If you follow me on Twitter, @TrustWiseCmptrs, I posted a comment about Windows Updates and using System Restore in order to fix a problem.

This post will explain how to use System Restore in order to restore back to the point before the update was applied.

If you own a Windows machine you have the ability to restore your system back to a specified date in order to fix a problem you have encountered. This can happen when you install a new piece of software, a game or in this case a Windows Update. Here are the steps to follow in order to setup a Restore point and use the Restore point.

…This may differ between Operating Systems…

1. Click Start > right click Computer > on the left side click System Protection > click Create

Type in a name, “Before Driver Update” or “Before Windows Update” and click create. You have now created a restore point, this basically saves a snap shot of the system state just in case something goes wrong.

Now how do you use it?

1. Click Start > All Programs > Accessories folder > System Tools > System Restore

2. Choose your restore point, in this case “Before Windows Update.”

3. Click finish

Your computer will begin the process of restoring your computer prior to the update.

The reason I created this post;

I recently had a computer in my shop that was having major issues, I initially thought it was a virus because of how badly it was running. After some research I found that others were experiencing the same problem and it was do to a Windows Update. This is a problem that I come across from time to time. System Restore is built into all current Windows Operating Systems and should be understood by the owners of each system.

System Restore was not meant to be a tool for just technicians but a tool for all users, I hope you find this helpful.

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The IPhone 4 has been a hot topic since the day it was released. Personally, I have the Motorola Droid and Love it. I also know many people that have the IPhone, get the newest IPhone on the market as soon as it comes out and never have a single complaint. It seems to me that the media just needs something to talk about and Apple is #1 for now. If I were Jobs I would enjoy the free marketing of there phone, not saying that he hasn’t, but as it seems with the number of sales it has only helped Apple and not hindered it.

Check out this song and leave your thoughts.

1. Has the Reception issue really been that big of a problem or is the media blowing it out of proportion?
2. Is Apple putting enough effort into fixing the problem?
3. Do you think this along with other issues has hurt the market share of Apple?
4. What are your thoughts on the Droid OS and the new Droid X?
5. What about all the other “Smart Phones” do they hold a candle?

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There are a few steps you as a computer owner can take to keep your computer running like new. This months post will walk you step by step through a few easy processes you can take to clean up a slow machine or keep your new machine running as if you just bought it.When you buy a new computer it is loaded with very few programs and is optimized out of the box. As soon as you start installing new software you begin a slow process of slowing down and clogging up your computer.

Step 1. Run disk cleanup once a month

Here is the process to run this utility – Click on Start>point to Programs>Accessories>System Tools>click Disk Clean Up. The utility starts to calculate the files that are available to delete. After a small wait you will see a second window pop up. Check all boxes and click next. Disk cleanup removes all files you specify and leaves you with a clean machine.

Step 2. Run disk defragment every 90 days

You will find this utility in the same location Start>point to Programs>Accessories>System Tools>click Defragment. This utility takes all the files, software, etc. that you have installed and reorganizes them in order to speed up the time it takes your computer to find what you ask it to.

Step 3. Make sure you have an Anti Virus and keep it updated

You can do your own research but here are a few recommendations.

Free – Panda Cloud Anti Virus, AVG Free, Avast

Paid - ESET internet security, Norton internet security, AVG, Panda

Keep in mind, free anti viruses keep your computer clean but lack a lot of the security features of a paid version. Such as firewalls and USB scanners.

Step 4. Keep your computer up to date

Make sure all software is updated, this includes Windows, Java, Adobe Reader and Flash Player. Your computer is set up to automatically install these updates but if you see a request for attention pay attention and run the updates.

Keep in mind this is a basic list of just a few ways to keep your computer running well. This in no way is all inclusive and there are many utilities you can use to accomplish these steps and more. Also keep in mind that the sites you view also play a large roll as to the health of your computer.

If you have any questions pertaining to this post or any computer related problems give me a call or email me

541-499-6018

support@trustwisecomputers.com

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