Wednesday, January 25, 2012

Make Your Website More Panda Friendly

 by: James Salerno

The recent Google Panda update has raised the bar not only for SEO experts but also for web designers. It’s getting tougher and tougher to rank well and that means that you really have to pay attention to all designing and Google ranking factors. When we do this, search engines rewards us because we are rewarding our audience and providing them with the information and experience they are looking for. The following points will help you to make your website panda proof:-

1.Content is key:The Panda algorithm update emphasizes providing assurance only on websites that contain unique and useful content. This will help users better find content relevant to their search. If you provide web page content that is unique, relevant, high quality and preferably 1000+ words, your site will likely be rewarded with improved rankings and therefore, increased traffic.

2.Above the fold design: Narrowing your header images, removing header banner images and pushing more content onto the top of your site will help with Panda.

3.Web Page indexing: A website with more than 100 web pages and maximum pages indexed by Google would be considered as a Panda friendly website.

4.Page rank: Page rank is still one of the most important factors. PageRank is an independent measure of Google’s perception of the quality/authority/credibility of an individual web page. It does not depend on any particular search phrase. Google conveniently reports this as a number from 0-10 (10 being the best).

5.Check your Domain registration: Domain registration for five years helps to enhance authority points. This is a small tip, but every little bit helps.

6.Webmaster tools: It enables webmasters to get a better idea of what Google “thinks” about their web sites, how the Google “spider” sees them, and what improvements could be made.

7.Social media proof: Google Panda takes social media trends seriously and content that is loved by social media sites like Twitter and Facebook gets better position in search engines.

8.Optimize for Fast Load Times: Avoid flash, single background images in the website. Google tends to favor sites that are snappy, quick, and fast.

Article copied from: http://articlecity.com
by: James Salerno

Pro Computer Solutions is an IT outsourcing firm that specializes in network installation, network repair, network service, computer repair, custom built computers, software installation, and software management - trusted by business owners and companies in the Champaign/Urbana, Illinois area . Among the services that Pro Computer Solutions offers its clients are web development which include administration, WAMP development, Php programming, content management, website maintenance, web hosting services and many others. Contact us at 217-607-2494

Tuesday, January 24, 2012

What Can You Do If Your Email Account Is Wiped?

by: Sam Qam

Not so long ago many Gmail users went to check their mail only to find that their entire inbox and all their contact had been completely deleted. This shocking discovery was something done by Google by accident and only affected a very small percentage of its total users but made many people think about what would happen if all their emails were suddenly wiped forever. With approximately 300 billion emails being sent every day around the world, and as you are probably an email user yourself, you can imagine the carnage this could cause.

This article will attempt to offer some solutions as to what you can do if this happens to you.

Check who you are signed in as

If you are using one of the many popular online email providers like Gmail, Hotmail and Yahoo mail etc. it is possible that you have signed in as someone else. When you sign in you will notice that you can tick a box which says something like 'remember me' which means that every time this computer comes to this mail homepage it will automatically sign you in under whichever password that was used when that box was ticked. If you check the user name you are signed in as you may find that your sudden terror need only last for a couple of seconds before you switch back to your account.

Check your hard drive

If this is not the case you may want to start checking your hard drive. Many email systems, both online and offline provide a system where they back up all your emails in a folder on your hard drive so that you can't lose them. If this is the case you may be able to just bring your emails back to life with a few mouse clicks. Also, if you use a payment service provider and you get a lot of your emails through them when for payment notifications for example, chances are they may have a back-up of a lot of your important emails such as receipts of payments and invoices.

Contact your supplier

If this doesn't work you may want to contact your email supplier. Companies like Google will generally fall over themselves to help you as getting a bad reputation for losing emails is bad for business. Chances are your supplier will have a back-up of your emails on their servers which they will be able to use to restore your emails to how they were before they got deleted.

