Keeping your computer secure from viruses, malware, and other online threats is essential to staying safe online. With a few steps, you can reduce your risk and keep your personal information safe. Here’s a step-by-step guide to protecting your computer:

1. Install and Regularly Update Antivirus Software

A robust antivirus program is your computer’s first line of defence against malware. Install a reputable antivirus software such as Bitdefender or Malwarebytes to keep your computer safe from threats. For business devices, we offer enterprise-level protection that protects your devices and networks from sophisticated cyberthreats. Contact us now to learn more about our enterprise-level cybersecurity solutions!

2. Keep Your Operating System and Software Up to Date

Regular updates patch vulnerabilities that cybercriminals exploit. Ensure you regularly update your operating system and software to have the latest defences against cyber threats.

How to Update Windows:

1. Click the Start button, then select Settings (the gear icon).

2. Go to Update & Security, then select Windows Update.

3. Click on Check for updates. If updates are available, Windows will download and install them automatically.

4. Restart your computer when prompted to complete the installation.

How to Update macOS:

1. Click the Apple menu in the top-left corner of your screen.

2. Choose System Settings (or System Preferences on older macOS versions).

3. Navigate to General > Software Update (or directly to Software Update).

4. macOS will automatically check for updates. If updates are available, click Update Now.

5. Restart your Mac when prompted to finalize the update.

3. Be Careful with Email Attachments and Links

Email remains one of the most common ways that viruses and malware spread. Phishing attacks often arrive disguised as legitimate messages, tricking users into clicking harmful links or downloading malicious attachments. Even one careless click can give hackers access to your files, passwords, or personal data.

To stay safe:

• Don’t open email attachments from unknown senders.

• Always hover your mouse over links before clicking to check where they lead.

• Look for common phishing signs like spelling mistakes or unexpected urgent messages.

4. Enable a Firewall

A firewall acts as a digital barrier between your device and the internet, monitoring incoming and outgoing traffic and blocking anything suspicious. It’s a simple but powerful tool that often gets overlooked.

Both Windows and macOS come with built-in firewalls. Make sure yours is turned on by checking your system settings. For added protection, especially on business networks, a hardware firewall or managed firewall solution can provide more granular control and logging. Occasionally review your firewall settings to ensure nothing has been disabled or altered without your knowledge.

5. Regularly Back Up Your Data

Even with the best defenses, no system is completely immune to threats. That’s why backing up your important files is critical. If your system becomes infected or damaged, having a backup ensures you don’t lose valuable data.

Use cloud services like OneDrive, Google Drive, or Dropbox for automatic, off-site backups. For added peace of mind, consider also keeping backups on external hard drives using backup tools.

6. Be Cautious on Public Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi networks, like those in cafés, airports, or hotels, are convenient, but they’re often unsecured. This makes them a prime target for hackers who can intercept your connection and steal passwords, files, or personal information.

To protect yourself, avoid accessing sensitive information such as banking or email accounts while on public Wi-Fi. Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to encrypt your internet connection, making it much harder for attackers to intercept your data. Also, stick to websites that use HTTPS (look for the padlock in your browser). Finally, turn off file sharing, Bluetooth, and automatic Wi-Fi connections to minimize exposure.

7. Watch Out for Fake Pop-ups and Warnings

Cybercriminals often use fake pop-up ads or warning messages to trick users into downloading harmful software. These may look like system alerts or antivirus notifications, but they’re designed to scare you into clicking.

Never trust a pop-up that suddenly appears telling you your computer is infected, especially if it urges you to download a program immediately. Instead, close the window using the taskbar or Task Manager. Only trust alerts that come from the antivirus software you personally installed.

8. Educate Yourself and Others

Cybersecurity isn’t just about tools; it’s about awareness. Understanding how threats work and how to recognize them is one of the best ways to stay protected.

Make a habit of reading trusted tech blogs or security websites to stay informed about new scams and attack trends. If you manage a team or have family members who are less tech-savvy, take time to educate them on basic security practices. The more people in your network who are aware, the safer everyone becomes.

