How To Prevent Windows 10 Updates

Updates are important for your computer to run smoothly and efficiently. Updates are designed to not only keep your device and its programs to their latest versions. In addition, they are developed to fix errors and address issues on your computer. But updates can sometimes take a long time to start and finish. And in case you haven’t noticed, Windows 10 has an update almost every week. Sometimes less almost every less than a week if that makes sense.

 

One simply can’t stop Windows 10 from updating. It’s just a fact. However, you can delay it. Here’s what you can do.

 

Pause the automatic updates. A few years ago, this option wasn’t available. To attempt to stop an update from installing on that day, all you can do is assign a time for it to make the changes. But now, we finally have that saving button.

Click the Start menu, then the Settings cog. Now go to 'Update & Security', click 'Windows Update' on the left-hand side, then click 'Advanced options'. Under 'Pause Updates', toggle the switch to 'On'. This will pause Windows updates for 35 days, but you’ll need to download the latest updates once that period is over if you want to pause further updates.

You can also choose to defer feature updates by up to 365 days and quality updates (which contain important security fixes) by up to 30 days. Once these periods are up, you’ll need to download updates before you can defer them again.

(Via:https://www.techradar.com/how-to/how-to-stop-a-windows-10-update)

Meter your WiFi connection. This will tell Windows that your data is limited. And Windows won’t let you update with an unstable or limited connection.

This is another simple thing to try. Click Start, then click the Settings cog. From here, click 'Network & Internet', then click 'Wi-Fi' in the left-hand column, then the name of your Wi-Fi connection. Scroll down to the 'Metered connection' section and toggle the 'Set as metered connection' switch to 'On'.

This tells Windows 10 that you’re on a limited data plan, with the result that it won’t automatically push updates to you (although you can still manually install them). However, if you’re on an Ethernet connection this method won’t work, so you’ll have to try one of the other methods in this guide.

(Via:https://www.techradar.com/how-to/how-to-stop-a-windows-10-update)

 

Prevent maintenance from proceeding if the installation hasn’t started yet. Otherwise, don’t. It can harm your computer.

Once an update has started installing, you shouldn’t stop it – doing so can be potentially dangerous for your PC. However, if Windows 10 has downloaded an update but hasn’t started installing it yet, you can still stop it.

In the Windows 10 search bar, type 'Security and Maintenance', then click the first result to bring up the control panel window. Click the 'Maintenance' title to expand it, then scroll to the 'Automatic Maintenance' section. Click 'Stop maintenance' to halt the update.

If you change your mind and want to restart the update, simply click 'Start maintenance'.

(Via:https://www.techradar.com/how-to/how-to-stop-a-windows-10-update)

 

You can also choose to toggle off Windows Updates service.

In the Windows 10 search bar, type 'Services'. Right-click the top result and select 'Run as administrator'. Scroll down the list until you reach the Windows Update entry. If the 'Status' column says "Running", right-click the Windows Update entry and click 'Stop'.

Now, right-click it again and click 'Properties'. In the resulting menu, under 'Startup type', choose 'Disabled', then click 'OK'.

This will prevent Windows Update from automatically installing updates. If you still want to prevent automatic updates but want to give yourself the opportunity to install updates manually, select 'Manual' from the drop-down menu instead.

(Via:https://www.techradar.com/how-to/how-to-stop-a-windows-10-update)

 

You can do the same thing for Group Policy.

This involves a getting your hands a little dirty, but is easy enough. Type 'gpedit.msc' into the Windows 10 search bar and click the first result. Now navigate to the following path using the left-hand pane: 'Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Update.' In the right-hand window, double-click 'Configure Automatic Updates'.

This will open a new window. In the top-left corner, click 'Disabled', then click 'Apply' and 'OK'. This will prevent Windows 10 from automatically downloading and installing updates, although you can still manually look for updates by opening Windows Update.

(Via:https://www.techradar.com/how-to/how-to-stop-a-windows-10-update)

 

It can be frustrating sometimes when your computer is having a Windows 10 update while in the middle of a task or two. Everything slows and lags like there’s no tomorrow. But we always have to keep in mind that our PCs and laptops need these updates. And we can always delay them. If your hard drives matter to you, keep them in good health. If you run into problems, seek expert help. They can always aid you.

How To Prevent Windows 10 Updates was initially published on HDRG

source https://www.harddriverecovery.org/blog/how-to-prevent-windows-10-updates/

Data Recovery Services Provider Publishes Blog Post On Freeing Up Data In Windows 10

In a recent blog post, Irvine, California's Hard Drive Recovery Group discusses tips and tricks to free up disk space in Windows 10. A second blog post discusses the Family safety parental controls in Windows 10, a common way to restrict children from reading or viewing adult material. These posts and others demonstrate the company's dedication to customer education particularly when it comes to the Windows 10 operating system, which remains the most popular OS for laptops and desktop computers across North America.

In the post, "Steps On How To Manually Free Some Space In Your Windows 10", HDRG talks about some simple searches any user can do to determine where there are storage shortfalls in the system, which lessens the need for data recovery. By "sorting files by size", as an example, it is quite simple for the average Windows user to simply delete excessively large files, such as video or large photos, and free up a good amount of disk space.

"While using File Explorer is extremely common for heavier Windows 10 users, many folks do not understand that it is the most powerful and transparent way to look at a hard drive available," said Maureen Davies, spokeperson for Hard Drive Recovery Group. "This is really not that advanced of an application, and it provides more information about a file system that simply is not available elsewhere."

