The Mouse Trap
–by Janis Weber
PUBLICATION DATE: Feb 15, 2021
Check out my archived articles on The Sylvania Advantage Website (yourgood.news) titled Computer 101.

In the world of computers, nothing lasts forever. Products that seemed like cutting-edge technology one day are obsolete the next. The same can be said for software, which sometimes outlasts the hardware it comes with. And now, after more than a decade of service, Microsoft is finally pulling the plug on Windows 7. Citing security issues, Microsoft is pushing alerts urging stubborn users to upgrade their systems as soon as possible. Here’s why you might want to take these alerts seriously.
Over the past year, Microsoft has been warning users about Windows 7’s impending conclusion on Jan. 15. Though the operating system will still work on the PCs it’s currently installed on, Microsoft will no longer offer support for the software. The alerts are included as part of the final Windows 7 security patch, which went out to users Dec. 10. Following this patch, no additional free security updates will be available for Windows 7.

Windows 7 has been around long enough for hackers to poke numerous holes through it. It’s far more vulnerable than a new piece of software hackers are less familiar with, and anyone who doesn’t upgrade is at a higher risk for a host of malware and cyberattacks than users who can receive the latest updates. And, truth be told, Windows 7 is much more dangerous to use than it used to be. A large amount of malicious software exists specifically to target Windows 7 users, and several security flaws have been found in software like Internet Explorer.
Thankfully, upgrading to Windows 10 is easy, but it isn’t free. A new single license download for Windows 10 Home edition will run you $139, and it will take several hours of update time before you can jump back on your PC again. However, upgrading will make you current with the most secure, recently patched version of Windows. This will protect you against the most common types of malware and will make your computer more compatible with new software that may not have worked on your PC before.
Let me explain one thing about upgrading Windows 7 to Windows 10. If you take an old compact car and place a heavy load in it, the car will run much slower and may even stall out. If you do the same thing, adding Windows 10 to your existing computer that had Windows 7, you will probably notice the same problem. Plus, you just spent $139 for this unwise move. On the other hand, if you already have an expensive computer with a huge processor and tons of RAM, you may be successful at getting a couple more years out of your computer.
Now consider what you use your computer for. If you are in business, you may need a full-blown computer for about $600 or more. Do you need access to all the bells and whistles? If the answer is not really, then consider a chrome book or tablet. These two choices will save few files on board. They encourage you to store your documents on an external flash drive or something larger. No big deal, really. The other storage is in a cloud. If you save hardly anything then this is the choice for you. You will save hundreds of dollars and have the same capabilities.
Before you shut down your old computer, be sure to back up all your data on an outside source so you can reload it to the new unit. Most equipment you own has a shelf life. This is just another one of them. At least it is not a new roof or utility machinery. Do some homework or contact me for purchasing advice. I am always happy to help.

Sylvania Senior Center Classes
New classes with be held as soon as the center reopens. Check the SSC newsletter and website for the most current information. Included will be Windows 10 Computers Basics, Facebook, Microsoft Word, Google Docs and iPhone/iPad. If you have a topic and know some folks who are interested, call the Senior Center and ask for Susan Jennelle at 419-885-3913. Limited seating fills fast so call ASAP to reserve a spot. We are considering an Excel Club. Interested? Call the SSC.

I make house calls (I enter with a mask)
I will come to your home or office and help you with almost any predicament including repairs, upgrades and general software or hardware issues. I can be your resident “Geek.” I have an endless amount of patience and knowledge with years of experience. Give me a text or call at 419-290-3570. Do not forget to sign up for my free newsletter at OhComputerTraining.com. Subscribers will get a copy of this article plus added hints, tips, and trusted/valuable web-links.

BACK UP YOUR COMPUTER’S DATA TODAY – Critical action!
Janis Weber, B.A., owner of Ohio Computer Training & Support, is a professional computer adjunct instructor. E-mail any specific questions or comments to JwPCtutor@Gmail.com
or call her for assistance at 419-318-9112.
Private tutoring and repairs are just a phone call, text or email away.