What If You Suspect an Infection?

If your computer suddenly slows down, crashes, or behaves strangely, it could be infected with malware. The best course of action is to disconnect from the internet immediately to prevent the threat from spreading or sending data.

Next, run a full system scan using your antivirus software. If you’re unsure how to proceed or the problem persists, contact a trusted IT professional. Prompt action can minimize damage and protect your information.

Protect Your Devices from Cyberthreats

By following these simple, proactive steps, you can greatly reduce your risk of malware infections and security breaches. Cyber threats are always evolving, but so are the tools and strategies to fight them. Good habits, combined with the right technology, are your best defense in staying secure, whether you’re working from home, at the office, or on the go.

Need help securing your business or personal devices and networks? Reach out to our team for expert support and enterprise-grade solutions.

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Written by: Jay H.

Running out of hard drive space can significantly slow down your computer, impact performance, and make it challenging to save new files or install software. Whether you’re working with limited storage or just want a more efficient system, managing and freeing up space on your hard drive can make a big difference. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you declutter your drive and optimise storage.

Why Freeing Up Drive Space is Important

When your drive is full, your computer has to work harder to locate and organise data, which can cause performance issues like slow startup times, lag, and system crashes. By freeing up space, you’re making more room for essential files, programs, and system operations that keep your computer running smoothly.

How to Free Up Disk Space

Check Your Storage Space

First, it’s helpful to understand where your space is being used so you can target areas that need the most attention.

• Windows:
  • Go to Settings > System > Storage.
  • Here, you’ll see a breakdown of how your hard drive is being used by categories like Documents, Photos, and Apps.
• macOS:
  • Go to Apple menu > About This Mac > Storage.
  • This section provides a visual overview of your storage use, so you can quickly see what’s taking up the most space.

Use Built-in Tools to Free Up Space

Both Windows and macOS offer built-in tools that can automatically clean up unnecessary files.

Windows Disk Cleanup Tool

1. Search for Disk Cleanup in the Windows search bar and open the tool.
2. Select the drive you want to clean up (usually C: for most users).
3. The tool will scan for temporary files, system cache, and other unneeded files.
4. Review the list, check the boxes of items you want to delete (like Temporary Internet Files and Recycle Bin), and click OK to free up space.

macOS Storage Management Tool

1. Go to Apple menu > About This Mac > Storage > Manage.
2. Here, you’ll find options like Store in iCloud (which moves files to iCloud), Optimize Storage (removes iTunes movies and TV shows you’ve already watched), and Empty Trash Automatically.
3. Select each option and enable it based on your storage needs.

Uninstall Unnecessary Applications

Over time, software and apps you no longer use can build up, occupying valuable space on your hard drive.

• Windows:
  • Go to Settings > Apps > Apps & features.
  • Click on the apps you no longer need, then select Uninstall.
  • If prompted in a dialog box, continue to uninstall the program until it has been removed.
• macOS:
  • Open Finder and go to Applications.
  • Drag any unnecessary apps into the Trash and empty the trash to free up space.

Clear Out Your Downloads Folder

Downloads can quickly pile up and go unnoticed. Files like installers, PDFs, and media that you only needed temporarily might still be sitting there.

1. Open your Downloads folder.
2. Review the files and delete any items you no longer need.
3. Consider organising the remaining files into folders or moving them to an external drive if they’re important.

Move Large Files to External Storage or Cloud Storage

For larger files, such as videos, high-resolution photos, and extensive documents, consider moving them off your computer entirely.

• External Drives: Transfer large files to an external hard drive to free up space on your computer. This also serves as a backup.
• Cloud Storage: Services like Google Drive, Dropbox, and iCloud provide storage that doesn’t occupy physical space on your computer, allowing you to access files from any device.

Use Storage-Saving Formats and Settings

If you work with media, try using compressed formats or settings to reduce file size without losing quality.

