Knowing the difference between HDMI and USB qualifies me as the local tech “expert,” so folks often invite me around to fix their computer problems. I’ll let you into a little secret, though ...

Are you the first line of tech support for your friends and family? Here's everything you need to troubleshoot for the not so tech-savvy.

With a cool head and a little know-how, however, it's easy to fix the most common computer problems. In fact, the solutions I recommend below are free.

Here's your guide to fixing those Windows 10 installation problems that could pop up when trying to upgrade or install from scratch.

Q What is your opinion on these fix-it programs that promise to analyze your system and correct problems? I got one that said I had more than 200 problems on my system. Is there a free checkup like… ...

Remove pre-installed programs on a new computer to speed it up Ad-Aware antivirus program blocks computer against pop-ups A few tricks can boost the speed of your router or DSL modem Computers ...

A My general feeling is these programs find more problems than exist, then seek to impress you by fixing them. That’s marketing. But they also try to fix some problems that don’t exist. That ...