This article was copied from: http://articlecity.com
Author:  Sam Qam

Pro Computer Solutions is an IT outsourcing firm that specializes in network installation, network repair, network service, computer repair, custom built computers, software installation, and software management - trusted by business owners and companies in the Champaign/Urbana, Illinois area . Among the services that Pro Computer Solutions offers its clients are web development which include administration, WAMP development, Php programming, content management, website maintenance, web hosting services and many others. Contact us at 217-607-2494

Monday, January 23, 2012

The Official Pro Computer Solutions Facebook Contest

The Official Pro Computer Solutions Facebook Contest



Contest Terms:

 We are going for 250 likes on our Facebook page by February 29, 2012.(The people who have already "liked" our page will also be included in this contest.) If 250 "likes" are received by February 29, 2012 we will draw ONE name, from the 250 names, as the winner. Contestants will be required to submit their frequently checked email address to matt@procomputersol.com for notification purposes, enter Pro Computers Contest in the subject line. Your email and information will not be sold or otherwise distributed to any other business or entity and will only be used by Midwest Automotive & Diesel and Pro Computer Solutions for periodic marketing. By participating in this contest hosted by Pro Computer Solutions, the participant must comply with all but not limited to that which is stated on this disclaimer in order to be a candidate for winning the prize.  The winning participant will receive a PCS 100 or re-certified equivalent. Pro Computer Solutions reserves the right to change the prize at any time before the end of this contest. Pro Computer Solutions reserves the right to disqualify any contestant at any time if Pro Computer Solutions feels that the contestant is involved in any foul play or misrepresentation during the contest. Pro Computer Solutions reserves the right to refuse any individual applying to be in the contest if Pro Computer Solutions feels that there is a conflict of interest. This Contest is held for the general public and for all individuals representing ONLY themselves. Neither Corporate entities nor “Teams” composed of more than one individual may represent one contestant to win. Pro Computer Solutions will provide details of beginning date and ending date of the contest. No actions from any contestant(s) will be taken into consideration of winning this contest before the beginning date or after the ending date specified by Pro Computer Solutions.  There is no age limit for contestants. Pro Computer Solutions will not be Held Liable for any individual(s) attending this contest. All who become a contestant will do so purely on his or her own free will. Pro Computer Solutions will not be liable for the actions of any contestants during this contest. If 250 likes are not received by February 29, 2012, all terms of this contest will be void, and the prize will be held for another contest. If the contest winner is found to have not complied with the rules and terms of this contest an alternate winner will be drawn. If the contest winner does not redeem prize by March 30, 2012 an alternate winner will be drawn and will have 10 days to claim their prize. Upon winning, contestants will be required to log in to there Facebook account in front of an official at Pro Computer Solutions and also show photo I.D. for verification purposes only.

Also be sure to check out Midwest Automotive & Diesels contest. The rules are the same with a different prize.

Why Isn't My Laptop Battery Charging?

by: Green Rudd

 Laptop batteries are batteries used to power the laptop computer devices without the use of an AC power adapter. The length of time a laptop battery lasts is linked to the size of the battery and the amount of power used by a system's resources.

General Troubleshooting

A non-charging laptop battery can be caused by a number of different reasons, but a general troubleshooting principle for correcting this problem is to double-check and make sure the AC adapter used to charge the battery is connected correctly to the computer and to the power outlet. Also check that the power outlet is generating electricity (by plugging a different device to ensure it works).

Correct Voltage and Current

A laptop battery requires a specific voltage and current delivered from the AC adapter to be charged. Using an AC adapter that does not deliver the correct voltage or current specified by the laptop battery will cause the battery to recharge incorrectly or not at all.

Poor Connection

Dust and particle buildup between the battery and the laptop computer itself can cause a poor connection, resulting in loss of power or inability to charge the battery. Troubleshoot a laptop battery by removing it from the laptop and checking for buildup or residue on the battery's connectors.

