How to Keep Your Email Address When Switching Internet Providers
For a lot of people, an ISP provided email address has been part of their digital life for years sometimes decades. But when it’s time to switch internet providers to save money, improve speed, or upgrade reliability, one big worry always pops up:
“What happens to my email?”
The good news is that you can switch ISPs without losing access to your long time email account. With a little planning, you can transition smoothly and avoid missing important messages.
Here’s a clean, practical workflow you can follow.
1. Check Whether Your ISP Offers Email Only Service
Many internet providers now allow customers to keep their email accounts even after canceling internet service. This is often called:
Email only service
Standalone email
Legacy email retention
Before doing anything else, call your ISP and ask:
“Can I cancel my internet service but keep my email address?”
“What is the monthly cost for email only service?”
If they say yes, you’re already halfway there.
2. Create Your New Long Term Email Address
Even if you keep your ISP email temporarily, you don’t want to rely on it forever. ISP emails are tied to a company you may not stay with long term.
Choose a permanent, provider independent email service such as:
Outlook.com
Gmail.com
If you prefer using the Outlook desktop or mobile app, Outlook.com integrates more smoothly than Gmail. It’s simply a better experience for Outlook users.
Create your new address now you’ll use it during the transition.
3. Set Up Email Forwarding From Your ISP Email
Log in to your ISP’s webmail portal and enable email forwarding to your new Outlook or Gmail address.
This ensures:
You don’t miss messages during the transition
Everything continues to arrive in one inbox
You can start replying from your new address immediately
Forwarding is the key to a painless migration.
4. Install Your New Internet Service
Go ahead and sign up with your new ISP and get everything installed. Your old ISP email will continue working during this time.
5. Cancel Your Old Internet Service (But Keep the Email)
Once your new internet service is up and running, call your old ISP and cancel the internet portion of your account but keep the email only plan.
This stops the billing for internet service while preserving your inbox.
6. Notify Everyone of Your New Email Address
This part takes time, but it’s important.
Start updating:
Banks and financial institutions
Online accounts and subscriptions
Friends, family, and coworkers
Business contacts
Any mailing lists you care about
Because forwarding is active, you won’t miss anything while you update your contacts.
7. After About Six Months, Cancel the Old ISP Email
Six months is usually enough time for:
Everyone to update your contact info
Mailing lists to switch over
Old senders to stop using your ISP address
Once you’re confident nothing important is still coming through, cancel the ISP email service entirely.
You’re now fully independent of your old provider and your email address will never be tied to an ISP again.
Need Help Making the Switch?
Email migrations can be confusing, especially if you’ve had the same address for years. If you want a smooth, stress‑free transition, R‑Tech can handle the entire process for you.
Give us a call we’re happy to help.
QuickBooks Stopped Sending Email Through Outlook? Here’s What Happened — And How to Fix It
Over the past few weeks, many QuickBooks Desktop users suddenly found themselves unable to send invoices, estimates, or statements through Outlook. Everything had been working fine… until it wasn’t.
If this happened to you, the timing wasn’t a coincidence.
What Caused the Problem
In late December 2025 and early January 2026, a QuickBooks Desktop update rolled out that unintentionally broke the connection QuickBooks uses to send email through Outlook. After that update installed, QuickBooks could no longer communicate with Outlook’s mail interface.
The symptoms were consistent everywhere:
QuickBooks worked normally
A QuickBooks update installed
Email sending stopped immediately afterward
Reinstalling QuickBooks temporarily fixed it
As soon as QuickBooks updated again, the problem returned
This made it clear the issue wasn’t user error — it was the update.
The Fix Arrived on January 13th
On January 13th, Microsoft released a new Office/Outlook update that restored compatibility. Once that update installed, QuickBooks and Outlook began talking to each other again.
If you updated Office recently and everything suddenly started working, that’s why.
To manually update Office:
Open Outlook
Go to File → Office Account
Select Update Options → Update Now
Restart Outlook and QuickBooks
For most users, this resolves the issue immediately.
If QuickBooks Still Won’t Send Email
If updating Office doesn’t fix it, try refreshing QuickBooks’ email settings:
Close both QuickBooks and Outlook
Reopen QuickBooks as Administrator
Go to Edit → Preferences → Send Forms
Re‑select Outlook as your email option
Save and test again
This forces QuickBooks to rebuild its connection to Outlook.
Still Having Problems?
If QuickBooks and Outlook still refuse to cooperate, there may be deeper issues with the update, the MAPI interface, or the QuickBooks installation.
Still having problems? Give us a call — we can help.
Got a Hand‑Me‑Down Computer… But It’s Locked? Here’s What to Do
So your uncle passed down his old computer—great! But there’s one small problem: he can’t remember the password. The system is locked, you can’t get in, and he’s not worried about keeping any of his old data. You just want a clean, fresh machine you can call your own.
Good news: you can reset the computer and start from scratch. Even better news: you don’t have to do it alone.
Let’s walk through your options.
Option 1: DIY — Wipe and Reinstall Windows
If you’re comfortable doing a little hands‑on tech work, you can reset the system yourself. Here’s the basic process:
1. Create a Bootable Windows USB
You’ll need access to another working computer. From there, download the Windows installation media and create a bootable USB stick.
2. Boot From the USB
Plug the USB into the locked computer, restart it, and boot from the USB drive. Most systems let you do this by tapping a key like F12, F2, or ESC during startup.
