Not many people know how to handle a virus. One of the most frustrating things about owning a computer is not knowing what to do when something goes wrong. And to make matters worse, these problems always seem to happen when you’re working on a major paper or when you just finished filing away all your taxes.

One of the worst things that can happen to any PC owner, no matter if it’s a Sony, Toshiba, Compaq, Dell, is the Blue Screen error. It’s also known as the “Blue Screen of Death” amongst its victims.  This error can be caused by device driver problems, programming errors, page faults, or a variety of other errors.

This type of error and many others can cause the system to become unbootable. It renders your hard drive inaccessible and the only way to access data is to use a backup file to restore the data.  The first thing to do is restart your computer.  Sometimes that will fix the problem. If that doesn’t fix it, you may have to optimize your system by upgrading to a new driver, but that can cost a pretty penny.

Regardless of whether or not you upgrade your driver, you should scan your computer for viruses and malware, especially if you download a large amount of files. If no viruses are detected, try to figure out if a specific file or application is causing the error.  If you find that a specific file or application is causing the error, uninstall it.  If you can’t pinpoint any specific file and the problem persists, it’s time to consult an IT professionals.

TalkLocal can put you in touch with several IT businesses who will be on call to help you out during the time you need. It’s up to you to decide when you can get help with any computer repair issues, including the Blue Screen of Death, from any local IT businesses.

Does your computer sound exasperated or like it’s on the verge of going kaput? Usually all computers make have hard drive noise on startup due to a low hum  from the fan, but a clicking noise could indicate a problem with the hard drive.

Fans

Usually, the fan begins spinning in order to cool off the computer. The power supply fan, CPU heatsink fan, or graphic card heatsink fan may be the source of the noise. This is normal and important for the regular functioning of your computer. Some fans may need lubrication every now and then in order to spin smoothly.

Hard Drive

Hard drives become noisy as they age. Make sure the screws holding the hard drive are tight in order to ensure stability. If your hard drive is making a clicking noise, this could signal an imminent hard drive failure, so routinely save all important files just in case.

Where is the noise coming from: hard drive or fan?

In order to verify the source of the noise, carefully put a long thin stick, such as a coffee stirrer or similar object, in the fan area the next time you start your computer. This will prevent it from spinning, and will allow you to judge if the noise is the fan or something else. Do not block the fan longer than you must for the test.

If the noise continues while the fan is blocked then it is probably the hard drive. You should run a diagnostic scan for any potential errors on your drive and consider claiming the warranty to get the disk repaired or replaced. Make sure to backup important data regularly!

How to deal with a broken hard drive

Don’t replace your hard drive just yet. Hard drives may not function properly on uneven surfaces, such as your lap. Make sure your computer is on a flat, solid surface, such as a desk. Avoid putting your laptop on a bed or other cushioned surface as this could overheat your device and cause it to breakdown much quicker.

If you want to have your hard drive examined by a professional before replacing it, TalkLocal can find you further assistance. TalkLocal connects you instantly with the best local IT service businesses in your area that can help you at your convenience.

Computers break down for many reasons–one being a computer virus, which is an invasive program generally used with malicious intent. In the same way a viruses infect people, computer viruses infect computers and make them work poorly. Because of this, it is vital that you have virus protection for your computer.  There are several ways to combat computer viruses.

• Ensuring you have installed a functioning anti-virus program that is active. Your program should be updated regularly to keep up with newly released viruses. Schedule an active scan on your anti-virus program to automatically check your computer–this acts as a regular doctor’s checkup to keep the computer safe.
• Ensure that administrative privilege is used sparingly. You can create multiple user accounts to accomodate casual use and limit users from installing or changing programs. This limits the likelihood of a virus getting through.
• Create and use strong passwords. One good method is to select a good quote and use the first letter of every word to make a password. You can add a page number or year so that the password has a number as well. Some people do this with bible verses. To keep everything organized, keep a physical notebook with all the important passwords and store the notebook in a secure place.
• Use Google like a doctor to find a solution to the virus based on the symptoms. Some anti-viruses identify infections by name. Other times, we need to search the symptoms of a problem and find a solution online.

If you are low on time or just want a professional to check if your computer is infected, Seva Call can help you find an immediate solution. Just go to Seva Call’s website and fill out a service request, stating your service need, location and availability. In just 90 seconds, Seva Call can put you in touch with up to three high rated service providers in your area who can solve your problem.

I have a computer virus and it’s ruining all functionality of my computer.  Don’t worry–you’re already one step ahead of the game just by identifying whats causing your computer problems.  Many viruses can go unnoticed for a long time.

First, install antivirus software if you haven’t already. There are many free antivirus programs online if you don’t feel like dishing out the cash.

Once the program is running, it should detect that your computer has a virus. Write down what viruses are on your computer. Most antivirus programs will try to remove, or at least isolate, the virus for you. You can usually tell the program that you want the program to get rid of the virus with the click of a button. If the antivirus software says it has removed the malware successfully, then shut down your computer. Reboot and run the antivirus software again.

If the anti-virus software detects nothing, then you’re in the clear. However if it finds different malware, you might need to repeat the steps. If you keep seeing the same malware pop up after multiple scans or cannot access your antivirus software, try starting your computer in Safe Mode.  Then, run your antivirus software. If you see new malware pop up, you may have hit upon your solution. If it finds the same virus, you may need to seek professional help.

If this does not work, you can use TalkLocal to find a local computer repair shop for you. The process is easy: you fill out a short service request online, including a description of your problem, location, and availability. Within minutes, TalkLocal will connect you directly to three local service providers over the phone. All three service providers are capable of fixing your specific problem and willing to meet around your schedule. TalLocal takes the hassle out of appointment scheduling–because computer viruses are stressful enough.

While most spam is not harmful, it all too often pops up in our inbox against our wishes. You probably want to know how to avoid spam?  Before we dive into it, it is important to understand that an email address that has already been spammed is not savable.  Once spam finds your inbox, you are at risk for all sorts of spamming.

Therefore, you need to create a new email address to avoid spamming.  Since most spammers simply guess at email addresses to find you, avoid choosing an easily conceivable one.  Consider adding numbers or additional initials to your address.  And of course, use discretion when distributing your email.  Giving your email address out on the Internet or by other measures on a wide scale is the best way to attract spam.

Even with these measures, some spam may still make its way to you.  In this case, never “unsubscribe” to a sender.  This is merely a way for them to know they have found you, and you are again at risk for more spamming.  Even opening the email could be a detection method – do not let curiosity get the better of you.  Simply delete the email.

Spam occasionally disguises itself as a message from a contact in your address book.  Although this is more difficult to detect, taking a moment to read the subject line can be an effective preventative measure.  If it seems suspicious, contact the sender before opening to confirm its legitimacy.

There are many email providers that will sort spam away from your inbox automatically–accounts such as Gmail, Yahoo, or Hotmail.  As long as you know the settings your provider is using for this, it can be very helpful.  Make sure to approve these settings and occasionally check your spam folder for mistakes.  Spam blockers are also available for purchase on a private basis.  A bit of shopping around can help find the one most appropriate for you.

If you continue to have spam problems despite your best efforts, you may want to seek professional help.  TalkLocal can connect you with a local computer repair business that can help you get rid of spam. Fill out an online service request to talk to a professional in minutes!