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Data Docs: What you need to do about the Log4j threat 12/17/2021 02:56pm • Q: What should I be doing about the Log4j vulnerability? A: In what is considered one of the most widespread and dangerous vulnerabilities to be discovered in a very long time, the Log4j problem is going to be a threat that will likely linger for a long time. The reason this discovery is consi Data Doctors: Tips for learning keyboard shortcuts 12/10/2021 04:15pm • Q: I’ve been a Mac user for a long time, but have to use Windows for my new job, which makes it confusing when I try to use shortcuts. A: Operating on both the Windows and Mac platforms on a regular basis has become a lot more common and for those that use a lot of keyboard shortcuts can be a b Data Doctors: SMART computer checkup 12/04/2021 04:04am • Q: What exactly does SMART do on my computer? A: There’s an old saying, “There are only two kinds of hard drives: those that have failed and those that are going to fail." This is especially poignant when it comes to older magnetic hard drives because the mechanical nature of the device in Data Doctors: Tips for freeing up Gmail storage space 11/26/2021 04:27pm • Q: I’m running out of space on my free Gmail account and deleted a bunch of messages, but it didn’t seem to make much of a difference. Help! Despite Gmail’s generous 15 GB of free storage, it can fill up quickly without regular maintenance. If you haven’t done much in the past to keep Data Doctors: 2021 Online shopping tips 11/19/2021 04:30pm • Q: What are the latest online shopping safety tips? A: The holiday season always drives online purchase volume to the highest levels of the year, which also means that those with malicious intent step up their tactics as well. Elaborate phishing scams One of the more sophisticated scams incorpo Data Doctors: Does Windows 11 need anti-virus software? 11/12/2021 04:51pm • Q: With all of the new security features in Windows 11, should I still install some form of anti-virus software, and if so, which one? A: Microsoft has definitely stepped up the security features in Windows 11 in response to some of the more prevalent threats that most users will encounter in today Data Doctors: Buying vs. renting Internet modems 11/05/2021 06:18am • Q: I’m getting a new high-speed Internet service. Should I rent or buy the cable modem and router? A: There are pros and cons to both sides of the “buy vs. rent” question, and there is no single answer for everyone. The variables to consider include which type of broadband service you’ Data Doctors: Are extended warranties on computers worth it? 10/29/2021 05:40pm • Q: Are computer extended warranties worth buying? A: No matter what tech device you buy, practically any retailer will likely try to get you to pay a little extra for a “protection plan” that goes above and beyond the standard factory warranty. In some cases, it seems like such a small amo Data Doctors: Smartphone astrophotography tips 10/22/2021 04:02pm • Q: Is it possible to get a decent picture using my smartphone for astrophotography? A: While serious astrophotography requires a pile of expensive DSLR camera equipment, you can actually get decent images from your smartphone with a little work. A couple of keys to capturing the night sky are Data Doctors: A look at some of the new Windows 11 security requirements 10/15/2021 05:20pm • Q: What are the TPM and Secure Boot that Windows 11 is requiring? A: As the buzz around Windows 11 continues to grow, Microsoft has taken steps to ensure it will be what the company calls "The Most Secure Version of Windows Ever." Internet-connected devices are in a constant battle with potent Data Doctors: Wireless earbud buying tips 10/08/2021 02:02pm • Q: What should I look for when buying wireless earbuds? There are so many to choose from that I don’t know where to start. A: The last time I checked, there were over 90 companies that manufactured headphones and the vast majority have some form of wireless option available. This is one tech Data Doctors: When not to reply 'STOP' 10/01/2021 05:18am • Q: Does replying with "STOP" on unwanted text messages really work? A: If it feels like you’re getting a lot more text messages these days, both legitimate and questionable, it’s not your imagination. Every study on text messaging shows that people respond at a significantly higher rate an Data Doc: How to get started geocaching in DC area 09/24/2021 05:07pm • Q: I’m interested in getting into geocaching, so where should I start? A: If you love the outdoors and treasure hunting or want a high-tech way to get the kids outside, geocaching is worth checking out.  Items have been hidden around world (called caches) that can be found by following onli Data Doctors: Why 'tossing your cookies' is pointless 09/10/2021 04:01pm • Q: How does a digital fingerprinting differ from a cookie? A: The notion that you could be anonymous on the Internet was an attraction in the early days, but it’s quite obvious that those days are long gone. Virtually everything you do online is tracked and added to your "dossier" primarily Data Doctors: Buying tips for USB turntables 09/03/2021 03:15pm • Q: I’m getting back into music on vinyl, so what should I be looking for if I’m in the market for a record player that will connect to my computer? A: The revival of vinyl records has been growing in popularity for over a decade, which has prompted many companies to create new turntables that c