3. Wipe the Hard Drive
Once the Windows installer loads, choose the option to delete the existing partitions. This clears out all old data—including that forgotten password.
4. Reinstall Windows
Follow the prompts to install a fresh copy of Windows.
5. Install Drivers & Updates
Once Windows is up and running, install any necessary drivers and run all Windows Updates to make sure the system is secure and fully functional.
It’s a straightforward process, but it does take time, patience, and a bit of technical comfort.
Option 2: Let Us Handle Everything
If all of that sounds like more work than you want to deal with, we’ve got you covered.
Bring the computer to R‑Tech Computers, Inc., and for the cost of one hour of billable time, we’ll:
Wipe the system
Reinstall Windows
Install all necessary drivers
Run all Windows updates
Ensure everything is running smoothly
Our typical turnaround time is 1–2 business days, depending on our current workload.
You can check our current pricing anytime here:
http://www.r-tech.com/pricing
Final Thoughts
A forgotten password doesn’t have to mean a dead computer. Whether you want to tackle the reinstall yourself or prefer to hand it off to professionals, you’ve got solid options. And once the system is refreshed, you’ll have a clean, fast machine ready to make your own.
Broken Laptop Hinges: Repair or Replace?
The Problem:
Your laptop screen hinges have finally given out. After four years of daily use, the wear and tear has caught up, and now you’re faced with a decision: fix it or move on to a new machine?
The Cost of Repair
Labor: Around $120
Parts: Between $50–$150, depending on whether it’s just the hinges or the plastic frame they’re screwed into.
Total Estimate: $200–$300
Since hinge parts are often special order, expect 3–10 days before your laptop is back in action. That’s a week or more without your device—can you manage without it?
Is It Worth Fixing?
Here’s the tough truth:
A laptop that’s 4+ years old has likely given you solid value already.
Even if repaired, other components (battery, storage, performance) may soon show their age.
Spending $200–$300 on repairs might not be the best investment if your budget allows for a replacement.
When to Repair
Consider repairing if:
You’re on a tight budget and can’t afford a new laptop right now.
The laptop still meets your performance needs (no lag, decent battery life).
You’re okay waiting up to 10 days for parts and repair.
When to Replace
Consider replacing if:
You can afford a new laptop.
You rely on your laptop daily and downtime isn’t an option.
You want modern features (faster processors, better battery, lighter design).
Final Thoughts
Broken hinges are frustrating, but they’re also a sign your laptop has served you well. If your budget supports it, upgrading to a new device is often the smarter move. If not, repairing can buy you more time—but remember, it’s a short-term fix for a long-term problem.
The Ultimate Lightroom Editing PC: What You Really Need
If you’re serious about photo editing in Adobe Lightroom, your computer setup can make or break your workflow. Nothing slows down creativity faster than laggy previews, sluggish exports, or running out of storage mid-project. So, what kind of machine should you invest in? Let’s break down the essentials.
Processor: The Heart of Your Editing Rig
Lightroom thrives on strong single-core performance, but modern multi-core processors help with batch exports and multitasking.
Recommendation: A 14th Gen Intel i7 processor or faster. This gives you the speed you need without overspending on diminishing returns. If you’re juggling massive catalogs or dabbling in video editing, stepping up to an i9 is worth considering.
RAM: Smooth Multitasking
RAM is where Lightroom stores active data while you edit. Too little, and you’ll feel the drag. Too much, and you’re just wasting money.
Recommendation: 32GB–64GB of RAM. Lightroom rarely benefits from more, so don’t bother with 128GB unless you’re running multiple heavy apps side by side.
Storage: Fast, Spacious, and Reliable
Photo libraries grow quickly, and Lightroom loves fast drives for previews and catalogs.
Primary Drive: A 4TB NVMe SSD for lightning-fast access. If you’re a heavy shooter or work with large RAW files, consider 8TB.
Backup Drive: A 20TB external USB hard drive ensures your work is safe. Pair this with reliable backup software to protect against data loss.
Backup Strategy: Don’t Skip This
Even the best hardware can fail. That’s why a solid backup plan is non-negotiable.
Recommendation: Veeam Endpoint Backup software. It’s robust, easy to configure, and keeps your photo library secure.
Graphics Card: Do You Really Need One?
Lightroom isn’t as GPU-dependent as video editing software, but a good graphics card speeds up rendering, zooming, and AI-powered features.
Recommendation: Depending on your workload, an NVIDIA RTX 5070 with 12GB of VRAM is a strong choice. If you mostly edit smaller catalogs, you can scale down—but if you’re handling thousands of RAWs or using AI tools, the extra GPU power pays off.
Final Thoughts
Building the right Lightroom PC is about balance. You don’t need to chase the most expensive parts—just the right ones:
CPU: 14th Gen i7 or better
RAM: 32–64GB
Storage: 4TB NVMe (8TB for heavy users) + 20TB external backup
GPU: RTX 5070 w/12GB VRAM (optional, but recommended for large workloads)
Backup Software: Veeam Endpoint Backup
With this setup, you’ll have a machine that keeps up with your creativity, handles massive photo libraries, and protects your work for the long haul. Give us a call and we can build the right machine for you.
