lightweight and easy to carry, but they do not include a CD drive. These are great computers for Internet and email, as well as basic computing needs, but not as powerful as larger laptops.

iPad
The iPad is an amazing, supplementary device. Apple, the manufacturer of the iPad, did not build them as a replacement for your computer, but as an enhancement to your computing needs. The real value of the iPad is in the apps. Apps are third-party applications, just like programs for your computer. Talk to your friends who have iPads and iPhones about their favorite apps and how they use them and decide if this is a device you may want to invest in. Similar to Macs, iPads also have some limitations, and you will want to consider those during your decision-making process.

Smartphones
How great is it that our phones now have touch screens and can organize much of our work, notes, and schedules? Common smartphone brands include the iPhone and the Android-run devices. The iPhone is one, singular device, in which the same accessories work on all iPhones. There are many different brands of Android-devices, on the other hand, with an assortment of features. All Andriods run on the same operating system, but they do not support the same accessories.

What is the wise choice?
With many different options, what is right for you? Netbooks are amazing for travel, schoolwork, or in situations where you’d like to use a computer without carrying a large laptop. They have great battery life and rarely fail, but are not full computers in the sense of power. Macs are great for creative design as well as personal use, but in business, there are many needs which may outweigh the benefits of purchasing the Mac due to incompatibility issues. Some Android phones have larger screens and perform faster than the iPhone, but the iPhone has demonstrated, over the last four years, that it is a useful smartphone for professionals. The iPad is a great supplementary device but not a necessity. Also, consider that the Apple devices can be more costly than other options, so it is recommended to find out if they meet your needs before purchasing.

The price tag alone should be a serious indication of needed research, but always take time with new technology by speaking to other peers who use it before you jump head-first into new exciting trends of business, or, as always, call the Tech Helpline. We are here to help you.

Contributions to this article made by Allen Williams, Tech Helpline analyst

You may be asking yourself what this means for you. For those who have websites, your website will run faster and allow you to drive efficient experiences. For those who have not created their website yet, never fear – things are going to get much, much easier.

All websites are developed using HTML, which is the blueprint for the way your website is going to look and feel. The process for adding any additional graphical or multimedia content requires the use of third-party extensions. This is the current standard, but it makes things slower for the user. For those who have ever created their own website, you are probably aware that previous versions of html can become complicated.

With the invention of HTML5, that multimedia and graphical content will be integrated into the base code of your website. This essentially cuts out the middle man plug-ins, such as JavaScript, and XHTML, making websites load faster for the users.

There are multiple new features being integrated into HTML5 that you should be excited about:

1. Canvas – Tired of waiting for flash player to load?  Canvas will eliminate the need to download and constantly update your flash player.
2. Timed media playback – know that your users might find a certain section of your website difficult? Set a help tutorial to display after a certain amount of time spent on the more complicated sections of your website.
3. Offline storage database – Goodbye cookies, they will become obsolete as the new form of storage is much more secure for both the user and the host.

Apple users rejoice! Safari is the first browser to become almost 100 percent compatible with this new upcoming standard. Windows based users are not too far behind – Firefox 6.0, and Google Chrome browsers are both nearly 95 percent compatible at the moment, and updates are being pushed out to make the release of HTML5 a smooth transition for everyone.

Eagerly awaiting this new and exciting standard? Verify that your web browser is compatible, and compare your scores with your colleagues at http://html5test.com.

We hope that this information has been helpful and remember if you have any questions or need computer repair or remote tech support, call Tech Helpline.

Contributions to this article were made by Devin Sag, Tech Helpline Technical Analyst

Tech Helpline would love to help you through the frenzy of sales with many helpful considerations that should allow you to find what fits your needs. Below you will find a list of options that may help you make the right choice and save you time and money.

Options to Consider

Much of the process of finding a new system to replace your old computer is finding what suits your needs as well as something that will stay current for a long time. New technology may have been released since you last shopped for a computer and you may not be sure if you need all the bells and whistles that are available. Consider the following options as you prioritize and budget for your next purchase.

Tech Support

Something that is often overlooked when purchasing a new computer is what will happen if the time comes when something unexpectedly goes wrong with the computer. Dell, for example, offers many levels and forms of support. Companies like Dell offer regular technical support and levels that include “North American Tech Support.” You may want to look into the manufacturers’ website for additional options other than the simple one-year manufacturers’ warranties.

Do You Really Need a New Computer?

Very often, adding more memory or having a technician install a faster/newer hard drive may save your computer from being considered obsolete, and in most cases, can cost as little as $20-$50.

Battery Life

This is a major part of purchasing a laptop or a tablet. The battery life can make or break a purchase for a hardworking individual on the go. Shopping from the website of the manufacturer may yield more battery options. Often times purchasing another battery or a longer-lasting (but bigger and maybe heavier) battery is best up front rather than worrying about it after you’ve made the purchase and realized it was not enough for your needs.

Purchasing Your Computer In-Store or Online

This is one thing many buyers don’t consider. If you purchase a computer in the store you will have it in your hands right away, but what if you want to save money and are willing to wait? It is highly recommended to consider looking at the computers in person but buying online if you have the time to wait for the computer to be delivered. Buying online can save you money and allows you to choose many of the components that go into building the computer, which you otherwise would not be able to change after having made the purchase.