HDRG also references another space-freeing technique in the post, namely to attempt to eliminate programs and games that are rarely or never used. Applications tend to fill the majority of space on a typical Windows drive, and many are installed as a batch or attachment to other programs. As a result, many people do not see how many apps are actually installed and are taking up space. Video games with high definition graphics tend to take up the largest amount of space in this category.

"While a lot of apps are not longer that big of a deal in an era of multi-terabyte hard disk drives, one of the major space hogs tends to be high end video games," said Davies. "Some of these games can install hundreds of gigabytes of space, so if they are not being played commonly, they can virtually take over a hard disk drive."

In a second post entitled "Protect Your Family With Windows 10", Hard Drive Recovery Group describes how to set up parental controls on a Windows 10 machine by setting up individual users. Once individual users are set up, including the "child users", it is very simple to set up controls over access to the web or specific files.

"Although the need to sign into a Microsoft-specific account does create a variety of privacy issues, the exchange is of course that a child will be blocked from viewing adult oriented material," said Davies. "Most parents tend to think that the reward is worth the risk, particularly as children need this protection."

Another excellent feature of Windows 10 enables a parent to limit the amount of screen time a user can have on a machine per day. This is particularly important in a world where children constantly move from smart phone to tablet to PC while avoiding physical activities.

The "recent activities" area of the Family Safety Center provides a great way for parents to monitor exactly what web pages, apps and activities their children are seeing. It's a great way to understand a child's computer usage on a specific level.

"Windows 10's parental features can be particularly key for parents that are not always around," said Davies. "In a society where both parents generally have to work, it's nice to know that Windows is watching your children's computer activities."

from Hard Drive Recovery Group

How To Deactivate Push Notifications In Your Browsers

Browsing the web can both be delight and a nightmare. It is a delight because you will always have answers for your questions. The internet is a gold mine of information, after all. You’ll always see what you are looking for and more. But sometimes, it is a total disaster. One thing, you’re just surfing the net and the next, a pop-up video shows up along with a series of notifications. You didn’t want to do away with them so you closed the website only to find out that you still are receiving pop-up notifications. Sounds familiar? Say hello (or not) to push notifications.

Push notifications are messages that a website sends you in order to engage you with them. Their goal is to inform you of all things new about them so maybe you’ll take interest. For example, subscribing to a newsletter from a blogging site. You can get them even if the website that sent it to you is not open in your browser. They won’t have access to any of your contact details. However, they are still annoying especially if you are busy with working on a task or several. Getting us informed is well-appreciated. But definitely not when we are sent a ton of notifications.

Thankfully, you can disable them in your browser. Here is a guide to help you go through the process.

 

For Chrome, the most widely used browser, click the three vertical dots located under the X or close button of the browser.

Hit the menu button — aka, the three vertical dots in upper-right corner — and select Settings. Then, scroll to the bottom of the page and click Advanced. Next, click Content settings within Privacy and Security and select Notifications.

If you want to disable all notifications, toggle the slider beside, “Ask before sending.”

(Via:https://www.digitaltrends.com/web/how-to-disable-push-notifications-in-your-browser/)

Once you have a website that you want specifically blocked, locate it in the Allow column, and choose to Block it or Remove it.

 

For Mozilla Firefox, click the three vertical dots to start.

Click the Menu button — aka, the three vertical lines — and select Options. Next, go to Privacy and Security, scroll to Permissions, and click the Settings button to the right of “Notifications.”

Here, you can choose which websites can and cannot send you notifications.

(Via:https://www.digitaltrends.com/web/how-to-disable-push-notifications-in-your-browser/)

 

For Microsoft Edge, first, you need to open the browser and go to the Menu. Unlike Chrome and Mozilla, the menu is signified by three horizontal dots, not vertical.

First, launch Microsoft Edge and click the Menu button represented by the three horizontal dots in the upper-right corner. Then, follow your mouse to the bottom of the list and click Settings. Scroll to the bottom and hit View Advanced Settings. Once there, click Manage, which is located within Website Permissions.

On the resulting page, you can toggle which websites you want to receive notifications from

(Via:https://www.digitaltrends.com/web/how-to-disable-push-notifications-in-your-browser/)

 

For Safari, open the browser and open Safari.

First, launch Safari and click Safari from within the application menu bar. Next, click Preferences and select the Notifications pane, which will bring up a list of websites you currently receive notifications from.

If you want to disable push notifications across the board, highlight your selection and click Remove All in the bottom-left corner.

(Via:https://www.digitaltrends.com/web/how-to-disable-push-notifications-in-your-browser/)

 

Push notifications are good for websites. But for us users, they can be simply distracting. Fortunately, there are ways to manage them in our browsers. However, if you are experiencing issues or problems with your computer, better consult with a professional. Our experts at https://www.harddriverecovery.org/server-recovery/ can help you with all things hard drive and recovery. You may click this link as well, for more info.

The blog post How To Deactivate Push Notifications In Your Browsers is republished from www.harddriverecovery.org

source https://www.harddriverecovery.org/blog/how-to-deactivate-push-notifications-in-your-browsers/

How To Turn Off or Mute Your Windows Notifications

Notifications are there for a reason and that is to let us know of meetings, upcoming events, new emails, installed applications, updates, and more. They help you get more organized and up-to-date. However, if you have been using Windows 10, you’ll know that the notifications can sometimes be overwhelming and distracting.

 

If you get a lot of emails every day and you have of apps, tendency is that you’ll get a lot of notifications as well. Even clicking an ad through a web page will prompt your anti-virus or web security to tell you not to proceed. Fortunately, notifications can be turned off or managed in the settings.