Why Your Sound Works in One App but Not Another: The Mystery of Default Audio Settings
Have you ever had this happen: you’re watching YouTube in your browser, sound is working perfectly, but the moment you join a Zoom meeting—silence. Or maybe the opposite: Zoom works fine, but YouTube videos play without a peep. It feels like your computer is playing tricks on you, but the truth is much simpler: each program needs to know which audio device to use, and sometimes those settings get out of sync.
System Sound vs. Application Sound
Your operating system (Windows, macOS, etc.) has a default audio output device—usually your speakers or headphones. When you play a test sound in the system settings, it uses that default device.
But here’s the catch:
Browsers like Chrome or Edge may remember a different device than your system default.
Zoom (and other conferencing apps) often let you pick a microphone and speaker separately, and they don’t always update automatically if your system default changes.
That’s why you can have sound in one program but not another: each app is “listening” to its own instructions.
Why Defaults Get Messed Up
Several things can cause mismatched audio settings:
Plugging in or removing headphones/USB devices
Switching between Bluetooth and wired connections
Updating drivers or the operating system
Apps “remembering” an old device that’s no longer connected
When this happens, the app may keep trying to send sound to a device that doesn’t exist—or isn’t the one you’re actually using.
How to Fix It
Here’s a step-by-step approach:
Check System Default
On Windows: Right-click the speaker icon → Sound settings → make sure the correct device is set as Default Output.
On macOS: Go to System Settings → Sound and confirm the right output device.
Check the App’s Settings
In YouTube (via your browser), right-click the tab → Select Audio Device (in some browsers) or check system mixer settings.
In Zoom, go to Settings → Audio and make sure the correct speaker and microphone are selected.
Test and Adjust
Play a test sound in the app.
If it still doesn’t work, close and reopen the app after changing the settings.
The Takeaway
If sound works in one place but not another, it doesn’t mean your speakers are broken. It usually means the app is pointing to the wrong output device. By double-checking both your system default and the app’s own audio settings, you can get everything back in harmony.
Unexpected Outlook Invitations: What’s happening and why you should care
You open your Outlook calendar and find an appointment you never created. That unsettling moment — someone else added an event to your schedule without your consent — is exactly what many people are finding lately. Scammers are exploiting a loophole in Outlook’s meeting-handling behavior to push unwanted invitations into calendars, clutter schedules, and even try to trick recipients into clicking links or joining fake meetings.
How the loophole works
Scammers send meeting invitations that appear legitimate enough to be accepted automatically or to show on your calendar.
Because Outlook can add online-meeting metadata to every appointment and has automatic accept/decline behaviors, those invitations can appear without you taking any action.
Once the invite appears, a malicious link or meeting join button can be used to phish credentials, install malware, or socially engineer you.
Quick fix — stop Outlook from auto-adding online meetings
Follow these steps in Outlook to prevent automatic insertion of online meeting details into every new meeting:
Open Outlook.
Click File, then select Options.
Choose Calendar from the left-hand menu.
Uncheck Add online meeting to all meetings.
Scroll to the bottom of the Calendar options and click Auto Accept/Decline.
In the Auto Accept/Decline dialog, make sure nothing is checked (no automatic processing of meeting requests).
These two changes stop Outlook from automatically stamping meetings with online-join info and from processing invitations without your explicit action.
Best practices to reduce risk
Never click links or join meetings from calendar items you did not expect.
Verify unexpected invites by contacting the organizer through a trusted channel (email address you know, phone, or your organization’s directory) rather than using the meeting’s reply/join controls.
Train staff and family to recognize unsolicited calendar invites and to follow the same verification steps.
Keep Outlook and your OS patched; many threats rely on known vulnerabilities already fixed by updates.
When to get help
If you still see strange invites after changing these settings, or if you think you or your organization may have been targeted, get assistance. We can walk through the settings with you, check account rules and delegates, and verify if your account has been abused.
Give us a call and we’ll help secure your calendar and make sure nothing slips through the cracks.
Accidentally deleted files and nothing in the Recycle Bin with no backup
Losing important files with no backup is stressful. The single most important thing to do right now is stop using the computer. Every keystroke, application launch, or background task can reduce your chances of recovery.
Shut down the computer now and don’t use it
Power off immediately. Shut down the system instead of logging off or restarting.
Do not boot into Windows or open apps. Any normal use writes data to the drive and can overwrite the exact sectors holding your deleted files.
Avoid accessing the drive for any reason — even opening File Explorer or installing recovery tools on the same machine risks permanent overwrites.
Why you must avoid using the PC
When you delete a file in Windows, the operating system typically removes the file’s reference (the pointer) from the file system table; it does not immediately erase the file’s contents on the disk. The data remains on the drive until Windows writes new data to those same disk sectors. Temporary files, Windows updates, pagefile activity, application caches, and even antivirus scans can quickly write to the disk and overwrite deleted-file data, making recovery impossible.
Best recovery approach — remove the drive and recover from another system
Remove the drive from the PC
Power down and disconnect the computer. Physically remove the hard drive or SSD. This prevents any further writes from the original system.
Attach the drive to a different computer as a secondary drive
Use a SATA-to-USB adapter, external enclosure, or install it into a second desktop. Do not make it the boot drive on the recovery machine.
Use specialized recovery software from the other computer
Run reputable file-recovery software on the host machine, targeting the removed drive as the source. Let the software scan for deleted files and recover to a different physical drive (never recover onto the same drive you’re scanning).
