Unlimited cloud backup for $20 per month

Secure data by backing up to the cloud from $20 per month Backing up data over the internet to a secure server in another location has now become very affordable and an alternative to using External Hard Disk drives, NAS drives or a server and tape drives. The IT Guys (WA) in partnership with a reputable International company based out of Sydney, New South Wales, can now provide such services at a cost of only $20 per month per device (Unlimited Data, for a PC, Laptop or Server) or from $10 per TB (1,000 GB) per month for a NAS drive In addition to the monthly fee stated above, there is also an initial seed option for a one off fee of $350. If you have a lot of existing data that would takes days or weeks to backup over the Internet, we can supply an external HDD, backup your data onto it and courier it to Sydney to be loaded onto the backup server. Once the data is loaded, only the difference between the old and new data is backed up daily over the Internet. Although a very cheap option, this is a cloud backup solution as opposed to a cloud file solution. This means that lost files need to be recovered first before using and files cannot be accessed via a web browser. Although all data files are backed up and recovered using this solution, programs and applications are not and would have to be reinstalled. This can be quite time consuming. The Datto ALTO 3 delivers enterprise-grade Intelligent Business Continuity (IBC) functionality at a small business price and allows full server image restore including all data and programs. This is much quicker alternative that having to reinstall server software and applications See also: TRADITIONAL BACKUP VS. INTELLIGENT BUSINESS CONTINUITY Datto ALTO 3 – Intelligent Business Continuity Solution for Small Business The following provides a cost comparison of various cloud backup and file sharing solutions note 1 – Australian iCloud Prices https://support.apple.com/en-au/ht201238 – 2TB Max storage (Files, pictures, Music, Books etc) – Files can be accessed via browser note 2 – Australian Google Drive Prices – https://www.google.com/drive/pricing/ can expand to 10TB – Files can be accessed via browser note 3 – OneDrive/Sharepoint – https://products.office.com/en-au/onedrive-for-business/compare-onedrive-for-business-plans – Can expand to 25TB – Files can be accessed via browser note 4 – Dropbox Plus prices https://www.dropbox.com/buy/plus – Also unlimited Dropbox Business for $33/m x 5 users gives unlimited storage (Dropbox Business) – Files can be accessed via browser note 5 – IT Guys WA A4 Prices incl GST on a 12 month contract, managed by the IT Guys. (Files only) – Files cannot be accessed via a browser and need to restored. Does not copy programs, only data note 6 – IT Guys WA A$ Prices incl GST 2TB for $150 on a 12 month contract, manager by the IT Guys Backs Up Files and Disk image for Servers. ) – Files can be accessed via browser note 7 – USD Prices Elephant Drive Pricing Plans unlimited plans available on application (Files only) ) – Files can be accessed via browser note 8 – Azure backup prices – real-time replication of your virtual machines (VM) to a backup vault in Azure See also Preventative Maintenance & Disaster Recovery :jk: Tags: avg cloudcare, azure, cloud backup, datto alto, elephant drive, nas readvault

How to restore files from Microsoft Backup

How to restore files from Microsoft Backup to a PC If you used Microsoft Backup to backup data on your computer, restoring one, all or a few files to the same or a new computer is quite straightforward and easy. Goto Start -> Control Panel -> Systems and Security -> Backup and Restore and hit the “Restore Files” button. Search or select a file or folder be clicking on one of these buttons. Try “Browse For Folders” first. Select one of the Backup folders (there may be many if many daily backups) and click “Add Folder” Select the backup you would like to search and click the “Next” button Select where you would like the restored files to be located and click the “Restore” button If an existing file exists and is about to get over-written select the appropriate action from “Copy and Replace” “Don’t Copy” or if your unsure “Copy but keep both files” Repeat this for all files to be restored. :jk: Tags: backup, files, microsoft, restore

How to use Microsoft’s default program to backup to an external device or hard drive