Contributions to this article were made by Allen Williams, Tech Helpline Technical Analyst

About Tech Helpline
The Tech Helpline goal is to provide superior technology support services to all. We have been in operation for ten years, and our talented, US-based analysts share a passion for technology and are here to help you with your technology questions.

Notebook Owners

For notebook owners, keeping your computer from overheating can be more involved than a desktop.  The process can be made autonomous when taking advantage of certain tools or equipment designed for notebook computers.  Follow these tips to have your notebook working in prime condition this summer.

1. Use your notebook on a solid flat surface with 2” clearance surrounding the device to allow it to ‘breathe’. Avoid using a pillow or other non flat surface.
2. Consider investing in a cooling pad for your notebook. There are many kinds and brands available to you; look for one with built in fans that will help ventilate and draw out the hot air.
3. Purchase an aerosol air duster and use it briefly to blow on the openings on the sides and back of the notebook.
4. Turn off your computer when you are no longer going to use the device. Notebooks are not meant to be run for more than 30 hours at a time. The computer needs time for a break, and benefits from an hour of ‘off time’ every 24 hours as a minimum.

Desktop Owners
For desktop owners, keeping your computer from overheating can be something easily overlooked, as the tower itself is not manipulated as much as a notebook. Some of the tips are similar to protecting a notebook; however, there are some key differences here.

1. Make sure that there is at least 2“of clearance behind the desktop to allow the exhaust of the desktop to work properly and expel hot air.
2. Keep your computer vents clear! A desktop by default will require more air circulation than a notebook. Because of the high amounts of air circulation required, a desktop is more susceptible to dust buildup. Purchase an aerosol air duster and use it briefly to blow on the openings on the sides and back and front of the desktop.
3. Computer wheezing or making strange sounds? Consider replacing the default case fans that come with the computer.  This process requires minimal knowledge of computer repair and can be completed in a matter of minutes with a screwdriver as your only tool.

It pays to keep your computer cool. By following these simple steps, you should be able to keep your computer within its safe operating temperature limits.

If you have any questions, please call our Tech Helpline to speak with one of our knowledgeable experts.

Contributions to this article were made by Devin Sag, Tech Helpline Technical Analyst

Windows Vista and Windows 7 are both great operating systems with some features that are undiscovered by many of their users. In this edition of Tech Helpline’s Lifeline, we explore the options you have as a Windows Vista or Windows 7 user to back up your computer and files.

Complete PC Backup

If you own Windows Vista Business, Ultimate or Windows 7 Home Premium, you have access to the ability to completely back up your computer in case of a catastrophic hard drive crash or powerful virus. This is the best form of backup and all it requires is an external hard drive and time to set aside to start the process.

In Windows Vista Business and Ultimate:
Click the Start button on the lower left-hand corner. Type in “Backup” but do not press enter. Look for “Backup Status and Configuration” to appear in the search list and click on that. Click on “Complete PC Backup.” Click “Create a backup now” and follow the prompts to select the external device (external hard drive, usually) onto which you’d like to back up your computer. You will be asked which drive to back up.; usually this is the “C:” drive.

In Windows 7:
Click the Start button on the lower left-hand corner. Type in “Backup” but do not press enter. Look for “Back up your computer” to appear in the search list and click on that. Click on “Create a system image.” Select the external device (external hard drive, usually) to which you will be backing up your computer. You will be asked which drive to back up; usually this is the “C:” drive.

The process may take an hour or more. The Complete PC backup is for major backups. Follow with regular backups as instructed below to have the latest inventory of your more important files backed up  while using the complete backup as a good starting point to recover from in case of a crash.


Windows Vista and 7′s built-in backup features

Windows Vista and 7 hold the tools to also periodically back up your more important files on a regular schedule. This process is rather quick and painless. Being that this exists in windows itself, you can use this process on any computer manufactured in the last four years with Windows on it.

In Windows Vista:
Click the Start button on the lower left-hand corner. Type in “Backup” but do not press enter. Look for “Backup Status and Configuration” to appear in the search list and click on that then click on “Back Up Files”. Click “Set up automatic file backup” and follow the prompts to select the external device (external hard drive or USB Flash drive, typically) to which you would like to back up your files. You will then be presented with options for which files you would like to back up.

In Windows 7:
Click the Start button on the lower left-hand corner. Type in “Backup” but do not press enter. Look for “Back up your computer” to appear in the search list and click on that and then click on “Set up backup”. Select the external device (external hard drive or USB Flash drive, typically) to which you will be backing up your files. You will then be presented with options for which files you would like to back up, including allowing Windows to choose for you (recommended).


Backing up a computer is essential for keeping your valuable documents, photos and records around. Just a few minutes of your time can save you from unnecessary stress, anxiety, and in the case of businesses, lost revenue.

Contributions to this article were made by Allen Williams, Tech Helpline Technical Analyst

About Tech Helpline
The Tech Helpline goal is to provide superior technology support services to all. We have been in operation for ten years, and our talented, US-based analysts share a passion for technology and are here to help you with your technology questions.