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How to Secure Windows PC

For all we know, Microsoft no longer supports Windows 7 with security updates. This only implies that Windows 7 is now pretty much the same as Windows XP – an older Windows OS. With such news, this unsupported operating system will eventually build up unpatched security holes.

Now, obviously we highly suggest updating to Windows 10 Actually, you can still upgrade from Windows 7 to Windows 10 without any cost or hidden charges. However, if you are still rooting to Windows 7, then this article is for you.

To keep your windows PC secure in 2020, make sure to stay tuned because we will share some valuable information and tips for you on how to secure Windows PC in 2020.

Read on!

Remove and Update Installed Applications

Windows 7 was released back in 2009, so you have probably some programs that you don’t need installed, especially if these programs are out-dated.

For instance, old versions of browser plug-ins such as QuickTime, Adobe Reader, Adobe Flash, and Java are all easily vulnerable to attack. What you want to do is simply go through this list by going to Windows 7’s Control Panel and get rid of any programs that you don’t need anymore.

Make sure that all programs you use are always updated to the newest versions. For instance, if you still have the older version of WinRAR in your computer, you must manually update it or your computer can be an easy target for malicious treats.

Securing Your OS Settings

If you are utilizing Windows 7, you must absolutely visit Windows Update and make sure that you are up to date with all the updates that Microsoft for the operating system. We also highly suggest having Windows Update automatically check for possible updates.

For all we know, Microsoft might still release some crucial updates for Windows 7 even after Microsoft is not supporting it anymore similar to what Windows XP experience.

Again, make sure to be conscious for update news because Microsoft has actually released a crucial security update for Windows XP back in 2019.

For the most part, the tips for securing your Windows PC are actually the same as they were. Just make sure to leave crucial security functionalities such as Windows Firewall and Account Control turned on.

Don’t click on strange links in your spam mails because it will become easier to exploit Windows 7 in the near future. Also, don’t download and run strange files for your own security.

Using a Secure Browser

If you are still utilizing Windows 7, then you must absolutely avoid running Internet Explorer. In fact, the brand itself – Microsoft has advised moving on to a more modern and secure browser. (Source)

Mozilla Firefox still operates on Windows 7. Mozilla has not said yet how long the brand will support Firefox on Windows 7.

Microsoft’s latest Edge browser also supports Windows 7 and will last until July 15, 2021.

On the other hand, Google Chrome still operates on Windows 7 and will support it with security updates until July 2021.

With Windows 7 no longer receiving updates, your web browser and security software must do their best in protecting you from malicious threats online.

Use Supported Security Program

We suggest operating good antivirus software that still supports Windows 7. However, make sure that it is still actively receiving regular updates. You see, Microsoft says that the company no longer provide updates to its very own Microsoft Security Essentials tool.

However, Microsoft Security Essentials tool still available for download on the company’s website. We don’t really know but Microsoft probably plans to pull these download sooner or later. Nonetheless, if you still have Microsoft Security Essentials on your PC, it will still continue acquiring malware signature updates until 2023 comes.

Of course, some security software brands still offer antimalware that still supports Windows 7 such as BITDEFENDER Free. MALWAREBYTES is also a good option. In fact, MALWAREBYTES’ free version will allow you to perform manual scans to get rid of junk files and apps as well as malware from your system.

Disconnecting Your Windows PC

Regardless if you need Windows 7 for certain purposes, you don’t really need to utilize it for everything. If you require Windows 7 to interface with a certain hardware device or operate an application that doesn’t operate on Window 10, then if possible, we highly suggest keeping the Windows 7 computer off your network.

You see, network-based and malicious sites attacks out there won’t be a problem at all. For the most part, your Windows 7 system can’t be turned against and compromised other devices on your network. You don’t need to get anxious about security problems if the Windows 7 system is cut off from the potentially harmful internet.

Now, if you want to operate an older application that doesn’t operate on Windows 10, then it may also be worth levelling up to Windows 10 and operating that older software program in a Windows 7 virtual machine on your Windows 10 desktop. Remember that older software program will operate just fine on Windows 10, that’s why this should not be really required for various applications.

For all we know, many users out there will still stick with Windows 7, and connecting it to the internet is pretty obvious.

Paying for Security Updates

If you’re a business or a part of an organization, then we highly suggest to pay for extended security updates if you are still using Windows 7. Of course, this particular option is not available to home users out there.

In addition, the exact price range for the updates will most likely depend on whether you have Windows 7 Professional or Windows 7 Enterprise.

