Tips on How to Choose the Best Monitor for Your Small Business

Finding the right monitor at the right price is just like finding the right computers for your employees. When you are tasked with buying monitors for a small business, you need to consider the basic functions, as well as the price. You also need to need to identify what size panel works best for each personnel, what features will help increase productivity, and also the kind of warranty that your business needs. Below are some guidelines to help you what to look for when hunting for the right desktop monitors for your small business.

Price

Since most small businesses operate on a strict budget, it's vital to spend your investment money wisely. You can get a basic 22-inch monitor around $150 to $250, while a 24-inch model costs anywhere from $200 to $300. For employees who need more screen real estate, a 27-inch screen monitor's price range is from $300 to $400.

For businesses that require high-end, high-resolution monitors, be prepared as you will also need to allot more budget on these. These monitors may include other features such as height adjustable stands, multiple digital inputs, USB ports, and webcams. Say for example, a 27-inch Wide, Quad High-Definition (WQHD) monitor will cost you from $500 and up. While a 30-inch Ultra High-Definition (UHD) screen can go for a whopping price range of $2000 to $3000.

Size

The size of the desktop monitor that you're going to buy depends on the needs of your company's employees. Though it's always great to work on a big screen, sometimes it is not practical or cost effective to have one. Typically, a 22-inch widescreen monitor is good for basic office work and fits easily on most desktops, while a 24-inch widescreen is perfect for users who need to work on more than one window. However, if you have ample space and budget, opting for a 27-inch screen is ideal for multitasking. If in case you need to have a dual-monitor setup, a 29-inch ultra-wide model provides a good space-saving alternative.

Resolution

Nowadays, almost all monitor models are capable of displaying content in High Definition (HD). Monitors that have sizes of 22-inches below usually have a maximum resolution of 1366 x 768, which means it can only go as high as 720p. The most common and ideal resolution for watching video is 1920 x 1080, giving you a Full High-Definition (FHD) at 1080p. If you need to buy a monitor for users who will be working with highly-detailed images or will be engaging in graphics design, a WQHD monitor offering 2560 x 1440 resolution at 27-inch screen is recommended. Topping the resolution chart is the Ultra High-Definition (UHD) monitor, which comes in 30- and 32-inch models, though there are few smaller models of it that you can also consider.

Features

As they say, the more you get, the more you'll pay. A monitor that features a highly adjustable ergonomic stand (height, tilt, swivel, and pivot) will surely cost a lost more than one that only has a tilt adjustment. This also applies to I/O ports -- if you need DisplayPort, HDMI, DVI, and VGA connectivity, you'll pay a much higher price of course. But if your desktop computer doesn't have a DisplayPort output, then there's no reason why you should pay more for a monitor that has DisplayPort inputs, right? Try to go with at least one HDMI port if possible because it will enable you to connect to many different external devices.

If your small business requires frequent use of removable media such as thumb drives and other USB peripherals, it would be best to get a monitor with a USB hub. Look for those who have side-mounted ports, so that you don't need to bend down or reach around the back of the monitor to get access to the USB ports. For users that need to work with accurate colors, scout for a monitor that has extensive image settings menu. Some models have bundled calibration solution but there are several third-party solutions available as well.

Extras

If in case your management doesn't allow audio in the workplace, get a monitor without embedded speakers. This also applies for webcams, which can be useful to work-related activities such as conferencing during meetings, but can also be a distraction when used for non-work related stuff. Some manufacturers offer free wall mount installation of monitors that helps in minimizing desk space. It is also good to check for the monitor's warranty period before buying it since this can also help your computer save on unexpected expenses in case something went wrong with the unit. Look for monitors that have at least three years warranty that covers parts, labor, and backlighting.

Increase Battery Life on Your Nexus 5 Without Installing Any Apps

Google Nexus 5 is one of the popular Android smartphones in the market. It is packed with amazing features and has one of the best displays among all Android devices. However, having all these fancy new features have its drawback on its battery life.

If you are looking for ways to avoid the pitfalls of having strained battery, here are some tips to prolong the battery life of your Google Nexus 5.

10 Tips to Increase Battery Life on Your Nexus 5 Without Installing Any Apps

Tip 1: Turn Off Everything You Do Not Use

One way to conserve precious battery life is by turning off every feature you are not actively using, especially the features that constantly search for signals to connect to such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Location Services.