Save recovered files to another external drive or the host system’s internal drive.
If you’re not comfortable doing this
Call us. Continuing to try random fixes can reduce recovery chances.
Practical tips and precautions
Do not install recovery software on the affected drive. Always install and run tools from another system or USB drive.
Recover to a separate drive. Writing recovered files to the same drive can overwrite other deleted content you still need.
Consider read-only imaging. Advanced users or professionals often create a full disk image and perform recovery from that image to avoid touching the original sectors.
Act quickly. The sooner you stop using the drive, the better the chance of complete recovery.
If the data is mission-critical (legal, financial, irreplaceable), consider contacting a professional data-recovery service right away. They have tools and clean-room procedures that raise the odds of success.
Need Help
Need Help, give us a call. We can walk you through safe next steps or handle the drive removal and recovery for you.
Dispose of Windows PC Securely Using System Reset
So you want to dispose of an old Windows PC and make sure nobody can recover your data. Use the built‑in System Reset, but do it the right way. This guide gives a clear, step‑by‑step plan: prepare, perform a secure reset, verify, and know when to escalate to full drive sanitization or physical destruction.
Why a simple delete is not enough
Deleting files or emptying the Recycle Bin only removes directory entries; the underlying data remains on the drive and can be recovered with widely available tools. A properly executed Reset that includes data cleaning or a full drive wipe reduces or removes the chance of recovery and is the practical choice for most users.
Preparation steps (do these first)
Backup important data. Copy documents, photos, and any settings you want to keep to an external drive or cloud storage.
Export account data and credentials. Export browser bookmarks, passwords, and application settings if needed.
Deauthorize services. Sign out or remove the device from accounts that use device limits (iTunes/Apple ID, Office, Adobe, Steam, Dropbox, etc.).
Remove removable media. Take out SD cards, USB keys, and any secondary drives you plan to keep.
Decide what to keep physically. If you plan to reuse the internal drive, remove it now; if not, proceed with secure wipe options below.
Use Windows Reset correctly
Open Settings. Go to Settings > System > Recovery in Windows 11 or Settings > Update & Security > Recovery in Windows 10.
Start Reset. Click Reset this PC then Reset PC.
Choose Remove everything. Select Remove everything rather than Keep my files.
Choose data cleaning. When offered, select Remove files and clean the drive (or Fully clean the drive) instead of just removing files. This option makes recovery much harder by overwriting sectors and is recommended when giving away, selling, or recycling the PC.
Finish and wait. Confirm and let the process complete. Expect it to take significantly longer when you choose the full clean option.
Verify the result
Boot to the Windows setup screen. After a successful reset the machine should boot to OOBE (Out Of Box Experience) or show no user accounts.
Check disk state. If you can boot from a rescue USB, verify partitions and that no personal folders exist. If the drive shows only system partitions or unallocated space and setup prompts for account creation, the reset likely succeeded.
Optional recovery test. If you have the skill and tools, run a quick file-recovery scan to confirm there are no recoverable personal files; if you find recoverable data, proceed to full drive overwrite or physical destruction.
When to escalate: full wipe or physical destruction
Highly sensitive data. If the device contained sensitive business, legal, medical, or financial data, do not rely solely on the Reset. Use a certified disk-wiping tool to perform multiple overwrites, or remove the drive for secure destruction.
Use a secure wipe tool if removing drive. Boot a trusted wipe utility from USB and perform a full-disk overwrite (single-pass is usually sufficient for modern drives; multi-pass optional for specific policies).
Physical destruction. For drives that must never be recovered, physically destroy the platters (HDD) or shred/disintegrate the SSD. Follow organizational policies or certified destruction services for compliance.
Practical checklist before disposal
Backup data.
Deauthorize accounts.
Remove external media.
Run Reset > Remove everything > Fully clean the drive.
Verify OOBE or absence of user accounts.
Escalate to disk wipe or destruction if data sensitivity requires it.
Bold, deliberate steps protect your privacy without unnecessary complexity. Use the Reset with the full clean option for most situations and choose a full wipe or destruction for high‑risk data.
Streamline Your Team Communications with Exchange Distribution Lists
Setting up a distribution list in Exchange lets you route incoming messages—like queries sent to info@yourcompany.com—to multiple team members automatically. This approach ensures everyone stays in the loop without relying on manual forwarding or risking a single point of failure. It’s perfect for shared mailboxes handling support, sales, or general inquiries.
What Is a Distribution List?
A distribution list (also called a distribution group) is a mail-enabled object in Exchange that contains multiple recipients. When an email is sent to the group’s address, Exchange automatically delivers it to every member. This saves time, reduces administrative overhead, and ensures consistency in client responses.
When to Use an Alias Instead
If you only need all messages to go to one person, an alias is a simpler option. An alias is an additional email address attached to a single mailbox. Incoming mail to that alias lands directly in the user’s primary inbox without the need for a separate distribution object.
Best Practices
Naming Conventions
Use clear prefixes (e.g., info@, support@, sales@)
Access Control
Limit who can send to critical lists to prevent spam
Membership Reviews
Quarterly audits to remove inactive or departed employees
Documentation
Maintain a record of group owners, members, and settings for compliance
Need help managing your Office 365 accounts on a day-to-day basis? We can help. Give us a call.