Using Microsoft Windows to Backup to an External Hard Drive Why reinvent the wheel or waste money on 3rd party backup software when Microsofts default backup program works well to an external hard drive. You can even backup the files stored on Google Drive, protecting your data twice, to be sure, to be sure. Windows 10 Backup Select the Start​  button, select Settings  > Update & security  > Backup  > Add a drive, and then choose an external drive or network location for your backups. All set. Every hour, we’ll back up everything in your user folder (C:\Users\username). To change which files get backed up or how often backups happen, go to More options. Windows 7 and earlier Backup Goto start-> Control Panel and select “Backup Your Computer” under “System and Security”     Just by plugging in your backup device you may get prompted to “use this drive for backup” but if you do not, use the backup options from control panel as detailed above Select the backup drive you want to backup TO (usually E: F: or higher) ….NOT C: Allow Microsoft to choose what to backup if you only have a small hard drive (40/80/160 MB) and a big external drive such 1TB or 2TB. Otherwise select “Let Me Choose“.   Click on “Setup Backup” to choose the files you wish to backup if you are being selective. You need to select “Document Library” , “Pictures Library” and “Music Library” as a minimum plus “Video Library” if you have sufficient disk space on your backup drive. If you wish to backup your google drive data, you can locate it under C: -> users -> Your Name -> Google Drive . make sure just the “Google drive” checkbox is selected so as not to backup all those other unnecessary files. Now you have your files selected, you now need to tell backup when to work automatically. Microsoft backup default to every Sunday night at 7pm. Change this to “Daily” and a time when you know the computer will be switched on.   You should now see your backup in progress click on “View Details” to see the files being copied or press the “Backup Now” button to start the backup at anytime Related Posts and Articles Top 6 checks to make sure your computer is protected from Viruses and Malware How to use Microsoft’s default program to backup to an external device or hard drive Beware of scam emails about downloading Windows 10 Opening an email from Australia Post has had 3 clients in 3 days lose ALL their data to the CRYPTOLOCKER virus How to avoid Computer Viruses – Stop using Bing https://www.itguyswa.com.au/your-apple-mac-has-a-virus-this-is-not-a-joke/ Prevent viruses by not allowing others to use your computer account https://www.itguyswa.com.au/windows-8-users-open-to-adobe-reader-viruses/ How can I tell if my computer has a virus? https://www.itguyswa.com.au/how-to-remove-the-dosearches-search-virus/ How to remove the “Snap-Do” search virus Australian Federal Police virus scam Antivirus Security Pro is a SCAM – Here is how to remove it. How to remove 99% of computer viruses, malware and adware for FREE :jk: Tags: antivirus, backup, bing, cryptolocker, data, dosearches, google drive, mac, malware, microsoft, Microsoft Windows, restore, windows, windows 10, windows 7, windows 7 backup, windows backup

When did you last backup your data?

Top 5 ways to backup and restore your data So when did you last backup your data? For many of you the answer will be NEVER, but its never too late to start. You don’t have to backup your entire computer but it is wise to backup “My Documents“, “My Pictures“, “My Music” etc on a regular basis. Whether you’re running Windows 10, 7,8 XP or Vista the procedure is quite easy and on a Mac or Apple device it’s even easier. What can you backup your data to? We offer you 5 choices. We actively encourage backing up your data locally (options 1, 2, 3 or 4) AND offsite (option 5). Your option choice will be determined by how much data you want to backup and whether you want to open the PC case and play with the computers internals. USB Flash or Thumb drives (option 1) For those with small amount of data, these little data hoarders are the favourites of spies and bookeepers the world over. They are available in sizes from 8Gb to 128GB and priced between $6 and $140 Their solid state memory construction with no moving parts makes them very robust and can easily be attached to a keyring or kept in a purse or a pocket. PROS: Portable, Lightweight, ease to use, ideal for backing up a small 40/80GB Hard drive on an old PC CONS: Easy to lose and misplace, maximum capacity USB External Hard Drive (option 2) For those with lots of data who want something portable then external Hard Drives will probably be for you. Simply plugin to a spare USB port and within a few seconds you have access to all that extra storage. USB External Hard Drives have tumbled in price in recent years with capacity doubling at the same time, so these make an ideal solution for making full backups of your data. USB External Hard Drives are available in sizes from 500Gb to 12TB and priced between $100 and $2,000 PROS: Portable, high storage capacity, easy of use CONS: Not immune to fire, theft, damage or failure. Easy to misplace or lose Network Attached Storage (NAS) (option 3) What is a NAS drive and why do I need one?   Solid State Drives (option 4) For those who don’t mind opening up the PC case and getting their hands dirty dusty Not really a backup drive but more of a replacement or secondary drive. These are solid memory Hard Disk Drives with no working parts for a laptop or PC. Solid Sate Drives (SSD’s) are available in sizes from 64GB to 256GB and priced between $200 and $750 PROS: Give PC’s much more speed, especially noticeable on games and programs using a lot of graphics. CONS: Need to be installed inside the PC or laptop case. Some degree of computer hardware knowledge is required. Small capacity. Internet “Cloud” storage (option 5) Unlimited cloud backup for $20 per month See Also Details on how to use Apples Time Machine can be found here. How to Backup an iMac How to Backup a MacBook How to Backup a Macbook Pro How to Backup a Macbook Air How to Backup a Mac Mini :jk: Tags: backup, data, external hard drives, flash drives, network drives, solid state drives

