General

Atlanta Managed Services: Streamlining Your Business Operations

October 15, 2023 by Boost IT

Staying ahead of the curve is essential in today’s competitive business environment.

Atlanta Managed Services offers a solution enabling businesses to streamline operations, reduce costs, and access top-tier expertise.

But what exactly are managed services, and how can they benefit your business?

Let’s explore.

What Are Managed Services?

The Definition

Managed services refer to outsourcing specific business processes and functions to a third-party provider.

These services can encompass various tasks, from IT management to security and network operations.

The primary goal of managed services is to enhance efficiency and allow businesses to focus on their core competencies.

A Brief History

The concept of managed services dates back to the 1960s when businesses started outsourcing their IT needs.

However, it has evolved significantly to include a broader spectrum of services.

Today, managed services have become a critical component of modern business operations.

The Wide Array of Managed Services

IT Managed Services

One of the most common forms of managed services is IT management. This includes hardware and software maintenance, cybersecurity, data management, and cloud services.

By entrusting these responsibilities to experts, businesses can ensure the smooth functioning of their IT infrastructure.

Network Management

Effective network management is vital for modern businesses.

Managed service providers manage network monitoring, maintenance, and optimization, ensuring your operations are always up and running.

Atlanta Managed Services: Streamlining Your Business Operations

Security Services

Cybersecurity is a growing concern in today’s digital landscape.

Managed security services provide proactive protection against threats, reducing the risk of data breaches and financial losses.

Benefits of Atlanta Managed Services

Cost-Efficiency

Outsourcing various tasks to managed service providers can significantly reduce operational costs.

Businesses can benefit from the expertise of professionals without the expenses associated with hiring an in-house team.

Access to Expertise

Managed service providers are experts in their respective fields, ensuring your business benefits from the latest technologies and best practices.

Scalability

One of the advantages of managed services is their scalability.

As your business grows, your service provider can adapt to your changing needs, ensuring you always have the necessary resources.

Enhanced Security

Cybersecurity threats are on the rise.

Managed security services provide robust protection, protecting your business from potential breaches.

How to Choose the Right Managed Service Provider

Selecting the right managed service provider is crucial.

Consider factors like their experience, reputation, and the specific services they offer.

Common Myths About Managed Services

Myth 1: Managed Services are Only for Large Enterprises

Managed services are not exclusive to large corporations.

Businesses of all sizes can leverage these services to improve their operations.

Myth 2: Managed Services Are Too Expensive

Contrary to popular belief, managed services often lead to cost savings in the long run, thanks to increased efficiency and reduced downtime.

Myth 3: Loss of Control

You maintain control over your business operations by working closely with your managed service provider.

These providers act as partners, not overseers.

Atlanta Managed Services vs. In-House Solutions

We’ll compare the pros and cons of Atlanta Managed Services and in-house solutions, helping you make an informed decision for your business.

The Future of Managed Services

As technology continues to evolve, the role of managed services will expand.

We’ll explore the emerging trends and the future landscape of managed services.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Atlanta Managed Services offers a strategic approach to enhance your business’s efficiency and competitiveness.

By outsourcing tasks to experts, you can reduce costs, increase security, and focus on your core competencies.

FAQs

What types of businesses can benefit from managed services?

Managed services are versatile and can help businesses of all sizes, from small startups to large corporations.

Are managed services cost-effective?

Managed services often lead to cost savings due to increased efficiency and reduced downtime.

Do I lose control over my business operations when using managed services?

No, managed service providers act as partners, working closely with you to achieve your business goals.

How do I choose the right managed service provider for my business?

Consider factors like their experience, reputation, and the specific services they offer.

What does the future hold for managed services?

The future of managed services will likely see an expansion in services offered and an even greater reliance on outsourcing for business operations.

Are there different types of managed services available in Atlanta?

Yes, Atlanta offers various managed services, including IT management, network monitoring, cybersecurity, and cloud services, tailored to meet the diverse needs of businesses.

How can managed services benefit my business regarding data management and storage?

