WiFi. DNS. CPU. RAM.
The Cloud.
Here are a few things we hope will help your understand of the technology we use every day. If there is something that you’d like to learn more about but it’s not on this list, click the button below to send us a message. We’ll post it here and email you a copy.
I want to upgrade my Wifi. What should I buy?
There are lots of variables to consider when upgrading home Wifi, like budget, square footage, and number of Internet connected devices in your home. We love this router from Synology. For larger or multi-level homes, we recommend a mesh system, like this one. An updated option can be found here. We would be happy to find you a custom Wifi solution that fits your budget and your needs. Contact us here!
Someone told me I need more RAM. What is that and do I need it?
Random access memory (RAM) is where your computer stores info temporarily that it’s currently using or will use in the near future. Typically, the more RAM your computer has, the faster it will be. You haven’t ever stored anything in RAM because your computer does it for you. It replaces the info as needed, depending on what you’re doing. Here is a link to a very thorough article on RAM.
What is “the cloud” and how do I access it?
The cloud takes many different forms (pun intended). Quite basically, it is just another name for the Internet. More technically, it is an interconnected network of computers that allow us to access services like Netflix and email, as well as hosts things, like remotely accessible computers, server space, and storage. Here’s a great article explaining more about the cloud (with pictures!).
Someone told me that I need an SSD. What is that and do I need it?
A solid state drive (SSD) is a data storage technology much like that of a USB flash drive. An SSD is a bit more robust than a flash drive, making them great replacements for traditional hard drives (HDD). The word “need” is subjective, but SSDs are much faster than a traditional HDD. There are still many uses for traditional HDDs, like external storage or servers. If your computer has been upgraded to an SSD, you’ll notice the speed increase instantly. Contact us here if you would like to discuss upgrading your hard drive!
Do I need anti-virus software?
Absolutely! There are some popular opinions that certain types of computers don’t need anti-virus software. However, within the last two decades digital attackers have gotten better, and technology has increased in ways that make it easier for the bad guys to steal your info, or worse: erase your hard drive. Check out this blog post by our founder on the importance of anti-virus. Seriously though, please install anti-virus on your computers!
I want to build a computer, but have no idea where to start. Help?
Building computers is fun! It can also be quite an extensive process based on variables, like cost and purpose. Contact us here and we would love to help you custom build a computer!
What is Bluetooth?
Contrary to its name, Bluetooth has nothing to do with dental hygiene. The name comes from a Scandinavian king who united several kingdoms in the 10th century.
Bluetooth is a way for two devices to communicate wirelessly via radio frequency. It is often seen as a wireless alternative to a wired solution. For example, speakers, headphones, keyboards, mice, even farm equipment!