Tech Questions & Answers Archives - Page 102 of 258

Q&A: How does Two-Factor Authentication work?

Posted on September 28, 2022

Question from Mary: I’ve been reading your blog for a while and several of your posts recommend using something called Two-Factor Authentication.

How exactly does that work? I’m confused.

And is it really something I need to use? [Read more…]

Q&A: Do I need to run manual scans with my antivirus app?

Posted on September 27, 2022

Rick’s Tech Tips Newsletter

Question from Curtis: I have my antivirus program set to run automatic scans on three nights each week (I read somewhere that three times a week is the best schedule to follow).

My question is will those three automatic scans be enough to protect my computer from viruses or should I run manual scans too just to be safe? [Read more…]

Q&A: Why does my phone have an ‘Airplane Mode’?

Posted on September 25, 2022

Question from Janine: Hello, Rick. I have just finished reading an article that discussed an app that places your phone into “Airplane Mode” whenever there isn’t a cell signal available.

Please don’t think I’m a dummy because I’m not, but I had never heard the term “Airplane Mode” before reading that article.

Can you tell me what it means? What do phones have to do with airplanes?

Rick’s answer: [Read more…]

Q&A: Is it ok to use a laptop without a battery?

Posted on September 25, 2022

Note: The links in this post are affiliate links.

Question from Oliver: I have an old Dell XPS 17 laptop that’s now running Ubuntu Linux.

This machine still works perfectly but the battery won’t hold a charge anymore.

Since it’s so old I don’t really want to buy a new battery for it.

Would it be ok if I just removed the battery and ran it straight from the charger?

[Read more…]