🔄 Restart in Recovery mode: Use this next time your Mac is unresponsive. For older Intel Macs, click the Apple logo > Restart > then immediately hold down Cmd + R until the Apple logo or spinning globe appears. For newer M-series Macs, turn the power off, press and hold the power button, then click Options > Continue to open in Recovery mode.
Shopping for a new computer? 3 specs that really matter
We’re all suckers for a good deal. When buying a computer, jumping on a shiny new laptop is tempting if it’s at a great price. While cost is a definite factor, it’s not the only thing you must consider. Need help to find the perfect laptop for you? Tap or click here to take our quiz and find the right one.
Did you buy an iPhone just for its camera? (If you did, we aren’t judging!) Probably not, though. You evaluated all of its features before making a final decision. With computers, you need to do the same.
We’ve done the hard work for you if you’re curious about what specs matter when you’re in the market. Here are three things you shouldn’t skimp on, brought to you by our sponsor, Dell. Read to the end to discover how Dell can help you choose the perfect tech for your needs.
1. RAM
The amount of RAM you have matters more than you think. Why? How many programs and applications you can run simultaneously depends on your computer’s RAM.
If you use up your available RAM, your computer and applications lag. You’ll need at least 4GB of RAM for basic browsing. If you run multiple intensive programs simultaneously, you’ll need at least 8GB, but 16GB is your best bet.
2. Hard disk type and size
While RAM allows you to store files temporarily, your hard drive is for permanent storage. The size hard drive you need depends on how many files you’ll want to keep long-term.
Average users can get away with a 500GB hard drive, but 1TB will give you enough storage to be comfortable for years. But if you need more space, you can always save on storage using a cloud-based program or cloud storage.
The spin speed of your hard drive also matters when accessing larger files. The higher the revolutions per minute (RPM), the better performance you’ll get from your computer. Look for an RPM between 5400 and 7200 for excellent performance.
3. Processor
The processor, also known as your CPU, might be one of the most essential features of your new computer. Processing speed is equally as important.
Revive your old PC or Mac with this free download
Many computer users feel the need to keep their devices up to date with the latest hardware. After all, if you don’t have the latest components or accessories, your laptop or desktop computer might not be compatible. Tap or click here for seven laptop maintenance steps you should do regularly to keep yours happy.
Speaking of Intel: A possible class-action lawsuit against Intel claims the company knowingly sold bad processors. One New York man is demanding millions, saying the crashes and lost data cost him time, money and some sanity. Apparently, Intel knew about the glitches in its 13th- and 14th-gen CPUs for years but kept them under wraps.
The first banner ad on a website appeared in 1994. Was it for … A.) AOL, B.) Apple, C.) AT&T or D.) Intel?
15,000 employees
Are getting laid off at Intel. After reporting $1.6 billion in quarterly losses, Intel is axing 15% of its workforce by the end of this year. So, what the heck is going on? Microsoft and Apple both ditched Intel chips in their newest laptops.
Update your computer’s Wi-Fi and Bluetooth drivers ASAP – Here’s why
You should always keep your computer and mobile device’s operating system updated to the latest version. It gives you the latest features and fixes any security problems. But there are crucial components that often get overlooked: firmware and drivers.
Want to upgrade to Windows 11 on an old PC? Here's the loophole
Microsoft’s Windows 10 operating system was released six years ago. In software development, that can feel like an eternity. So, when the company announced details for Windows 11, PC users were understandably delighted.
☕ The bar has never been lower: Intel has a bright idea to improve employee morale after major layoffs and cutbacks: Free coffee. Previously, they’d dropped coffee, tea and fruit as part of a $10 billion budget cut. Even though they’ve reinstated coffee, there’s no word yet on the free tea or fruit.
Buy or build a PC in the past two years? If your PC has a 13th- or 14th-gen Intel CPU (like the Core i5-13400 or Core i9-14900K), Intel might owe you a new chip. They’re releasing an update this month for the crash-prone chips and extending its warranty by two years. If your PC is already crashing, the update won’t help. Reach out to Intel or your PC manufacturer.
The new Komando Reddit page: Find it here. I’m not sure who set it up, but it’s a nice spot to share tech intel, helpful info you read in my newsletter and anything else you want to share. I’d like each of you to make one post in this new subreddit today. Before you say, “I don’t do Reddit, Kim,” just try it. Let’s make it huge together!
Mac attack: A new macOS malware called “Cuckoo” is targeting older Intel-based Macs and newer models with Apple chips. It steals passwords and takes over your system. It’s spreading via websites and apps that convert streaming music into MP3s. Stay safe: Use TotalAV to protect your tech — it’s just $19 for a year.
In the market for a car? The chip shortage is already railroading 2022 models
The pandemic has lasting effects that we will feel for years. The chip shortage is one such issue, causing a scarcity in tech gadgets and other components, many of which are parts of larger machines.
The automotive industry has been hit particularly hard. While it’s easier to get a new car now than last year, used cars are holding their value and will continue to do so for some time. Tap or click here to check out which vehicles are retaining the most value.
Acer Aspire 3
If you want a larger screen, the Acer Aspire 3 is the perfect fit. With 15 inches of vivid, colorful digital real estate, it’s affordable and easy to use.
The Aspire 3 uses the latest Intel or AMD Processors for solid performance, offers up to 16GB of memory, and is a solid work, home, gaming or just all-around machine. Check out its specs below.
We may receive a commission when you buy through our links, but our reporting and recommendations are always independent and objective.
Security alert: Millions of computers vulnerable to devastating new hack
What if there were a way to hack into your computer and steal files without leaving a trace? Most viruses nowadays can be detected by antimalware programs, and phishing attacks are obvious once you realize you’ve been duped. To pull off a totally foolproof hack, you need to crack the system’s hardware, not software.
Bing's live coronavirus map tracks cases, deaths and recoveries - try it
We’re definitely living in strange times. The coronavirus pandemic has most everyone in a panic, leading to empty grocery store shelves and a shortage on toilet paper. Not only that, but some stores are even running out of bags to pack and carry out the products and groceries you actually do find to buy.
Millions of cable modems are vulnerable to this new hack
Chip flaws are nothing new, but the fallout from their compromise can be disastrous. That’s why tech manufacturers reach out to security researchers so eagerly and use their guidance to create better, stronger hardware and software with each new version.