Battery Memory

If a laptop is run on the battery and then plugged into using an AC adapter, over time the battery will condition itself to run for lesser amounts of time than normally expected. This is caused by a problem with the battery memory and can be fixed by completely draining all power from the battery before fully recharging it with an AC adapter.

Article copied from: http://www.articlecity.com
Article Author: by: Green Rudd

Pro Computer Solutions is an IT outsourcing firm that specializes in network installation, network repair, network service, computer repair, custom built computers, software installation, and software management - trusted by business owners and companies in the Champaign/Urbana, Illinois area . Among the services that Pro Computer Solutions offers its clients are web development which include administration, WAMP development, Php programming, content management, website maintenance, web hosting services and many others. Contact us at 217-607-2494 

Friday, January 20, 2012

What Would You Use A Remote Power Switch For

I guess you have noticed in the last couple of years the development in systems for remote power switches. Many really are a little technical to setup but when done can make a massive difference to the people using them. Being mindful of this I want to put together a little report on where these might be used and in actual fact what people are engaging in with these once they purchase them?

1. Restart Computer Servers - Many businesses are not all based in one location and can have only one IT team that are reasonable for the complete network based in the main hq. Sometimes it may be essential to restart a computer device in a branch since there might be some issues. Having remote power enables this type of thing to be accomplished out of hours while no one is there to physically press the switch. Everybody knows the old IT technique of reboot your computer and see what happens, and having this at hand can make a massive difference.

2. Retail Shops - In the past I worked for a retail firm, been in a position to reboot the IT equipment such as the cash till made it possible for updates to happen out of hours. This made a real big difference because you couldn't get to every place simultaneously and would be a logistical nightmare.

3. Home Systems - Been able to manage lamps in your home can make it seem just like you are home. Having the choice to flip on various lamps at home from work (if your stuck at work) can be extremely valuable. Also the option to switch on heating systems if out of the blue there is a cold spell that you just where not expecting or just forgot.

4. Desktop Computer - You caught at the job and you left behind some work at home on the home computer. Been able to power on this on and then using VNC (or some remote software) you can then gain access to your files might be a thing that really helps. When you’re finished you can needless to say power your home Computer down.

These are only a few of the concepts that you may use a remote power switch for. Actually it’s not restricted to these as there is so many other ways people are using these at the moment. I’ve seen one been used to switch on a video camera in a wild birds nest so they can be viewed over time. I’ve noticed one been used by a local store to power on a display screen when changed remotely. This list is endless and many individuals using them for all sorts of tasks.Supplied by:

Author:  Shawn Bushman
Supplied by: http://www.articlecity.com


Pro Computer Solutions is an IT outsourcing firm that specializes in network installation, network repair, network service, computer repair, custom built computers, software installation, and software management - trusted by business owners and companies in the Champaign/Urbana, Illinois area . Among the services that Pro Computer Solutions offers its clients are web development which include administration, WAMP development, Php programming, content management, website maintenance, web hosting services and many others. Contact us at 217-607-2494

Monday, January 16, 2012

Using Managed Server Hosting

With a plethora of choices among web hosting, it indeed becomes difficult to make the right selection. You are required to be clear about the needs and demands of your business before preferring any kind of web hosting service. You might be aware of how vital web hosting is for online businesses. Marketing efforts employed by your business cannot be successful until your website receives publicity. If your website contains numerous videos or images, then it certainly requires a lot of memory space and bandwidth capacity. Among the exclusive choices of web hosting,  managed hosting is given the top-most preference by website owners.

Managed hosting, commonly referred to as dedicated server hosting, is known as a type of web hosting wherein the server is not shared with another party, but is solely handled by a single client. It means that apart from a client no one else can have access to your server. It ensures that bandwidth, memory and hard drive space associated with your website aren’t shared. Invariably, this leads to faster loading process and also eliminates the risk factor related to illegal usage of your sever. Huge benefits are offered to you with respect to having absolute control over server functions such as operating hardware as well as the central system.