When Your Emails Disappear Into RSS or Deleted Items
If you suddenly find every incoming message bypassing your inbox and landing in your RSS Feeds folder or the Deleted Items folder, your account has very likely been compromised. Attackers have hijacked your mailbox to send mass spam or phishing emails and created hidden rules to keep you from noticing the activity.
Signs Your Account Is Compromised
No new messages in your main inbox despite people confirming they’ve emailed you
Unfamiliar rules in Outlook moving or deleting mail automatically
Sent items full of messages you didn’t send
Notifications from contacts about strange emails coming “from you”
Step-by-Step Recovery Guide
Change your email password immediately
Identify any other service where you reused that password and update it there as well
Enable two-factor authentication on your email account if it isn’t already active
Review your Outlook rules and delete any that move incoming mail into the RSS Feeds or Deleted Items folders
Check for automatic forwarding settings and disable any you don’t recognize
Advanced Cleanup Tasks
Verify there are no app-specific passwords you didn’t create
Sign out of all devices and web sessions connected to your account
Revoke access for any third-party apps or services you don’t recognize
Audit your account’s login activity or security logs for unfamiliar IP addresses
Beyond the Basics: Strengthen Your Email Security
Use a reputable password manager to generate and store unique passwords
Schedule regular password rotations and security audits
Train your team or family on phishing awareness and suspicious-email reporting
Consider advanced email filtering or a dedicated security gateway
If you need hands-on assistance restoring your mailbox or reinforcing your security posture, give us a call. We’ll help you reclaim control of your email and lock down your account for good.
Preparing for Windows 10 End of Life: Upgrade, Extend, or Adapt
Windows 10 reaches end of support on October 15, 2025. After that date, Microsoft will no longer release security patches or quality updates for consumer editions. You’ll still be able to use your PC, but it will become increasingly vulnerable to emerging threats and software incompatibilities.
Is It Time to Replace Your PC?
If your machine is more than five years old, it’s likely approaching hardware obsolescence. Components such as batteries, spinning hard drives, and aging thermal paste degrade over time, leading to sluggish performance, unexpected shutdowns, or even data loss.
Look for signs of hardware fatigue: noisy fans, slow boot times, and frequent hangs.
Consider your workload: modern productivity suites, web apps, and virtualization demand more RAM and CPU cycles than older systems can reliably deliver.
Factor in warranty and repair costs: a new entry-level laptop or desktop often costs less than a single major repair on a legacy machine.
Extending Windows 10 Support on a Budget
If replacing your PC isn’t feasible right now, you can still receive critical security updates through Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for Windows 10. This program offers up to three additional years of paid patches after end of support.
Click the Start button and type Windows Update.
Select Check for updates in the Settings window.
Look for an Enroll now link or button under the “Quality Updates” section.
Sign in with your Microsoft Account—or create one—when prompted.
Once enrolled, your device will download and install ESU patches just like any regular security update.
Why Wired Beats Wireless (Whenever You Can)
In today’s always-on world, reliable network performance isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. Whenever possible, running a wired connection delivers unmatched speed, stability, and security. If you must go wireless, investing in enterprise-grade gear gives you visibility into your access points and makes troubleshooting far easier.
The Case for Wired Connections
Wired networks deliver consistent throughput without the interference or congestion that often plagues Wi-Fi.
Devices on Ethernet experience near-instantaneous data transfers, reducing latency for time-sensitive apps like video conferencing or VoIP.
Physical cables also isolate traffic, making it harder for attackers to eavesdrop or launch man-in-the-middle exploits.
A wired backbone simplifies quality-of-service (QoS) policies, ensuring critical applications always get priority over spare bandwidth.
When Wiring Isn’t an Option
Sometimes walls, desks, or shared spaces prevent you from running Ethernet everywhere.
Mobile devices like tablets and smartphones simply can’t plug in.
Legacy buildings or historic sites often prohibit new cabling for aesthetic or regulatory reasons.
These scenarios force you into the wireless realm—so you’ll want tools that tell you exactly what’s happening on your network.
Investing in Smart Wireless Solutions
Enterprise-level access points and controllers provide real-time dashboards, alerting you to congestion, rogue clients, and spectrum noise.
Look for systems that include built-in heatmaps or spectrum analyzers so you can pinpoint dead zones and interference sources without guesswork.
High-end gear often integrates with cloud-based management, letting you push firmware updates and configuration changes remotely across multiple sites.
APs with multi-band radios and beamforming adapt automatically to shifting environments, preserving performance as your floor plan or user density changes.
Key Wireless Deployment Tips
Segment guest traffic on a separate SSID and VLAN to protect your core network.
Enable band steering so clients automatically choose the optimal frequency (2.4 GHz vs. 5 GHz).
Schedule regular firmware and driver updates to patch vulnerabilities and performance bugs.
Monitor client counts per AP and redistribute load when thresholds are exceeded.
Wired vs. Wireless at a Glance
When push comes to shove, wired connections remain the gold standard for mission-critical networks. But if cabling isn’t feasible, the right wireless infrastructure and monitoring give you near-wired confidence.
Call us if you need help designing, deploying, or troubleshooting your wired and wireless networks. We’ll guide you to the fastest, most reliable solution every time.