To turn Wi-Fi and Bluetooth off, simply swipe down from the top of your screen to access your Quick Settings tiles, or open the Settings app, and then toggle these features off.

As for Location Services, set it to battery saving mode to minimize the number of reference points used to find your location. To enable Battery Saving mode, go to Settings>Location>Mode, and then enable Battery Saving.

You can also turn on Airplane Mode to automatically disable all these features. However, turning on Airplane Mode will also disable all the signal transmitting functions on your Nexus 5, which includes your capacity to place or receive calls and messages.

Tip 2: Turn Off Wi-Fi During Sleep

If you prefer to keep Wi-Fi enabled, you can turn off Wi-Fi during sleep to conserve battery. To do this, simply follow these steps:

STEP 1: Go to Settings, and then tap Wi-Fi (not the toggle button on the right but the word itself).

STEP 2: On the next screen, tap the menu icon (3 dots) located on the lower-right corner of the screen, and then tap Advanced.

STEP 3: On the Advanced Wi-Fi screen, tap Keep Wi-Fi on during sleep, then select Never (increases data usage), and then tap OK to confirm your choice.

NOTE: Turning off Wi-Fi during sleep will increase your cellular data usage, which is not good if you have limited cellular data plan. To avoid this, turn off 3G/4G/LTE if possible.

Tip 3: Turn Off Wi-Fi Scanning

In addition to turning off Wi-Fi, it is recommended to turn off Wi-Fi scanning as well, unless you are within range of the Wi-Fi signal you want to connect to. To disable Wi-Fi scanning, follow these steps:

STEP 1: Go to Settings, and then tap Wi-Fi (not the toggle button on the right but the word itself).

STEP 2: On the next screen, tap the menu icon (3 dots) located on the lower-right corner of the screen, and then tap Advanced.

STEP 3: On the Advanced Wi-Fi screen, uncheck the Scanning always available box.

Tip 4: Disable Auto Brightness and Lower Display Brightness

Nexus 5 has a 1080p screen display and is deemed one of the best screens among all Android devices. Unfortunately, having a bigger screen and higher resolution can drain more battery life. To conserve your battery, lower your screen brightness and turn off auto brightness so you can manually manage the luminosity of the screen.

To disable auto brightness and lower the display brightness, simply go to Settings, tap Display, and then tap Brightness. From there, tap Auto to toggle the auto brightness off. Now use the slider to adjust the brightness level to your liking. You can also access this option by swiping down from the top of your screen to access your Quick Settings, and then tap Brightness.

Tip 5: Disable NFC

Near-Field Communication (NFC) is the technology used in Android Beam. It allows two Android devices to share files and links between them and it is used to power the tap-and-pay functionality of Google Wallet.

If you are not using any of these features, you can turn of NFC to save your battery life. To turn off NFC, go to Settings, tap More under WIRELESS & NETWORKS, and then uncheck the NFC box.

Tip 6: Disable Unwanted System Apps

Nexus 5 came with pre-installed system apps that you may or may not like. These apps run in the background and consume battery life. To conserve your battery, disable any preinstalled system apps that you do not want and use. To do this, simply go to Settings, tap Apps, swipe to the ALL tab. Tap any unwanted system app, and then tap Disable.

Tip 7: Turn Off Google Now

Google Now is one of the popular features of Nexus 5. It is Android's equivalent to Apple's Siri. Unfortunately, it is one of the battery-drainer features it has. To turn off the Google Now feature, go to Google Now>Settings>Voice, and then disable Hotword Detection.

Tip 8: Turn Off Automatic Updates

Nexus 5 keeps your apps up-to-date by automatically downloading available updates without you having to visit the Play Store. This is a very ingenious feature and a big time saver. Unfortunately, it is a huge battery drainer since it requires each app to regularly check for updates. To turn off automatic updates, follow these steps:

STEP 1: On the Home screen, tap Play Store.

STEP 2: Tap the Menu icon, then tap Settings.

STEP 3: Tap Auto-update apps, and then tap Do not auto-update apps.

Tip 9: Disable All Vibrate Alerts

Vibrate alerts drain the battery much faster than it does when the phone rings or beeps. To disable all vibrate alerts, simply follow these steps:

STEP 1: From the Home screen, tap the All Apps icon.