Some hosting service providers offer the provision of add-on features which include server administration and management tasks. It greatly reduces overhead costs and guarantees long-term returns. Therefore, managed server hosting is extremely beneficial for website owners. These managed hosting services assure optimum security and deliver additional data back-up system facility.

An enticing characteristic of managed server hosting is that it offers 24 hour monitoring by highly talented and skilled technicians. In case of any problem, these professionals can offer technical support and rectify the issue as quickly as possible. This in turn results in keeping the downtime of your website to minimum levels. You are also given constant notifications via phone alerts or messages, if a severe problem is detected.

Hiring streamlined services of managed hosting helps in saving a considerable amount of your time and money which would have been spent on ongoing server management. You can conveniently keep tabs on your website functions along with concentrating on varied income generating aspects of your business. Getting regular alerts on any kind of network issue becomes an essential requirement for websites especially if they are into monetary transactions and high traffic volume. The monitoring system designed by managed hosting service providers helps in reducing the possibility of virus attacks and other network problems.

While preferring the services of managed server hosting, you need to make sure that the hosting company has a good market reputation. This criterion will ensure that it delivers quality hosing services to clients. Online resources offer an insightful knowledge on reliable hosting service providers that offer packages at absolutely competitive prices. Pick the best managed hosting for your site and experience its benefits!
This article was copied from  http://www.articlecity.com/

Pro Computer Solutions is an IT outsourcing firm that specializes in network installation, network repair, network service, computer repair, custom built computers, software installation, and software management - trusted by business owners and companies in the Champaign/Urbana, Illinois area . Among the services that Pro Computer Solutions offers its clients are web development which include administration, WAMP development, Php programming, content management, website maintenance, web hosting services and many others.

Wednesday, January 11, 2012

Remote IT

Computer and Internet technology is a real blessing which has given direction and support to the modern world. It has so much intermingled with the profession and personal lives of people that it’s difficult to imagine a day without it. It has touched every corner of life and people from all walks of lives are using this. One should be highly grateful to the enterprising efforts of scientists and developers who are consistently involved in the business for a better tomorrow. However, problems and obstacles have never remained an exception. But certainly these are challenges which provoke development and invention.

In early days computer support was catered through direct on-site visits of technicians or by repair shops. Gradually, this method was substituted by remote technical support. In fact, this is a dynamic concept and is of great help. The Internet feasibility and the advent of quality remote software have given wings to the concept. This online support has crossed all barriers and hurdles and one can expect the support anywhere anytime. Whether one has a need of PC repair at home or office, day or night, facing small or big problems they can get instant help through the Internet or phone.

Computer Support is used in a broad sense and it encompasses support for every computer related issues which one might face in his or her life. Operating system, application software, router, printer and other program or devices are widely used with computers. A problem with any of these is inevitable. Again, there are brands and their respective models or software versions as well, so the term computer support gets segregated again accordingly. Microsoft Windows NT, Apple Mac, Linux, UNIX are the commonly known operating systems. Likewise, application software and security software are also available from various brands. This software is regularly updated or revised by the developers to induce better technologies and features.

Though, brands are offering Remote Technical Support, they restrict to their own products. As one can’t limit themselves to one particular brand of software or hardware, so this specific tech support would not be enough to deal with computer problems in the long run, hence, there is a constant surge for independent technical support providers, who can provide all-around support. Companies in this business offer support for all brands, and one would just need to call the Tech Support Phone Number (217-607-2494) and permit technicians to have remote access of his machine. Then the professional technician diagnoses the system in front of the owner’s eyes and troubleshoots it to fix the related issues. Hence, this has also mitigated the chance of data theft. They can also help the consumer to clad the system with the desired software and set-up and configure important peripherals with it. In case of system crash one doesn’t need to worry too much, as long as routine backups are made to restore the system and get back any valuable data that may have been lost. Besides that a good IT firm can provide driver support, antivirus support, e-mail support and more.
This article was copied from  http://www.articlecity.com/


 Pro Computer Solutions is an IT outsourcing firm that specializes in network installation, network repair, network service, computer repair, custom built computers, software installation, and software management - trusted by business owners and companies in the Champaign/Urbana, Illinois area . Among the services that Pro Computer Solutions offers its clients are web development which include administration, WAMP development, Php programming, content management, website maintenance, web hosting services and many others.