 

To turn off notifications, open the Windows Settings.

Open the Windows Settings menu by pressing the Windows Key and I or alternatively search for Settings in the Windows search bar and click the corresponding result.

(Via:https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/how-to-turn-off-notifications-in-windows-10/)

 

Click on Notifications and Actions option.

Click Notifications & Actions in the left-hand menu. This will take you to a screen providing access to all of the settings related to notifications and the Action Center.

(Via:https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/how-to-turn-off-notifications-in-windows-10/)

 

Click the same option under System.

Click the System icon, then select Notifications and actions from the left-hand menu.

(Via:https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/how-to-turn-off-notifications-in-windows-10/)

 

Editing the Quick Actions will let you edit your Action Center. You can remove or add an icon according to your liking.

If you want to change the quick actions or all the actions that appear in your Action Center, you can click “Edit your quick actions.” This will open the Action Center in an editable mode, alowing you to make whatever changes make sense to you. These aren’t technically notifications, but you can choose to remove them to clear up space on your action center and keep only the abilities that you really use. To change what quick actions you see, click on the “remove” icon or select add. Click “Done” when you’re finished.

(Via:https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/how-to-turn-off-notifications-in-windows-10/)

 

Turn on or off the toggles that you’ll see in the Notifications.

Look for the Notifications subheading, where you will see a number of toggles for various types of notifications. The following is a list of the settings you can toggle on this screen:

• Get notifications from apps and other senders
• Show notifications on the lock screen
• Show alarms, reminders, and incoming VoIP calls on the lock screen
• Hide notifications when duplicating my screen
• Get tips, tricks, and suggestions as you use Windows

Turn them off as you need. If you don’t want any, just make sure they are all toggled off. You’ll need to install the particular app you want to view notifications for if it’s not already built into your system, and you can receive a notification first before an app will show up in the list.

(Via:https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/how-to-turn-off-notifications-in-windows-10/)

 

If there are notifications you don’t want turned off, you can always mute them instead with the help of Focus Assist.

Open up the Action Center by pressing on the Notification icon on the far right-hand side of the Windows taskbar, or by pressing the Windows key + A

(Via:https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/how-to-turn-off-notifications-in-windows-10/)

 

You will see the crescent moon icon that says Focus Assist.

Click on the moon icon, to enable Focus Assist. Here, you can turn Focus Assist off, turn it only for the priority list, or allow only alarms to pop up.

(Via:https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/how-to-turn-off-notifications-in-windows-10/)

 

Here you can prioritize, set alarms, and be more specific with time.

You can further customize Focus Assist by editing your priority list and by optimizing your automatic controls. This will let you change times and priority levels for when you do and don’t want notifications enabled, be it during a more specific time or even when you’re playing a game.

(Via:https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/how-to-turn-off-notifications-in-windows-10/)

 

Prioritization, organization, and customization can be key to a smooth workflow. Don’t let other issues like storage and hard drive problems get in the way. Visit https://www.harddriverecovery.org/repair-hard-drive.html to know more. This site can also assist you.

How To Turn Off or Mute Your Windows Notifications is courtesy of Hard Drive Recovery Group Blog

source https://www.harddriverecovery.org/blog/how-to-turn-off-or-mute-your-windows-notifications/

Data Recovery Services Specialist Publishes Blog Posts About USB OTG Drives, Microsoft Accounts

In two of its recent blog posts, Irvine, CA's Hard Drive Recovery Group discusses the interesting developments with the USB OTG (or On The Go) flash drive specification as well as how to create a powerful Microsoft account. The posts demonstrate Hard Drive Recovery Group's dedication to customer education, and points out the value of the new USB OTG drive, which can be very helpful to both Android and iOS phone users looking to increase the functionality of their device.

In the post, "Why Own A USB OTG Flash Drive", the company discusses how the USB OTG factor supports interconnection between devices, making it a far more powerful version of the USB specification, which typically only had up until now allowed connections via a USB port.

In fact, instead of enabling a single connection, USB OTG does enable the user to connect an unlimited number of peripheral devices when used, including keywords, mouse devices and game pads. This is a virtual game changer for smart phone users.

"With USB OTG, we are finally beginning to see that the desktop computer may be coming to the end as a computing platform, as peripheral use was really one of its final strengths," said Maureen Davies, spokesperson for Hard Drive Recovery Group, which does offer USB and flash drive data recovery. "Seeing as smart phone and tablet use seems to increase monthly in the face of desktop use decline, we see this as an acceleration of the trend."

Using a "host" and "slave" system much like older desktop computers using the IDE disk specification, the USB OTG setup allows for any number of peripheral connections. However, it also works as a basic flash drive and can be set up as a host for regular USB flash drives. Additionally, USB OTG drives can typically hold a charge, which enables them to act as an additional battery fail safe for smart phones, which are notorious for running out of battery right when it is most required.

"The USB OTG spec is a truly fascinating one, and certainly is a major advance for USB, especially considering most new benefits tended to be data transfer-speed based," said Davies. "This is still an early adopter product, to be sure, but will definitely be a force to be reckoned with as it matures."

A second blog post entitled "How To Set Up A Microsoft Account", shows more novice users that signing up for a Microsoft Account can provide a reasonable amount of peace of mind, while at least enabling a decent amount of security on Windows devices.

"While this blog post is not going to offer a lot of new information for more advance users, a surprise for many will be that a Windows username and password can be configured on a variety of devices, meaning a user doesn't have to set up an account for each device," said Davies. "This is very convenient, but may create privacy issues for many."