Managed services provide businesses with efficient data management and storage solutions, ensuring data security, accessibility, and scalability while reducing the burden on in-house resources.

What is the typical cost structure for Atlanta Managed Services, and how do they compare to in-house solutions?

Managed services often follow a subscription-based or pay-as-you-go model. The cost can vary depending on the specific services you require. They can offer cost savings through reduced operational expenses compared to in-house solutions.

How quickly can I expect results when implementing managed services for my business?

The timeframe for results can vary depending on your specific needs and chosen services. However, many businesses experience immediate improvements in efficiency, security, and overall operations shortly after implementing managed services.

What control will I have over my business operations when using managed services?

Managed service providers work collaboratively with businesses, allowing you to maintain control over your operations. They act as partners, ensuring that your business goals and objectives are met while handling the technical aspects of their services.

How To Create A Shared Calendar

July 12, 2023 by Boost IT

Staying organized and managing schedules efficiently is essential in today’s fast-paced world.

One effective way to achieve this is by using a shared calendar.

A shared calendar allows multiple individuals or teams to access, collaborate, and stay updated on important events and appointments.

In this topic, we will survey the benefits of using a shared calendar, how to choose the right platform, set it up, customize it, collaborate with others, and maintain it effectively.

Why Use a Shared Calendar?

A shared calendar offers several advantages over individual calendars.

Here are some key reasons why you should consider using a shared calendar:

Improved Collaboration: A shared calendar enables seamless collaboration among team members or individuals by providing a centralized platform to manage events, tasks, and deadlines.
Enhanced Efficiency: With a shared calendar, everyone involved can view and update the same calendar, eliminating the need for back-and-forth communication and reducing the chances of scheduling conflicts.
Real-Time Updates: Changes to the shared calendar are instantly visible to all participants, ensuring everyone stays informed and updated.
Access from Anywhere: Shared calendars are typically cloud-based, allowing users to access and manage their schedules from any device with an internet connection.
Simplified Planning: By having a shared view of everyone’s availability, it becomes easier to plan meetings, appointments, and events that work for everyone involved.

Choosing the Right Platform

Before setting up a shared calendar, selecting the appropriate platform that meets your needs is crucial.
Here are some factors to consider when choosing a shared calendar platform:

Compatibility: Ensure the platform is compatible with the devices and operating systems used by the participants.
Features: Look for features like event notifications, reminders, task management, file sharing, and integration with other applications that will enhance productivity.
User-Friendliness: Choose a platform with an intuitive interface that is easy for everyone to navigate and use effectively.
Collaborative Capabilities: Verify that the platform allows seamless collaboration, such as sharing calendars, assigning tasks, and inviting participants.
Security: Prioritize platforms with robust security measures to protect sensitive information and ensure privacy.

Setting Up a Shared Calendar

Once you have selected the right platform for your shared calendar, it’s time to set it up.

Follow these steps to get started:

Selecting a Calendar Service

Begin by choosing a reliable calendar service that supports shared calendars.

Popular options include Google Calendar, Microsoft Outlook, Apple Calendar, and online project management tools like Asana or Trello.

Creating a New Calendar

After selecting a calendar service, create a new calendar specifically for sharing.

Give it a descriptive name that reflects its purpose, such as “Team Project Calendar” or “Family Events Calendar.”

Setting Permissions and Sharing Options

Configure the calendar’s sharing settings according to your requirements.

Determine whether participants should have view-only access or be able to make edits.

Specify the sharing options, such as allowing others to invite additional participants or modify event details.

Customizing Your Shared Calendar

To make your shared calendar more visually appealing and functional, consider customizing it.

Here are some customization options to explore:

Adding Events and Appointments

Start populating the calendar with relevant events, appointments, and deadlines.

Ensure each entry contains essential details like the event title, date, time, location, and additional notes or instructions.

Color-Coding and Categorizing Events

Assign different colors or categories to various types of events or appointments.

For example, use one color for work-related events, another for personal commitments, and another for holidays or birthdays.