Tuesday, January 10, 2012

IT Outsourcing

Outsourcing nowadays has turned into an effective trend for firms that have a lot of data and electronic equipment as well as businesses belonging in the Information Technology (IT) industry. Tasks that are classified as operations and developments are usually those being outsourced. If you ask why companies resort to outsourcing, the straight answer for this is to cut down on cost without compromising the quality of service and still be able to meet clients needs. It is a fact that IT companies have so many ongoing projects. Software Development could sometimes be eating too much of their time, which is why they seek outsourcing service for the job. But IT and other business firms should also be careful in choosing outsourcing companies.

Below are some reminders.

1) Know what you need

Set specific goals and the requirements to meet such goals. Having sufficient information on a particular project provides a set of qualifications allowing you to be able to pick the right IT outsourcing firm fit for the job.

2) Get quotes

Once you have outlined your project, look for IT outsourcing firms that offer the service you need. It is advisable to ask for written quotes from three or more different IT outsourcing companies. Compare and evaluate the rates and the extent of the service they could provide.

3) Do Background checks

As part of your research after you have shortlisted three IT outsourcing firms for your project, try to get feedback from past clients. By doing so this would give you an idea of how the IT outsourcing firm works.

Furthermore, it will help you come up with the correct decision in choosing the right firm you naturally may feel best for the job.
 This article was copied from  http://www.articlecity.com/

Pro Computer Solutions is an IT outsourcing firm that specializes in network installation, network repair, network service, computer repair, custom built computers, software installation, and software management - trusted by business owners and companies in the Champaign/Urbana, Illinois area . Among the services that Pro Computer Solutions offers its clients are web development which include administration, WAMP development, Php programming, content management, website maintenance, web hosting services and many others.

Monday, January 9, 2012

The Official Pro Computer Solutions Facebook Contest



Contest Terms:

 We are going for 250 likes on our Facebook page by February 29, 2012.(The people who have already "liked" our page will also be included in this contest.) If 250 "likes" are received by February 29, 2012 we will draw ONE name, from the 250 names, as the winner. Contestants will be required to submit their frequently checked email address to matt@procomputersol.com for notification purposes, enter Pro Computers Contest in the subject line. Your email and information will not be sold or otherwise distributed to any other business or entity and will only be used by Midwest Automotive & Diesel and Pro Computer Solutions for periodic marketing. By participating in this contest hosted by Pro Computer Solutions, the participant must comply with all but not limited to that which is stated on this disclaimer in order to be a candidate for winning the prize.  The winning participant will receive a PCS 100 or re-certified equivalent. Pro Computer Solutions reserves the right to change the prize at any time before the end of this contest. Pro Computer Solutions reserves the right to disqualify any contestant at any time if Pro Computer Solutions feels that the contestant is involved in any foul play or misrepresentation during the contest. Pro Computer Solutions reserves the right to refuse any individual applying to be in the contest if Pro Computer Solutions feels that there is a conflict of interest. This Contest is held for the general public and for all individuals representing ONLY themselves. Neither Corporate entities nor “Teams” composed of more than one individual may represent one contestant to win. Pro Computer Solutions will provide details of beginning date and ending date of the contest. No actions from any contestant(s) will be taken into consideration of winning this contest before the beginning date or after the ending date specified by Pro Computer Solutions.  There is no age limit for contestants. Pro Computer Solutions will not be Held Liable for any individual(s) attending this contest. All who become a contestant will do so purely on his or her own free will. Pro Computer Solutions will not be liable for the actions of any contestants during this contest. If 250 likes are not received by February 29, 2012, all terms of this contest will be void, and the prize will be held for another contest. If the contest winner is found to have not complied with the rules and terms of this contest an alternate winner will be drawn. If the contest winner does not redeem prize by March 30, 2012 an alternate winner will be drawn and will have 10 days to claim their prize. Upon winning, contestants will be required to log in to there Facebook account in front of an official at Pro Computer Solutions and also show photo I.D. for verification purposes only.