The privacy issues that tend to concern many Windows users were first reported when Windows 10 was first offered. While the operating system was offered as a free upgrade to Windows 7 and 8, it does have some rather sinister under-the-hood apps that track computer and web usage. Fortunately, a wide variety of free tools are available on the web to stop these privacy breaches. They can be easily found with a Google Search for "windows spying removal tool".

"While certainly having a Microsoft Account does have some benefits in terms of convenience, a smart user must always remember that in today's Internet world, there is no such thing as 'free'," said Davies. "Always be suspicious if a product is free; it may, like Windows 10, be tracking your every move and violating your privacy on a daily basis."

Visit Hard Drive Recovery Group here.

from Hard Drive Recovery Group

What Influences Computer Efficiency?

When you get a new computer, be it a desktop computer or a laptop, everything runs at lightning speed. All smooth, all fast. After a few months of usage, you observe that its performance is starting to slow. What could have caused it?

 

Several factors can cause slow computer performance. What your computer is made of and the maintenance you do are major factors. But you have to remember that a computer is a machine. It is made of parts that can eventually wear out. Damage caused by infiltrating viruses and malware can also cause adverse changes in the system and in your files.

 

Hard Disks. These guys store all the files and data of your computer. ALL of them. It affects computer efficiency through its read/write speeds.

Your hard disks store all of the data on your computer, from program files to documents or photos. The space available on the hard drive doesn't have a very large affect on the computer's performance, but the read and write speed do. A hard disk that spins at 7200RPMs will be able to process data much more quickly than a hard disk that spins at 5200RPMs. Solid state hard drives are a type of flash memory that doesn't rely on moving parts, making them faster than standard spinning hard disks.

(Via:https://www.techwalla.com/articles/factors-affecting-computer-performance)

 

A computer’s processor can identify if your computer can run fast or not.

The processor determines how fast your machine can run. Faster processors are better for applications like gaming and video editing, because they can quickly get data from your computer hardware to your monitor. Processors with more than one core will also improve a computer's performance because they can perform multiple tasks at the same time.

(Via:https://www.techwalla.com/articles/factors-affecting-computer-performance)

 

It’s memory.

The amount and type of memory you have installed in your computer determines how much data can be processed at once. Faster memory and a larger amount of RAM will make your computer perform more quickly. Attempting to use an application that overloads the RAM will give you significantly slower speeds.

(Via:https://www.techwalla.com/articles/factors-affecting-computer-performance)

 

Video Processors. One computer has a different video processor from the other especially location-wise which affects its quality.

Some computers have the video processing hardware on the motherboard, while others have a standalone video card. Generally, computers with a standalone graphical processing unit (GPU) are better at displaying complex images and video than computers with a GPU on the motherboard. Your video card partially determines which software you can run and how smoothly it works.

(Via:https://www.techwalla.com/articles/factors-affecting-computer-performance)

 

Last but not least, maintenance. Every computer needs it. And you shouldn’t forgo without updating your computer and programs for long periods of time. Bugs, errors, viruses, temporary files – all these can slow down your computer. But all you have to do is do regular updates and your computer will be good to go.

Even a computer made of the latest, best components still requires maintenance. It's important to install updates, keep the computer free of malware and perform regular upkeep. Updates from the operating system manufacturer and any hardware or software updates can help the computer run better or fix problems. Malware slows your computer down and can expose you to identity theft. An anti-virus program and regular scans will help you avoid those issues. Make sure to defragment your computer, clean up old files and shut it down regularly. Doing these things will help keep your system working quickly.

(Via:https://www.techwalla.com/articles/factors-affecting-computer-performance)

 

All components of a computer are crucial, including its operating system and programs. Keeping them updated, repaired (when needed), maintained, and cleaned will boost computer performance. For problems with your hard drive, visit https://www.harddriverecovery.org/raid-data-recovery.html. Click here to know more.

The article What Influences Computer Efficiency? is courtesy of www.harddriverecovery.org

source https://www.harddriverecovery.org/blog/what-influences-computer-efficiency/

Why Use Google Drive When Taking Notes

Taking down notes is vital because first, ideas are important. And if you are one of those who easily forget things, then a note is perfect for you. Second, it helps with organization. It also helps illustrate, describe, or narrate what we have seen, heard, or read. This is especially true in meetings, school lectures, and other discussions. If you have a lot to write down, wouldn’t it be just great if you can access your notes all in one place?

 

When it comes to taking notes, there are a lot of apps to choose from. Take for instance Google Drive. Yes, you read it right. But how?

First of all, all of your docs (or notes in this case) are saved in Google Drive, which has the best search capabilities around, hands-down. That makes it easy to find the note your looking for in a flash. Evernote's search is good, but not as good as Google's.

You also can use Drive’s excellent collaboration feature to write and share notes with others in real-time—an especially useful scenario if you're doing a group project with colleagues or classmates. 

Finally, using Docs as your note-taking tool of choice prevents that oh-so-annoying scenario when you're trying to remember exactly where you saved a key file. There's no more "Oh, I put that note in Evernote, but the related Word document is in Dropbox, and the image is in OneDrive," et cetera. If you go all-in with Drive, it's all there. 

(Via:https://www.pcworld.com/article/2872577/how-and-why-to-use-google-drive-as-a-powerful-note-taking-tool.html)

 

To start using Google Drive, you need to consider organizing. Yes, Google can search your note for you, but it still pays to organize your notes.

You could just set up one blanket folder called Notes that you stuff all of these into, or you could get more specific with folders for meeting notes, agendas, recipes, or perhaps even individual classes if you’re a student. Drive also lets you nest folders if you want to further subdivide your organizational system.