This visual distinction makes it easier to identify different types of events quickly.

Setting Reminders and Notifications

Take advantage of reminder and notification features provided by the calendar service.

Set reminders for important events, ensuring participants receive timely emails, push notifications, or SMS alerts.

Collaborating and Inviting Participants

A shared calendar is most effective when others can join and collaborate.

Here’s how you can invite participants and facilitate collaboration:

Inviting Others to Join the Calendar

Send invitations to the individuals or teams you want to include in the shared calendar.

Most calendar services allow you to send invites via email, providing a direct link to join the calendar.

Assigning and Managing Tasks

You can assign tasks to specific individuals or teams within the shared calendar.

Clearly define the job, its due date, and any relevant instructions.

Participants can mark tasks as complete once finished, providing transparency and accountability.

Sharing Files and Documents

Consider integrating your shared calendar with file-sharing platforms like Google Drive or Dropbox to streamline collaboration.

Attach relevant files or documents to specific events or tasks, ensuring all participants have easy access to the required resources.

Maintaining and Updating the Calendar

A shared calendar requires regular maintenance and updates to remain valuable and accurate.

Here are some practices to follow:

Regularly Reviewing and Updating Events

Frequently review the calendar to ensure events and appointments are up to date.

Make any necessary changes promptly to avoid confusion or conflicts.

Rescheduling and Canceling Events

If an event needs rescheduled or canceled, update the calendar immediately.

Notify participants of the changes, ensuring they know the updated information.

Syncing with Other Devices

Ensure the shared calendar is synced across all participants’ devices.

This synchronization allows everyone to access the calendar seamlessly from their preferred devices, such as smartphones, tablets, or desktop computers.

Best Practices for Using a Shared Calendar

To make the most of your shared calendar, follow these best practices:

Keep the Calendar Updated and Accurate

Regularly review and update the calendar to accurately reflect any changes or new events.

This ensures everyone has access to the most current information.

Use Descriptive Event Titles and Descriptions

When adding events, use descriptive titles and include relevant details in the event descriptions.

Clear and concise information helps participants quickly understand the purpose and context of each event.

Communicate Changes and Updates

Establish effective communication channels to notify participants about any changes or updates to the shared calendar.

This could include email, instant messaging apps, or project management tools to ensure everyone stays informed.

Conclusion

Creating a shared calendar is a practical way to streamline collaboration, improve efficiency, and keep everyone on the same page.

By selecting the right platform, setting it up effectively, customizing it to suit your needs, and following best practices, you can maximize the benefits of a shared calendar for personal and professional use.

FAQs

Q: Can I have multiple shared calendars for different purposes?

A: Yes, most calendar services allow you to create multiple shared calendars, each serving a specific purpose or group of participants.

Q: Can I control who can make changes to the shared calendar?

A: You can set permissions and sharing options to control who can edit or add to the shared calendar.

Q: Are there any costs associated with using a shared calendar?

A: Many calendar services offer free plans with basic features, while some advanced features may require a subscription or premium account.

Q: Can I access a shared calendar offline?

A: Some calendar services provide offline access by syncing the calendar data to the user’s device. Check if your chosen platform supports offline functionality.

Q: Can I integrate a shared calendar with other applications?

A: Yes, most calendar services offer integrations with popular applications like email clients, project management tools, and file-sharing platforms for enhanced productivity.

11 Ways To Fix Programs That Won’t Open On Windows 10

June 3, 2023 by Boost IT

Have you encountered the frustrating issue of programs not opening on your Windows 10 computer? It can be incredibly inconvenient and hinder your productivity. This comprehensive troubleshooting guide will explore common causes behind this problem and provide practical solutions to resolve it. So, let’s dive in and get your programs running smoothly again!

Common Causes Of Programs Not Opening

When programs fail to open on Windows 10, it can be attributed to various factors. Understanding the common causes behind this issue can help in finding practical solutions. Some of the common causes include:

Outdated Or Incompatible Software

Outdated software versions or programs not compatible with Windows 10 can prevent them from opening. Keeping your software up to date & ensuring compatibility is essential.