STEP 2: Tap Settings, then tap Sound.

STEP 3: Uncheck the Vibrate when ringing box.

STEP 4: Finally, scroll down and uncheck the Vibrate on touch box.

Tip 10: Use Static Wallpapers

Animated wallpapers may look cool. However, they tend to drain your battery much faster than a still image. To conserve the much needed battery life, select a static wallpaper instead.

5 Simple Ways to Increase Customer Loyalty

It's definitely a challenge to turn first-time customers into repeat customers with so much competition in the marketplace today. It always shouldn't be enough to provide good customer service in order to keep consumers coming back. The key to create loyal customers is by making them feel special and wanted.

Here are some five tips that will help small businesses improve customer loyalty:

1. Render good service

Poor customer service entails poor customer loyalty. At all times, see to it that the customer is attended to promptly, courteously, and efficiently. Listen to their needs and try to meet those needs as efficiently as possible. Customers will remember this, but do keep in mind that they will remember bad service even more.

2. Resolve issues in the quickest time possible

Admit it, not all products work golden, and sometimes, paid services fall short of expectations. Accept the sad reality when customers' expectations are not met, and just work hard to make sure any issues your customer has are resolved to their satisfaction. Rest assured that they will appreciate and remember this, and will fell like their transactions are safe with you next time.

3. Reward loyalty

It would be a great idea to treat a loyal customer with a free product or special discount once in a while just by simply being loyal to your business. Who knows, this loyal customer may spread the good news about your special treats to others, and you'll be surprised what wonders it can do to your small business eventually.

4. Keep in touch

If possible, gather some contact information about your customers. These info will be useful, especially if you would like to send them some special offers, new products or services, or simply send them a birthday card. This way, you'll have a way to keep in touch with them as often as possible.

5. Show some appreciation to your customers

The fact that a customer chose you among several competitors in your business industry would mean a lot for your business. That is why it is very important to thank them for their support by letting them know in words and in actions how much you appreciate them. It doesn't matter whether it's a small or a big-scale customer, what's important is to make a way to thank each one of them for choosing your product or services.

Best Free Backup Software for Your Computer

There are many potential culprits that can ruin your important files and data. From viruses and software bugs, to hardware failure or human error — these are just a few things you need to watch out for. Having to lose your personal photos, music library, important files and documents, can cause anyone a handful of headaches. This is why it is very important to religiously back up your important files and data. It won't do anyone any good to put off backing up your files and data, only to regret not doing so after the computer crashed or the hard drive failed. Below are some of the best free file-based backup software that you can use to secure your files and data:

Best Free Backup Software for Your Computer

COMODO Backup

COMODO Backup is a free backup software that is capable of automatically backing up your files and data from an entire drive into individual files. It can back up registry files, specific registry entries, files and folders, email accounts, browser data, partitions, IM conversations, etc. It can even back up an entire disk like a system drive. COMODO Backup offers full backup, incremental, and differential as well as Shadow Copy. You can also select the backup format (CBU file, simple copy, ZIP file, ISO file, self-extracting CBU file, and file sync). Furthermore, depending on the file type of the backed up data, you can specify if it is to be spliced into smaller pieces, compressed, and/or password protected.

With COMODO Backup, you can store your backed up data to a local or external drive, CD/DVD, network folder, FTP server, or sent to someone as an email. COMODO Backup's scheduling option allows you to backup your important files and data at precise locations, manually, at logon, once, daily, weekly, monthly, when idle, or every so many minutes.

On the negative side, COMODO Backup's interface does not allow you to view the backup versions side by side to easily compare them.

AOMEI Backupper Standard

AOMEI Backupper Standard is a free backup software that is capable of backing up files and folders, hard drives, system drive, and partitions. It also allows you to clone a partition or an entire disk to another drive. AOMEI Backupper Standard offers full backup, incremental backup, and differential backup. It supports custom compression level, custom or predetermined splices, encryption with a password, and exact backup (copies used and unused space) or an intelligent sector backup (just backs up used space).

With AOMEI Backupper Standard, all backed up files are held in one single file that can be saved to a local or external drive, or to a shared network folder. You can schedule the back up to run once, every day, week, or month, as well as at a continual interval throughout the day. Its advanced settings allow you to do a full, incremental, or differential backup.

