What do I do with this thing at the end of the day

The question comes up every so often about what users should do with their desktops at the end of the day. Do we shut down or logoff? Can we still logon remotely? Well the answer is here.

First of all, leaving your computer logged on overnight is the worst choice you can make. It is a security risk leaving your computer open to anyone to use when you are not around. Secondly, over time leaving your computer logged on creates performance problems for your PC. Logging off and shutting down your PC closes out programs and releases system memory to be used by other programs. If you don't log off, that memory does not get released, causing your PC to slow down over time.

Shutting down your PC is great for performance and security. If the computer is off, then there is no security risk. Shutting down the PC closes all programs refreshing system memory for new programs the next time you startup. The downside is if you shut down, the computer is not available to use remotely. Additionally, certain processes are scheduled to run after hours (antivirus scans, performance tuneups, backups, etc..). When the machine is off, these critical processes must run during the day, slowing you down, reducing your efficiency, and increasing your frustration.

Logging off gives you the benefits of shutting down (closing processes to release memory, reducing your security risk) and leaving your computer on (the ability to access remotely, and allowing key scans to happen off hours). This is the best of both worlds and is considered the best practice.

Considering some users get confused between the difference of the shutdown and the logoff, here is a trick that can help, Restart. This shuts down the PC and prepares it for logon. Keep in mind, this will only work for computers in a server/domain environment. Standalone desktop computers need to be logged off or shutdown. At a minimum, you can try to lock your screen. This will at least keep users from accessing your computer off hours when your not available. Just hold the windows key on your keyboard (bottom left next to the space bar) and the L key. This will lock the screen and require a user name and password to access the machine.

Remember, the worst choice is to leave your computer free and available off hours. The security risk of making your computer available to anyone that walks by far outweighs any convenience of having your machine ready to go when you arrive in the morning.

Outlook 2007 Hotfix

Recently Microsoft released a hotfix for Outlo0k 2007. The updates improve performance, reduce errors, and improve calendar synching. I installed the hotfix earlier this week and it has made a huge improvement in the usability of Outlook 2007. A few of the highlights include:

• General Responsiveness
  
• Startup improvements
  
• Shutdown improvements
  
• Calendar improvements
  
• Fewer data file checks
  

 
 

We've been waiting for these upgrades ever since Outlook 2007 was released. For all the great new features, and usability, often times the performance offset any improvements in the application. For more info go to the Microsoft Outlook blog. For help installing the hotfix, contact our helpdesk at 703-934-4655.

PC buying

There are a lot of great deals to be had if you are interested in buying new computers. Dealers and big box retailers are doing anything they can to make a sale, but as these prices fall it is buyer beware. Manufacturers may be dropping price, but they may also be dropping quality as well. One dealer I spoke to said many of these special deal pc's may not even last a year. The idea is when the economy picks up, you will buy again. Even n a good economy, none of us has money to throw around like that.

So how can you protect yourself from buying a future paperweight, even from a reputable company?

First, avoid buying entry level and consumer model PCs. Look for a mid level line or business grade computer. They may be a little more expensive, but you will be buying better parts, most notably the motherboard. When a motherboard dies, often times you may as well buy a new computer.

Second, buy into the extended warranty. Thirteen months down the road when the motherboard or power supply dies, you will be glad you did. Also check to be sure the warranty is for onsite service. You don't want to be stuck having to ship away your machine and be out of pocket for 3 weeks and no computer. This is another reason to buy the business grade computers. Many of their warranties are onsite or through a local repair facility.

Lastly, don't forget about the software in the overall price. I see firsthand the frustration when someone gets a bill for $850, and they tell me, "but the ad said $399". Although technically not bait and switch, many people forget those deals do not include key software like MS Office or Antivirus programs. Often times a trial version is included, only to discover in thirty days that the program stopped working. Again the great deal is usually for the lowest specs. That will make your new computers paperweights before you can say Microsoft updates.

The price of hardware has come down, which is great. It is a great time to buy. Whether for your home or office, be sure to think through what and how you will use the machine. If you follow these tips, you will be satisfied.