Corrupted System Files

Corrupted system files can disrupt the proper functioning of programs. This can happen due to malware infections, unexpected shutdowns, or incorrect software installations. Repairing or replacing the corrupted files can help resolve the issue.

Security Software Interference

Overly strict security software, such as antivirus or firewall programs, can mistakenly block specific programs from executing. Adjusting your security software’s settings or temporarily disabling them can help identify if they are causing the problem.

User Account Control (UAC) Settings

Windows 10’s User Account Control is designed to protect the system from unauthorized changes. However, excessively restrictive UAC settings can prevent programs from opening. Adjusting the UAC settings can help resolve this issue.

Issues with Windows Updates

Conflicts between Windows updates and specific programs can sometimes prevent them from opening. Ensuring that updates are installed correctly and checking for any known compatibility issues can help resolve this problem.

Troubleshooting Methods To Fix Apps Not Opening In Windows 10

To fix apps that won’t open in Windows 10, try the following troubleshooting methods:

1. Restart Your Computer

The first and most straightforward solution to try when facing programs that won’t open on Windows 10 is to restart your computer. A simple restart can sometimes resolve temporary glitches and refresh system processes, enabling the programs to function normally again. Click on the “Start” menu, select the power icon, and choose “Restart” from the options. Once your computer restarts, try reopen the problematic program to see if the issue persists.

2. Run the Program as an Administrator

Another common reason why programs fail to open is insufficient user privileges. Running a program as an administrator can often bypass such limitations and allow the program to launch successfully. To do this, locate the program’s icon or shortcut, right-click, and select “Run as administrator” from the context menu. If prompted for confirmation, click “Yes” to proceed. This method grants the program the necessary permissions it needs to function correctly.

3. Check for Windows Updates

Outdated software can cause compatibility issues and prevent programs from opening correctly. It is crucial to keep your Windows 10 operating system up to date to ensure optimal performance and compatibility with various programs. To check for updates, navigate to the “Settings” app, select “Update & Security,” and click on “Windows Update.” Then, click “Check for updates” and allow your system to download and install any available updates. After the updates are applied, restart your computer and try opening the program once again.

4. Disable Antivirus and Firewall Temporarily

While antivirus and firewall software are essential for protecting your computer, they can sometimes interfere with program execution, leading to programs not opening. To check if these security measures are the cause of the problem, temporarily disable your antivirus and firewall. Keep in mind that this step should only be taken as a diagnostic measure, and you should enable them again after troubleshooting. Try launching the program to see if it opens successfully. If it does, you may need to adjust your security software settings to allow the program to run without issues.

5. Perform a Clean Boot

Sometimes, conflicting background processes can prevent programs from opening. Performing a clean boot helps identify and disable unnecessary startup programs and services, allowing you to determine if any conflicts are causing the problem. Follow these steps to perform a clean boot:

1. Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type “msconfig” and press Enter to open the System Configuration window.
3. In the System Configuration window, navigate to the “Services” tab.
4. Check the box that says “Hide all Microsoft services” to prevent disabling essential Windows services.
5. Click the “Disable all” button to disable non-Microsoft services.
6. Next, go to the “Startup” tab in the System Configuration window.
7.Click on “Open Task Manager.”
8. In the Task Manager, navigate to the “Startup” tab.
9. Disable all the startup items by right-clicking on each item and selecting “Disable.”
10. Close the Task Manager and go back to the System Configuration window.
11. Click “Apply” and then “OK” to save the changes.
12. Restart your computer and try opening the problematic program again.

By performing a clean boot, you can determine if any third-party programs or services are conflicting with the program you’re trying to open. If the program launches successfully during the clean boot, you can selectively enable the startup items and services to identify the specific one causing the issue.

