Many computer users know how easy it is to walk out of their house and connect up with several open WiFi hotspots almost anywhere they go from Starbucks to hotels and from Barnes and Nobles to some downtown areas including Downtown Raleigh.  The one thing that most people forget is that these are open networks allowing us to connect at convenience, but not protecting us and our sensitive data that may be on the laptop that we are using at the hotspot.

Of course, we recommend anyone who is out using their computer at hotspots use at the very least an active security suite that includes a strong antivirus program.  If you have questions about which ones are best a computer consultant can answer that for you.

Here is a great article showing the risks of using public WiFi hotspots (using Starbucks as an example.)

Smart phones are all the rage for business owners and now with so many Operating Systems (OS) there are many different choices. It can be overwhelming on a good day. Should a business owner go with Blackberry, or an Android phone, or even a Windows Mobile, or an IPhone? Also what about when one of these OS upgrade to the next version, what happens to the phone?

You will find a link to a great article about tips on how to buy a smart phone. As with anything else, if you aren’t sure if it’ll work with your current technology, feel free to ask your computer technician.

**Please note that SeTech Support does not endorse any particular model of Smart Phone. We will make recommendations based on a customers need but we do not have alliances with any particular carrier or type of phone.

Don’t forget that the first month in August is always tax free weekend at your retail stores. This includes most computers and other electronic equipment. The idea is to help lower the cost for things that are necessary for back to school. Please check out the link from the NC Department of Revenue for more information about what is included in tax free weekend and what does not qualify. This may be a way to find good deals on laptops, desktops, and other computer equipment. Just remember most stores know it is tax free weekend so they may only have small quantities available in store and if you need to special order, tax free may not apply.

Good luck and happy hunting.

One thing on everyone’s mind today is saving money and one of the largest expenses for small businesses is their technology costs. As a technology company, we see the current costs and understand how quickly equipment can depreciate and become obsolete.

Buying used or refurbished is a great way to go but as a small business owner this can also be a problem. First, what has the laptop or desktop has been through? Second, is the price reasonable for a used computer? Lastly, can you be sure that this equipment isn’t stolen?

The easiest way to save money buying used or refurbished is by going to the manufacturer’s website and looking at their online outlet. Lenovo, Apple, Dell and most other vendors will have an online site for off lease, opened box, or refurbished equipment. The big advantage here is you get a computer from the manufacturer with a full warranty and clean system.

In another blog post we will be following up with the best practices to follow when purchasing a used laptop, desktop, etc. from either Craigslist or Ebay.