(Via:https://www.pcworld.com/article/2872577/how-and-why-to-use-google-drive-as-a-powerful-note-taking-tool.html)

 

What makes Google great especially if you are a student is it allows you to do actual-time edit a file together with another Google Drive user you shared the file with.

Google Drive makes it exceptionally easy to share a page of notes with a colleague—just use big blue Share button in the corner and fire away. Even better, the Docs commenting system allows you to ask questions or discuss any of the material back and forth right inside the file.

(Via:https://www.pcworld.com/article/2872577/how-and-why-to-use-google-drive-as-a-powerful-note-taking-tool.html)

 

Add some tables to your notes.

For some notes you may want more than just the usual blank slate. Fortunately, you can tweak documents to make them function better for notes.

Inserting a table works best. Add a table (Insert > Table) with a couple of rows for a quick and dirty way to split up the page. This works great for a number of use cases, but especially for classroom note-taking or whenever you need to place text next to graphics.

(Via:https://www.pcworld.com/article/2872577/how-and-why-to-use-google-drive-as-a-powerful-note-taking-tool.html)

 

Research Tool is an outstanding tool to use when you are using articles.

The Google Docs Research Tool is excellent for use with articles or research papers—and note-taking, as it turns out. For example, if there’s a phrase you want to know more about, just highlight it and select the research tool.

Docs will then pull up relevant links. If you want to keep those links around or if they’re useful for a collaborative note-taking session, then you can make the selected text a link. This can prove especially handy if you have a set of notes that are going to get worked into a report.

(Via:https://www.pcworld.com/article/2872577/how-and-why-to-use-google-drive-as-a-powerful-note-taking-tool.html)

 

Google Drive isn’t just great for backing up your files. It works as an excellent note-taker as well.

 

Keep your files safe. For problems with your hard drive, professionals at https://www.harddriverecovery.org/hard-drive-recovery-service.html are of assistance. Click here for other information.

Why Use Google Drive When Taking Notes was first published to www.harddriverecovery.org

source https://www.harddriverecovery.org/blog/why-use-google-drive-when-taking-notes/

Data Recovery Services Provider Takes A Peek Under iOS 13’s Hood

Irvine, CA based Hard Drive Recovery Group (HDRG) recently published a blog post exploring iOS 13, the long-awaited refresh to Apple’s native phone software. Succeeding iOS 12, iOS 13 was made available to all iPhone users for free on September 19, 2019. As avid tech enthusiasts, HDRG has taken their time delving into the new OS, or Operating System, and all it has to offer. Their readers may catch up on any articles they missed by reading their previous release and more on the company’s blog.

According to the article, “Although Android has the upper hand when it comes to newer features like 5G, iPhones are being built better than they were. Apple continues to work on what they’re good at: cameras and apps. And the new iOS 13 will make it even better.” Android is an operating system that is used almost universally by other cell phone manufacturers, and is considered the main competitor to Apple’s iOS. Those deciding between one or the other should be aware that not all Android phones are created equal, and manufacturers often modify the base Android OS to their own preferences and specifications.

However, the article only explores iOS 13, so it continues by covering a list of features that Hard Drive Recovery Group found within, beginning with the ability to block unknown callers and prevent them from calling the number again in the future. With the feature turned on, an iPhone with iOS 13 will now allow only callers from the user’s contacts to get through (including those stored in Mail and Messages). All other callers will be instantly redirected to voicemail.

Next, long time iOS users may be aware that they had to navigate through their Settings menu to toggle their Wifi. With the new update, however, they can now switch Wifi networks with much less hassle. Conveniently, it can now be reached quickly through the phone’s Control Center, and users can lookup available networks right away. While some users may not see much difference, this feature gives people who frequently need to switch Wifi networks some much needed relief from constantly having to open their Settings, such as those who travel often. Find more information on HDRG's MyBusiness site.

Adding to the theme of increased user functionality, Apple has also adopted a feature that has long been a standard on Android devices: Swipe to type. Dubbed ‘QuickPath Typing’ by Apple, a user may now run their finger along the entirety of the keyboard, between letters, and never lift their finger while typing. This allows better one-handed use, especially with Apple’s larger phones, because the user can now maintain their grip better while typing. However, some users’ mileage may vary, since the system also relies on predictive text to decide what the user is trying to type in. Notably, this feature should also get better with extended use as the user becomes more comfortable with the technology and the phone learns which words they tend to use more frequently.

Additionally, those who are in the habit of using their phones in bed, or who simply enjoy darker themes, will be pleased to see that iOS 13 includes a dedicated Dark Mode by default, an alternative to their Night Shift feature. Instead of lessening blue light output from the phone’s display, all light screens in the phone’s core apps are now replaced with dark versions. This applies to the calendar, music, photo apps, and so on.

Apple has also taken measures to upgrade their phone’s security suite. iPhone users will now be able to ‘Sign in with Apple,’ a feature that excludes the necessity for a user to input their email address when they sign in to accounts and apps. According to Apple, this means that users will be afforded extra protection since third party apps will now have a much harder time tracking them and their activities.

HDRG invites iPhone users to read the full blog post over on their website, where they often share articles on a variety of subjects in the tech world. Those interested may reach out to Maureen Davies of Hard Drive Recovery Group as well to follow up on any further inquiries. Additionally, more information can be found here.

from Hard Drive Recovery Group

Are You Destroying Your Computer?