When Your Acct Folder Vanishes from Documents
You open File Explorer, navigate to Documents, and your entire Acct folder is gone. Heart sinks. Before you call IT or start crying into your backup drive, run a quick investigation: often the “missing” folder isn’t deleted at all — it’s been moved. This guide walks you through a calm, methodical recovery plan: find it, return it, or restore it from backup.
Quick triage — what to do first
Open File Explorer and stay calm.
Don’t create, rename, or move other files in Documents — that can make recovery harder.
Limit your actions to searching and checking obvious places.
Step 1 — Search for the Acct folder
Click into the Documents folder, then use the search box in the top-right.
Type: Acct
Expand the search scope to This PC if nothing appears under Documents.
Why this works: folders are frequently dragged into nearby folders during routine file work. A simple search often finds the folder intact but misplaced.
Step 2 — If you find the folder in a different location
Note the current path shown in File Explorer’s address bar.
Drag the Acct folder back to Documents, or right-click → Cut, navigate to Documents → Paste.
Verify contents: open a few files to confirm they’re intact.
Checklist after moving back:
Folder appears under Documents.
File timestamps and sizes look correct.
Recent files open without error.
Step 3 — If the folder is truly missing
If the search returns nothing, assume the folder was deleted or corrupted and proceed to recovery.
Options, in order:
Check Recycle Bin
If present, right-click the Acct folder → Restore.
Restore from File History (Windows)
Documents folder → right-click → Restore previous versions → choose a date → Restore.
If you use File History, pick the most recent snapshot that contains Acct.
Restore from cloud sync (OneDrive, Google Drive, Dropbox)
Open the cloud client or web interface → look for deleted items or version history → restore.
Restore from offline backup
Use your backup software (Acronis, Veeam, Windows Backup, etc.) and restore the Acct folder to Documents.
If you have image-based backups, mount the image and extract the folder.
Use recovery tools as last resort
If no backups exist and the Recycle Bin is empty, consider professional file-recovery software or services.
Stop using the drive to prevent data overwrite; recovery success falls with continued writes.
Prevent this from happening again
Enable versioned backups
Turn on File History, set up periodic backups, or use cloud backup with versioning.
Use cloud-synced Documents
Keep Documents under OneDrive or similar to get automatic version history and recovery.
Turn on Confirm before moving
Get into the habit of using cut/paste and double-checking paths before drop operations.
Adopt folder permissions and structure
Keep sensitive folders in an obvious top-level structure and avoid deep nesting where accidental drags hide items.
Routine verification
Monthly quick check: search for critical folders and ensure backups are healthy.
Quick decision flow (two-minute rule)
Search for Acct across Documents and This PC.
If found: move back and verify files.
If not found: check Recycle Bin, cloud trash, then File History/backups.
No backups: minimize disk use and run recovery tools or contact a recovery specialist.
Conclusion
A missing Acct folder is usually a misplaced folder. Search first, move it back if you find it, and only then escalate to recovery from backups or tools. Build a simple backup habit (File History or cloud sync) so the next time something vanishes, restoration takes minutes instead of hours or days.
Protecting Your Free Software Downloads: A Cautionary Tale with Sage Thumbs
Free tools can be productivity gold mines until they’re Trojan horses. Recently, one of our clients decided to install Sage Thumbs, a handy utility that lets you preview PSD file thumbnails directly in File Explorer. What seemed like a routine install quickly turned into a lesson in vigilance and defense in depth.
The Sage Thumbs Incident
Our client clicked what appeared to be a legitimate download link for Sage Thumbs. After repeated failures, they reached out for help. We discovered the site they were using wasn’t the official provider; it was a cleverly disguised imposter hosting a potentially dangerous installer.
Rogue Download Sites: A Growing Threat
Attackers set up fake download portals for popular free software to:
Distribute malware, adware, or cryptojacking scripts
Harvest user data through stealth installers
Trick organizations into bypassing internal protections
These sites often mimic official branding including logos, fonts, and URLs to lower your guard. Without a solid verification process, anyone even savvy users can fall prey.
How SonicWall Stopped the Attack
Luckily, our client’s SonicWall firewall had Application Control enabled to block unauthorized free software installations. As soon as the malicious installer tried to execute, SonicWall flagged and quarantined the file, preventing any compromise.
Key features that saved the day:
Application Control signatures for known freeware hosts
Real time intrusion prevention blocking suspicious payloads
Web filtering rules enforcing approved download categories
Best Practices for Safe Software Downloads
Verify the Source
Always navigate to the official vendor site rather than relying on search engine results or third party reposts.Leverage Web Filtering
Block or warn against known malicious or untrusted download sites with URL category policies.Enforce Application Control
Prevent unauthorized installers from executing based on hash or signature analysis.Maintain a Whitelist of Trusted Vendors
Approve only the domains and software publishers your organization has vetted.Educate Your Team
Train users to recognize fake URLs, phishing pages, and installer baits.
Secure Your Organization’s Downloads Today
Free utilities shouldn’t come with a hidden cost. If you don’t yet have protections like SonicWall’s web filtering and application control reach out to us. We’ll assess your environment, recommend the right security, and help you keep every download safe and legitimate.
How Good Is Your Backup? A Simple Test to Ensure Your Data Is Safe
Your backup solution might be humming along in the background, but how can you be certain it’s actually protecting your files? If you’ve never verified that your backups succeed and your data can be restored, you simply don’t have a reliable backup. This article walks you through a straightforward test to confirm your backup is working—and shows you how to set up email notifications so you’ll always know its status.