Also be sure to check out Midwest Automotive & Diesels contest. The rules are the same with a different prize.

Computer Registry

Whenever you use your PC, it either reads or inserts entry onto a particular spot in its system. Overtime, this process can accumulate and cause some problems which are hard to ignore. It's because of this that you regularly have to scan and fix registry errors of your PC. This can be done by accessing the registry manually or by using software that is specially design to do this for you. Obviously there are many risks in doing it manually and this method requires extensive training. Continue reading to learn more about this. I will also be discussing a top quality registry cleaner software that we at Pro Computer Solutions use regularly.

The computer has to remember a lot of things - hardware attached, selected system options, running applications, etc. Each time you use it, it has to go through all of these entries. However, there may also be invalid, missing or double entries. Such can be caused by anything from removing a hardware previously attached, to deleting a file or program.

When this happens, you will notice that the PC will begin to work a lot slower than before. Although it goes through all these entries in a very fast manner, still it may take some time if there's too much to read. Eventually, you will also notice certain programs will refuse to run, and system crashes will surface more frequently.

Of course you can always take your computer to an expert to have all unnecessary entries removed, however this is a simple process with the correct software and is supposed to be done periodically to keep your computer in tip-top shape. Doing it on your own is definitely not recommendable, as you can even cause some irreversible damages.

Installing and running a registry cleaner is the best way for someone to help keep their computer running like normal and save the money it would cost to bring your computer in every month or so. This will automatically examine each of the entries made from day one. It removes safely and effectively those which are already invalid, missing or were recorded twice. This is a much safer way for you to do so, instead of attempting to manually remove entries which can cause major PC problems.

You may scan and fix the registry using free software you can find online. In downloading them, carefully read the system requirements so you're installing something that will work best for your computer. Also, see to it you get one from a reputable website. We like Cnet as they promise that none of the software they recommend contains any viruses. There are also those which you may purchase, often with other useful tools. The professionals at Pro Computer Solutions like to use CCleaner for all of their registry issues.

Let us know in the comments section what you have tried in the past and what you use today.
We look forward to hearing from you
This article was copied from  http://www.articlecity.com/

Friday, January 6, 2012

The Official Pro Computer Solutions Facebook Contest



    Contest Terms:

     We are going for 250 likes on our Facebook page by February 29, 2012.(The people who have already "liked" our page will also be included in this contest.) If 250 "likes" are received by February 29, 2012 we will draw ONE name, from the 250 names, as the winner. Contestants will be required to submit their frequently checked email address to matt@procomputersol.com for notification purposes, enter Pro Computers Contest in the subject line. Your email and information will not be sold or otherwise distributed to any other business or entity and will only be used by Midwest Automotive & Diesel and Pro Computer Solutions for periodic marketing. By participating in this contest hosted by Pro Computer Solutions, the participant must comply with all but not limited to that which is stated on this disclaimer in order to be a candidate for winning the prize.  The winning participant will receive a PCS 100 or re-certified equivalent. Pro Computer Solutions reserves the right to change the prize at any time before the end of this contest. Pro Computer Solutions reserves the right to disqualify any contestant at any time if Pro Computer Solutions feels that the contestant is involved in any foul play or misrepresentation during the contest. Pro Computer Solutions reserves the right to refuse any individual applying to be in the contest if Pro Computer Solutions feels that there is a conflict of interest. This Contest is held for the general public and for all individuals representing ONLY themselves. Neither Corporate entities nor “Teams” composed of more than one individual may represent one contestant to win. Pro Computer Solutions will provide details of beginning date and ending date of the contest. No actions from any contestant(s) will be taken into consideration of winning this contest before the beginning date or after the ending date specified by Pro Computer Solutions.  There is no age limit for contestants. Pro Computer Solutions will not be Held Liable for any individual(s) attending this contest. All who become a contestant will do so purely on his or her own free will. Pro Computer Solutions will not be liable for the actions of any contestants during this contest. If 250 likes are not received by February 29, 2012, all terms of this contest will be void, and the prize will be held for another contest. If the contest winner is found to have not complied with the rules and terms of this contest an alternate winner will be drawn. If the contest winner does not redeem prize by March 30, 2012 an alternate winner will be drawn and will have 10 days to claim their prize. Upon winning, contestants will be required to log in to there Facebook account in front of an official at Pro Computer Solutions and also show photo I.D. for verification purposes only.