• Photos: Use JPEG instead of PNG for photos unless you need transparency. On macOS, Preview allows you to resize images and save them in compressed formats.
• Videos: Use software like HandBrake to compress video files without sacrificing quality.
• Documents: Save Word documents in PDF format if they don’t require frequent editing, as PDFs can often take up less space.

Set Your Trash to Empty Automatically

Leaving files in the trash doesn’t free up space—they’re still stored on your hard drive. Setting your system to empty trash automatically can save you this step.

• Windows:
  • Go to Settings > System > Storage, then click on Storage Sense and enable it to automatically empty your recycle bin based on your preferences.
• macOS:
  • Go to Apple menu > About This Mac > Storage > Manage, and turn on Empty Trash Automatically.

Start Managing Your Drive Space

Managing your hard drive space doesn’t have to be a hassle. With a combination of using built-in tools, deleting unnecessary files, and transferring large items to external or cloud storage, you can keep your computer performing at its best. Whether you’re aiming to free up space for a new project or improve system speed, these steps make it easier to create a streamlined, efficient workspace.

If you need further assistance with optimising your computer’s storage or have any other tech questions, our support team is here to help. Contact us today to get your system running smoothly and securely.

The post How to Free Up Space on Your Computer appeared first on Design2Web IT, Inc..

Written by: Jay H.

System Restore is a useful tool in Windows that helps you revert your computer’s system files, settings, and applications to a previous state. If you’re experiencing unexpected errors or performance issues, using System Restore can often fix them without affecting your personal files. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about System Restore, from setting it up to restoring your system.

What Is System Restore?

System Restore is a Windows feature that creates “restore points” — snapshots of your system’s configuration at a particular point in time. Restore points save system files, installed applications, Windows Registry settings, and system settings. When something goes wrong, such as a problematic update or software installation, you can revert to one of these restore points, effectively undoing the recent changes that caused issues.

When Should You Use System Restore?

System Restore is useful in several situations, including:

• After installing new software or hardware that’s causing errors.
• Following a Windows update that has led to system instability.
• When experiencing crashes, freezes, or unexpected shutdowns.
• When dealing with corrupted system files or configuration issues.

How to Set Up System Restore

To use System Restore, it needs to be enabled first. Here’s how to check if it’s enabled on your Windows computer and set it up if it isn’t.

1. Open System Protection

• Right-click the Start button and select System.
• In the System window, click System Protection on the left-hand side.

2. Enable System Protection

• In the System Protection tab, you’ll see a list of drives with a Protection status.
• If Protection is set to Off for your main drive (usually C:), select the drive and click Configure.
• In the Configure menu, select Turn on system protection and adjust the Max Usage slider to set the amount of disk space for restore points.
• Click Apply and then OK to save changes.

3. Create a Restore Point

• Although Windows automatically creates restore points, you can create one manually.
• In the System Protection tab, click Create and give your restore point a descriptive name, like “Before Driver Update.”
• Click Create again, and wait for the restore point to be generated.

How to Use System Restore to Revert Your System

If an error occurs, follow these steps to revert your system using System Restore.

Step 1: Open System Restore

• Open the Start menu, type System Restore, and select Create a restore point.
• In the System Properties window, click System Restore.

Step 2: Choose a Restore Point

• In the System Restore window, click Next to see a list of available restore points.
• Select a restore point from a date when your system was functioning properly.
• If available, select Show more restore points to see older options.
• Click Next after choosing your preferred restore point.

Step 3: Confirm Restore Point

• Review the details of the selected restore point and click Finish to confirm.
• Windows will restart your computer to apply the changes, which may take several minutes.

Step 4: Wait for the Process to Complete

• After your computer restarts, you’ll see a message confirming that the restore was successful or failed. If successful, your system settings will be rolled back to the selected date, potentially resolving the error.

Advanced Options and Tips for System Restore

Undoing a System Restore

If the restore doesn’t fix the issue or creates new problems, you can undo it by returning to System Restore and selecting Undo System Restore. This will revert your system to its previous state before the restoration.