The Myth of “Set and Forget”
Many people assume that once a backup schedule is configured, it will forever safeguard their data. In reality, hardware failures, software bugs, misconfigurations, or full storage targets can all silently derail your backup jobs. Without verification, you risk discovering corrupt or incomplete backups only when disaster strikes—far too late to recover critical documents.
A Foolproof Backup Test
Verifying your backup doesn’t require specialist tools or complex scripts. Follow these simple steps to confirm end to end functionality:
Create a small test document on your computer (for example, “backup_test.txt”).
Run or wait for your next scheduled backup to include this file.
Delete the test document from your local drive.
Initiate a restore operation and recover “backup_test.txt” to its original location.
Open the restored file to ensure it’s intact.
If this process completes without errors, your backup pipeline is working as intended. If not, you’ve uncovered a critical weakness that needs immediate attention.
Setting Up Email Notifications
Waiting for a backup to fail is like waiting for a storm without a weather alert. Most backup solutions offer built in reporting or notification features—enable them to receive automatic email alerts:
Notify on success or failure for every backup job.
Customize thresholds (e.g., alert if a job runs longer than expected or if free space drops below a safe level).
Include detailed logs or summaries in the notification to speed troubleshooting.
With notifications in place, you’ll know within minutes whenever backups succeed or stumble, giving you time to fix issues before data is lost.
Turning Tests Into Routine
Verification shouldn’t be a one off exercise. Embed backup tests into your maintenance calendar:
Perform a test restore quarterly or after significant system changes.
Rotate test documents or use unique filenames each time to avoid confusion.
Document results in a simple log date, result, and any follow up actions.
By treating backup verification as a regular task, you transform uncertainty into confidence. You’ll always know your data is secure, and you’ll sleep better knowing you’ve done the due diligence.
Your Data’s Lifeline
Backups only protect what you can successfully recover. If you don’t know whether your backups work, they’re as good as non existent. Run the simple test outlined above, enable email alerts, and make verification a routine. Your future self and your organization will thank you for the peace of mind when the unexpected happens.
How to Export Videos from Your NVR and Upgrade to 4K Security Cameras in Los Angeles
Need to export video from your NVR? Discover our step-by-step guide to retrieve footage, update your surveillance system, and upgrade to crystal-clear 4K security cameras in Los Angeles.
Table of Contents
Why You Can’t Access Old Surveillance Footage
Step 1: Gather Your NVR Login Credentials
Step 2: How to Export Video from Your NVR
Step 3: Update Firmware on Security Cameras
Step 4: Upgrade to 4K Security Cameras
Why Choose Our NVR Video Export Service
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why You Can’t Access Old Surveillance Footage
Legacy NVR systems can lock down critical video clips if:
The user interface has changed since installation
Proprietary formats require specific codecs
Admin passwords or export PINs are lost
Your original CCTV installer is unresponsive
If you’re searching for “export footage from NVR” or “retrieve footage from security camera system,” don’t worry—we’ll simplify the process.
2. Step 1: Gather Your NVR Login Credentials
Before attempting any export, make sure you have:
The NVR’s IP address on your network
Admin username and password
Any export passwords or DVR lock codes
Without these details, even the best NVR video export service can’t proceed.
3. Step 2: How to Export Video from Your NVR
Follow this proven workflow—adaptable for Hikvision, Dahua, Axis, Uniview, and more:
Log into the NVR’s web or desktop interface
Go to the Playback or Search tab
Select the date, time range, and camera channel
Choose MP4 or another compatible format
Export directly to USB or download to your PC
If you need a hands-on team to retrieve footage from your security camera system, we offer remote support or full-service exports.
4. Step 3: Update Firmware on Security Cameras
Extending the life of your existing CCTV system involves:
Checking the manufacturer’s latest firmware releases
Backing up current NVR configurations
Safely applying updates during off-peak hours
Upgrading your cameras’ firmware improves motion detection, video compression, and mobile-app performance.
5. Step 4: Upgrade to 4K Security Cameras
Ready for a crystal-clear view? A full 4K surveillance upgrade delivers:
Ultra-high definition for forensic-grade detail
Wider field of view—monitor more area with fewer cameras
Smooth integration with AI analytics and cloud storage
Our end-to-end 4K camera installation includes site surveys, PoE switch configuration, NVR setup, and user training.
6. Why Choose Our NVR Video Export Service
Fast response when your original installer is MIA
Expertise across all major CCTV brands
Transparent, flat-rate pricing—no hidden fees
Local team in Los Angeles for on-site support
We’re your go-to for “CCTV installation near me,” “security camera installation near me,” and “LA NVR video export.”
7. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I export video from any NVR brand?
A: Yes. We support Hikvision, Dahua, Axis, Uniview, Honeywell, and more.
Q: How long does an NVR export take?
A: Small clips (1–5 minutes) export in under 5 minutes. Longer archives depend on your network speed.
8. Call to Action
Whether you need to export footage from NVR, update firmware on security cameras, or install a brand-new 4K security camera system, we’re here to help.
Contact us today for fast, reliable service across Los Angeles and Southern California.
Secure your peace of mind—reach out for expert CCTV support now.