The downside of using AOMEI Backupper Standard is it does not allow you to pause a backup in progress.

EaseUS Todo Backup

EaseUS Todo Backup allows you to automatically back up files and folders, entire disk, system drive, and partitions. It even allows you to back up Android devices. Its restore function offers the easiest way to retrieve backed up data by mounting the backup image as a virtual hard drive.

All backed up files created from EaseUS Todo Backup build a single file in PBD format that can be saved to a local or external drive, or to a shared network folder. In addition, it allows full or incremental backups, which can be scheduled once or daily. Furthermore, it has an option to limit the backup speed and priority to reduce the impact on your system performance.

The downsides of using EaseUS Todo Backup are its lack of encryption, large file setup (130 MB), no differential backup, and only get a Linux-based disc (not Windows PE).

Cobian Backup

Cobian Backup is another free backup software that offers full, differential, and incremental backups to and from local disk, FTP server, network share, external drive, or a manual location. It also supports automatic removal of empty folders from a backup and utilizing Volume Shadow Copy. In addition, you can set up Cobian Backup to compress and encrypt a backup, split backup into smaller sections, and schedule to run a back up once, on startup, daily, weekly, monthly, yearly, or on a timer that runs every so many minutes. Furthermore, it allows you to select a backup priority, run back up as a different user, send failed/success logs to one or more email addresses, and define advanced filtering options to include/exclude data from a backup.

The only downside to this software is its lack of restore options, so you can only browse the backup folder and pull out the files you want to take.

FileFort Backup

FileFort Backup is a free, easy to use backup software capable of backing up files to a cloud storage service, FTP server, and other locations. It allows you to back up files to a BKZ file, self-extracting EXE file, ZIP file, or a regular mirror backup that only copies the files to the destination. FileFort Backup supports full backup, historical backup, and incremental backup from a local drive, external drive, or network folder. In addition, it allows password protection and encryption using MEO encryption. Its schedule option allows you to run back up daily or weekly.

What makes FileFort Backup to be inferior from other backup software is its lack of support to full system partition or disk backup, custom compression, and backup splitting. It also does not allow you to pause a backup midway through the process unlike other backup software.

Back-to-School Apps That Can Help You Spend Wisely

Struggling to budget your finances to make sure you have enough to buy some new clothes, go out on a movie date, or know how many lunch outs you can afford to have? Well, that's actually quite a task to handle. Good thing is that you don't need to make the effort of of scavenging through newspapers, magazines, and flyers to get some discounts and freebies. Now, there apps that will help you locate coupons, hidden rebates, as well as tips where you can get great buys. Don't live in the past where newspaper clippings pile up your kitchen counter, forgetting them eventually when you need to use them.

So if you're still on the hunt, check out this collection of apps that will help you save money the whole year round.

Coupon Sherpa

This app doesn't require any account information and allows you to browse coupons by category, or you can also search for a specific one. It's so easy to use, as long you have your mobile phone with you, access to hundreds of popular stores and restaurants is just a tap away. You can also save your favorite places by simply tapping the star at the corner. Coupon Sherpa is available for Android and iOS devices.

RetailMeNot

With the RetailMeNot app, you don't need to print coupons before you leave home, or dig through your purse to find the coupon you want to use. You only need to show the coupon on your phone upon checking out and that's it. The app allows you to bookmark your favorite stores for quick and easy access to the stores you shop most. RetailMeNot sends you automatic alerts whenever there are deals on nearby stores and you'll also get notified when the offers you have saved are about to expire. This app can be downloaded for Android and iOS.

KeyRing

The KeyRing app helps you put all your loyalty cards on your phone, making them available to you whenever you need them. You can scan and store grocery cards, gym cards, library cards, gift cards -- the list goes on. Thousands of exclusive deals from over 13,000 brands and retailers are always updated, and you can access them right at your fingertips. The KeyRing app organizes deals and coupons from nearby retailers by category and are always available, which makes it easy for you to save big while on the go. This app has downloads for Android and iOS devices.