Choosing Restore Points Wisely

If multiple restore points are available, choose the one closest to when your system was stable, but before any problematic changes were made. Each restore point will show the date, time, and a description, which can help you identify the best option.

Running System Restore in Safe Mode

If Windows won’t start normally, you can run System Restore in Safe Mode:

• Restart your computer and press F8 (or Shift + F8) repeatedly during startup.
• Choose Safe Mode from the Advanced Boot Options.
• Once in Safe Mode, follow the same steps to access and run System Restore.

Using Command Prompt for System Restore

If you cannot access Windows normally or through Safe Mode, you can perform a restore via Command Prompt:

• Boot into the Windows Recovery Environment by pressing F8 on startup or using a Windows installation media.
• Select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Command Prompt.
• In Command Prompt, type rstrui.exe and press Enter. This will open System Restore, allowing you to select a restore point.

Things to Keep in Mind

• System Restore won’t delete your personal files (documents, photos, etc.), but it will remove software and updates installed after the restore point date.
• System Restore doesn’t fix malware. If you suspect a virus or malware, use antivirus software to scan and clean your computer.
• Restore points are automatically deleted if you run low on disk space, so it’s a good idea to check that System Protection is active periodically.

Get Your System in Working Order

System Restore is a valuable tool that can save you from complex troubleshooting steps and give you peace of mind. By following these instructions, you can roll back unwanted changes and restore stability to your system with ease.

This feature is great for Windows users who want a quick fix to system issues, but it is an advanced feature. If you have difficulties restoring your system or need further assistance, please contact one of our IT professionals now to assist with your technology needs.

The post How to Use System Restore on Windows to Recover from Errors appeared first on Design2Web IT, Inc..

Written by: Jay H.

Have you ever faced the frustration of a program freezing or becoming unresponsive right in the middle of an important task? Many people experience this with Windows-based programs, whether due to a software glitch, lack of memory, or unexpected bugs. Thankfully, Windows Task Manager is a powerful tool that can help you resolve these issues quickly and get back to work.

In this guide, we’ll walk through the steps to open Task Manager, understand its interface, and use it to fix unresponsive programs.

Note: This is a Windows-based program. If you have a Mac device, you will want to use Activity Monitor to force-close programs instead.

Fixing Unresponsive Programs

Step 1: Access Task Manager

There are several ways to open Task Manager, but here are some of the most common:

1. Keyboard Shortcut: Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc. This is the quickest way to open Task Manager directly.
2. Ctrl + Alt + Delete: Press Ctrl + Alt + Delete and select Task Manager from the list of options.
3. Search: You can also search for Task Manager by typing “Task Manager” in the Start menu and clicking on the Task Manager app when it appears.
4. Taskbar: Right-click on the Windows taskbar and select Task Manager from the list of options.

Step 2: Identify the Unresponsive Program

Once Task Manager is open, you’ll see several tabs at the top. You will end up on the Processes tab when you launch Task Manager. This tab shows all running applications and background processes. Here, you can see which programs are using the most resources, including CPU, memory, and disk usage.

In the Processes tab, look for the program that’s causing the issue. You’ll see each app’s name in alphabetical order. You might have to scroll to find the problem program.

How to Identify the Unresponsive Program

• The status might display as “Not Responding.”
• It may show unusually high memory or CPU usage.
• The window might be frozen and won’t respond to clicks or commands.

Step 3: End the Unresponsive Task

Once you’ve identified the unresponsive program, you can use Task Manager to force it to close. Here’s how:

1. Select the Program: Click on the unresponsive program to highlight it.
2. End Task: In the bottom-right corner, click End Task. This will force the program to close, immediately freeing up any resources it was using.

Note: Be cautious when ending tasks, especially if you’re unsure what they are. Forcing a task to end will close the program without saving any unsaved data.