6. Reinstall the Program

If none of the above methods have resolved the problem, it might be necessary to reinstall the program. The program’s files may have become corrupted or missing, preventing it from opening properly. Follow these steps to reinstall the program:

1. Press the Windows key + I on your keyboard to open the Settings app.
2. Click on “Apps” or “Apps & features,” depending on your Windows 10 version.
3. In the list of installed programs, locate the program that won’t open.
4. Click on the program and select “Uninstall.”
5. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the uninstallation process.
6. After the program is uninstalled, visit the official website or Microsoft Store and download the latest version of the program.
7. Run the installer and follow the instructions to reinstall the program.
8. Once the installation is complete, try opening the program again to see if it now functions properly.

Reinstalling the program ensures that you have a clean installation with all the necessary files intact, potentially resolving any issues that were causing the program to fail.

7. Resetting App Permissions and Defaults

Resetting app permissions and defaults can help resolve issues related to improper settings or conflicts. This can be done through the Settings app in Windows 10.

8. Creating a New User Account

Creating a new user account can help determine if the issue is specific to your user profile. If the programs open successfully in the latest report, it indicates a problem with your original user account.

9. Using System Restore Points

If the problem started occurring recently, you could try using System replace to revert your system settings to a previous working state. This can help fix issues related to recent changes or installations.

10. Checking Event Viewer Logs for Clues

The Event Viewer tool in Windows 10 can provide valuable insights into system errors and issues. Checking the logs related to the non-opening programs can help identify any specific errors or patterns.

11. Seek Technical Support or Professional Help

If you have tried all the previous methods and the program still won’t open, it may be time to seek technical support or professional assistance. There could be underlying system issues or conflicts that require advanced troubleshooting. Contact the software manufacturer’s support team or consult with a qualified technician who specializes in Windows systems. They will be able to diagnose the problem and provide you with the best course of action to fix the program that won’t open on your Windows 10 computer.

FAQ

Why won’t programs open when I click on them?

When programs don’t open upon clicking, it can be due to various reasons, such as compatibility issues, corrupted files, or conflicts with security software. You can resolve this issue by following troubleshooting methods and ensuring a properly functioning system.

How do I force a program to open in Windows 10?

To force a program to open in Windows 10, try running it as an administrator. Right-click on the program’s icon and select “Run as administrator,” it will have elevated privileges to open even if there are restrictions or permission issues.

How do I fix an app that won’t open?

Suppose an app doesn’t open in Windows 10. In that case, you can restart your computer, check for Windows updates, run the app as an administrator, turn off compatibility mode, perform a system file check, or temporarily turn off antivirus or firewall software.

How do I fix Windows 10 not opening programs?

To fix Windows 10 not opening programs, you can try troubleshooting methods such as restarting your computer, updating Windows, running programs as an administrator, disabling compatibility mode, performing a system file check, and reinstalling or repairing the problematic program.

How do I clear my Microsoft Store cache?

To clear the Microsoft Store cache, open Command Prompt as an administrator & run the command “wsreset.exe.” This will reset the cache and resolve any issues related to the Microsoft Store.

Why do programs not respond in Windows 10?

Programs may not respond in Windows 10 due to various factors such as software conflicts, insufficient system resources, corrupted files, or hardware issues. Troubleshooting methods like closing unresponsive programs, updating drivers, and performing a system scan can help resolve this issue.

How do I force a program not to respond?

You can use the Task Manager to force a program that is not responding to close. To open the Task Manager, simply press the combination of keys: (Ctrl + Shift + Esc), locate the unresponsive program in the Processes tab, right-click on it, and select “End Task” to force it to close.

How to clear the cache in Windows 10?

You can use the Disk Cleanup help to clear the cache in Windows 10. Type “Disk Cleanup” in the search field, open the app, select the drive you want to clean, check the “Temporary files” option, and click “OK” to clear the cache.

How do I force a program to launch?

You can run a program as an administrator to force a program to launch. Right-click on the program’s icon and select “Run as administrator,” it will have elevated privileges to establish even if there are restrictions or permission issues.

Why are my apps not responding?