ShopSavvy

Considered as one of the most powerful shopping tools that fits in your pocket, ShopSavvy is a free downloadable app that lets you know if you're getting the best deal. You can find items by either typing them on your onscreen keyboard or using the camera to scan the barcode. Once you've found the product, ShopSavvy tells you the cheapest local or online price. For local products, you can get map directions, visit their website, or call the store. While for online items, you can visit their website or share the product via Facebook or Twitter. You can also configure the app to share your scans automatically with Twitter. Available for Android andiOS, never forget to download this must-have app on your smartphone.

Foursquare

Another free app, Foursquare helps you connect with your friends, find, and explore new things in their location. The newest version of this app allows users to shift its focus from check-ins and mayorships -- social game-like features that made it popular in the first place, into an app that lets you check the hottest restaurants, bars, shops, and attractions at home or while on the road. This app provides a large database of photos, tips, and general information about the sights and places to eat around your place. That is why it's a great tool for locals and travelers alike to get a snapshot of the hottest places, along with detailed information to educate you better about a particular hotspot. Foursquare is available for Android and iOS devices.

GasBuddy

GasBuddy app gives you the most comprehensive real-time gas prices and help you find the cheapest prices. Easily locate gas stations near you and see their current prices. You can also earn points and a chance to win free gas for every gas price you report. It added new keyboard for reporting prices, resolution of images, all states, and provinces included for the prize draw. It's definitely an app you don't want to miss, especially with the rampant gas price hike nowadays. Who wouldn't want to save on gas expenses? So don't hesitate and download GasBuddy now for iOS, Android, Windows Phone, and BlackBerry.

Checkout 51

With Checkout 51, no more flipping through coupon booklets to find great deals, snipping hundreds of little coupons that gets easily misplaced, remembering to take coupons to the store, and holding up the rest of the line. The app lets you purchase the products on offer at any grocery store like Walmart, Kroger, Costco, Target, Safeway, Supervalu, CVS, Publix, and many more! You can get cash back when you buy your favorite brands. Simply browse the app, buy what you need from the weekly offers, take a photo of your receipt, and once your account reaches a redemption value of $20, Checkout 51 will mail you a check. Saving money have never been this easy! Download now for Android and iOS.

Check

Never worry about missing a bill again or forget overdrafts and late fees, if you have the Check app. You just need to set it up once and then the app automatically goes to work. It proactively stays on top of your bills and monitors your bank accounts and credit cards -- and all these takes place in one app! The app is also capable of reminding you if your bills are nearly due or if your funds are getting pretty low. Check app is protected with the same 128-bit encryption and physical security standards like your bank. It's also verified and monitored by third-party security experts such as TRUSTe, McAfee, Hacker Safe, and VeriSign. What more can you ask for in a budget app? If you don't have this yet, don't wait another second and get it for your Android or iOS device.

There are still heaps of other apps that works the same as those we have described above. Don't hesitate to check them out and see which one will perfectly suit your needs and lifestyle. Going back to school doesn't have mean going back to difficult financial times. All you need is a little sacrifice and budgeting, and you can still enjoy the perks of life.

Create Your Own Security Toolkit in Case of Emegency

If in case the role of a tech expert in your family and friends fell into your hands, chances are you may get calls in the wee hours asking you to come over -- your aunt is having problems with iPad not getting enough signal when she's in the kitchen, or your friend's new laptop is keep getting some weird pop-ups that's making his computer crash. Extending help to them using your computer and networking skills doesn't have to be a burden as long as you have the right and awesome tools kept somewhere safe in your USB drive. Having these tools handy will always make you available to give out a helping hand to those who are in need.

So here are some highly useful tools that you should have in your so-called "security toolkit" at all times. With these tools available, your repairs will become faster and easier. You can also leave them with some protection so that you don't have to go back next week because of some nasty virus attack.

Malware Cleanup Tools

Nowadays, even perfectly clean sites are being hacked in a way that malicious software are automatically downloaded into the victim's site by just merely opening the page. In some cases, modern threats are already capable of resisting when you try to install an antivirus software. Others have the power to tweak your computer's Registry to disable launching of known antivirus executables. While others can monitor Internet access and specifically prevent access to security company sites, prohibiting you from updating or registering your product. In short, these malicious software have become ingenious in a negative perspective.