Step 4: Restart the Program (If Necessary)

After ending the unresponsive program, you may need to open it again to continue your work. Go back to your Start menu or desktop and click on the program icon to restart it. Most of the time, the program will reopen without any issues.

Preventing Program Freezes

If you frequently experience unresponsive programs, here are a few tips to reduce the chances of future freezes:

1. Restart Your Computer Regularly: Regular restarts clear the system cache and refresh memory usage.
2. Update Your Software and System: Keep your operating system and programs up to date. Updates often include performance improvements and bug fixes.
3. Limit Background Programs: Running too many applications at once can cause memory issues. Close programs you’re not actively using.
4. Check for Malware: Malicious software can cause programs to freeze. Run a virus scan regularly to ensure your system is safe.
5. Consider Upgrading Your RAM: If you regularly use resource-intensive programs like video editing software, more RAM can help prevent slowdowns and freezing.

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Image: Microsoft

Written by: Jay H.

Ever since the announcement for Windows 11, Microsoft has struggled to convince users to switch from Windows 10 to its newest operating system. As Windows 10 nears its end-of-life date in October 2025, Microsoft is introducing a lifeline for users who aren’t quite ready to switch: Extended Security Updates (ESU). This paid extension will offer an additional year of critical security updates, through to October 2026, aimed at protecting users who rely on Windows 10 for specific hardware or software compatibility reasons. The plan is primarily aimed at enterprise users, but Microsoft will also make it accessible for individual users, providing a little extra time to prepare for the eventual switch to Windows 11 or beyond.

Why Extend Windows 10?

Microsoft’s primary motivation is clear: many organizations and individuals still depend on Windows 10, and not all hardware is easily upgradeable to Windows 11’s requirements. While Windows 10 continues to function well for many users, Windows 11’s rollout has yet to be well received by users and organizations alike.

What Is the Cost of Extended Security for Windows 10?

The ESU option comes with a cost—at $30 USD per device for the additional year. This cost may seem minimal for individual users but can quickly add up for companies with numerous devices.

How Will Extended Security Updates Work?

The ESU package will deliver only security patches—no new features or enhancements. Critical vulnerabilities will continue to be addressed, giving organizations and users another year to plan their transition strategies. For enterprises, this could involve budget allocations, software audits, and phased upgrade rollouts to Windows 11 or alternative systems. For diehard Windows 10 enthusiasts who are just wanting to delay the switch, this gives them the opportunity to safely stay on their preferred operating system for an additional two years.

Organizations and individuals will have until October 2026 to migrate their systems to Windows 11 before Microsoft pulls the plug on safety releases for Windows 10. If you or your organization needs assistance upgrading your systems to newer operating systems, please contact us today. Our expert support technicians can help your business get onto fastest, more secure, and robust operating systems.

The post Microsoft Extends Windows 10 Security Until 2026 – For a Fee appeared first on Design2Web IT, Inc..

Written by: Jay H.

BitLocker is a powerful encryption feature included with certain versions of Windows that helps protect data by encrypting entire volumes. Enabling BitLocker on your Windows device ensures that your sensitive information is secure, even if the device is lost or stolen. Let’s go through the steps to enable BitLocker encryption on your Windows device.

What is BitLocker?

BitLocker is a built-in security feature available in certain editions of Windows, such as Windows 10 Pro, Enterprise, and Education, as well as Windows 11 Pro and Enterprise. It helps protect your data by encrypting the entire drive on your computer, making it unreadable to unauthorized users. So if someone were to steal your desktop computer or laptop and attempt to read the hard drive, they would be unable to do so without the decryption key.

Why Should You Use BitLocker?

BitLocker is a feature that protects the data on your computer by encrypting it, making it unreadable to unauthorized users. Here are some simple reasons why you should use BitLocker:

1. Protect Sensitive Information

We all store important information on our computers, like personal photos, financial documents, and work files. If your computer gets lost or stolen, someone could access this information. BitLocker keeps your data safe by making it unreadable to others.