What to Remember

Out-dated software as a security risk

The risk of utilizing any unsupported applications especially unsupported OS is the following:

  • At a certain point, vulnerability will be found that won’t be fixed
  • Malware can easily exploit this particular weakness unsupported OS

Of course, you will then be relying on your general knowledge and some security tools in order to safeguard you. Depending on who you discuss to, this is either pretty much good as complete non-issue.

You should always keep in mind that continuing to use Windows 7 will gradually become more irritating than being worthy.

Diminishing support

Eventually, more and more program developers will stop supporting Windows 7.

Now, if that includes your security program, then you must find a replacement immediately.

Of course, our general suggestion – Microsoft Security Essentials will always be a good choice. This utility will keep operating for quite some time regardless of Windows 7 cut-off date. But remember that Microsoft won’t support this utility forever.

As long as the brand keeps supporting Windows 7, you can always use it. Of course, it’s actually the same rule for any program you are currently using. But then again, finding some alternative is still a smart decision.

The best move is to upgrade to the latest version of Windows, which is Windows 10.

Final Thoughts

Truth be told, there’s nothing special you must do in order to utilize Windows 7 beyond its support time frame. Just perform things like keeping your security software updated.

Of course, you can also use your common sense and general knowledge and you’re always secured. Of course, that includes not downloading certain things and not opening emails.

Keep in mind that Windows 7 will get more potentially harmful eventually as flaws are exploited. Nonetheless, the exact damage that Windows 7 is vulnerable to will most likely depend on what security flaws are discovered and how serious they are.

Of course, you can still keep using Windows 7. However, you might consider it once again especially if you have some personal and sensitive data and information stored in your computer.

3 Ways to Uninstall Programs on Mac

Are you perhaps still getting rid of programs by moving their icon to the Trash Bin? We hope that you don’t that anymore, though. However, if you’re still doing it, you must be aware that most of the time, the programs tend to keep all their service files on your Mac device.

This results to you unknowingly storing huge amount of unnecessary files on your Mac’s hard drive. But don’t worry, because in this article, we will share you 3 ways to uninstall programs on Mac correctly without their respective traces getting left behind. Follow this guide and learn how to uninstall programs on Mac in the most effective ways.

So, without further ado, let’s check them out!

Benefits of Uninstalling Mac Programs

Eliminating unnecessary or rarely-used applications aids you to acquire more free storage space and significantly improve the overall performance of your Mac device.

Of course, for all we know, a clean Mac is much better compared to a cluttered one.

A good example is installing certain trials of commercial apps. And let’s say you’re not yet ready to purchase it when the trial ends. There is a huge probability that those inactive Mac programs are not being patched and they are most likely set up to update.

This also means that your device may be left hanging vulnerable to being exploited.

What’s worse is that if those programs are set to auto start-up when your device boots up, then for sure they will just slow down your device’s start-time.

On a side note, adware as well as malware are pretty common when it comes to Mac devices. Many download websites out there except for the Mac App Store come with bundled 3rd-party programs or plugins to the freeware you downloaded and installed on your device.

But little did you know is that those programs and plugins begin injecting sneaky ads into your web browsers, which ultimately hurt your browsing experience.

That’s why getting rid of those 3rd-party services and programs can significantly aid you to make your device much faster and secure. Moreover, you’ll get more storage space to save the things dearest to you such as precious documents, videos, pictures, and so on.

How to Uninstall Programs on Mac

First Method: Uninstalling Certain Programs That Are Hard to Get Rid Of

If you have an issue getting rid of certain program using the above methods or any other normal means, then this method is perfect.

You see, certain programs many not be easily eliminated because of many reasons such as software errors or crashes. In such instances, you can perform a fast search on Google. Simply put in the search query the word “uninstaller for” and followed by the name of the program that you want to get rid of.

For instance, to eliminate Adobe Flash on Mac, Adobe actually provides a particular uninstaller for Mac users out there. On the flips side, not all software makers are like Oracle or Adobe, thus you may not be able to seek for the information for particular programs to get rid of.

Second Method: Using a Cleaner Software

If you have a list of programs that you want to uninstall and you have no clue on what they are, then this method is perfect for you. In addition to that, you don’t need to put lots of time because you can get rid of the apps in bulk.

In particular, we highly suggest using CLEANMYMAC. This one is software that is primarily made to clean up Mac drive. But now, it got an update known as Uninstaller. This update can be utilized to immediately scan your device for a list of programs.

What you want to do is choose the programs that you want to delete and simply press the Uninstall button and you’re go to go. Using CLEANMYMAC is a lot more convenient. It’s software that can also detect and get rid of bundled plugins.

