CompTIA is best known for their vendor-neutral certifications in the IT industry. Instead of being certified specifically for Microsoft Windows or Cisco networks, you can pass an exam to show your proficiency in general IT topics such as desktop hardware and software troubleshooting, networking basics, and a variety of other topics including security, server administration, … [Read more...]
Troubleshooting time synchronization for domain-joined computers
Time on Windows is usually straight forward. For home computers (not joined to a domain), they simply get their time from an Internet source like time.windows.com and the main trick is just to adjust the time zone from Pacific Time to your own when you first get it. For domain-joined computers, they will pull the time from the domain controllers by default. If somebody changes … [Read more...]
Stop Safari from automatically unzipping downloads
Safari on Mac OS X has an annoying convenience feature when it comes to downloads. It will automatically open files that it believes to be safe. While I was trying to submit a malicious attachment to an antivirus vendor, I found this to be a concerning, insecure practice. Fortunately, there is a way to disable it. Launch Safari and from the menu navigate to: Safari, … [Read more...]
Verizon Wireless directs new customers toward scam line
If Verizon Wireless is noticing a slow-down in new customers, it might not be competitors T-Mobile, AT&T, or Sprint that merit the blame. Instead, Verizon is directing their potential customers to call the wrong number from the Contact Us page of their mobile site. Visiting www.verizonwireless.com/support/contact-us/ from a mobile browser lists the numbers to call for … [Read more...]
USB 3 Type-C docks arriving for MacBooks
When Apple announced the latest Apple MacBook, some were astonished by the new USB 3.1 Type-C port while others were flabbergasted by only having a single port. For those in the latter category, third parties are bringing USB Type-C docks to market to increase the number of ports and take advantage of the USB 3.1 capability. Satechi Type-c USB 3.0 3 in 1 Combo Hub Satechi's hub … [Read more...]