Author - Randy Drozd

How to: Hide Google Chrome address bar auto predictions

Google has been putting pressure on Firefox and IE by having great success with their Chrome browser. It has only been available for a short while and has already surged in usage. Chrome is sleek, fast and free. One of the features they offer is a search bar integrated into the address bar. This makes searching a breeze and it even offers predictions on what search terms or web address it thinks you are entering. To some, however, the prediction feature is more of an annoyance than a benefit. Thankfully, Chrome makes it very easy to enable and disable this feature. Below is a "How to" from Google Chrome support that explains these simple steps in detail.
When you type in the address bar, Google Chrome can use a prediction service to help you complete the web addresses and search terms that you're entering. For example, typing new york in the address bar could bring up http://www.nytimes.com as a predicted site or [ new york city ] as a predicted search. To help you differentiate between web addresses and searches, a search icon appears next to searches in the address bar menu; a suggested sites icon appears next to web addresses. Unless your default search engine uses a different prediction service, the search terms that show up are the same ones that would show up if you were searching on Google. Learn more about Google's autocomplete algorithm
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Tech terms you should know

For most of us, technology is an integral part of our everyday lives. Many of us, however, still are hazy on a number of common technology terms. Fortunately, for those that are confused, we have created a mini glossary of common tech terms you should be familiar with.   Cookies Cookies are what allow websites to know who you are. If you allow cookies, your web browser will automatically supply your information such as username, password or preferences. They are convenient because they save you from having to reenter your information every time you visit a website.   Cookies are also seen by some as a privacy issue. Since they store your information and track your activity, somebody could easily access your data. You can protect yourself, however, by using cookies sparingly.   URL A URL, which is short for uniform resource locator, is essentially the web address of a website. It is what you type into the address bar of a browser when you would like to be directed to a web page.   Cloud Cloud is one of the most used terms in technology these days yet it still has quite a few people scratching their heads. The cloud is made up of web-based services that you can use on any computer without purchasing hardware or installing software. Google Docs and Facebook are among the most common cloud services today.   Flash   Flash is an Adobe Systems-owned platform that allows for great web interactivity. Installing a Flash plug-in on your browser makes it possible for you to view animations, certain displays and videos. Although Flash has been the longtime standard, HTML5 is surfacing as a valid competitor.   Although tech terms can get quite complicated at times, knowing the basics can help you to better understand the technology we’re using every day.   For more tech terms and their meanings, check out this glossary.
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Windows XP is a ticking time bomb, and it’s set to explode April 8th, 2014.

