Stick with Windows XP or move to Linux

Microsoft has officially pulled the plug on Windows XP - as far as future updates are concerned, but this does not mean you have to stop using it! If you are content with Windows XP and want to keep it, then you will simply need to make sure you protect your system for the future. This includes making sure you have a security suite installed so that you will have protection against malware and viruses as well as spyware. It is not critical to get updates from Microsoft in order to function. Many users have not used Microsoft updates for years with Windows XP and their systems are fine.

If you are ready for a change and want a faster and more efficient operating system, an option to consider is moving to Linux. Linux has been around for almost 25 years and is very user-friendly. If you primarily browse the web and check email or use online versions of computer products, Linux can even be a better option than Windows XP. You receive the benefits of an updated and free operating system that works wonderfully on older as well as newer computers. It is definitely worth considering if you are looking for a replacement for Windows XP that is easy to use and designed with the end-user in mind.

AZ Computer Specialist can help you in either case - setting your computer up to continue using Windows XP, or transitioning to a Linux operating system. Call us with any questions, or to set up an appointment for service!

Joe Johnston
Owner and Operator
AZ Computer Specialist
www.azcomputerspecialist.com
joe@azcomputerspecialist.com

480-264-1667 Office
623-521-3503 Mobile

Can I make my PC run like new?

One frustrating issue for many PC users is the slowed performance over time.  This will put a kink in your business and personal use of your computer - but this does not need to be the case. You do not need to be an expert though in order to have a well-running computer.  You just need to have the right tools to get you there.

We recommend you find and download a free tune-up utility like Slimware Utilities that you can run frequently. You should also make sure you have some form of protection running at all times. There are many free antivirus suites that can handle most of your needs, like Microsoft Security Essentials, AVG, Avira and Avast.

With these tools your system can remain secure and performing like the day you bought it.

One of the specialties we provide here at AZ Computer Specialist is fine-tuning and restoring the performance of computer systems. We provide in-person computer support to the Phoenix East Valley, and remote computer support to all other areas. Call us today to set up an appointment.

Remember - you don't have to live with computer problems!  

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Make sure your computer is secure!

Most people today know that their computer needs to be secure but do not fully know the best steps to get there.

Let's examine what your computer needs for security.

Your computer first needs to have a security suite set up that protects it from viruses, malware and spyware.  In choosing a suite, one main concern is computer performance and how the suite will affect that performance.  A security suite needs to protect well and not debilitate the performance of the system.  A user may spend a great deal of money and have to pay annual renewal fees but still find himself frustrated at the slowed performance of his system.  There are viable alternatives to consider.

If you are going to use a third-party security suite you can easily use the free ones currently on the market such as Avast or AVG. They protect your computer well and save you money.

If you want the best performance along with good protection, a good option is to stick with Microsoft Security Essentials for Windows XP through Windows 7 and Defender for Windows 8.  I personally use this and recommend it as it has the smallest footprint (that is, uses the lowest amount of your computer's memory and resources), has the smallest negative affect on performance, and still allows for solid protection.

Another recommended tool is Malwarebytes Anti-Malware free edition as a secondary form of protection.  I have this installed and run it once a month as a backup protection for anything that may be missed by another tool.  With these two options in place you can have peace of mind and the best performance possible for your computer.

Whatever you choose, make sure you have something protecting your system.  No system can be guaranteed secure but having a security suite installed helps to keep you protected from the majority of intrusions and infections.

Also, remember that AZ Computer Specialist is here for you!  We can assist you further whenever you have a need - either with installing a security suite on your computer, or helping with any type of computer problem or performance issue. We serve Chandler, Sun Lakes, and surrounding areas with in-person support, and offer remote computer support to all areas.

AZ Computer Specialist

Remember! You don't have to live with computer problems!