Apps may not respond due to software conflicts, insufficient system resources, corrupted files, or compatibility issues. Troubleshooting methods such as closing unresponsive apps, updating the operating system, and optimizing system performance can help resolve this issue.

How do I clear my app cache?

To clear a specific app’s cache, you can go to the Settings app, select “Apps & features,” choose the app, and click on “Advanced options.” Under the “Storage usage” section, click “Clear” to clear the app’s cache.

How do I fix a corrupted Microsoft Store cache?

To fix the corrupted Microsoft Store cache, open Command Prompt as an administrator and run the command “wsreset.exe.” This will reset the supply of the Microsoft Store and resolve any related issues.

What happens when you clear the office cache?

When you clear the Office cache, it removes temporary files and cached data associated with the Microsoft Office suite. This can help resolve performance issues, fix problems with file synchronization, and ensure a smoother experience with Office applications.

How to clear cache in Windows 10 using Task Manager?

You cannot clear the cache in Windows 10 directly using Task Manager. However, you can use other methods like Disk Cleanup or third-party cache cleaning tools to clear cache and temporary files on your system.

Why is everything on my computer not responding?

When everything on your computer is not responding, it may indicate a system-wide issue such as insufficient resources, software conflicts, or a problem with the operating system. Restarting your computer, updating drivers, and running system diagnostics can help identify and resolve the underlying cause.

How do I clean my computer boot?

You can use the System Configuration tool to clean your computer’s boot process. Press Window+ R to open the Run dialog box, type “msconfig,” & hit Enter. In the System layout window, go to the “Startup” tab and turn off unnecessary startup programs. This can help improve boot time and overall system performance.

How to fix apps not responding in Windows 10 without closing?

If apps are not responding in Windows 10, try switching to another app using the Alt + Tab keyboard shortcut or the Taskbar to open a different program. This allows you to continue working without closing the unresponsive app.

Conclusion

In conclusion, encountering issues with programs not opening in Windows 10 can be frustrating, but it’s essential to remain calm and take a systematic approach to resolve the problem. Understanding the common causes and applying the troubleshooting methods outlined in this article can increase the chances of fixing the issue and getting your programs to open successfully. Remember to update your system, maintain reasonable security practices, and seek professional help. With patience and persistence, you’ll be able to overcome these challenges and enjoy a seamless experience with your Windows 10 programs.

How To Choose a New Laptop

November 29, 2021 by Haley

If you want to know how to choose a new laptop, you’ve come to right place. Choosing a laptop can be a really frustrating process. Even if you know some of what you want, choosing the hardware specs, model, manufacturer, finding one and then getting a good price can be a daunting process. And you want to be sure it meets your needs.

This guide makes it easy. In about 10 minutes, you’ll be confident about your next laptop purchase.

We’ll break it all down for you.

What’s in this Post

Choose an Operating System
Choose a Manufacturer
Pick a Processor
Graphics Cards
How Much RAM
How Much Storage
What Ports Do You Need
Webcams and Other Features
Seal The Deal

Choose An Operating System

Before you look at laptop models, you must figure out which operating system (OS) works best for you. Thinking through what you’re used to, the software you need, and which operating system runs that software will determine the laptop you need.

There are three main computer operating systems to choose from. Actually, there are many more but these are the 3 most common. Here’s a summary:

Windows: This OS has gotten a lot of attention lately since the release of Windows 11, and it is one of the most widely used. It’s the best choice if you’re used to using Windows. It can run Microsoft Office apps like Word, Excel, Access, or Outlook.
MacOS: Apple’s MacOS can be a little easier to use than Windows, but using it is very different from Windows if you haven’t used it before. Mac OS probably shouldn’t be your first choice if you don’t own an iPhone or iPad, and your options are limited to MacBooks.
Chrome OS: If you can do most of your laptop tasks in a web browser and don’t need to install apps, Chrome OS is a good choice. Chrome laptops (called Chromebooks) are also among the cheapest (and least powerful) you’ll find, so it’s worth considering if you’re on a tight budget. You’ll have to use Adobe’s Creative Suite or Microsoft Office in a browser only.