Microsoft Windows Support It’s that time again, when Microsoft declares the retirement of another operating system, Windows XP, even while many of us are still using it. This does not mean that Windows XP will cease to function on computers in April but it will no longer be officially supported by Microsoft. It is imperative to cease using Windows XP before support is dropped for numerous reasons listed below. Official Microsoft support for Windows XP means many things including bug fixes, software updates, and security patches, just to name a few. Of these the most relevant to why you should move away from XP are the security patches. These patches close vulnerabilities in the operating system itself that allow malicious attacks or even hijacking of your computer and the data it holds. It’s the same concept as patching up holes in a roof to prevent water from leaking in. Studies show that those who exploit these holes in systems are currently holding onto the security risks they have discovered and plan to wait until after April 8th to use them. This means that starting on April 8th we will see a wave of new virus attacks specifically targeting Windows XP machines.  At that point, Microsoft will have dropped support and no attempt will be made to plug these holes. For this reason alone it should be a priority to eliminate any usage of Windows XP in your office or home, even if it is not a regularly used machine. Just imagine the damage to your company or property that could be done if a burglar broke in and gained full access to your computer systems. That is exactly what any Windows XP machine on your network will potentially become when next April rolls around. The longer an XP workstation remains on your network, the more exploits will be discovered, and the more dangerous it will become. Don’t let this happen to you or your data! If that is not enough of a reason to motivate you into upgrading your system and security consider this. Security is not the only part of XP that is becoming antiquated, system software is already lagging behind and is only getting worse. Internet Explorer, the built-in Microsoft software many of us use to access the web, is currently in its 10th version. However the latest version running on Windows XP is Internet Explorer 8. So what does this mean to you? It mean that Internet Explorer 8 is the latest version that will ever run on XP. As new languages such as HTML5 are used in websites fewer and fewer pages will load properly in Internet Explorer 8 since it will never receive the appropriate updates. One can simply resort to 3rd party browsers such as Mozilla’s Firefox or Google’s Chrome right now, however that will only last as long as these companies continue supporting XP, which brings me to my last point. 3rd party support for Windows XP. Already many companies who develop software exclude Windows XP as a supported operating system. This is because in the United States only 16% of computers are still running XP. It costs money to ensure compatibility with each operating system, and frankly, to many smaller companies it is neither affordable nor cost effective. This is already going on now, and will get exponentially worse as official support of the operating system is dropped by Microsoft. So I ask you, are you still running XP on any of your computers? If so, what is the purpose? Is it because the computer has simply not been upgraded, or perhaps because you are running a specialized software that only supports XP? Whatever the case may be, Profulgent Technology has the answers for you. From simple PC upgrades to virtualization for specific applications, we can bring your business up to speed quickly and ensure your computers are ready when April rolls around. Read more here (References): http://www.welivesecurity.com/2013/08/13/cybercriminals-saving-up-wave-of-windows-xp-attacks-for-when-microsoft-stops-support/ https://www.networkworld.com/news/2013/080713-china-has-a-massive-windows-272608.html
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How to Recover Your Lost Computer Files – Inexpensively and Easily

7K0A0129 We maintain our computers similarly to how we maintain our own health - rarely do we take the time to learn about preventing health complications, and instead work to repair our health once we've become ill! We take care of our computers the same way, in that we rarely think about the safety or well-being of our data until something happens that leads to data loss or corruption. And when that does happen, how do you recover your lost computer files? Have you ever taken a moment to imagine what would happen if you lost some or all of your computer files? Whether you only use your computer for personal reasons; or for school or work, file or data loss can be devastating! Think of all of those family photographs, music files or class assignments! Think of the report you spent weeks working on. Some files can be replaced with time and effort, while others (particularly your photos or home videos) cannot. Numerous reports tell us that over a third of computer users don't back up their files; and of those that actually do perform some data backup - 76% of people don't do it often enough. Most people tend to think computer files are lost only due to catastrophic events - like tornadoes and hurricanes. Don't forget about slightly more common events, including fire, flood or computer viruses. A computer "disaster" does not necessarily have to be one from Mother Nature, either. Suppose you dropped your laptop down the stairs or spilled your coffee on the keyboard? Losing personal files is devastating because of their sentimental value - while business owners who rely on content and files can consider the loss of data fatal to their business if they don't have a data backup plan in place.

Create a Plan to Recover Your Lost Computer Files Before Disaster Strikes

Just like many human health issues can be prevented with proper diet and care, having a complete backup plan in place can prevent disaster from occurring to your precious data. Data backup isn't as complicated or expensive as you might believe. It is far easier to back up your files to be able to restore them after something damages your computer, than it is to recover them after disaster strikes. Consider a data backup plan to be your computer's insurance policy! Picking Up The Pieces If you've already experienced the loss of data and you hadn't backed up your data and files, you'll need to use data recovery services to recover as much of the lost information as possible. Data recovery makes it possible to save some of the data from damaged, corrupted or failed storage devices, but it's expensive, and you may never recover 100% of the data you've lost. Data Backup and Recovery Solution Your best solution is to use a remote data backup system. This will backup and store your data files and information at regularly scheduled intervals to an online data store accessed via the web. Your backed-up information can then be restored to any computer if your computer's hard disk fails, or if it has been attacked by a virus, or physically damaged. Some people back up their files to CDs or flash drives - and then keep these storage devices in the same location as the computer. If there is a natural disaster, chances are the computer and the backup copies will be ruined. Remote data backup services exist for both personal computer users and businesses of all sizes. Prices range from very reasonable to very expensive - based on how much storage you require and other factors. Prevention is the best medicine - give yourself peace of mind with a data backup insurance policy for your computer files. Click here to learn how [contentblock id=company] can help you prevent data loss and quickly recover your lost computer files with our Remote Data Storage Services for your business in [contentblock id=location].
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Small Businesses Benefit From Managed IT Services