Your Apple devices need an urgent updates – Sept 2021

Your Apple devices needs urgent updates – Sept 2021 It may have escaped your notice (and Apple don’t like to widely advertise the fact) but on 13th September 2021 Apple product updates were released to plug two major security flaws identified as early as February this year. One, is a “zero-click, zero-day” vulnerability which has been actively exploited by Pegasus, a spyware app developed by the Israeli company NSO Group, which has been known to target activists, journalists, and prominent people around the world. From Apple: “Two vulnerabilities (CVE-2021-30858 and CVE-2021-30860) have been identified in certain Apple products which could allow an actor to execute arbitrary code, enabling the installation of malware or other actions on a vulnerable Apple device or computer” Apple has released the following security advisories which contain information on the security updates and associated vulnerabilities: iOS 14.8 and iPadOS 14.8 macOS Big Sur 11.6 macOS Catalina Safari 14.1.2 watchOS 7.6.2 Install the updates yourself or let us help you for just $78 The following article contains links and guides on how to backup your data, check if an update is required and how to run and install any required updates. However, if you need some help and live in Perth, Western Australia, let us do the work for you by making a 30 minute in-house booking at our office by completing the form here … or simply drop off and leave your device(s) with us for 1-2 business days. Either service costs $78 incl GST. Bring a backup drive with you or we can supply one for an additional $99 for MacBook, iMac, Mac Mini. iPhone, iPad and iWatch are backed up to iCloud instead. Get the latest software updates from Apple Keeping your software up to date is one of the most important things you can do to maintain your Apple product’s security. At September 13th 2021… The latest version of iOS and iPadOS is 14.8. Learn how to update the software on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch. The latest version of macOS is 11.6. Learn how to update the software on your Mac and how to allow important background updates. The latest version of tvOS is 14.7. Learn how to update the software on your Apple TV. The latest version of watchOS is 7.6.2. Learn how to update the software on your Apple Watch. For older Apple devices running macOS High Sierra or earlier, updates are not available but we suggest downloading and using Google Chrome web browser instead of the native Safari. Chrome still receives regular updates that protect users against web-based viruses and allow you to still use secure sites such as online-banking. Before you update Backup your device using Time Machine or iCloud How to backup your device BEFORE running updates How to backup an iPhone How to Backup an iPad How to Backup a MacBook How to Backup a Macbook Pro How to Backup a Macbook Air How to Backup a Mac Mini How to Backup an iMac How to install the latest updates on iPhone, iPad, iMac, MacBook and Mac Mini. How to Check iPhone or iPad for iOS updates How to check Mac, iMac, Mini or MacBook for MacOS Updates :jk: Tags: apple update, AppleTV, cloud, CVE-2021-30858, CVE-2021-30860, google chrome, How to Backup a Mac Mini, How to Backup a MacBook, How to Backup a Macbook Air, How to Backup a Macbook Pro, How to Backup an iMac, How to Backup an iPad, How to backup an iPhone, How to Check iPhone or iPad for iOS updates, How to check Mac, iMac, iOS, iPad, ipados, iphone, iPod touch, Israeli, iWatch, Mac Mini, macbook, Macbook air, macOS, MacOS (High-Sierra), macOS Big Sur, macOS Catalina, macOS Mojave, Mini or MacBook for MacOS Updates, NSO Group, Pegasus, Safari, spyware app, tvOS, watchOS, zero-click, zero-day

