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Computer Services - Frequently Asked Questions.

Why is my computer running slow?
- There are several things that can cause your computer to be running slow. The main ones usually are lack of memory or spyware. In an attempt to improve speed you could increase your RAM (Random Access Memory) or try running an anti spyware programme. If you require any assistance with this please give us a call.

What is spy ware?
- Software that covertly gathers user information through the user's Internet connection without his or her knowledge, usually for advertising purposes. Spyware applications are typically bundled as a hidden component of freeware or shareware programs that can be downloaded from the Internet. Once installed, the spyware monitors user activity on the Internet and transmits that information in the background to someone else. If you have spyware on your computer you are likely to suffer from lots of pop ups.

What is a virus?
- A program or piece of code that is loaded onto your computer without your knowledge and runs against your wishes. Viruses can also replicate themselves. All computer viruses are manmade. A simple virus that can make a copy of itself over and over again is relatively easy to produce. Even such a simple virus is dangerous because it will quickly use all available memory and bring the system to a halt. An even more dangerous type of virus is one capable of transmitting itself across networks and bypassing security systems.

How can I remove spy ware and viruses and prevent my computer from getting any more?
- The simplest way is to visit our downloads page and download the antivirus and anti spyware programmes. These programmes will scan your computer and remove any items that should not be there.

Can I increase the memory on my computer?
- You can increase the memory providing your computer has available slots for it.

I have an old pc and would like it updated, is this possible? If so how?
- Some computers can be updated / upgraded but not all. If the computer has the right specification then you can upgrade windows by buying a newer version from any decent computer shop. The upgrade process is pretty self explanitory.

I have just brought a new computer and have no idea how to set it up, can you help me?
- Yes we can, we can come to your home and set the computer up for you and make sure you are completley happy with the system and how it works.

I have more than one computer, how do I share files between them?
- To do this you would need to set up a network. Give us a call for further advice.

I would like to use my laptop anywhere in the house, how can I do this?
- To use a laptop anywhere in the house you would need a wireless network. Give us a call for further advice.

I am using dial-up to access the internet but it is very slow is there an alternative?
- There is an alternative. There is cable or ADSL. ADSL is provided through your normal telephone line and can be used side by side with the phone, the other is Cable Broadband that is provided via a special cable connection, for example, Virgin Media.

I am having trouble sending and receiving emails, can you help me?
- Yes, first of all check that you have an internet connection, check that you havent changed any settings in your email programme. If not then give us a call.

My printer isn't working, what can I do?
- Generally printers will fix themselves if you just turn it off and back on again.

I need to be able to print from any computer without putting any leads in, how can I do this?
- You could either share the printer through another computer on a wireless network, or attach a wireless print server to the printer. Either way, you would need a network setup.

I am new to computers and laptops; can you give me some tips on how to use them?
- We can provide starter lessons and help you learn quickly the basics of computing.

I have just taken pictures on my digital camera, how can I put them on my pc or laptop?
- Usually the camera is supplied with a cable that connects the camera to the computer. With this cable connected at both ends, switch the camera on, goto My Computer and you should see it in the list. From here you can drag and drop the files where you want them. Give us a call if you need further help.

I can't open PDF documents, what can I do?
- To be able to open PDF documents you need Adobe Acrobat Reader installed. You can download it here.

I have just brought a new laptop but it has no word processor or spreadsheets etc installed, what can I do?
- You may have been provided with a copy of Microsoft Works with the computer, if you have then this will provide the facility to do word processing etc, if not then you could either buy Microsoft Office or you could download open office from the internet.

At the moment I am using a web mail service, can I use my emails in outlook and if so how?
- You can use outlook or another email programme as a long as your email provider supports this facility. Give us a call if you need further help.

I have lost some files, how can I get them back?
- It is possible to retrieve lost files but it can be a tricky process and you need to install special software. Give us a call and we can help you.

I want to use a new computer but keep all my old documents and favourites, is this possible? If so how?
- You can transfer your documents and settings if you are moving from a computer with windows xp. If not then it is still possible to transfer your files. Give us a call and we will advise further.