Managed IT Services

From start-ups to multi-billion dollar businesses, everyone is looking for ways to cut costs while turning a profit. In fact, many companies are just trying to keep things in the black, however that does not eliminate the need for practices that will improve and grow these businesses. Since few people have the expertise to manage much of today's technology, a certain percentage of their budgets should be allocated to IT and software applications maintenance. Here are ways that Managed IT Services benefit small and medium businesses.

Benefits of Managed IT Services for Small Businesses

  • Increased productivity - Businesses are established to fill the need for a product or service while providing a livelihood for the business owners and their employees. In order to do this, businesses have to ensure they are working at full capacity at all times. Downtime or work performed at reduced levels is time and money wasted. Managed IT Services can help businesses not only quickly repair problems when they occur but also act as a proactive measure to spot and treat potential problems before they have an impact on productivity.
  • Supports in-house IT - Many businesses do not want to relinquish all IT maintenance control to an outside party, and small businesses do not always have the resources to support the type of IT department needed to keep their business running at full speed. A majority of businesses can benefit from adding the expertise, tools and availability of a Managed IT Services Provider to help support in-house IT departments.
  • Remote services - Managed IT Services Providers work from a remote location, providing desktop, email and back-up and recovery support services without adding to the actual number of "employees" on site. The services provided are unobtrusive and in the majority of cases, have no impact in the day-to-day activities of current in-house employees.
  • Affordable - Generally when you bring on a Managed IT Services Provider, a consultant will perform an onsite assessment of the company, its workflows and processes and the current state of its supporting technology to determine what services are needed to meet organizational goals. Business owners often have a choice between several different levels of service, making it possible for a company with a limited budget to choose a package that best suits their needs.
Security is a big concern for business owners and individuals alike. In the past, business owners have been reluctant to entrust secure or private information to a third party, offsite vendor. As Managed IT Services Providers continue to prove their value, more companies are realizing the benefits and value of their services. Managed IT Services Providers continue to improve technology to provide secure, quality services for businesses of all sizes. As a result, smaller businesses which operate with leaner budgets find themselves in a position to reap the benefits of these services. Business owners often have to make difficult decisions regarding how they will improve their business while sticking to the budget. As the market for Managed IT Services experiences continual growth in the next few years, this method of IT maintenance and service delivery will likely become the "norm" for small to mid size businesses looking to reduce costs and improve uptime and business continuity. Companies that recognize the benefits of Managed IT Services will have a jump on their competition. Click here to learn how [contentblock id=company] can help you save reap these benefits and more with our Managed IT Services program for your business in [contentblock id=location].
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When Is Your Business Ready For Managed IT Services?