There’s a reason why electronic devices are being upgraded almost on the regular. It’s because they don’t last forever. This means your TV, air conditioner, smartphones, computers, and others. It’s one thing when you are neglecting them. It’s another when you are aiding them in getting damaged.

 

Computers can last a significant amount of time, provided that you take good care of them. This includes keeping them clean, safe, and well-maintained not just inside but outside as well. Remember that computers, especially laptops, are highly sensitive. There are parts inside that once damaged, can be hard to fix. Repairs to the shop can cost you a lot of money. If you want to save your money and more importantly your computer, better avoid the things that can cause harm to your computer and your files before it’s too late. Your computer is what’s helping you get your work done. Do it a favor and help it as well.

 

Heat is not a friend. It causes your computer and the components inside to wear out faster than they should if always in contact with heat.

For desktop computers, the solution is pretty simple: Just clean out the dust once in a while with some compressed air, and keep it out of any small cabinets. You want air to flow freely through your computer, not get trapped in a tight space. You can also prevent dust by keeping it off the ground and putting filters on your intake fans.

Laptops, on the other hand, require a bit more care. Their portability leads to a lot of bad habits, like putting it on a blanket or other plush surface. This blocks airflow under the laptop (where the rubber feet usually raise it up off a desk), and potentially through the laptop (if the blanket covers the fan vents). When possible, use your laptop on a flat surface, or at least make sure your lap is free of blankets and other things that can block airflow. Lap desks are a good way to ensure things stay cool.

(Via:https://sea.pcmag.com/gallery/28417/6-bad-habits-that-are-destroying-your-pc)

 

Because of its portability and rather light (for some) weight, laptops can be easily mishandled. Although you can, you shouldn’t open or close the laptop at only one side, nor should you leave it in your bag along with other things way too long. You shouldn’t bump your bag containing your laptop as much as possible.

Laptops are meant to be portable, and some can be pretty durable—but the more you abuse it, the more likely you are to damage something. At best, you'll just have to deal with a worn-out laptop hinge or a crack in the casing. But if your laptop has a traditional spinning hard drive instead of an SSD, tossing or shaking the computer—especially if the drive is active at the time—can even cause its head to dislocate or touch the surface of the disk. It isn't common, but if that happens, you're going to have a bad day, especially if you haven't backed up your data. Your laptop is an expensive piece of property: treat it as such.

(Via:https://sea.pcmag.com/gallery/28417/6-bad-habits-that-are-destroying-your-pc)

 

Computers can burn. And if you’re not using the correct power to supply it, then it can definitely burn. Or perhaps your charger.

Your PC draws a sizeable amount of power, and it's susceptible to damage from power surges—small, temporary increases in voltage coming through the power line. These can happen after power outages, after turning on another high-power device in your home, or could just come from an unreliable power grid in your city. The power supply inside your PC includes some basic surge protection, but you'll get longer-lasting protection from a dedicated surge protector.

(Via:https://sea.pcmag.com/gallery/28417/6-bad-habits-that-are-destroying-your-pc)

 

Treat your computer with care and kindness. If your hard drive gets damaged, immediately contact expert help. You can visit this website as well.

Are You Destroying Your Computer? was initially seen on http://www.harddriverecovery.org

source https://www.harddriverecovery.org/blog/are-you-destroying-your-computer/

Protect Your Family With Windows 10

Children today need more parental control especially now that digital content is more accessible to them than ever before. A lot of information is on the web. One click of your child can transfer him or her to an unwanted page or a page inappropriate for children. Good thing, Windows (8 and 10) is equipped with Microsoft Family Safety as a form of parental control over your child’s web use. Other than that, it also gives you control over whether or not your child can play games, download, or use chat. This is a very good feature to use and make the most of.

Before anything else, you as the admin need to put a password on the administrator account so only you can access and make changes within. The next thing to do is to add other users.

Before starting with the Family Safety parental controls in Windows 10, we need to make sure your computer is properly set up. If you're sharing a single user account between your family, it's time to change that and use one account each.

Click the Start button at the bottom of the screen and choose Settings. Select Accounts followed by 'Family & other users'. You'll see user accounts are split into two – as we're adding younger family members, click the 'Add a family member' button to continue.

(Via:https://www.techradar.com/how-to/computing/how-to-use-family-safety-in-windows-10-1314670)

Next, set up an account for your child.

Select 'Add a child'. Your child will need their own Microsoft account to continue – if it's already been set up, type the email address used to log into it and click 'Next' followed by 'Confirm'.

Once the new account has been set up (your child will need to log in for the first time to do so), they should check their email and confirm the invitation in order to allow you to apply family settings to their new account on this device.

(Via:https://www.techradar.com/how-to/computing/how-to-use-family-safety-in-windows-10-1314670)

Create another Microsoft account if there isn’t an existing one.

If your child doesn't have a Microsoft account, click 'The person who I want to add doesn't have an email address' to set up their account. When filling in their details, click 'Get a new email address' to give them an address with an @outlook.com domain (for example, childname@outlook.com).

When you assign them a password, this needs to be something they can remember, as they'll be using it to log into their own user account going forward.

Once done, provide your own mobile or alternate email address as an additional form of security.

(Via:https://www.techradar.com/how-to/computing/how-to-use-family-safety-in-windows-10-1314670)

Setup Family Safety settings.

You'll see a list of all the children you've added to your device from the 'Family & other users' section - any marked as pending haven't yet accepted your invitation, so aren't protected by Family Safety settings. If you're having a hard time persuading them to accept the invitation, click 'Block' to temporarily prevent them from logging into this PC without family settings in place.

To set up, or adjust, your children's family settings, click the 'Manage family settings online' link to access the settings website from your browser.