2. Prevent Identity Theft

Identity theft happens when someone steals your personal information and uses it to commit fraud. Your computer might have documents, saved passwords, company files, or other personal details that identity thieves want. BitLocker encrypts your data, making it much harder for criminals to use it.

3. Comply with Regulations

For businesses and professionals, BitLocker helps you follow data protection laws. Many industries have rules about how to protect sensitive data. BitLocker makes it easy to meet these rules and keep your data secure.

4. Ease of Use

BitLocker is easy to use. You don’t need to be a tech expert to set it up. The setup process is simple, and once BitLocker is on, it works in the background. You just unlock your drive with a password or a key, and your data stays safe.

Prerequisites for Enabling BitLocker

Before you begin, ensure the following prerequisites are met:

• Windows Version: BitLocker is available on Windows 10 Pro, Enterprise, and Education editions, as well as corresponding versions of Windows 11. It is not available on Windows Home editions.
• TPM (Trusted Platform Module): While BitLocker can be used without a TPM, it is recommended for enhanced security. Most modern devices come with TPM 1.2 or later.
• Administrator Access: You must have administrator privileges to enable BitLocker.

Step-by-Step Guide to Enable BitLocker Encryption

Step 1: Access BitLocker Management

1. Open Control Panel:

• Press Windows Key and search for and select “Control Panel”.

2. Navigate to BitLocker:

• In the Control Panel, go to BitLocker Drive Encryption.

Bitlocker Drive Encryption in the Control Panel in Windows 10

Step 2: Turn On BitLocker

1. Select the Drive to Encrypt:

• In the BitLocker Drive Encryption window, you will see a list of available drives.
• Click on Turn on BitLocker next to the drive you want to encrypt (usually the C: drive).

Turn on Bitlocker on the drive you would like to encrypt

2. Choose How to Unlock Your Drive:

• You will be prompted to choose how you want to unlock your drive during startup.
  • If your device has a TPM, you can use TPM with a PIN or password.
  • If you do not have a TPM, you will need to use a password or a USB flash drive to unlock the drive.

3. Set a Password or Insert a USB Flash Drive:

• If you choose to use a password, enter and confirm a strong password.
• If you opt for a USB flash drive, insert the drive and follow the prompts to set it up as your unlock key.

Step 3: Backup Your Recovery Key

1. Choose a Backup Method:

• BitLocker will generate a recovery key that you can use to access your data if you forget your password or lose your unlock key.
• You can save the recovery key to your Microsoft account, a USB flash drive, a file on your computer, or print it out.

2. Store the Recovery Key Securely:

• It is crucial to store the recovery key in a safe place, separate from the encrypted device.

Step 4: Choose the Encryption Method and Mode

1. Select Encryption Method:

• BitLocker offers two encryption options: Encrypt used disk space only (faster and suitable for new PCs) or Encrypt entire drive (more secure for PCs already in use).

2. Choose Encryption Mode:

• For Windows 10 version 1511 and later, you can choose between New encryption mode (XTS-AES) and Compatible mode (AES-CBC). Select the mode based on your compatibility needs. New encryption mode is appropriate in most cases.

Step 5: Start Encryption

1. Begin the Encryption Process:

• Click on Start encrypting to begin the encryption process.
• The time required to complete encryption depends on the size of the drive and the amount of data stored on it.

2. Monitor Progress:

• You can monitor the encryption progress in the BitLocker Drive Encryption window.
• Once the encryption process is complete, you will receive a notification.

Managing BitLocker Encryption

After enabling BitLocker, you can manage your encryption settings through the BitLocker Drive Encryption window in the Control Panel. Here, you can:

• Change your password or PIN.
• Add additional unlock methods.
• Suspend or resume BitLocker protection.
• Backup your recovery key again if needed.

Start Encrypting Your Drives & Devices

Enabling BitLocker encryption on your Windows device is a straightforward process that significantly enhances the security of your data. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can protect your sensitive information from unauthorized access, giving you peace of mind in case your device is lost or stolen. Always remember to keep your recovery key in a safe place and update your unlock methods as needed to maintain the security of your encrypted drive.