Furthermore, CLEANMYMAC doesn’t only get rid of unnecessary applications you have but it also enables you to deep clean other unwanted items and files that you most likely don’t need.

Third Method: Manual Uninstallation

This method is best use if you only have little programs to eliminate, and they are downloaded from the official website of App Store.

Now, for programs directly downloaded from the Mac App Store, simply go to Launchpad by pinching the thumb and 3 fingers together on the Track-pad or by pressing the icon in the Dock. Search the app that you want to get rid of, hold down its respective icon until you notice it moves, then just press the “X” button to get rid of it.

As for programs that are downloaded from other websites, on your desktop, press Go, then Applications, then search the applications that you want to get rid of. Drag them to the Trash, or simply press Command, then Del. After that, open Trash and press Empty Trash, and you’re good to go.

After that, make sure to get rid of the remaining folders and files as well. There are applications that could have made some extra folders or files when you downloaded and installed them. Thus, it is ideal to clear them also. To execute the clearing process, click Go, then Library.

From this point, you’ll find several items related to the applications you just eliminated, just search for the related files and get rid of them. Keep in mind that if you want to get rid of programs that were installed using the Mac package installers, you might be prompted to put the user password before you can have the access to get rid of them.

Fourth Method: Getting Rid of Malware and Adware

This method is best utilized when you suspect that your Mac has adware or certain 3rd-party malicious programs.

MacBooster is our preferred clearing up for this method. We like it because it doesn’t only give users an Uninstaller feature for getting rid of unwanted programs, but it also comes with an antimalware feature that keeps your device protected from malware, adware, virus, spyware, and other malicious threats lurking out there.

Aside from that, it does an excellent task in system clearing up.

Clearing-Up Leftover files

Even though this is not true in some instances as we mentioned earlier, certain programs will leave behind some remnants of bits of data that are not necessary for the device. After all, you deleted the main program, so they have no use at all.

That’s why if you are that kind of a space-conscious individual and you might want to do some deep clearing, then the fastest way to do so is to utilize 3rd-party utility software that will automatically search for the unwanted remnants and get rid of them. And that app is the APPCLEANER.

This software is free and very easy to use. After downloading and installing it, just follow the following steps below and you’re good to go.

  • Open the cleaning software
  • Drag a certain program to the APPCLEANER window
  • The app will scan and search for all linked files
  • Make sure to “check” the folders and files that you want the software to get rid of
  • Press the Remove button
  • In some instances you will be required to login with an administrator account to give access

After following the steps above, the software will move the selected programs as well as their associated files to the Trash.

In addition to these, APPCLEANER also comes with a “SMARTDELETE” feature, which is placed in its Preferences menu. Such feature can save you from needing to checkmark each fodler and file before the software get rids of them.

Similar to the other methods we discussed above, you will be required to empty the Trash before the programs are actually eliminated from your hard drive.

Manual Way of Cleaning Up Remnant Files and Folders

Now, if you don’t like using 3rd-party options, then you can simply dig around and search for yourself. Of course, it’s not that of a daunting task. However, you must have at least some basic knowledge to do so.

For manually doing it, you can find these remnants of data in your Library folder. Follow the steps below and you’re good to go.

  • Open a Finder window
  • Press on the Go menu located in the top menu bar
  • Press down the Option button
  • You will find a new folder pop up tilted Library
  • Press on Library

After following these steps, you’ll easily find the programs that you want to get rid of manually.

Final Thoughts

With all of the methods and information we shared above, you should know now how to uninstall program on Mac in three awesome ways. Not to mention that we included a bonus method.

You see, as you try out various kinds of Mac programs, you will most likely realize that there is a certain good thing in simple Mac features and tools. These are actually normally crafted by motivated developers and don’t have any bloat-ware.

Such utilities don’t clutter your Library folder with associated folders and files, which ultimately, make them easy to get rid of.

How about you? Do you have uninstalling method of your own? If so, we will be glad if you share it in the comment section below!

How to Solve White Screen on Mac Problem

For the most part, Mac devices are reliable machines. However, in some instances, these great devices may encounter error and won’t load. When this trouble occurs, you will see a blank white screen. With such occurrence, your Mac device becomes as good as unusable.

Moreover, this normally happens if certain programs fail to update, dealing with incompatible drivers, and after updating your OS to a new version. All these reasons results in a blank white screen on Mac until certain steps are performed to bring your machine back to normal functionality.

So, with that said, in this article we will share to you how to solve white screen on Mac problem. Without further ado, let’s get right into it!

Fixing MacBook White Screen

Before even doing any kind of deep troubleshooting, resort first to simple fix such as checking your device’s peripherals.

