Tech Tips

1)      Windows Logo + M:  Minimize all open Windows and Windows Logo + SHIFT + M: Restore the minimized windows

2)      ALT + TAB:  Hold ALT while pressing tab to select another open window, release alt to choose the highlighted program

3)      F2: Press F2 when you want to rename a file or folder.  Much easier than right-clicking and choosing rename!

System running slowly? Many times deleting temporary files can help speed up your computer.

• A program from the developers at Piriform called CCleaner works wonders for cleaning up temporary files. Click here for the latest version (XP/7/Vista). After installation, simply launch the program and click on 'Run Cleaner'. 
• Keep Adobe and Java products up to date. Around 65% of current malware based attacks are targeting Adobe and Java products, keeping these updated regularly will help keep your computer and information safe.

Use built-in tools to encrypt and protect your data from theft! In Windows Vista or Windows 7, open 'My Computer,' right click on the removable disk, and select 'Turn On BitLocker'. A wizard will launch and will walk you through the process of setting up encryption.

A great tool for keeping your computer fast! (Available for free download at www.cnet.com)

• Optimizes file system

• Consolidates free space

• Can defrag automatically

• Provides flexible scheduler

• Can defrag a single file or folder

It's very important to use strong passwords. The following tips are good rules of thumb to follow:

• Password length should be around 12 to 14 characters long if permitted, and longer if possible
• Use randomly generated passwords where feasible
• Avoid any passowords based on repetition, dictionary words, letter or number sequences, usernames, relative or pet names, romantic links, or biographical information
• Include numbers, symbols, upper and lowercase letters in passwords if allowed

• If you are using Windows 7, you can click on the top of any window and drag it to the top of your screen to instantly make that window full-screen. Additionally, you can drag a window to the side of the screen to make it expand to fill that half of your screen. You can also click on the top of a window and shake your cursor (by moving your mouse back and forth) to minimize all windows except the one you are dragging.
• To more easily navigate to programs in your Start Menu, click on 'Start', then type the first few letters of the name of the application you are trying to launch. Once the application is shown in the menu and is selected, pressing 'Enter' will launch the application.
• Speed up the Windows 7 or Windows Vista graphical interface by adjusting the performance settings. This can be accessed from My Computer > Properties > Advanced System Settings> Performance. Remove a check box next to items with fade, animate or slide in the name.
• Ensure proper system security by checking the Windows Action center. On Windows 7, press the Windows key, then type Action and press enter.

An anti-malware application that can thoroughly remove even the most advanced malware.  (Available for free download at www.cnet.com)

• Just download and install

• Open the program, select the update tab and select update

• Run a quick scan of your system

It is very important to keep up to date on Microsoft updates.  Many malware programs infect computers that do not have current updates.  Whenever you get a prompt from Windows to install updates, please do it at your earliest convenience.