How to Check iPhone or iPad for iOS updates

How to check your iPhone or iPad has the latest iOS (Operating System) updates installed, and if not, how to install them. Backup before Updating It is always wise to backup your iPhone or iPad before attempting any updates. How to Backup an iPhone How to Backup an iPad Updating iPhone or iPad The process for updating iOS is almost identical for the iPhone or the iPad Click on the “Settings” Icon, then “General” then “Software Update“ Unless you are connected to a Wi Fi network or have mobile broadband you may get the following error Switch WI FI on (and plug in the power lead to make sure your device does not run out of battery) If you see a message saying their is an available update and there is a “Download” or “Download and Install” option   If you see an image such as the following, your iPhone or iPad is up-to-date and no further action is required. 4. Once connected to the Internet, the iOS software update can commence. 5. Tap “Download” or “Download and Install“. If a message asks you to temporarily remove apps because iOS needs more space for the update, tap Continue or Cancel. Later, iOS will reinstall apps that it removed. If you tap Cancel, learn what to do next. 6. To update now, tap “Install“. Or you may have the option to tap Later and choose Install Tonight or Remind Me Later. If you tap Install Tonight, just plug your iOS device into power before you go to sleep. Your device will update automatically overnight. If asked, enter your passcode. If you don’t know your passcode, learn what to do. Alternatively – Install iOS updates using iTunes and the charger cable Once iTunes has been loaded connect your devices together with a USB  cable and iTunes should immediately start Your iPhone or iPad comes with a cord which you will use daily to recharge your iPhone or iPad and will look something like this   Connecting the cable between your iPhone or iPad, to a Mac Computer or a Windows PC or Laptop If iTunes does not start automatically, manually start it from the menu. If detected your device should appear automatically in the iTunes interface. iTunes will detect the name and capacity of your devices, the current operating system (iOS) and the update status. Click on “Check for Update“     And if you cannot figure it out for yourself, Call the IT Guys and use our iPhone setup service or our iPad setup Service :jk: Tags: icloud, iMac, iOS, ios updates, iPad, ipad updates, iphone, iphone updates, lightening cable, macbook

How to check Mac, iMac, Mini or MacBook for MacOS Updates

It is vitally important to keep Apple’s Mac, iMac and Macbook Operating System (MacOS) and Apps updated to avoid security and compatibility issues with Apple Devices and Apple computers. Updating the MacOS operating system fixes many common issues on iMac’s, Macbooks and Mac mini’s Backup before Updating Updates can corrupt your data so it is vital you backup your data before attempting any upgrade. See the following guides. How to backup an iMac How to backup a MacBook Air or MacBook Pro How to backup a Mac Mini How to check for MacOS/OSx updates – using “About This Mac” or “System Preferences” About This Mac System Preferences 1. About This Mac The easiest one by far is by clicking on the black Apple icon in the top left of any Mac and then selecting “About This Mac” This will take you to the “App Store” where available updates (if any) will be shown to you. If updates are available, you should see an image similar to the following 2. System Preferences Or by going through “System Preferences” And selecting “App Store” App Store – Checks for available Updates If there are NO updates available, you will be greeted my a similar message as below: If updates ARE AVAILABLE, you will encounter a message like the following, which may give you the choice of installing a major update such as Big Sur, Catalina, Mojave or High Sierra Or you may be offered updates to individual programs such as Safari or Mail or in this case “the Unarchiver” It is very important to keep Apple’s Operating System (OSx) and Apps updated to avoid security and compatibilities with iPhones and iPads.   If you need assistance in checking the above and performing the updates, give us a call on :phone: and make an appointment to come and see us. Prices for our Mac OS health-check and backup service for Apple devices starts at :30m: for a 30 minute session.   :jk:   Tags: about this mac, apple, Apple App Store, backup, catalina, el capitan, help, high sierra, iMac, iPad, iphone, mac, mac os, mac virus, macbook, Macbook Pro, macintosh, macOS, mojave, OSx, OSx Update, osx updates, Safari, self help, software update, system preferences