What you want to do is disconnect first all kinds of hardware such as USB devices, scanners, printers, and so on. After disconnecting all peripherals, reboot your device. If your Mac boots up then most likely one of those hardware is the source why your Mac has white screen.

On the flip side, if this easy fix didn’t work out, and your device won’t just load, then here are some possible methods to fix your machine.

Verify or Repair Disks Using Disk Utility

This tool can fix certain disk issues, which of course include white screen on Mac devices. This is the reason why you must use it to your advantage if the above methods didn’t work out.

Here’s what you want to do:

  • Restart your device while pressing down Command and R buttons
  • Release these two keys if you see the Apple logo
  • Select Disk Utility and press Continue
  • Select the disk that you want to repair
  • Then click the First Aid button

Now, if the tool says that the disk is likely to fail, then there’s really nothing you can do but you must replace it. On the other hand, if it says that the disk has been fixed, then you’re good to go.

You can press the Show Details to acquire more information about the repair that occurred.

Resetting PRAM/NVRAM

These two are small amount of memory that your device utilize in order to store some kind of settings and for you to access them fast. These settings come with start-up disk selection, time zone, sound volume, and many more.

Now, if you are experiencing certain problems related to these settings, then for sure resetting PRAM/NVRAM can help you fix your device’s issue especially about white screen issue.

Follow the steps below to reset PRAM/NVRAM:

  • Shut down your device
  • Quickly press Command, Option, P, and R.
  • Press down these four keys until your ear the start-up sound
  • After hearing the sound, release the four keys

After your devices finishes with its start-up, you must go to System Preferences and adjust certain settings that were reset, which include display resolution, time zone, and so on.

Boot into Safe Mode

A safe boot feature in Mac OSX as well as MacOS was engineered for troubleshooting applications. It enables you to check the disk for all kinds of file system troubles. And if there’s a need, a repair would be your best choice. Starting your device in safe mode is the first thing you must perform if your device won’t just turn on.

In order to start safe mode, just follow the steps below:

  • Press the power button, and quickly press down the Shift key
  • After seeing the Apple logo, you must release the Shift key
  • After booting the safe mode, make sure to delete cache files first. You see, a cache is a location where information is stored temporarily in order to make things load much faster. However, these files tend to become out-dated and they start piling up on your device, which ultimately result in a white screen issues.
  • After getting rid of cache files, you must also get rid of recently installed programs. However, keep in mind that dragging them to the Trash Bin won’t really get rid of the programs because there will be some remnants of associated files on your device. However, you shouldn’t really worry because CLEANMYMAC X can help you with the issue. This particular software comes with an Uninstaller feature, which is engineered to uninstall programs completely without leaving any trace behind.
  • It is free, so just download it. Then after downloading, select Uninstaller and choose the program that you want to get rid of. Click Uninstall and the program will be eliminated fully.
  • After getting rid of all the unwanted and unnecessary files, just reboot your device without pressing any keys this time.

Reinstalling MacOS

If all the methods we shared to you seems failing and you are still seeing that white screen your device, then you may have to reinstall your OS. You shouldn’t get anxious because this process won’t really affect your user settings, applications, files, and so on.

What happens is that only a fresh version of the operating system will be installed on your device once again.

Here’s how you want to do it for macOS Catalina, macOS Mojave, macOS High Sierra, and macOS Sierra.

But before that, keep in mind that there are instances that the standard reinstall approaches won’t work because of the problems with the drive. In these particular instances, you must use the internet recovery in order to reinstall the OS.

  • Here’s how you want to reinstall macOS from the web:
  • Restart or turn on your device
  • Press down the Command, Option, and R buttons until you see the Apple logo
  • After that start-up is complete, you will see the Utilities window
  • Pick the Reinstall choice and select Continue
  • Simply follow the onscreen directions to complete the reinstallation

After you have brought your Mac device to life again, be sure to do some maintenance in order to preclude further problems in future. Also, software called CLEANMYMACX will also help you a lot in maintaining your Mac device.

Final Thoughts

After you have your device up and operating again, just install optimizer software to maintain it in good condition. In this case, CLEANERONE can aid preclude white screen problem from recurring by effectively highlighting large files, getting rid of duplicates as well as junk files.

Moreover, this software comes with great utilities such as Deep Uninstall and App Manger to aid you get rid of unnecessary programs completely.

All in all, with all the methods we shared to you above, you will be able to easily fix your white screen issues on your Mac device.

How about you? Do you have your own approach of fixing white screen? Please share your thoughts in the comment section below!