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4 Ways To Protect Your Computer From Viruses

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Cyber security has always been a top concern for computer owners and its importance rises every single day. The internet is not a secure place and even the most tech-savvy users still have a risk of downloading some viruses and malware. The fact of the matter is that viruses exist and can jeopardize your privacy and sensitive information, all the while degrading the performance of your PC. With that said, there are some signs and symptoms of having an infected computer, which include:

  • Pop-up ads that appear even if you don’t have the internet browser open
  • Involuntarily having your email account sending out spam messages
  • Having scary messages randomly appear that essentially lock you out of computer functions
  • Unable to access the Task Manager
  • And more

While the signs and symptoms of a computer virus can differ, they all can ruin the performance of your PC and hack sensitive information stored on your hard drive. But, there are a few things you can do to protect your computer and here are some of the top tips from Joy Systems who frequently recondition and refurbished desktop and laptop computers!

1. Install Anti-Virus Software

Some computers already come pre-installed with basic anti-virus but most times, they are trial offers that only give you protect for a limited time. With that said, it’s important to install a trusted and reliable anti-virus program to protect your computer. They ultimately defend your computer from viruses and attacks hackers by regularly scanning and monitoring the entire system for threats.

2. Don’t Download Attachments From Emails

Unless you are expecting a legitimate file to download in an email, be extremely cautious and weary of attachments from unknown senders. Many viruses can be found and downloaded through email attachments, so it’s extremely important to double check all attachments before opening. Additionally, some anti-virus programs will allow you to scan the attachment for viruses before you download it.

3. Enable The Firewall

Since certified/pre-owned computers from Joy Systems come with genuine Microsoft Software, they automatically feature Windows Firewall, which helps alert users to suspicious activity if a virus tries to connect to your desktop or laptop. The firewall can help block malware, viruses, worms and other threats from downloading harmful files to your system.

4. Enable Browser Pop-Up Blocker

Most internet browsers feature a pop-up blocker and you should have it enabled to decrease the risk of downloading a virus. While most pop-ups that occur on webpages tend to be created from advertisers, some can be filled with malicious or unsafe coding if you are on an unsecure web page. With that said, it’s a good idea to have the pop-up blocker enabled because these windows won’t open while you’re browsing the internet.

Keep your personal information safe and maintain computer performance by using the above tips!

Desktop and Laptop Computers Are More Affordable Than You Might Think

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hands on keyboard For most Americans, using a computer is a daily routine.  It affects our lives in many ways.  For instance, students can complete homework assignments and study.  Adults rely on computers to perform home/work activities and others simply use it for entertainment purposes.  With so many people dependent on computers, one might be under the impression that everyone owns one.  However, this isn’t the case.  Survey data from the Pew Research Center found 15% of the American population does not use the internet and almost 20% of the respondents cited the high expense of owning a computer is predominant reason for their lack of participation online.

With that said, this portion of the population may be unaware of the options they have when it comes to purchasing a computer.  We all know that new computers can be pricey which makes ownership prohibitive for some.  However, computer ownership is more affordable than you might think.  Pre-owned/certified laptops and desktops cost significantly less when compared to newer models.  In fact, refurbished computers, like those from Joy Systems, can help people purchase computers for their homes at a more affordable price.  Access to a computer is vital because they provide the ability to stay informed and connected as the world continues to grow digitally.

Another reason to purchase a pre-owned computer is to help the preserve the environment.  Recycled and refurbished computer equipment reduces the need/use of natural resources required to manufacture a new model.  In addition, it helps to minimize the disposal of PCs in landfills.  In fact, data from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) found 51,900,000 of disposed computers; approximately 20,600,000 were recycled or refurbished in 2010.  The data indicates that the number of re-purposed PCs will increase significantly which indicates a strong trend of eco-friendly practices in the industry.

Bottom line, pre-owned/certified computers can provide a solution for many for cost effective computer ownership.  Additionally, Joy Systems provides a 1 year warranty and technical support!

Simplified Savings on Holiday Gifts: Refurbed Computers (Pre-Owned/Certified Computers)

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The holiday shopping season is here and you can bet there are tons of items on your wish list this year. Whether you are looking to buy a gift for yourself, a family member or a friend, you will want to stay within your holiday gifting budget! According to the National Retail Federation, consumers are on track to spend over $630 billion this year on Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa combined! With that said, some of the latest techy-gadgets tend to be the gifts that cost the most, but if you want to be a savvy saver, you should consider refurbished computers (a pre-owned/certified computer) if a PC is on your gift list.

Why Choose Refurbished (pre-owned/certified)?

CPU repair shutterstock_177300053Fact, new electronics like desktop computers, monitors and laptops carry high price tags, even if they are purchased on a Black Friday special.  However, if you opt for refurbished (pre-owned/certified) alternatives, you can still get a like-new, advanced PC that will meet your requirements at a more affordable price.  On top of that, you can feel good about purchasing a refurbished (pre-owned/certified) PC because it is an eco-friendly decision that reduces the amount of resources needed to manufacture a new product.

If you are worried about quality and performance of a used (pre-owned) computer, fear not!  Refurbished PC manufacturers like Joy Systems recondition laptops, monitors, and desktops to meet strict operating standards.  In fact, Joy Systems is a Microsoft Authorized Refurbisher, which provides peace-of-mind that a well-recognized tech giant backs their refurbishing process with a 1 year warranty!  In addition, Joy Systems was the first Microsoft Authorized Refurbisher (MAR) to exceed 1,500,000 MAR (Microsoft Authorized Refurbisher) licenses and has reconditioned over 2,500,000 monitors, PCs and laptops since 2001.

Besides the immediate price savings you’ll get with refurbished (pre-owned/certified) computers, buying new may not be the best idea for a gift.  Think about this, when the latest electronic devices hit the market, how quickly does the next, newer model come out?  FAST.  As you are aware, technology is always progressing and something will supersede it almost immediately.  The advancements are relatively nominal when you compare it to normal usage. That’s why it’s the smart choice to buy a refurbished (pre-owned/certified) computer.  As part of the reconditioning process hard drives are wiped clean, new operating software is installed, and depending on the specifications of the system they can provide desirable performance.

Are you ready to save big this holiday season with a refurbished (pre-owned/certified) PC, laptop or monitor? When you get yours, put it to the test, and leave an unbiased review of its performance.