How to check if iPhone/iPad is backing up to iCloud

iPhone and iPads automatically backup your essential data to your iCloud account in case of an emergency. Is your iPhone or iPad doing so? No matter what iPhone or iPad you have, when you create a iCloud or iTunes account, Apple automatically provide you with 5GB of FREE iCloud Drive storage. The allowance is for backing up the iPhone/iPad essential data to allow for setting up or recovering a device, such as contacts, SMS, iMessages, Ringtones and where space allows, your Photos and Videos. However, if you exceed your iCloud allowance, your iPhone/iPad ceases to backup that data until you purchase a larger allowance or free up some space. If you see any of the following messages, you could be in big trouble if you lose or damage your iPhone/iPad How to check when your iPhone/iPad was last backed up On an iPhone or iPad Settings -> iCloud > Backup or Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup   If you don’t have a recent backup, plug your phone into power, make sure your connect to Wi-Fi and click on “Back Up Now” Hopefully the backup will start and you have enough available iCloud storage to complete the operation. If not you have a number of options. Purchase more iCloud Storage Free up space on your iPhone/iPad Free up Cloud Storage Space Backup to a Computer using a lightening cable (see below) If none of these options are suitable, The IT Guys (WA) can free up space and have your data transferred to an External Hard Disk Drive I have plenty of iCloud space available, why is my iPhone/iPad still not backing up to iCloud? You are not logged into an iCloud account (you may have changed or lost your password) Your iPhone/iPad does not regularly connect to a home or work Wi-Fi network when on charge. iCloud account is damaged or corrupt The operating system (iOS) on iPhone or iPad needs updating. If you have issues such as the above, bring your iPhone/iPad to The IT Guys (WA) and we can sort out the issues for you. Other Resources Backing up iPhone or iPad using iCloud How to backup an iPad How to backup an iPhone Backing up iPhone or iPad using iTunes on a Mac or a PC   :jk:   Tags: backup ipad, cloud storage, icloud, icloud allowance, icloud backup, iCloud Drive, icloud storage, icloud storage is full, icloud storge

Why is my Mac Slow all of a Sudden?

12 Reasons why your Mac or MacBook is so slow all of a sudden? Without putting the Slow Mac or Macbook through an Apple Diagnostics test, it is impossible to say if you are experiencing one or more than one issue. Your slow mac may have suddenly started or it may have become slower over time. When programs become unresponsive and you see the spinning-wheel-of-death too often, … something is amiss and needs rectifying. Only by running a full diagnostic can you accurately identify the problem. If you live in Perth, Western Australia, the IT Guys WA can do this for you but we cannot do anything or quote prices until we have ‘Tested & Assessed’ your device in our workshop. You will need to bring or deliver your device to our workshop at :address: between :opening-hours: No appointment is necessary. A Test & Assess fee of :assess-fee: is required to be paid on drop-off and is non-refundable. The following is a list of 12 potential problems we will test for plus some suggested fixes. HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or SSD (Solid-State-Drive) is full or nearly full. HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or SSD (Solid-State-Drive) is old/failing and needs replacing HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or SSD (Solid-State-Drive) SATA Cable failing GPU (Video Card) Failing OS (Operating System) is out-of-date and in need of updating to a later version. Too many programs open for available RAM Virus or Malware needs removing Failed or Pending Mac OS (Operating System) update Hanging programs Battery is failing and needs replacing (MacBooks Only) Too many programs trying to open upon startup Too many items on your desktop.   1. Slow Mac? – HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or SSD (Solid-State-Drive) is full or nearly full. When the HDD or SSD drive on your computer becomes full or almost full, the OS cannot use the disk space for “caching” and it causes programs to become slow and sometimes unresponsive. If the HDD or SSD become critically low on storage you may see a warning, freeing up as much space as possible may improve performance if this is the only issue. See also The Mac “Startup Disk Almost Full” Message and How to Fix It 2. Slow Mac? – HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or SSD (Solid-State-Drive) is old/failing and needs replacing If your Mac is slow to restart after a full power down or update and/or if you can hear an audible clicking sound and your computer is over four years old, the chances are that you have a failed or failing Hard Disk or SSD. Full diagnostics of the drive will be required by a service technician to determine if this is the case. Apple Mac Repair Required? If your computer is a pre-2012 model then it is most likely to have a conventional HDD, which is now > 5 years old and has a 50% chance of failing as well as slowing down due to age and an accumulation of old programs, utilities and old operating systems. How old is my Mac? You have two choices, replace the drive with another conventional HDD or upgrade to an SSD. Upgrading or adding an SSD (Solid-State-Drive) Solid State Drives (SSDs) have no working parts so you can read and write data to and from them very quickly. Think of them as a very large USB Thumb drive or Flash Drive. They use the same technology. SSD‘s range in size from 250 GB to 4000 GB (4 TB). Most commonly pre-installed HDD are 500 GB to 1 TB in size. Current prices for SSD’s range from $220 installed. iMac Upgrades – Apple iMac Upgrades Macbook Air Upgrades – Apple Macintosh Upgrades Macbook Upgrades – Apple Macbook and Macbook Pro Upgrades See… How old is my Mac? Simply replacing the old drive with a newer version of the same drive, will increase performance and data security but you are not going to get the same speed boost as upgrading to an SSD. If your Mac is less than 5 years old but slower than usual, try a disk repair first. See… How to run a disk repair on a Mac 3. Slow Mac? – HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or SSD (Solid-State-Drive) SATA Cable failing See… Macbook Slow? Could be the HDD or the SATA Cable? 4. Slow Mac? – GPU (Video Card) Failing See… Mac video problems are bad news for iMacs and Macbooks and could signal it’s end-of-life 5. Slow Mac? – OS (Operating System) is out-of-date and in need of updating to a later version. Many problems are fixed by Apple releasing periodic OS (Operating System) updates. Updating to the latest operating system will fix many issues and provide new features and compatibility with other devices. However, before making any updates : a) Make a full Time Machine Backup of your computer See… How to backup a Mac, b) Make sure the new OS is compatible with your existing programs such as Adobe PS (if you use it) by reading the following guide. See… Things you should check before updating the OS on a Mac See… Are you Apple devices up-to-date?   6. Slow Mac? – Too many programs open for available RAM Earlier Mac’s were shipped with 2GB RAM or less. The later Mac OS such as Sierra and High Sierra and Mojave will only operate with a minimum 4GB of RAM. Latest MacOS needs 8GB RAM. Adding extra RAM also increase the speed of certain memory hungry programs that do a lot of processing such as video and image editing and rendering programs including Auto CAD, iMovie and Final Cut Pro but generally will not be noticeable if you already have 8GB or 16GB of RAM Extra RAM may help if you have multiple programs running at the same time, closing all but the essential ones may increase performance Click on “Apple Symbol” > “Force Quit” and close any unnecessary programs and see if this resolves the issue. 7. Slow Mac? – Virus or Malware (Mackeeper) or (CleanMyMac) needs removing Yes, Mac’s do get viruses that can […]

