Ask the Professor

The Techno Professor is available to assist you with in-office and on-site custom technical support as well as answer commonly asked questions.

Q: When is a good time to evaluate and/or update my Anti-virus software?
A:
Right now is a wonderful time to check-up on the current status of your Anti-virus software. With students settling into a new school year, internet usage increases due to homework and research assignments, and also social networking, such as Facebook. With increased internet usage comes increased chances for virus and other malware to attack your personal computer. You should make sure you have an up-to-date Anti-virus software suite installed on your computer. Make sure to open up the software and check its status. Most anti-virus software suites have a dedicated status area to warn of issues or to inform you that the software is operating properly. If there are warning messages, such as “your virus definitions are not up to date” or “your subscription is about to expire,” you need to address these issues promptly so that your software can do its job. Software that is not kept up to date offers little to no defense against a malware attack. After this initial check of your software, it is a good practice to check the status of your anti-virus software weekly. Doing this will help you make sure any issues are addressed promptly before a potentially catastrophic event happens to your computer. If your current subscription is about to expire or if you do not have any virus protection software installed, then call Citizens today. Citizens' PC Protection software will automatically update itself, and offer you the peace of mind that your computer is protected properly against a malicious attack.
Q: I'm looking to purchase a tablet instead of a laptop, will a tablet like the Motorola Xoom do everything I need?
A:
In a relatively short period of time tablets have come on like gangbusters. First there was the introduction of the Apple iPad and then Android Tablets, each of which were originally based on popular smart phone platforms, but have since been updated to be more functional as tablets. The convenience is in the small form factor making tablets very mobile, yet functional. With virtually unlimited apps available and 3G or 4G wireless capability, a tablet easily bridges the gap betweena a smart phone and a laptop computer. However, there are some important things to consider when deciding to purchase a laptop or tablet. The first thing you should ask yourself is, "What am I going to do with the device I purchase?" If the device will be used primarily for interent access, checking email, playing simple games, etc., then a tablet will work well. If you need something with more processing power, the ability to run full featured programs such as Microsoft Office products, or the need for a DVD/CD drive, then a laptop will be more suited to your needs. One recommendation is to take a look at the apps that are available for the device you are considering for purchase. For example: if you would like to purchase an Android tablet such as the Motorola Xoom, you can browse to the Android apps market at market.android.com and see if the apps you need or would like are available. Likewise, if you are looking to buy an Apple iPad, then you should browse here, http://www.apple.com/ipad/from-the-app-store/, for available apps. If you are considering a table for work needs then you should consult your company's IT department for available apps or specific requirements they may have. Additionally, the Techno Professor is a phone call away at 540-745-TECH to help guide you through the decision making process. Citizens is also your local Authorized Verizon Wireless Retailer to assist you with the purchase of your Motorola Xoom.
FLOYD 540-745-2111 FT. CHISWELL 276-637-6485 TOLL FREE 1-800-941-0426 SUPPORT 1-800-741-9525