Rick's Daily Tips

Q&A: Should I buy an extended warranty for my new computer?

Posted on June 28, 2026

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Question from Angela: Rick, I have a question about extended warranties.

I bought a new laptop last Saturday and as the cashier was ringing me up she tried her best to talk me into buying a 2 year extended warranty for almost $100.

I paid just a little over $400 for the laptop and $100 seemed excessive to me, so I declined.

Do you think I made the right decision? I have up to 30 days to change my mind and go back and buy it. [Read more…]

Q&A: Can I connect my iPhone to a TV for watching Netflix?

Posted on June 27, 2026

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Question from Marcella: I used to watch Netflix on my computer but it got fried by lightning.

I’ve decided that I don’t really need a computer now so I won’t be replacing it.

I now watch Netflix on my iPhone but I’d really like to watch it on my 32 inch TV. I know I could use AirPlay but my TV doesn’t support it.

My boyfriend said I should be able to connect my phone to the TV through its HDMI port somehow, but he isn’t sure how to do it because my phone has a lightning connector instead of HDMI. [Read more…]

How to quickly lock down ALL of Windows’ privacy settings

Posted on June 26, 2026

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Like Windows 10 before it, Windows 11’s default privacy settings are extremely invasive.

You can change a number of privacy settings to make both Windows 11 and Windows 10 just as stingy with your personal info as their predecessors were, but Microsoft has scattered those many settings all around the various nooks and crannies of the Windows user interface.

[Read more…]

Q&A: Can I create Linux installation discs and flash drives and sell them on Ebay?

Posted on June 25, 2026

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Question from Larry: Hi, Rick. I love your blog and subscribe to your newsletter. I respect your opinions very much.

I’d like to ask a question if you don’t mind.

I’ve been buying yard sale items in bulk locally and selling them on Ebay for a couple of years now, and I’m looking to branch out.

I’ve been thinking lately about creating Linux installation media (DVDs and USB flash drives) on my home computer and selling them on Ebay.

My question is can I legally do that without getting into any kind of legal trouble? [Read more…]

Q&A: Does Windows 11 really need an antivirus app?

Posted on June 24, 2026

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Question from Marge: I just bought a refurbished laptop with Windows 11 on it and I want to make sure it’ll be safe from viruses.

It seems like I remember reading somewhere that you don’t need to buy an antivirus program for Windows 11 because it comes with one built-in.

The problem is other things I’ve read said you do need to install and antivirus program.

Which one is true? [Read more…]