Thursday, March 16, 2017

March 2017 - Monthly Mini-Bytes


Backup Your iPhone/iPad Now! Seriously!
New iOS Update Introduces New File System

Toward the end of March Apple will be introducing an update for the operating system on your iPhones and iPads. iOS 10.3 will be introducing new features, but the biggest change is one that you will not see. The underlying file system is changing. Imagine a library re-doing their entire card catalog overnight. Yeah... you get my point. Advice from around the internet is to backup your iPhone, iPad, or iPod Touch before this update comes out.

You can backup to iCloud, which is the method we recommend, or go old school and do it in iTunes. Either way, it's something that you need to put on the top of your priority list.

To backup to iCloud, connect your device to a power source, join your wifi network, and then go to Settings -> iCloud -> Backup. Initiate a backup by selecting Back Up Now.

For more prepping advice, check out this article from ZDNet: http://www.zdnet.com/article/how-to-get-your-iphone-or-ipad-ready-for-ios-10-3/

Spring Clean Your Passwords
Make Life A Bit Easier

I know, we all hate passwords. And in this case, it's totally okay to hate -- I asked. But no matter how much ire we direct toward them, passwords are a necessary part of technology. This does not mean that they need to drive you crazy. Here are some tips to clean up your passwords:
  1. Make A List - It doesn't have to be a list, but it has to be something. You need to record your passwords somewhere that is secure, accessible to you, and easy to update. This can be a locked/encrypted document or spreadsheet, a notepad kept in a safe, or anything like that. Just ensure it is secure and easy to update. And make sure you update it every time you change a password.
  2. Use A Current Email - If you are using an old Compuserve email for your Netflix login, you need to change it. Make sure your logins are associated with your current email address. Update them as needed.
  3. Change It Up - Complex passwords are secure passwords. When creating a password use at least ten characters with a mix of numbers, letters, and symbols. Avoid names, birthdates, or anything that can be easily figured out by a hacker.
  4. Two-Factor Authentication - Consider two-factor authentication for important accounts, like banks, brokerage sites, etc. When you login you will be sent a text with a code. This makes sure that it is YOU logging into the account, and not someone from Moldavia. 
Apple TV Secrets
Shhhh... don't tell anyone

We love our Apple TV. The new version has so many features, some of which are hidden. Check out this article from Macworld about 38 Must-Know Secrets and Shortcuts for Your Apple TVhttp://www.macworld.com/article/3003185/home-players/30-must-know-secrets-and-shortcuts-for-your-apple-tv.html