Technology FAQs

Horton Tec FAQs

Does Horton Tec do only managed services?

No, unlike some IT companies who specialize and only take customers that want managed services, we realize that managed services are not a fit for every business.  If you would like to use our services only when you need it, we are here for you.

Do you have a minimum business size that you will take on as a client?

No, we service business of any size.

Do you do wiring?

Yes, we do wiring whether it is adding a network drop or solving a problem with an existing network drop

Can you do remote sessions?

Yes, Horton Tec uses GoToAssist for remote management and fixes. If a fix can be done remotely, it greatly reduces response time. There are some cases, however, where remote sessions are not appropriate or useful.

For more answers to questions about Horton Tec and our wide range of services, please contact us.

Business Technology FAQs

Do I need a server for my business?

The short answer is IT DEPENDS! It depends on size of your business and what you need a server for. If you are an office of 10 computers or less and you need to only share files, the answer is likely no.  If your environment is more complex the answer might be yes. It is most important that you have a server only if your environment warrants it. If not the extra cost and maintenance can lead to an unnecessary drag on your business.

How often should I backup my data?

Every night! The backup should be scheduled to start after the last person leaves for the night. Think of it like this, if your data was suddenly lost and you restore the data using the backups what would you lose. If your backup was completed the night before and you lose the data late in the day you would have to re-create the data generated from the start of the day to the time of data loss. What if your data was lost on Friday afternoon and the most recent backup was on the previous weekend, the data from the entire week must be re-created. So, the answer is always every night.  In some businesses where the data is extremely critical the answer may me more often than every night!

Desktop Technology FAQs

What is the first step in Troubleshooting a Technology Problem?

Believe it or not REBOOT IT!  You will be surprised how many times this will solve the problems.  This works for many different gadgets not just computers.   Why does this work?  It resets the device.  When computer reloads it runs startup operations into memory.  Many problems occur when the instructions in memory get messed up so when you reboot it is fixed.

Someone is calling me claiming to be from Microsoft and they need to fix a problem with my computer and I have not called Microsoft tech support for help?

This is a common SCAM.  Microsoft will not call you randomly if you have not called to open a tech support case.  You might ask how these scammers know there is a problem with your computer?  They don’t.  These are random calls to anyone that will believe them.  They normally proceed to ask you for money ($200-$300) and remote access to your computer to fix the supposed problem.

My computer is locked up and there is a message on my screen that says I need to call a number to get it unlocked. What do I do?

This is a variation of the scam described above.  You hit a site that has the malicious code that locks your computer and asks you to call a number.  The message will seem daunting with flashing graphics noises voices and may claim to be from a government agency.  I you experience this hold down the power button down until the computer shuts off and reboot the computer.  Scan for viruses and you should be good to go!