Frequently Asked Questions
We get lots of questions about web design, hosting & computers. I'll try to put as many questions as I can on this FAQ page. Please see if the type of question you have has already been asked and answered before you send it to me.
ACE is not responsible in anyway for the misuse or misunderstanding or not knowing how to do any of the tips listed on this website. Anything you do to your computer is at your own risk.
Tip:
If you're a small business with a website and an email link This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. on it. This is a good way for hackers to get into your business computer. Setup an email contact form. It will also stop junk mail.
Q. What is Ransomware and how does it get into your computer and is there a way to stop it?
A. It's been in the news lately but by no way is it new. It will go by many names and Ransomware is just one of them. It's a type of malware that prevents or limits users from accessing their system. In many cases, it can be removed.
In most cases, it comes in an email. When the email is opened and a link is present that is the link to open and install the malware. It may not take control of your computer right away but it will. The best way to stop from getting it is to know who you're getting an email from. I get them all the time some have no name just a link “open now” or “check this out”. Hit the delete key!
Q. How can I protect myself from being Cyber Hacked?
A. Most – about 90% of viruses and malware in business computers and systems are from employees opening emails. This goes for your home computer as well. Some are picked up on websites by clicking on links that may contain malware – short for malicious software.
Q. What the heck are “Phishing” emails?
A. Phishing is kind of like, fishing - where you drop in a line and hook to see what bites. But with Phishing an email is dropped into your inbox instead. If you open any attachments that came with this email you may be installing Mal-ware. This malware may hide in your computer and feed information about your computer back to the hacker. In others, it may allow the hacker to take over the control of your computer.
Q. Can I set up a server and host my website from my home to save money?
A. Yes, you can (here comes the but) but, it can be very expensive. There are more reasons not to host your own server at home than to host one. Just a couple of things to think about. You would most likely keep your server on all the time ($$). Your cable company or internet provider may limit your up/download usage or charge you more ($$). The list goes on. For many, more answers do a quick search on Google.com. I think once you see all the different reasons not to host your own server at home you'll have your answer.
But you can host your website from home by buying server space from a hosting company like ACEpc.com. We have server space that we manage for you or you can do it yourself. If you do it yourself and get stuck – no problem – we're right there to help you out.
Q. What is a firewall and do I need one?
A. Firewall programs help protect your computer from malware, viruses, and hackers. A firewall can come as hardware or software, the most common is software, and if you have Windows it comes with a firewall application. Do you need one? No, BUT without one, you stand a good chance of getting uninvited programs (malware, viruses, and even Hackers).
Q. I have Windows but I would like to add a different firewall program. Can you suggest any?
A. There are a lot of choices and some may depend on the use of your computer. If you are in an office on a network you should check with your network administrator before adding a firewall. But for home use, the one I'm familiar with is Zone Alarm . You can download the free copy and if you feel you need more protection they have one with more features you can buy.
Q. My computer is running slow and it takes a long time to pull up websites. Is there something I can do to make it faster?
A. There are a lot of simple things you can do. You can start by cleaning out your browser history and temporary internet files. Here is one way you can do that. (If you have Windows) (If you are using FireFox or any other it will be different)
1) Open Internet Explorer> Tools> Internet Options> General Tab, go to browser history and click the Delete button. Now pick Temporary Internet Files & Delete, then do the Cookies & Delete, Close & OK.
2) It may be time to De-frag your hard drive. To run De-frag go to Start> My Computer, and right-click on the image of the C: drive, Properties> Tools> then Pick the De-fragment Now. When running De-frag it can run for 1, 2, or even 3 hours depending on the size of your drive and how much is stored on it.
Q. I hear it's not good to keep your computer on all the time, why?
A. If you use a broadband connection (cable, DSL) your computer is connected to the Internet all the time. This can let hackers work all night long on taking over your computer. It's also unnecessary wear on your PC not to mention what it is doing to the environment.
Q. We have had emails asking about anti-virus programs and if I know of any free ones that work.
A. I may be a little paranoid about virus and Malware programs getting into my computer. So I have 2 or 3 programs running. I've read that some experts will tell you to only run one program. But for me if one is good then maybe 2 or 3 is better... you get the picture. I'll give you the links to some sites - you decide how many to run. Avast, Ad-Aware, SuperAntiSpyware, IObit Malware Fighter, and CCleaner ... for now.
Q. Do I really need a Domain name?
A. No, but if you ever want your website to be found on the internet it would be a good idea. The domain name makes it easy for people to remember the address of your website and find it. Without a domain name, you would just have an IP address (192.168.0.0). The IP address is what the internet would use most of the time and the domain name make it easier for people.
Veterans Day
Veterans Special
For veterans and their families, SAVE $25.00 off the first year of our 365 Pro-Pack.
You will receive:
website, hosting, domain name plus fast updates, and a great-looking website.
Just let me know you are a vet or you know one.
Contact me on my contact page.
My way of saying
THANK YOU!