What Kind Of Person Prefers An iPhone?

If you are an Apple iPhone or iPad user then by some accounts* you are:  More affluent, better educated, a professional or business person  less technically savvy than owners of Android or Windows phones. * What Kind Of Person Prefers An iPhone? by Forbes According to our research over 70% of iPhone/iPad users have NEVER or RARELY backup their data or even know how to do so. iPhones and iPads DO NOT back themselves up automatically, they are not that clever, and they need regular maintenance. To find out how to backup your data and contacts, click on the following links Backing up iPhone and iPad using iCloud Backing up iPhone and iPad using a computer and iTunes or if you cannot figure it out for yourself, Call the IT Guys and use our iPhone setup service or our iPad setup Service From our recent Newsletter…. click here for full details :jk: Tags: android, backup, iPad, iphone

macOS Monterey (10.16)

macOS 10.16 Monterey launched on October 25, 2021. Should I install yet? The general rule is to give a new release at least a month before using. This gives Apple some time to fix any possible bugs. More importantly, why do you need to upgrade (unless you are running Mojave or earlier) Be careful, make a full time-machine backup and make sure your computer is compatible, has enough free disk space and is NOT running a conventional HDD (Hard-disk-drive) …as an update such as this will likely kill the HDD. Where to find information about the model, macOS and technical specification of a Mac Check compatibility macOS Monterey is compatible with the following computers. If your Mac isn’t compatible, you may be able to install an old version of macOS instead. MacBook introduced in 2016 or later MacBook Air introduced in 2015 or later MacBook Pro introduced in 2015 or later Mac mini introduced in 2014 or later iMac introduced in late 2015 or later iMac Pro introduced in 2017 or later Mac Pro introduced in 2013 or later View the complete list of compatible computers. If you’re upgrading from macOS Sierra or later, your Mac will need 26GB of available storage to upgrade. If you’re upgrading from an earlier release, your Mac will need up to 44GB of available storage. Download macOS Monterey If you’re using macOS Mojave or later, you can get macOS Monterey via Software Update: Choose Apple menu > System Preferences, then click Software Update. Or use this link to open the macOS Monterey page on the App Store: Get macOS Monterey. Then click the Get button or iCloud download icon. If you DO NOT want to upgrade to Monterey but only wish to update the current macOS …click on “More Info” instead of “Upgrade Now” :jk: Tags: 10.16, hdd, icloud, iMac, iMac introduced in late 2015, iMac Pro, iMac Pro introduced in 2017, Mac Mini, Mac mini introduced in 2014, Mac Pro, Mac Pro introduced in 2013, macbook, Macbook air, MacBook Air introduced in 2015, MacBook introduced in 2016, Macbook Pro, MacBook Pro introduced in 2015, macmini, macOS Mojave, macos monterey, MacOS Sierra, mojave, monterey