Choose a Manufacturer

There are lots of manufacturers out there. Some of the top brands are

Dell
Microsoft
HP
Lenovo
Acer
ASUS
Apple (Mac OS Only unless you install Parallels or VMWare, for advanced users)

If you buy the laptop for business use:

you probably want to go with one of the first three brands
choose one in the business line over the personal versions for home use.
you can get a better warranty and support with a business laptop.

If you’re using the laptop only for home use:

home use laptops are not as robust
they generally use components that are slower or have a shorter life span than the ones for business use.
you will likely be replacing it in 3-4 years
you’ll be taking it in for repair and won’t be able to use it for a few days to over a week

If you need a very fast and reliable laptop, get a business laptop with a next business day warranty on it. If you have a backup computer to use and don’t mind being routed overseas for phone support go with a home use laptop.

Pick a Processor

There are essentially two companies that make laptop processors: Intel and AMD.

Intel

Intel’s main processors are the Core i3, Core i5, Core i7, and Core i9. The Core i3 is the least powerful, the Core i9 is the most powerful. We usually drop the “Core” from the name because it gets repetitive.

Within each of these chip lines, Intel uses cryptic strings of numbers and letters that give you more information about that chip’s capabilities and when it came out. Learning to decipher it will help you make better buying decisions. (Here’s Intel’s guide to its processors.)

AMD (Advanced Micro Devices)

AMD’s chips are just as difficult to decipher as Intel’s. Both are great options, and the average use won’t be able to tell which brand is faster.

Is there a huge difference between Intel and AMD chips? Generally speaking, an Intel i5 is indistinguishable from a Ryzen 5. They’re similar when you’re doing things like browsing the web or editing documents. The same goes for the Intel i7 and Ryzen 7, and the Intel i3 and the Ryzen 3.

Overall, the Intel and AMD chips are similar, so use the tips above and you’ll get your best

Which Processor Do I need?

If you’re a typical user who runs a web browser, Microsoft Office, and perhaps even some photo editing software, we recommend a laptop with an Intel Core i5 processor. If you need to use CAD or Photo Editing and are a power user multitasker, then go for the i7 processor, keeping in mind it will use a little more juice when running on battery.

Graphics Cards

All laptops have graphics cards, but most are integrated into the motherboard and the processor. This is known as “integrated graphics” and is fine for most users. You’ll be able to watch HD movies and even play casual games without issue.

Make sure the the video resolution of the laptop fits what you want, especially if you’re going to connect your laptop to an external monitor. And verify the resolution on the laptop is capable of the resolution required by the external monitor. If not, the size of the screen and icons will either be too large to fit a lot on the screen or too small to read.

If you’re a gamer or do a lot of video editing, you’ll want a laptop with a dedicated graphics card—a separate and much more powerful graphics card. AMD and Nvidia make most of the graphics cards you’ll find in laptops.

Most Intel-based laptops will be paired with an Nvidia graphics card in the GeForce line.

AMD’s GPU line is called Radeon and ranges from the top end Vega and RX cards down to R-series cards. The R-series cards mirror the Ryzen naming scheme. The Radeon R9 is faster and more powerful than the Radeon R7, which is more powerful than the Radeon R5.

If you’re using a laptop for gaming or video editing, you’ll need to verify the PassMark rating of the video or gaming software you’ll be using and purchase the video card that’s in this video card benchmark list.

How Much RAM

The more the merrier!

Random-access memory, known as RAM, is what your laptop uses to hold data while the processor does things with it. Think of RAM as your desk. All the things you’re working right now should be able to fit on your desk. If your desk is too small, things fall off and you can’t work on them. In the same way, if you run out of RAM you won’t be able to open any more browser tabs or finish compiling your video. Eventually your laptop will freeze up and need to be restarted.