If in case you are unable to install the full power of an antivirus solution, you can try wiping out your system clean using a free cleanup-only tool. Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware Free is known to accomplish this kind of task. The Norton Power Eraser tool is also a reliable solution for resistant malware infections, which can be downloaded for free. This tool is proven to be effective especially against rootkits, which are malicious programs that hook deep into Windows to hide their actions. Comodo Cleaning Essentials is also great for combating rootkits, and its malware cleanup power is better than many commercial products.

You don't have to choose which among them is going to your toolkit USB drive because you can get all of them. The advantage of it is if in case one doesn't do the trick, you can always try the other one.

Bootable Rescue USB

Ever encountered a case wherein you're innocently browsing a webpage or just checking your Facebook status when suddenly your computer crashed and won't come back up? Almost every antivirus manufacturer out there offers a free bootable "Rescue CD" wherein the CD boots into an alternate operating system, usually a version of Linux. In this way, Windows-based malware will not be able to interfere with the scan, since Windows is not running.

However, it may sound impractical to carry around a CD in your pocket all the time when your toolkit is supposed to be handy? Good thing some vendors give an option for their users to create a free bootable "Rescue USB" such as AVG, Norton, Kaspersky, and among others. For those who are interested in using the Norton Bootable Recovery Tool, be informed that it is only available for free for Norton customers. Your product key has to be entered each time you use it, and it cannot be used commercially.

If in case your preferred vendor only provides a bootable CD instead of USB, don't fret because there's always a way if you're willing to take the challenge. Download the ISO image that represents the bootable CD and use an Open Source tool called UNetbootin to make a USB drive that boots into the CD image.

Once you have created a bootable rescue USB, it wouldn't hurt to test it a few times first. Boot from it, check if it works fine, and make sure you understand how to use it. You don't want to ruin your "tech expert" image, right?

Leave Some Protection

So you've done cleaning up your Aunt Mary's laptop after almost an hour...for the third time this month. If you have other important things to do, why not leave some sort of protection so that you don't have to face the same routine over and over again.

AVG Anti-Virus Free 2013 is one of the best bet when it comes to this category. It offers competitive protection, as well as malware blocking and removal capabilities. The software also includes PC tuneup analysis and the browser toolbar includes active Do Not Track technology. Another prospect is the ZoneAlarm Free Antivirus + Firewall, offering a powerful firewall protection for added security against harmful attacks from the Internet.

It will always be up to you which antivirus program you would like to use and include in your toolkit. It would also be your choice if you decided to put more than one in your toolkit just to be sure. Spare another half an hour or so to install one of these protective software, later on you'll be grateful that you did.

Add Some More Protection

Once in a while, a friend or a relative would ask for some help with their hacked account -- whether it's an email or a social networking account. If one of them keeps getting the same problem because he keeps coming up with a lame password (ouch, that's harsh), you may want to consider using a password manager. This will help your friend or relative configure secure sites to create strong passwords without the hassle of having to remember all of them. Just imagine if you have more than ten online accounts!

One popular password manager is LastPass, which works with a wide range of browsers and syncs with all your devices. It's simple to use, offers multiple layers of security to protect your sensitive information. Another known password manager is Dashlane, which provides many features that goes beyond just password management. It facilitates online shopping through the use of easy-to-understand color-coded information, allowing users to complete online transactions by clicking a few tabs. Dashlane is available for Windows, Mac, iPhone, and Android. SplashID claims itself as the best-selling password manager, in which mobile is its main focus. It operates differently than the browser-based plugins, and requires no installation. SplashData, its company, will send you a $29.95 4-GB key-shaped USB device, which you will plug in your computer, enter your password, and SplashID Safe will launch your data. The app securely stores your usernames, passwords, account numbers, and any records you need to remember and keep secure.

A good password manager can store all of the information you need to function online – usernames and passwords for all your banking, social media, email, shopping and other accounts. All you need to do is memorize one secure password and you will have access to all of your sites with just a few clicks. This is also a must-have in your emergency toolkit.

Don't Forget to Update

Vulnerabilities found in your computer's operating system, browser, and even on some popular programs are the often target of exploitation by many malicious attacks. As soon as these kinds of exploitation is discovered, the affected company releases a security patch that will serve as a fix. So make sure to check for updates of your security program to guard yourself, well, at least until the next exploit. Ignoring these security patches will leave you like a worm bait.