(Via:https://www.techradar.com/how-to/computing/how-to-use-family-safety-in-windows-10-1314670)

You will definitely want to restrict web use.

To restrict web access, choose an account name, then click 'Settings' next to Web browsing. Flick the 'Block inappropriate websites' to 'On' to ensure adult content and InPrivate browsing sessions are blocked, while Bing SafeSearch is on.

Scroll down and you'll find options for allowing specific websites, or alternatively blocking unwanted sites. Just type the relevant URLs into each box and click 'Allow' or 'Block' to add them to your child's white or blacklists.

(Via:https://www.techradar.com/how-to/computing/how-to-use-family-safety-in-windows-10-1314670)

Limit your child’s use.

Select 'Screen time' to limit the time your child has access to this PC. Flick the 'Set limits for when my child can use devices' switch to 'On', then set the earliest and latest times they're allowed to use the computer for each day of the week.

You can also set a daily limit within those times to restrict their access further.

(Via:https://www.techradar.com/how-to/computing/how-to-use-family-safety-in-windows-10-1314670)

Prevent the use of inappropriate apps for them.

Select 'Apps & games' and flick the 'Block inappropriate apps and games' switch to On. Scroll down and set a maximum age for your child, which allows them to only download and install apps and games in the Windows Store that have specifically been rated as suitable for their age.

(Via:https://www.techradar.com/how-to/computing/how-to-use-family-safety-in-windows-10-1314670)

View recent activities.

Perhaps one of the most useful parts of the Family Safety centre is on the child's main screen. Two switches – enabled by default – let you view your child's activity through this screen and receive weekly email reports of their usage, app installs and browsing habits.

(Via:https://www.techradar.com/how-to/computing/how-to-use-family-safety-in-windows-10-1314670)

Family safety and security in Windows can make a big difference. So is data security. If you have issues with data storage or data loss, data recovery can be a great help. You may also visit this page.

Protect Your Family With Windows 10 is courtesy of The Hard Drive Recovery Group Blog

source https://www.harddriverecovery.org/blog/protect-your-family-with-windows-10/

Steps On How To Manually Free Some Space In Your Windows 10

If you come to think about it, your Windows 10 computer is like the streets and roads in your city and your files are the vehicles on the road. In order for the vehicle you need for the day to reach you, it needs to go through traffic. If traffic is heavy, then it can be delayed on its way. But if the road is clear, then it can get to you as fast as it can. There’s no use for a fast car if the road is in heavy traffic.

In the same manner, your computer needs some good free space for it to go on about its tasks, so you can too. To do this, you need to know what is taking a lot of space in your storage.

First of all, put on your detective's hat (if you have one - if not, an imaginary one will do). Find out exactly what's taking up all the room on your hard drive by launching the Settings app from the Start menu then clicking 'System' and then 'Storage'.

Select your hard drive and Windows very helpfully lists everything on your system, including Windows files, applications, games, pictures, music, videos and so on.

If you need to take a closer look, click on any of the entries. For example, click on 'Apps & games' and then choose 'Sort by size' to see if any of your installed programs are taking up huge amounts of space.

(Via:https://www.techradar.com/how-to/how-to-free-up-disk-space-in-windows)

The first things you want to address are your apps and games and delete the ones you rarely use. The one taking up the most space is usually at the top of the list. This is a case-to-case basis though. If these games or apps are really important, then it’s up for you to choose between them and your storage.

You can't delete a lot of these files straight from the Storage window, though you can quickly find them on disk. In the case of apps and games there is the option to uninstall any large programs you're not using.

From the Apps & games screen, with the list sorted by size, you'll see the worst offenders at the top. Click on any entry in the list then choose 'Uninstall' to remove it.

It's up to you which apps and games you get rid of - it really depends how desperate you are to free up some space and how many unused applications you've got lying around on your hard drive. Remember you can always install these programs again if you need to.

(Via:https://www.techradar.com/how-to/how-to-free-up-disk-space-in-windows)

While the above step is for applications, this next step is for files and other data. To free up space, you can delete files you no longer need, especially those that are old.

Manually deleting files in File Explorer is a time-consuming but very precise way of freeing up room on your hard drive in Windows. You can use any of the links in the Storage window we looked at previously to jump to particular folders, or you can just browse as normal by launching File Explorer from the Start menu.

Right-click on any folder and choose Properties to see how much room it and all of its subfolders are taking up - a quick tap on the Delete key will erase any file or folder. Hold down Ctrl while clicking to select multiple folders at once.

(Via:https://www.techradar.com/how-to/how-to-free-up-disk-space-in-windows)

Storage space is important for your computer to work as it should. The same goes for data recovery. If you need help with this, https://www.harddriverecovery.org/data-recovery-services.html can be your guide. You might also find this link helpful.

 

The blog post Steps On How To Manually Free Some Space In Your Windows 10 Find more on: The Hard Drive Recovery Group Blog

source https://www.harddriverecovery.org/blog/steps-on-how-to-manually-free-some-space-in-your-windows-10/

Southern California Data Recovery Services Provider Discusses Storage Devices In New Posts

In two of its recent blog posts, Irvine, CA's Hard Drive Recovery Group discusses storage devices, cloud storage and disk tool for Windows. The posts continue Hard Drive Recovery Group's dedication to customer education, and points out the value of having a Cloud backup for virtually all computer systems.