Short Domain Names: How Abbreviated Domains Can Simplify Your Email and Boost Your Brand
Long, hard-to-type domain names can make emails awkward — especially when you’re sharing them over the phone, in meetings, or on business cards. The good news? You can buy a short, memorable domain name (sometimes called an abbreviated domain) and connect it to your email system so both addresses work seamlessly.
Why Shorter Domains Are a Smart Move
Easier to remember: Fewer characters mean fewer typos and faster recall.
Faster to share: Especially useful in verbal communication and printed marketing.
More professional: Shows that you’ve thought about user experience and brand accessibility.
Brand flexibility: Keep your long domain for your website while using the short version for email.
Example email transformation:
alex@TheUltimateGourmetFoodCompany.com → alex@TUGFC.com
How to Get Your Own Short Domain Email Address
Choose the Right Abbreviation
Use the first letters of each word, a catchy acronym, or a shortened brand name.Register the Short Domain
Search availability via popular registrars like GoDaddy, Namecheap, or Google Domains.Link It to Your Existing Email System
Configure your DNS and email server settings so both your long and short domains point to the same inbox.Test and Roll Out
Confirm deliverability before using your short address in business materials.
Pro Tip for Business Owners
Using an abbreviated domain for email is an easy, low-cost branding upgrade. It makes your contact details more shareable, improves professionalism, and supports SEO when used in online profiles and signatures.
Need help picking the perfect abbreviation and setting it up?
We can help in finding brand-friendly short domains and configuring email systems so they “just work.” Contact us today and we’ll handle the entire process — from domain search to email integration.
When Your Smart Water Monitor Won’t Connect: Diagnosing Wi-Fi vs Device Issues
So you’ve invested in a smart water monitor and shutoff system—an essential upgrade that promises peace of mind against leaks and flooding. Yet the moment you try to sync it with your home network, you hit a wall. The device refuses to “talk” to your Wi-Fi, and suddenly everyone from the plumber to the IT savvy neighbor has an opinion on what’s wrong. Sound familiar? If you’re stuck in this finger pointing nightmare, read on for a structured approach to uncovering the root cause—and discover how our expert team can cut through the noise.
Common Culprits Behind Connection Failures
Modern smart hydronic devices rely on stable Wi-Fi coverage, proper firmware, and compatible network settings. Here are the usual suspects:
Signal Strength and Interference
Thick walls, metal pipes, or electrical panels can degrade your Wi-Fi signal where your monitor lives.
Household appliances (microwaves, cordless phones) may broadcast on the same frequency.
Device Firmware or Hardware Defects
Outdated firmware can prevent pairing.
Manufacturing faults or shipping damage sometimes render a unit inoperative.
Network Configuration Quirks
Hidden SSIDs, enterprise grade security protocols, or segmented guest networks can block new devices.
MAC address filtering or limited DHCP pools may stall an IP assignment.
DIY Diagnostics: What You Can Do Right Now
Before calling in reinforcements, try these targeted checks to narrow down the issue:
Verify Signal with a Wi-Fi Analyzer
Install an app that displays signal strength across channels.
Walk to the installation spot and note the decibel reading—anything below –70 dBm can be problematic.
Test on an Alternate Network
Create a mobile hotspot and attempt pairing. Success here points to your primary Wi-Fi settings.
Update or Reset the Device
Check the manufacturer’s site for firmware updates.
Perform a factory reset and retry the setup sequence.
Simplify Security
Temporarily disable advanced encryption or SSID hiding.
Ensure no MAC restrictions stand in the way.
If you’ve run through these steps and still can’t establish a link, the problem likely runs deeper than a weak signal or misconfiguration.
Ready to Cut Through the Confusion?
Stop toggling settings and chasing conflicting advice. Our team bridges the gap between plumbing, networking, and smart home technology so you can enjoy reliable, leak proof monitoring without the drama.
Give us a call today, and let’s get your smart water monitor talking to your Wi-Fi—once and for all.
Unlocking PACER 2FA: Hassle-Free Setup with Expert Support
Are you staring at your screen, unable to complete that two-factor authentication for your PACER (Public Access to Court Electronic Records) account? You’re not alone. The extra security step is critical, but the configuration can trip up even the savviest users. If you find yourself stuck, we’ve got your back.
Why Two-Factor Authentication Matters
Two-factor authentication (2FA) protects your PACER data by requiring both your password and a secondary security code.
It drastically reduces the risk of unauthorized access.
It ensures that only you can view sensitive court documents.
It aligns with best practices for online security.
By layering on this extra defense, you’re safeguarding your personal information and maintaining the integrity of your legal research habits.
Common Challenges with PACER 2FA Setup
Many PACER users run into the same stumbling blocks when configuring 2FA:
Linking the app to your account without error messages.
Troubleshooting lost or reset devices after initial setup.
These hiccups can leave you locked out or worse.
How We Simplify Your Setup
Instead of combing through confusing support pages, let our team walk you through the entire process:
We guide you step-by-step to add and verify your second factor.
We test your authentication flow to make sure every login is seamless.
Our specialists have years of experience.
Getting Started and Pricing
Ready to ditch the frustration and secure your PACER account today?
Personalized phone support
Remote configuration assistance
Post-setup verification
Click on Pricing at the top of this page to view our rates. For a small fee, you’ll gain peace of mind and uninterrupted access to your court records.
Two-factor authentication shouldn’t stand between you and the information you need. Reach out now, and let’s get you up and running in minutes.