Profulgent Technology Managed IT Services If you are a small business owner and considering whether or not Managed IT Services will benefit your company, the answer is almost always- yes. There is little doubt that most small businesses can benefit from Managed IT Services, yet that in itself does not always justify the cost of bringing on a third party provider. Accepting that Managed IT Services Providers can offer solutions to common problems found in small business operation, the real question is: when does it make sense to switch from in house IT solutions to the next level which includes Managed IT Services? There is a good chance if you are already considering Managed IT Services the time might be near when you are ready to make the switch. Small business owners do not have the luxury of a never ending IT budget, therefore it is very important to recognize when your current IT management is no longer cost effective. For most small businesses this occurs when the business grows to the point of needing either a contract with a local service provider who is "on call" for IT needs or hiring a full time IT person to remain on staff. There is of course another option for small business owners to consider and that is hiring a Managed IT Services Provider to oversee their IT needs. If you are still unsure that your business is ready for the switch, ask yourself the following questions:
  • Do you find IT costs are continually increasing?
  • Is it difficult to find and retain quality IT staff?
  • Is your network and workstation performance and speed decreasing?
  • Are your employees spending more time dealing with IT issues than focusing on job they have been hired to perform?
  • Do you have problems with viruses, spyware and other security issues that could threaten the confidentiality of proprietary information?
  • In the event of a natural or man-made disaster, would your network be at risk? Would recovery be a concern?
  • Do you find network downtime is increasing?
If you answered yes to one or more of the above questions, then your business is ready for Managed IT Services. Now that you have determined Managed IT Services are right for your business, the next challenge is finding the right provider of these services. This is a decision that should not be made lightly or rushed as the wrong provider can end up costing your company more money than your current situation. Before you begin the search for a Managed IT Services Provider you should first consider your IT budget as well as issues or problems you want to be addressed. It is important to remember that Managed IT Services are not a one-size-fits-all type of solution to business problems. Each business and industry has their own issues to contend with and a qualified Managed IT Services Provider will work with you to find the solutions that will benefit your company the most. If a potential provider is more intent on selling you services and not listening to the needs of your business, move on to another provider who is willing to listen to your concerns and offer customized solutions that address these needs. The point of outsourcing your IT management is to save money while freeing up time to focus on other business operations. For this reason it pays to put forth the effort to find the best Managed IT Services Provider to oversee your technology needs. Click here to learn how [contentblock id=company] can help you benefit from Managed IT Services for your business in [contentblock id=location].
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Local Technical Support in NJ

At Profulgent Technology, we recognize that an efficiently-run business is what helps keep you ahead in today’s competitive marketplace. We are your one-stop-shop for all things IT in Monmouth, Middlesex and Mercer County and all throughout the state of NJ and NY. Our goal is to create innovative ways to enhance your company’s business. Our successful approach incorporates a comprehensive evaluation of all of your existing technology and its processes, as well as assessing your needs for the future.

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Computer Doctor joins forces with PT

Aaron Huebner, founder of Computer Doctor, MD, joins forces with Profulgent Technology.

We recognize in today’s fast-changing world of technology; we need the staff and the resources available to help us continue to offer the highest level of service possible. As a result, we are continuously looking for opportunities to expand and strengthen our team. Laurence Harbor, NJ, April 26, 2012: Aaron Huebner founder of Computer Doctor, MD will join forces with Profulgent Technology to operate under the Profulgent Technology name. The acquisition will give us the opportunity to offer additional services, with a larger staff, more extended office hours and allow us to continue improving our offerings. The addition of the team from Computer Doctor, MD will help us offer an expanded set of services while also increasing our support team. Randy Drozd, the chief executive officer of Profulgent Technology said, “This is an amazing time in business. While most businesses struggled through the recession, we continued to grow. Now that things are picking up again, we are growing faster than ever imagined. We are looking forward to continued growth through the remainder of 2012 and beyond!” About Computer Doctor, MD: Based out of Atlantic Highlands, NJ, has been delivering professional technology solutions to small businesses throughout Monmouth and Ocean counties. The company was formed in 2006 with the goal of helping companies to take advantage of technology and their IT Infrastructure. When it comes to computers and networks, big or small, they did it all, proudly serving 600+ clients. About Profulgent Technology: a Microsoft Certified Partner, Microsoft Small Business Specialist and NJ Small Business Enterprise. We specialize in business technology support, consulting, computer services and network maintenance. Our target market is small to mid-sized business and nonprofit organizations we can partner with to overcome their business technology challenges. Profulgent Technology’s services include network design, implementation, 24×7 monitoring and support of business systems. We offer computer network services that are better mapped to your everyday business processes so you can finally focus on running your business. For more information, please contact: info@profulgent.net Helpdesk: 732.242.9345 ext. 100  
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