Implementing BitLocker is a proactive step towards ensuring your data’s security. If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to contact our IT support team for expert guidance.

The post How to Enable BitLocker Encryption on Windows Devices appeared first on Design2Web IT, Inc..

If you’re troubleshooting an issue with your computer, oftentimes you may want to boot your computer into safe mode. Safe mode starts Windows in a basic state with limited drivers and files, meaning that if a problem doesn’t occur in safe mode, it is not the default configuration that is causing your issues. If you’re diagnosing your computer, here are some ways you can boot into safe mode in Windows 10 or Windows 11.

How to boot into safe mode in Windows 10 or Windows 11

1. Press the Windows and I keys on your keyboard to open Settings.
2. Click Update & Security, then press Recovery on the left-hand menu.
3. Click Restart now under Advanced startup.
4. Once your computer restarts, at the Choose an option screen, press Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Startup Settings > Restart.
5. After your computer restarts, select F4 or 4 to start the PC in safe mode. If you need to use the internet during safe mode, select F5 or 5 for safe mode with networking.

How to boot into safe mode from the sign-in screen in Windows 10 or Windows 11

1. Restart your computer.
2. At the sign-in screen, hold down the Shift key, then click Power > Restart.
3. Once your computer restarts, on the Choose an Option screen, press Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Startup Settings > Restart.
4. After your computer restarts, select F4 or 4 to start the PC in safe mode. If you need to use the internet during safe mode, select F5 or 5 for safe mode with networking.

How to boot into safe mode if Windows 10 or Windows 11 won’t start

If you’re trying to turn on your computer and Windows fails to boot, you should try booting Windows into safe mode. If Windows fails to start three times consecutively, your computer will automatically boot into the Windows Recovery Environment. From here, follow these steps to boot into safe mode:

1. At the Choose an option screen, press Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Advanced Startup Options.
2. Select Startup Settings, then Restart.
3. Once your computer restarts, select F4 or 4 to start the PC in safe mode. If you need to use the internet during safe mode, select F5 or 5 for safe mode with networking.

Have an expert quickly solve your computer problems

If you’re struggling with an issue with your computer and need help, an expert technician is ready to help. Contact us now for a swift resolution to your computer problems.

The post How to Boot Into Safe Mode in Windows 10 or Windows 11 appeared first on Design2Web IT, Inc..

Written by: Jay H.

PDF files are an easy way to share documents, web pages, images, and files. Luckily, it’s easy to save just about anything as a ready-to-share PDF. Here’s how you can save a page or file as a PDF.

How to save a page as a PDF

1. Open the webpage or file you want to save as a PDF.
2. Press Ctrl + P on your keyboard to open the Print window.
3. Under Printer, click the drop-down option and select Save as PDF.
4. Press Print. A new window will open, allowing you to choose where you want to save the PDF and what you want to name it. Once you’re satisfied, press Save.
5. That’s it! You can now easily attach the PDF in emails and share it however you’d like.

See how easy that was? In just a few quick steps, you saved your document as a PDF. Happy sharing!

If you need help with this or other technical support, please contact us today. An experienced support technical is ready to assist you with any technological troubles.

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Written by: Jay H.

Microsoft recently unveiled Windows 11 version 2H22, sporting new improvements and a few new features. Let’s look at what’s new with this version of Windows and how you can update if you’re interested in trying it out for yourself.

Windows 11 2H22 Features

Start Menu enhancements

Microsoft improved the Start Menu, now allowing you to customize the Recommended section. The new settings enable you to choose between showing more pins, more recommendations, or the default split view.

Source: Microsoft

Another big Start Menu feature is folders. You can now drag an app on top of another to create a folder, allowing you to group similar apps and better organize your menu. You can also reorganize and rename folders and remove apps from them.