    Also be sure to check out Midwest Automotive & Diesels contest. The rules are the same with a different prize.

    Thursday, January 5, 2012

    Making Windows 7 Faster

    Windows 7 has numerous design, performance and security enhancements over its predecessors. Still new or old computers running on Windows 7 face sluggishness in their performance. There could be a number of reasons for an old computer to run slow, but what about a new one? A Windows OS has many performance settings, which are set to default in a new machine. Here, we will discuss how you can speed up a computer running on Windows 7.

    Low RAM
    The first and foremost thing about any computers performance is hardware configuration. Make sure you have an adequate amount of RAM installed in the computer. If it is low, then you can sometimes upgrade. The minimum required RAM to install Windows 7 is 1GB but it is recommended to have 3GB RAM (or more) for optimal performance. You can consult an expert at Pro Computer Solutions to help find out what your system specifications are and if you would benefit from a RAM upgrade.

    Limiting Start-up Operations
    Almost each application is designed to load at start-up, when Windows starts, automatically in order to have maximum use and fast launch. However, this option causes the computer to start slowly. The bottom right corner of your screen nearby the clock is the system tray. Here, all the programs loading on start-up will appear. You can also click the arrow icon to see the hidden programs.

    One can use Microsoft start-up System Configuration utility or Autoruns to block the programs from loading on startup. Blocking unnecessary applications can decrease the startup time but selecting the system default utilities can stop the proper functioning of associated programs. Therefore, it is recommended to have expert assistance for limiting the startup.

    Remove the Clutter
    Use Disk Cleanup to remove the unwanted, temporary, and system-generated junk files from your computer. This will also allow you to remove the unnecessary old system log and empty the Recycle Bin. Removing these files helps your processor to work faster and focus only on the work related files.

    Performance Troubleshooter
    Go to Start menu and click Control Panel. Type ‘troubleshooter’ in the search box, click ‘Troubleshooting’ in ‘System & Security’. Now, select ‘Check for performance issues’. This will open the Performance Troubleshooter Wizard. Follow it step by step to analyze the performance issues. If you’re not able to understand or resolve the problem then it is the time to give us a call here at Pro Computer Solutions 217-607-2494

    Virtual Memory
    As the name suggests, this is the virtual memory on the primary or secondary hard drives assigned to do the system work. Windows recognizes this area as primary memory. It is recommended to assign 1.5 times the RAM as a minimum and 2 times as a maximum amount of virtual memory. By default, it is selected to be assigned automatically by Windows. Set the virtual memory property from 1.5 to 2 times the amount of  RAM and check performance to see if there is a difference after restart.