Microsoft forcing Mac users to upgrade macOS devices

In the near future Microsoft will force Mac users to upgrade their macOS devices every 3 or 4 years … … if you want to run a fully supported Microsoft Office version on a macOS device. If you use Microsoft Office on a Mac and your Mac is not running macOS Catalina or macOS Big Sur (or later) and is not listed below, it is probably time to buy a new Mac, an iPad Pro or a Windows computer as Microsoft Office support, updates and compatibility will cease once macOS Monterey is released before the end of 2021. MacBook Pro (13-inch, Mid 2012 or later) MacBook Pro (15-inch, Mid 2012 or later) MacBook Air (13-inch, Mid 2012 or later) MacBook Air (11-inch, Mid 2012 or later) MacBook (Retina, 12-inch, Early 2015 or later) iMac Pro (2017 or later) iMac (27-inch, Late 2012 or later) iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2012 or later) Mac mini (Late 2012 or later) Mac Pro (Late 2013 or later) (source: https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT210222) and the reason is ……….. MICROSOFT Upgrade macOS to continue receiving Microsoft 365 and Office for Mac updates Microsoft have stated “To provide you with the best experience, Microsoft 365 for Mac and Office 2021 for Mac supports the three most recent versions of Apple’s macOS” And with the imminent release of macOS Monterey (10.16) scheduled for November/December 2021 ….. only macOS (10.14) Catalina and macOS (10.15) Big Sur will also be supported, Mojave (macOS 10.13) will not be supported once Monterey is released. Users of older (pre-2012) Macs running macOS 10.12 High Sierra or earlier have not been receiving updates since November 10, 2020 and may already have noticed Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook and OneNote. “issues” that cannot be resolved in the usual manner by updating office and the macOS. How to check your Mac’s model and macOS version Checking Microsoft Office for updates Attempt to update Office, from any Office application (Word, Excel, Outlook etc) by doing the following on the top menu bar, click on “Help” then “Check For Updates” Then select “Check for Updates” button if you have an unsupported macOS an attempted update will throw the following errors… With the error “MacOS Upgrade Required” Checking macOS Updates Apple Symbol > About This Mac > Software Update Click on the “Software Update” button If updates are available, you will be prompted to update the macOS, if up-to-date, you see a message such as this, confirming the macOS installed If the specification of your Mac states it is upgradeable but an upgrade it is not offered as an option, you may need to download the required update and install from the download (see How to get old versions of macOS) WARNING – never attempt an OS upgrade before firstly ensuring you have a complete time-machine backup as there is a chance you may corrupt or brick the computers macOS or even cause the disk-drive to fail. Will Office continue to work without the updates? Microsoft stated “If you continue with an older version of macOS, your Office apps will continue to work but you will no longer receive any updates including security updates” New installs of Office 365 for Mac will also require macOS 10.15 Catalina or newer starting next month. The IT Guys (WA) as Apple Authorised Resellers can purchase new Apple computers on your behalf if you need to purchase one or more devices but for individual purchases we strongly recommend purchasing directly from the Apple website :jk: Tags: 10.12, 10.13, 10.15. 10.14, 10.16, apple, big sur, catalina, Excel, high sierra, MacOS Upgrade Required, microsoft, microsoft Office, mojave, monterey, office 2019, office 2021, office 365, OneNote, outlook, software update, Word

Backing up iPhone or iPad using iCloud

If you have an iPhone, iPad or iMac, setting up iCloud is the easiest way to backup your device automatically over WiFi and every user gets a FREE 5GB of data storage with each account. According to our research over 70% of iPhone/iPad users have NEVER or RARELY backup their data or even know how to do so. If you need more than 5GB of data, you can purchase more from Apple, See this link to determine prices per country In Australia in September 2021, these are the monthly charges for additional iCloud storage (AUD), 50 GB: $1.49/m, 200 GB: $4.49/m, 2 TB: $14.99/m Make sure you have the latest OS version and that there are no pending updates. How to Check iPhone or iPad for iOS updates 2. Now Sign into iCloud Creating an iCloud account or recovering a lost iCloud Password Ensure that “iCloud Backup” is switched “On”   Hit the “Backup Now” button to start the process. Now, whenever you are connected to WI-FI and you have the charger lead in, an automatic iCloud backup will commence. If you do not have WIFI, you will have to choose the other option Backing up iPhone or iPad using iTunes on a Mac or a PC Backing up iPhone or iPad using iTunes on a Mac or a PC :jk: Tags: backing up to icloud for the first time, backing up to icloud on ipad, backing up to icloud on iphone, backing up to icloud taking forever, backup, backup using icloud, icloud, iPad, iphone

