Rick's Daily Tips

Review: Hiearcool USB-C Hub / Laptop Docking Station

Posted on February 8, 2026

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Note: The links in this post are affiliate links.

As you probably know, every new generation of laptops seems to be thinner than the one before it.

While being thin is good with laptops, it also results in a few downsides.

One of the most important of those downsides is the lack of ports available for plugging external devices into the machine.

Luckily there’s a simple solution to this lack of available ports…

[Read more…]

Q&A: Does my WiFi network really need a password on it?

Posted on February 8, 2026

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Question from Deborah: I’ve been using my wireless router without a password on the WiFi connection for some time.

My boyfriend told me I need to put a password on the WiFi connection but I don’t think it’s necessary because I don’t have any neighbors living close by to piggyback off of it.

I like being able to let guests connect to my network without having to hassle with a password.

Do you think it’s ok if I leave it without a password? [Read more…]

How (and when) to boot Windows 10 and Windows 11 into Safe Mode

Posted on February 7, 2026

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If you’ve been a Windows user for any length of time you probably know that there are times when it helps to boot Windows into Safe Mode.

In a nutshell, booting into Safe Mode forces Windows to load just the most basic Windows files and hardware drivers.

This helps a great deal when trying to remove stubborn viruses, track down faulty hardware drivers and resolve a wide range of software issues.

[Read more…]

Q&A? How do you pin a folder to the Taskbar in Windows 11?

Posted on February 6, 2026

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Question from Bob: Is there a way to put a folder on the Taskbar? I know I could in Windows 10 but I haven’t figured it out for Windows 11.

I like my desktop to be clean, but I like the ease of opening things with one click and I tend to add things to the Taskbar, and a folder would be handy. [Read more…]

Beginner’s guide to flipping abandoned properties: tools, tips, and first steps

Posted on February 6, 2026

Flipping abandoned properties can offer a unique opportunity for investors and renovators looking to enter the real estate market. This process involves purchasing neglected properties, renovating them, and selling them for profit.

For beginners, the endeavor can be as exciting as it is daunting. It requires a solid understanding of the real estate market, a keen eye for potential, and an array of skills from negotiation to renovation.

In this article, we’ll explore some essential tools, tips, and the first steps needed to successfully flip abandoned properties.

[Read more…]