    Conclusion
    You can follow the above steps to optimize the performance of a Windows 7 computer. If it still runs slow after you have followed these steps then it is advised that the computer be brought in to a professional at Pro Computer Solutions for further assistance.
    This article was copied from  http://www.articlecity.com/

    Wednesday, January 4, 2012

    Virus Removal and Protection

    Scanning and removing viruses from your computer usually isn't considered a fun filled activity. Malicious programs can infect a PC through various mediums, the most prominent which are emails, removable media and wireless networks. Once you know how to get rid of viruses, measures can be taken to make sure that such viruses are identified and removed the moment they infiltrate.

    One thing to know is what viruses are and what you can perform. Having knowledge about common infections allows the consumer to identify the virus by its symptoms on the PC. It is very important to know how Trojans, worms, spyware and adware infiltrate and infect the operating system. This step will help you prepare to get rid of virus infections quickly considering that the user will then be acquainted with the best way viruses work.

    Be armed and ready while using the latest available anti-virus. There are a large number of anti-virus software that now come in bundles and supply multiple services to you, the user. A good antivirus program comes full of firewalls, network monitors, file system scanner, anti-spyware, anti-adware, email scanners and internet stealth protection add-ons. Having the latest antivirus program trims the prospect of malicious activity occurring on any PC.

    Having excellent anti-virus software will only be lucrative when you are updating it regularly. Automatic updates are readily available with whatever software you are using. Update the virus database weekly and if threat of infection is high, updating daily is suggested. Constant updates will ensure you will get rid of the  latest virus threats when they infiltrate the system.

    Caution needs to be taken when surfing websites, with there being some sites that demand installing certain add-ons and plug-ins. Other websites offer free software and screen savers when they're visited. Ensure you don’t download and run software that is either not trusted or  the internet monitor cautions you not to download. The latest ant-virus usually gets rid of virus threats before they infect the operating system.


    Email protection becomes necessary with the frequency of email viruses being greater than any other kind of virus type. Some emails tend to be pretty obvious, being a friendly invitation from a girl or a gift offer from Microsoft. Such emails mustn't be opened and nothing must be downloaded from them. Viruses might also infiltrate a PC through emails from personal contacts, as a result it is critical to run an email monitor together with your anti-virus software.
     
    Our recommendation is that all email activity should be carried out in rich text format and not inside the HTML format that email services are presently deploying. Viruses can attach themselves easily to HTML emails instead of text emails that are purely text and contain no items which allow a virus to add itself to the email.

    Yet another way viruses descend onto a PC is P2P software. It is highly recommended that software like Limewire, Gnutella, Bearshare and Torrents usually are not used. But if you must, at the very least have your firewall ready and running at max. P2P engines are only able to download information in chunks (this means you don’t know very well what is on its way in), hence enhancing the chance of an infiltration. So keep the firewall up rather than disable it, and always scan you’re completed downloads before opening them.

    Freeware VS Commercial
     
    All this talk about having updated anti-virus programs and firewalls sounds a bit geeky, but it’s safer to be safe than allowing a virus epidemic on your PC. It is better to possess a commercial (i.e. paid) anti-virus when compared to a free one. Freeware anti-virus will usually identify viruses, but will lack the ability to clean the virus and can quarantine the files and not delete them, allowing the threat to escalate. Commercial software will always have complete features along with a well-organized virus database to combat the prevailing threats to escalate.

    Monday, January 2, 2012

    HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!

    Hope everyone had a Good New Year Celebration! This New Year is going to be huge. 2012 is set to be a big year for Pro Computer Solutions. Currently James Wang is managing the store with Chris Bielert on hardware repair and Robert Brank on software repair and web design. We are growing at a quick pace and soon will have the store set up with various displays that you can interact with and "Test Drive" Before you buy. Also, we will be expanding our workforce to better accommodate our growing client base. Be looking for more updates on this blog, on our website, and on our facebook page. You can also contact us at 217-607-2494 with any of your computer questions.
    GOOD LUCK in the new year and we hope to see you soon. 

    Midwest Automotive & Diesel: Let's Get Started, Shall We

    Midwest Automotive & Diesel: Let's Get Started, Shall We