Getting a new phone? Read this first

Getting a New Phone? Google/Microsoft Authenticator? Read this first. Before you setup your shiny new smartphone and give away/scrap the old one, there is something you need to consider. Two things in fact. 2FA, 2-Factor-Authentication especially if you use Google Authenticator or Microsoft Authenticator (who call it MFA or Multi-Factor-Authentication) to securely login to your accounts. Google Authenticator and Microsoft Authenticator apps do not automatically transfer the sites that you use to securely login to banking, mail and other secure sites. There is a procedure to go through and it is not that straight forward and they all involve backing up and recovering the information BEFORE turning off your old phone. Google Authenticator For Android Phones https://support.google.com/accounts/answer/1066447?hl=en For iPhones https://appleinsider.com/articles/19/09/20/how-to-move-google-authenticator-to-your-new-iphone   Microsoft Authenticator https://docs.microsoft.com/en-au/azure/active-directory/user-help/user-help-auth-app-backup-recovery   If you cannot work it out yourself and you need some guidance, contact us a helpdesk@itguyswa.com.au and make an appoitment to come in with both your new and old phone and we can walk you through it. A 30 minute sessions costs only :30m: :jk: Tags: 2-Factor, 2-Factor-Authentication, 2FA, android, Google Authenticator, iphone, MFA, Microsoft Authenticator, multi factor authentication

How to fix a computer that will not start, freezes or is very slow

Common computer problems and possible self-fixes for a computer that will not start, hangs, freezes or is very slow Power Issues. If your computer or device shows no sign of power, cannot be started by holding down the power button, shows no lights and no noise such as a fan or ticking hard-disk. Then the issue it is most likely a power issue. Try the following. Check that the plug is in the wall and the power switch is on If connected via a power-board or multi-adapter, try replacing or switching to a known good one and try again Pull the power-cord out of the back of the computer or laptop for at least 30 seconds and reinsert it firmly. if none of the above actions resolves the issue, then the power supply or power-pack will need replacing and it will need to be sent to our workshop for for further assessment and testing Screen Monitor, Keyboard or Mouse issue Flickering or distorted screens or monitors usually indicate a hardware issue and most of these are not repairable but can be replaceable. Replacement Monitors, Keyboards and Mice can be purchased at most electrical stores Keyboards, damaged or cracked screens and trackpads on Laptop or Notebook computers, need to be replaced by a technician and need to be brought to the workshop for further assessment and testing Other Issues How old is your computer? Is your computer a Microsoft Windows Computer or Laptop running Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista, XP? If so CLICK HERE Is your computer an APPLE computer or laptop such as an iMac, MacBook, MacBook Air or Mac Mini? if so CLICK HERE Is your computer a tablet, chrome-book, kindle, iPad or a smart-phone? if so CLICK HERE Microsoft Windows Computers Issues What Windows Operating System Do I have? Slow Windows Computer? Failed Updates are the most likely cause How often should I replace my Hard Disk Drive (HDD)? Apple Computer Issues Why is my Mac Slow all of a Sudden? MacBook Repairs – Apple MacBook Repairs How to fix or repair a Mac Hard Drive (HDD) How often should I replace my Hard Disk Drive (HDD)? How to Fix Apple Spinning Wheel of Death (SWOD) Tablets, Chrome-book, Kindle, iPad or a smart-phone?   Generally, these items are not repairable (if broken) but the operating system can often be re-installed or reset. Doing so may get the device working again, but all data is likely to be lost unless t has a backup. How old is my Windows PC? :jk:       Tags: 2013, 2016, backup, chrome, computer problems, dell, hard-disk-drive, hdd, iMac, iPad, iphone, laptop, mac, Mac Mini, macbook, Macbook air, microsoft, Microsoft Windows, mouse, Power Issues, tablets, Testing, Vista, windows, windows 10, XP