In the post, "Several Types Of Storage Devices", the difference between primary and secondary storage systems are discussed, as well as the fact that most people consider data storage only through the lens of secondary storage systems. According to spokesperson Maureen Davies, primary storage is critical for computer use, but doesn't typically get mentioned because its main purpose tends to be short term storage which aids in running the system, as opposed to space on a drive that can be filled.

"Primary storage tends to be the kind of storage that is used regularly in a computer system, often just to run the operating system and apps, such as RAM or on chip Cache systems," said Davies. "These systems tend to be very robust in construction, and rarely fail, but are almost never used to store actual files for more than a few seconds."

Secondary media storage typically tends to include what most computer users consider to be "data storage devices." This includes what generally tends to be called "non-volatile" media, and typically includes SSDs and USB flash drives as well as internal and external hard drives. Tertiary storage, meanwhile, tends to be one of the more rare forms of data storage, at least when it comes to consumer level tech, as it tends to consist of Cloud storage or remote archives.

"It is quite interesting that storage tends to be classified into three separate categories, whereas the two safest data storage categories tend to be the most robust and at the same time the least considered," said Davies. "As cloud storage becomes more popular, however, people are understanding the seamlessness of backing up their drives, which can save them a lot of trouble when a hard disk crashes."

A second blog post, entitled "Different Types Of Secondary Storage Devices", talks about using built-in Windows disk tools such as Disk Cleaner to ensure that hard drives are well maintained and storage space is maximized so that data recovery isn't necessary. Given today's large video and photographic files, it is typically only a matter of time for most users until their hard drives are full.

"These days, despite the fact that hard drives are heading into double digit terabyte in size, there is always more data that gets stored," said Davies. "Ensuring you have a list of backup options when your hard drive runs low is essential for every user."

Also mentioned are live Cloud services, such as Google Drive, Dropbox and Microsoft's OneDrive. Each cloud storage option offers a somewhat reasonably large remote storage and backup alternative for either a very low cost, or in some cases, free.

"Taking advantage of free online cloud storage services is a smart move for anyone who uses a computer or smartphone, simply because they can save a lot of trouble when hard disks fail," said Davies. "Simply copying the most important files to cloud backups, such as documents and photos, means that a catastrophic drive failure becomes no problem at all."

Naturally, Cloud services like that of Google and Microsoft do come with a price - namely user data that most people usually do not expect. But, in a world where Facebook, Apple and Google maintain giant warehouses of highly targeted customer data, for many this is not such a big deal.

"Terms and Conditions for Cloud services tend to outline the overall costs in terms of information sharing," said Davies. "Reading these documents can be difficult, but they do provide critical information to the user."

from Hard Drive Recovery Group

How To Set Up A Microsoft Account

Don’t you hate or maybe dislike it when you have to create an account for each and every tool, app, or program you want to use? It’s one of those days when you feel torn between using a familiar if not the same password for all accounts but advised not to, or, creating a newer, stronger, and longer password. And if you chose the latter for each and every one of your accounts, you ended up forgetting all of them. If this sounds like you, then there is good news for you. Windows 10 offers one account for all. Now that’s one less problem out of your head.

What then is the next thing to do if you have a Windows 10 or after getting a Windows 10 update on your computer? Create an account, of course. This Microsoft account can give you access to a lot of things including your Windows 10, the Microsoft store, your email, OneDrive, Office 365, Skype, and more. Now you can get a lot of things done and done fast with just one account.

To create an account, you will need to fill a registration form.

To set up your Windows account you need to fill in an online registration form. Access the form in your web browser, or by tapping 'Create a new account' when prompted during your first boot of Windows 10.

However you begin the process, the steps you need to complete are the same. Enter your first name, second name, date of birth and a few more details of that nature.

(Via:https://www.techradar.com/how-to/computing/create-a-microsoft-account-1306767)

Use your existing email address. If you don’t have any, it’s perfectly fine.

Your Username is your email address. If you have a Google, Yahoo or any other type of address, enter it here. If you don't have an email address, don't worry.

Just click 'Or get a new email address'. In the box under Username enter the address you'd like (it needs to be unique) and select either @hotmail or @outlook. If the name you select isn't unique, don't worry – the system will give you some hints.

(Via:https://www.techradar.com/how-to/computing/create-a-microsoft-account-1306767)

And like everything else is today when it comes to sensitive information, you need to verify your email.

When you're done, you'll receive an email asking you to verify the request to set up a Microsoft account. This is a very important step, as it prevents hackers creating an account in your name.

So, when you receive the email make sure you tap the blue Verify bar. This lets Microsoft know everything is as it should be and it will finalise the last, automatic steps in the creation process.

(Via:https://www.techradar.com/how-to/computing/create-a-microsoft-account-1306767)

Now that you’ve already created your Microsoft account, you can now use it with any of your devices including your smartphone. And if you want anything changed, configuration now comes easy.

You've now created your very own Microsoft account and you can use it log into Window 10. It will also work on any of your Windows devices.

If in the future you want to make changes – such as updating your password, redeeming a gift card, or changing your profile picture – just return to account.live.com, enter your account details and you'll be taken to a menu of configuration options.

(Via:https://www.techradar.com/how-to/computing/create-a-microsoft-account-1306767)

With your Microsoft account, you may now use it to send emails, save documents online in OneDrive, write documents in Office 365, communicate using Skype, or buy games, music, and more online. Do it all with one account.

For computer related issues like hard drive problems, our team of professionals can help you. Visit https://www.harddriverecovery.org/repair-hard-drive.html for more information. You may also click this link.

How To Set Up A Microsoft Account is available on www.harddriverecovery.org

source https://www.harddriverecovery.org/blog/how-to-set-up-a-microsoft-account/