Atlanta Computer Consulting: trueITpros, LLC

With the introduction of Microsoft Office, users now have several available options for Microsoft Word, Excel and Powerpoint for free.  Yes, you read correctly, Microsoft Office 2010 is free for users.

The very first option available to all users is Microsoft SkyDrive.  SkyDrive is part of Microsoft’s cloud computing, and offers free versions of Microsoft Office Word, Excel and Powerpoint to all users who have internet access.  In addition to using their software for FREE, you can also save up to 25Gb of documents, excel files, pictures and more.

You get all the advantages of Microsoft Office with the convenience of online storage.  Start working on your documents at work, and finish up at home without forgetting your thumb drive, or laptop, and CD.  The service includes version tracking, collaboration and security.  All you need is a Microsoft Live ID.  Get yours now.

Second, some OEM new computers offer Microsoft Starter Edition.  The starter edition of Microsoft Office allows you to work off-line/without the internet, and still access Excel and Word docuements.

This FREE version of Microsoft Office 2010 is available only on new computers, and currently isn’t available as a download.  What’s the catch, well like most FREE stuff these days, there is a small sidebar with advertisements in the lower corner. 

We recently purchased some new Lenovo computers, and the FREE versions of Word and Excel are fully functional.  After about 2 minutes of working, I didn’t even notice the ad in the lower left corner.  For users who simply use these two products, this is a great free alternative to purchasing a full version.

Microsoft doesn’t do everything right, but from time to time they do still surprise us.  Give Microsoft SkyDrive a try, and if in the market for a new computer ask if it has the Microsoft Starter edition available.

Share on Facebook

written by Robert Kohl

Are you looking for a x-mas gift in the form of a computer?  Assuming you haven’t bought into the whole MAC franchise, you can find some great deals available now.  Here is a quick checklist of items:

• Name-Brand:  names matter when purchasing a computer.  Lenovo is a great brand, and they offer lots of deals.  Lenovo also offers a great online tool to help you with your search.  Visit http://trueitpros.com/lenovo to see for yourself.  Dell and Sony are also personal favorites of our staff.
• Windows:  which version do you need?  That all depends on how you plan to use the computer.  Home Premium is the best bet for most home users.  It includes Windows Media Center which is great for organizing music, videos, and more.  We have it hooked to our LCD in the office, and watch CNN right from the PC (which has a built in DVR through Windows Media).  If you plan to use your computer in your office environment, then you need Ultimate or Professional.
• MEMORY:  the biggest bang for your buck is in the memory.   We recommend at least 4GB of RAM.  YES, period!  4GB works with both the x86 and x64 version of Windows. 
• After that, it’s all about features.  Do you need?
• Lots of USB Ports?
• What a docking station?
• How about a camera?
• Extended Keyboard?

If it’s all still too much, give us a buzz, we are happy to help.

Happy holidays, trueITpros

Share on Facebook

written by admin

Often we are asked, “does my computer have a virus?”  Without running a scan, here are some warning signs for which you will want to contact a professional.

• Computer running unbelievably slow
• Strange pop-ups, esp. ads showing on your computer
• Warning messages that YES, you might have a virus

These are just a few items to look for.  Many users run their basic “free” virus scanner, but they find no virues.  It might be something quite different…malware, spyware, or Trojans.  Not all “free” scanners will keep you safe.

WHAT TO DO?
Your next step is to contact a professional.  Cleaning your computer will be anywhere from $75.00-$150 based on the extent of the infection.

HOW DO I PROTECT MYSELF?
The best way to protect your computer is with a multi-step approach.  I true multi-layer scanner (yes, you must pay for real protection), an additional spyware & malware protection system, and a backup (prefer off-site) of your most important documents. 

IF you buy all these items seperately, it will cost you hundreds of dollars.  Look for a professional that can offer you a multi-service discount.

I HAVE A MAC, WE DON’T GET VIRUSES
As Macs gain popularity, YES, virus hackers are more than happy to infect your computers too.

I’M CONFUSED, HELP ME!!
If you are ready to make the move, just contact trueITpros at 678-534-8776 or visit our website at http://trueitpros.com/HomeUsers.html, and start for yourself.

Share on Facebook

written by admin