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QoS: Prioritizing for Speed

Slow InternetHave you ever noticed that your WiFi internet connection is slower when your kids are playing Xbox or your spouse is watching Netflix?  Nearly everyone has experienced this phenomenon, but most people don’t realize that there is a very simple solution to this problem called QoS.

What is QoS?

QoS Stands for Quality of Service and, in relation to computer networks; is a method by which your router can throttle the connection speed of devices or applications on your network based on priority.  Prioritizing for speed means that you’ll never have to wait for a speedy connection to complete your online tasks.

How can I benefit from QoS?

Once QoS is configured, your router can effectively balance the distribution of bandwidth (speed) between devices connected to your network.  So if you want to download a file for work while your spouse is watching a movie on Netflix QoS can make sure neither of you gets left with insufficient bandwidth.

 How do I setup QoS?

lifehacker.com has a great tutorial on how to configure QoS.  Each router is different, and some do not have QoS capability.  If you find you’re having trouble with QoS, or any other router configuration, remember Install Heroes.  Call and we’ll come to the rescue!

Product Review: Logitech K400 Wireless Keyboard w/ Touchpad

Logitech K400

Logitech K400

Today we’re reviewing the K400 from Logitech.  We’ve been using this keyboard for about a month now and I can say without a doubt that it is the perfect keyboard for office presentations or just sitting on the couch.  It’s lightweight, simple to install and use, functions great and is even compatible with my large hands.

Logitech is a great company who have been producing top quality computer peripherals and related products for over 30 years.  The K400 wireless keyboard w/ touchpad is no exception.

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Xbox One: Microsoft to change the way you watch TV

Xbox One

Today Microsoft unveiled its next generation gaming console the Xbox One, and it’s plain to see that it’s not just about games any more from Microsoft.

One of the most exciting things I saw during the unveil ceremony was the Xbox One’s ability to serve as a video switching device.  What this means is that you will have the ability to run every activity via the Xbox One.  Whether you want to play a game, browse the web, watch a movie, listen to music or watch cable television you’ll be able to do it without switching inputs on your TV or surround sound receiver.  Switching between activities will be possible with the game controller, your mobile phone, or with hand gestures and voice controls via the new and improved Kinnect sensor.

Call of Duty Ghosts

With Xbox One, Microsoft is finally offering a web browsing experience with Internet Explorer, and with “Snap” you’ll be able to multitask like never before.  Snap allows you to browse the web while watching a movie, watch TV while you’re looking for the perfect match making game on Xbox Live or any other combination you can think of.  It’s like picture in picture on steroids.

Microsoft also gave us a peak at what the game landscape might look like at the time of release.  Launch titles mentioned today are Forza Motorsport 5, Quantum Break and Call of Duty: Ghosts.  Microsoft also claimed they would release 15 exclusive titles in the first year, including 8 brand new franchises.

343 Industries announced a groundbreaking partnership with Steven Spielberg to release a live action Halo TV series.  It was unclear if it would be only available on Xbox One, or if it would be carried by a premium network like HBO/Showtime, or if it would be on one of the major networks.

Xbox One

Xbox One Controller Kinnect for Xbox One Xbox One

It’s clear that Microsoft wants to change the way you watch TV by incorporating the web, games, movies and TV shows into a single device; the Xbox One.

System Specs:

  • 500GB Hard Drive
  • 8GB RAM Memory
  • USB 3.0
  • WiFi
  • 64 Bit CPU
  • Blu-Ray
  • Windows kernel

Other features announced today:

  • Video conferencing with Skype
  • Real time interactive fantasy league updates with ESPN
  • Xbox One Guide for all TV program listings
  • Voice controlled search and navigation
  • Ability to record gameplay with Game DVR
  • 300,000 servers to power Xbox Live for Xbox One

Worldwide Release Date:  “This Year”

Search Tricks: Find a Specific Word

SearchThe internet is literally a wide world of information, and sorting through it all can be difficult if not impossible.  This post will be the first in a mini-series on “Search Tricks”.  Before you know it you’ll be searching like a pro.

Email

Scenario:  You know you had an email message where you were talking about classic cars with your college buddy, but you can’t seem to find it anywhere and it’s driving you nuts.  Well don’t strap on the straight jacket just yet, there is hope.

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Computer Errors: What can you do?

Error Message

So you’re working on the computer and you’ve been interrupted by an error message and you’re not sure what to do.  Here we’ll discuss two things you can do when this happens.

First things first

In the event that you call a computer tech to help resolve your problem it will be beneficial for the tech to see exactly what your error message looked like.  This first tip will help with that conundrum.

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