Eight gigabytes of RAM should be plenty for the average Windows user, though upgrading to 16 GB will make your laptop much more capable (and is a necessity for gaming). One thing to investigate before you buy is whether the RAM is soldered to the motherboard. If it is soldered you won’t be able to upgrade the RAM yourself.

If you’re programming and compiling software or editing video clips, two tasks that require a lot of RAM, you’ll want 16 GB at minimum. You’ll probably be happier with 32 GB if you can afford it.

As with processors, Chrome OS requires less RAM. In a Chromebook you can generally get by with 4 GB of RAM, though upgrading the 8 GB will let you have more tabs open in your browser without slowing things down.

How Much Storage

The drive is where you’ll store all your data. And this is the single biggest bottleneck in the laptop if you try to save money here. Time is money, and faster SSDs reduce frustration. It’s like putting a speed limiter on a car. Everything else functions more slowly if you try to save on storage.

Get an SSD above all else—at least 256 gigabytes (GB). We recommend comparing how much storage you’re using on your existing computer and doubling it at least. If you plan on having the laptop longer than 3 years and want to store lots of pictures snaps videos, you may want to get a 1TB or 2TB SSD (equal to 1,000 or 2,000 gigabytes). SSDs are faster, especially if they are NVMe connection, which moves data in and out of the hard drive much quicker than SATA SSD.

Get and NVMe SSD if you can afford it. Do not get a spinning hard drive unless you have the patience of a saint.

The minimum amount of space we recommend is 256 gigabytes. If you store everything in the cloud or are looking at Chromebooks, you might be able to get by with less, but it’s good to have the space if you ever need it. If you plan to install a lot of games or software, and save a lot of photos or video, that will quickly fill up your storage.

What Ports Do You Need

The processor and hard drive will have the biggest impact on performance, but the amount and types of ports on your laptop are also very important. Ports are how you plug in accessories to your laptop, like USB devices or power.

You will want at least one 1 USB-C, at least one 1 USB-A, and a microphone/headset. Get an SD reader too, if you want to upload photos directly from a digital camera.

I recommend laptops that can charge via USB-C. A laptop should say it can charge via USB-C on the page or in the specs section. This method of charging allows you to use a portable charger if you ever need extra time away from a power outlet. USB-C chargers also tend to be cheaper to replace, and you may already use them to charge your android phone or iPad. Never buy a cheap off-brand replacement charger you see on Amazon. They can destroy battery life.

Webcams and Other Features

Your laptop should have a webcam. For some reason, there are still laptops in 2021 that don’t have them. Most webcams are still 720p, especially on lower-priced laptops. That’s fine if you’re not using it much, but with Zoom and Microsoft Teams being a way of life for many folks these days, you might be happier with a 1080p webcam.

Do you want a 2in1? This means that the laptop doubles as a tablet, and the hinge in the middle allows it to lay down into a tablet format. If possible, head to a local store, like a Microsoft Store, Apple Store, Best Buy or a MicroCenter, so you can actually hold the model you’re interested in.

Other features to consider: Do you want a backlit keyboard? Can you safely carry it with one hand? Is it going to fit in a backpack or briefcase? How big is the trackpad? Are the buttons where you like them? Do you want a full number pad? Is the keyboard layout unusual in any way? Do you want an external wireless mouse and keyboard?

Also, buy a camera slide cover for privacy to avoid surprises.

Seal The Deal

Once you’ve narrowed the field to a few models, read some reviews. Look for how the hinge holds up over time, how the keyboard feels, how the trackpad performs, and even how hot the bottom gets in your lap. Once you do that, it’s time to seal the deal.

Your own feelings matter, too. Get something you like that also looks beautiful to you. It’s no fun to use a laptop you don’t like.

Sometimes what you like about something is hard to define and on paper may not make much sense. In the end, follow your instinct after choosing the specs above, and you’ll be far happier in the long run.

And for purchasing your laptop, it’s best to go directly to the manufacturer web site, or to use a local computer store. Buying refurbished devices or from a third-party can be risky unless you have a relationship with them.

Best of luck on your new purchase.