A.
It is essential to run a firewall. This will prevent most of the
infections that arrive via the internet. Windows XP has an excellent
firewall which can be switched on by
start -> control panel ->
security center
After installing Windows switch on the
firewall BEFORE connecting to the Internet. Without the firewall, your
system is at risk and can get infected within seconds of connection - even
without loading a browser. Viruses exist that can infect your system just
by connecting to the internet.
Switch on the automatic update function.
Ensure that your operating system is updated regularly. Updates often have
plugs for security holes in the windows software.
Antivirus software will detect viruses
and stop them interfering with your system. A lot of viruses will try to
alter the registry and antivirus software can prevent this. Antivirus
software will also check for viruses arriving via email and file
downloads.
Hundreds of viruses are released every
year and antivirus software can only protect your system from known
threats. It is vital that you allow your system to download the latest
virus pattern files.
Q.
Why has my computer crashed?
A.
Computer crashes are mostly caused by software. Modern software is built
using thousands of small subroutines and functions. These are called by
the main program and often subroutines call other subroutines. Problems
occur when there is an programming error, or a bug, in a part of the
software. When a routine has completed its work it is supposed to release
all the memory it used, but some routines fail to do so and gradually use
up all the memory in the system. This will eventually cause the computer
to crash.
Most software is stored on the hard disk
drive. Programs have to be read into RAM memory for execution. Defects in
RAM memory or hard disk can cause the CPU to receive inaccurate program
instructions. This can cause the system to freeze or BSOD - blue screen of
death.
Q.
Why has my computer slowed down?
A.
Your computer
shares out its processing power to all the tasks that run on your system.
Most of the tasks are vital to keep the operating system running smoothly.
Your system may also be running other tasks, which are unnecessary. Badly
designed uninstallers can leave parts of uninstalled software running on
your system. Parts of demo or trial software, spyware and old drivers can
run in the background and use up the CPUs processing power. The slowdown
is gradual so most user don't notice it until there is a large build up of
useless software running in the background.
There
are some very effective registry and system cleanup software packages on
the market.
Q.
Is it possible to recover data from any drive?
A.
No. Most data can be recovered but costs can vary from under £100 to
£800+, depending on the nature of the failure.
The hard drive in your laptop is a mechanical device
with moving parts. It will eventually fail. Expect it to fail at any
moment - usually the worst. Take frequent backups - don't rely on a hard
drive to keep your valuable data and pictures. Always keep copies of
family pictures on CD/DVDs.
There are new backup solutions using
online storage available. Data is stored on secure servers which are
regularly backed up. You can access your data from any computer connected
to the internet even if your computer fails or is lost or stolen.
UK REPAIRS INFO
Marlborough House
Business
Hours
Mon-Fri 9.00am-5.00pm
Saturday 10.00am-2.00pm
Visitors welcome
Customers are always
welcome to visit us and discuss their laptop repairs with our engineers.
Parking
Info
You can park in the
residents bays on Bruce Road at all times EXCEPT: Mon-Fri 10-11am
& 2-3pm
(PLEASE AVOID THESE TIMES)
Tube/Rail
Harrow & Wealdstone Station is served by National Rail and London
Underground Bakerloo
Line services.
We are a walking distance away and on the same High Street.
Mailing
Info
Most customers send us their laptops by
mail. The average cost of sending a laptop to us using the post is £18
for next day delivery with insurance.