Taskbar changes

Microsoft finally restored the drag-and-drop capability, letting you drag files onto apps pinned in the taskbar or drag apps to the taskbar to create shortcuts.

Additionally, while hovering the volume icon in the taskbar, you can now adjust the volume by scrolling your mouse wheel.

You also have the ability to share a window from the taskbar on apps such as Microsoft Teams. To use this feature, go into Settings > Personalization > Taskbar and ensure that Share any window from my taskbar is enabled.

This version also introduces the taskbar overflow functionality, making it easier to switch between apps when you don’t have space in the taskbar.  This feature provides an entry point into a new overflow menu that lists the excess apps and supports many taskbar behaviours like pinned apps.

Task Manager

2H22 also enhanced Task Manager, giving it a new, modern design and a navigation bar. It also includes a new Efficiency mode that will reduce the consumption of resource-intensitive apps if you need to prioritize other apps or conserve battery life.

To apply Efficiency mode to an app, right-click on it within Task Manager and select Efficiency mode. If the option is greyed out, the app is likely a core Windows process that cannot be throttled.

File Explorer

File Explorer finally has support for tabs in Windows 11 version 2H22.

With this feature, you’ll be able to easily manage folders similar to how you manage multiple tabs in your web browser. This eliminates the need to open new windows for each folder, improving your productivity.

Memory integrity

Microsoft developed Memory integrity to prevent attackers from inserting malicious code into high-priority processes. You can enable this feature in Windows Security under Device security > Core isolation if your device has newer hardware.

How to get this update

If you’re interested in updating to Windows 11 version 2H22 and you already have Windows 11, simply go to Settings > Windows Update and click Check for updates. It will search for and download the updates, then you’ll have to restart your computer to apply the upgrade. If you run into any trouble updating, contact us today. Our expert technicians are ready to help you resolve any tech issue.

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Written by: Jay H.

Your data is at risk every day. You could lose your break your computer, your hard drive could fail, ransomware could take your data hostage, or you could accidentally erase your files. If you don’t regularly back up your computer, you’re at significant risk of losing your files. Here’s how to backup your computer and keep your data safe.

How To Back Up Your Computer

With An External Drive

USB hard drives can be a cheap and easy way to back up your invaluable data. Backing up your data with an external drive differs depending on whether you are running Windows or Apple iOS.

On Windows

If your computer uses Windows, you should back up your computer using File History. Simply click on the Start menu and search for Backup settings. On that window, connect your hard drive then click Add a drive. Next, follow the instructions to back up your computer onto your USB hard drive.

Image: Microsoft

On Apple iOS

Apple users can back up their computers using Time Machine. To open this program, click on System Preferences then Time Machine. Plug in your USB drive and click Select Disk… then choose your device and follow the instructions. You can choose to encrypt your backup disk or back up automatically.

Cons Of Physical Backups

Backing up onto a hard drive can be a great way to keep your data safe. However, if you lose your backup or it gets stolen, your data will be gone as well.

Over The Internet

Online backups can be an easy and convenient way to keep your data safe. Backup service providers like Backblaze keep your data safe from data loss, theft, or other disasters and make it easy for you to restore your files from anywhere. These programs automatically back up your PC or Mac to their online storage for a monthly fee and you can access your data from any device. The drawback of these services is that they charge a monthly fee ($7 per month for Backblaze), but it’s a small price to pay for peace of mind.

To use an online backup service, you have to create an account on their website. Then, buy or try their subscription service and install the backup program. You can then follow the instructions given to back up your PC to their servers.

Make Multiple Backups OF Your Data

One backup is not enough to ensure your data stays safe. You should keep backups in both a physical drive and online. So, even if you lose your hard drive or the internet suddenly vanishes, you still have a copy of your data available.

Creating and maintaining backups of your business data can be challenging. If your business does not have a backup solution in place, your data is at significant risk. Our automated daily backups and rapid disaster recovery services keep your firm’s files safe and restore operations quickly in the event of a disaster. Contact us today to learn more.

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