Checking the computer for any Windows updates and installing them should also be a part of your repair procedure all the time. Another update check that you can perform on the computer is through Secunia Personal Software Inspector 3.0, which is a free program that checks for a variety of security patches for a number of program categories and, in many cases, offer an automatic process to apply the patch.

Try installing Secunia using your USB toolkit, run a one-time scan and update, and then uninstall it. Yep, you need to uninstall it otherwise, it will periodically check to make sure the system hasn't missed any new critical updates.

So there you have it, you now have your own security toolkit that you can use every time you need to make an on-site service call. Run a standalone cleanup antivirus or, a bootable rescue tool in case the computer won't boot. Install a strong antivirus program to give a layer of protection against future malware attacks on the PC, then make sure that all the necessary Windows updates are installed. Install any additional tools you think they will need adds the cherry on top. Now everybody's happy!

New Features to Look Forward to With Google's Android L

The new Android L has been officially unveiled last June by Google, promising a number of upgrades for its consumers. The new OS features some of the biggest updates since Android was launched in 2008. The Android L OS has a sleek new user interface, performance upgrades, and cross platform support. Along with that, improvement has also been implemented when it comes to battery life and deeper app integration across the board.

Let's take a closer look on some of the great features that the Android's newest OS has to offer:

New Interface: Material Design

With Android L, Google's OS line was given a major face-lift, and it's courtesy of the new Material Design. It's made to run on multiple types of devices, ranging almost everything from your smartphone and tablet to your laptop and TV. The interface now supports elevation values, real-time shadows and lighting that can make objects appear as though they are floating on the screen upon interaction.

The new OS also gets animated touch feedback by showing a quick animation that tells you that you've pressed an onscreen button, for example. Other animations also apply when switching between apps, giving the interface a more streamlined look. This is something that does not exist with iOS' flat interface.

User Authentication

Google's newest OS allows you to unlock your phone without having to enter a pin or trace a pattern every time. This is perfect for people who use an Android Wear Watch, which when turned on, will be recognized by your Android L device and lets you unlock your phone by a simple tap on its power button. If you try to move your watch away from your Android L device, it will assume that someone else is trying to use your phone and will then require you to enter your pin or pattern lock.

Improved Notifications

Aside from its improved interface, Android L also includes enhanced notifications. Users can now pull down their Notification's Drawer from the lock screen and double tap a notification to automatically jump to the selected app. In addition to that, it also includes a new Heads-up Notifications function, wherein it provides a pop-up notification at the top of the screen that you can respond to or discard without having to leave the app that you're currently on.

For example, you're currently playing a game and get a phone call, you'll receive a pop-up at the top of your Android L device's screen prompting you to answer or ignore the call, without interrupting your game.

Redesigned Recent Apps

Another makeover given to the OS is the Recent Apps menu, though it's fairly considered as a great improvement. The page now displays both your apps and open Chrome tabs in stackable cards fashion. For example, if you open Youtube.com in Chrome, and exit the app, it will show up in the Recent Apps menu along with your open apps. Google claims that this feature will make multitasking easier on your device(s) by allowing you to access your webpages without having to open your Chrome app manually. It would be nicer and cleaner if it were thumbnails instead of the stackable cards style.

Performance Boost

Google kept in mind to improve not only the software, but to bring increased performance to Android devices as well. The company also promises that Android L's new Android Extension Pack will bring PC-level graphics to mobile devices complete with tessellation, geometry shaders, computer shaders, and ASTC texture compression. In short, Google wants you to have a gaming PC-like experience coming from your mobile device at all times.

App Indexing

The new App Indexing function allows users to easily access their apps via Chrome. For example, if you search for a restaurant in Chrome and you have OpenTable installed, Chrome will recognize the app that's installed on your device and will include it in your list of search results. Tapping on the link will direct you to the restaurant's page via OpenTable. With this feature, you don't have to copy and paste information from one app to another.

Battery Life

Via Google's Project Volta, Android L is expected to bring some serious battery enhancements to your mobile device. It has a built-in battery saver feature that whenever it detects that your device is low on battery, the app can reduce CPU load, display brightness, and so on to help you extend its battery life. According to Google, this feature can give you an extra ninety minutes of battery power, which can be a lot especially if you're running on empty and need to use your device.

Now that you've learned about these cool features being offered by the new Android L, are you already excited to experience them yourself?