Silicon Valley isn’t the only hotbed of technology anymore. Today, tech companies in all industries — from healthcare and financial services to energy and robotics — are settling across the United States. Many states now have burgeoning tech centers accompanied by growing job markets. The following list highlights 10 of today’s top tech cities and will help you decide where to go and where to avoid. If you want a job in the energy sector, for example, you wouldn’t go to Silicon Valley — you’d head to Houston.
We explore the types of tech jobs you’ll find, which companies receive the most venture capital funding, and the average income for each city. Since Silicon Valley remains the most well-known and heavily funded tech epicenter, it’s not mentioned here. The focus is instead on cities you might not have heard of before, but should consider when looking for employment in tech.
- New York City, New York — “Silicon Alley”
New York City is viewed as Silicon Valley’s counterpart, hence the moniker Silicon Alley. You can explore opportunities with startups such as Ringly and Code Climate, as well as more established companies like Zeta Interactive, InterActiveCorp, and AppNexus. The cost of living can be high, so it may make sense to look into commuting from locales like Port Jervis. Living outside Manhattan means you won’t need to spend all your salary on rent and the bare necessities — plus, you may be able to work from home with CenturyLink ® High-Speed Internet.
Funded Companies: Vice Media, DigitalOcean, Knewton, Fundera, Zocdoc
Average Annual Salary: $91,451
- Seattle, Washington — “Emerald City”
Seattle’s lush landscapes earned it the title Emerald City, though the wizardry of the tech industry brings a new meaning to this nickname. The area is home to technology titans like Microsoft, Expedia, and Amazon. These three companies, as well as a growing number of startups, offer a range of employment opportunities. Seattle has a relatively affordable cost of living, and you can always find a great cup of coffee. Even better, you have access to 1 gig Internet and Prism TV with Seattle CenturyLink.
Funded Companies: Avalara, Adaptive Biotechnologies, Chef, Convoy, Moz
Average Annual Salary: $96,197
- Austin, Texas — “Silicon Hills”
Austin, otherwise known as Silicon Hills, may be weird, but according to Forbes it is still a leader in tech and small business. Established employers range from Apple to Dell and from HP to Google, but abundant local startups are also in search of their next UX designers and Java developers. The cost of living isn’t cheap. However, you’ll still have plenty of funds left each month after your basic expenses to explore the Live Music Capital of the World.
Funded Companies: Atlas Wearables, Broomly, Datical, Jackrabbit Mobile, Phlur
Average Annual Salary: $100,536
- Portland, Oregon — “Silicon Forest”
“Portlandia,” a show highlighting Portland’s quirky side, crystallized the city’s unique culture. Maybe it is the influence of television, or maybe it is Portland’s environmentalism, cycling culture, and job opportunities. Either way, people are relocating in droves — which is great because CenturyLink in Portland also offers 1 gig Internet and Prism TV. As many of Portland’s employment opportunities are found in the tech sector — with companies like AirBnb and eBay — the city is nicknamed “Silicon Forest.”
Funded Companies: G5, Act-On Software, Puppet, Urban Airship, Jama Software, Skyward
Average Annual Salary: $78,958
- Denver, Colorado — “Convention City”
Denver is one of the ten most entrepreneurial dense cities in America, and three other Colorado cities also make that list. The city is home to well-known companies like IBM, Oracle, and Lockheed Martin. If that doesn’t convince you to make the move, think about the hiking, skiing, and High-Speed Internet.
Funded Companies: WellTok, Bulb, Choozle, Cloud Elements, Craftsy, Dizzion
Average Annual Salary: $87,901
- Raleigh, North Carolina — “The Triangle”
Raleigh is one-third of The Triangle, the name for the technology hub that also includes Durham and Chapel Hill. It’s a booming economic center and startups benefit from the guidance and support of the local university as well as organizations like HQ Raleigh. You’ll also enjoy affordable living, beautiful scenery, and 1 gig Internet with Raleigh CenturyLink.
Funded Companies: Sprout Pharmaceuticals, Humacyte
Average Annual Salary: $74,285
- Kansas City, Missouri — “Silicon Prairie”
Kansas City, the Silicon Prairie that rests on the border of Missouri and Kansas, has received a lot of attention as a result of Google Fiber. However, growth in agriculture and biometric technology, as well as the financial service sector, is also helping Kansas City’s global image. If you’re looking for a location with low living expenses, high-speed Internet, and a variety of strong technology companies, Kansas City is the place for you.
Funded Companies: Adknowledge, C2FO, FarmLink, Farmobile, EyeVerify
Average Annual Salary: $72,411
- Salt Lake City, Utah — “Silicon Slopes”
Salt Lake City is another up-and-coming technological city. It currently ranks fourth on Forbes’ list of best cities for tech jobs. Along with the growing job market and low cost of living, you can take advantage of Silicon Slopes, a nonprofit organization named after the area that spreads the word about Utah’s tech-friendly culture. You’ll always have high-speed Internet and cable TV, too, with Salt Lake City CenturyLink.
Funded Companies: Domo Technologies, PluralSight, Vivint, Qualtrics, Jive
Average Annual Salary: $59,572
- Houston, Texas — “Space City”
Texas cities make many technology lists, but Houston is the place to be if you are interested in energy or aerospace. You can find employment with Deloitte, ExxonMobil, NASA, and a number of other startups. While you may hear complaints about traffic, you do get the perks of high-speed Internet and coastal living.
Funded Companies: Molecule Software, Meshify, Rebellion Photonics, Reasoning Mind
Average Annual Salary: $84,921
- Cincinnati, Ohio — “Queen of the West”
Cincinnati is starting to turn an economic corner. It’s home to a number of Fortune 500 companies, including Procter & Gamble and Siemens, as well as a growing startup ecosystem. Along with high-speed Internet, the city has a rich history to explore: you’ll find statues and monuments all around Cincinnati.
Funded Companies: Aerpio Therapeutics, MedaCheck, Ahalogy
Average Annual Salary: $66,354
Whether you’re looking for work in the technology industry or simply a change of pace, the 10 cities listed above are great options. You’ll find relatively affordable living conditions in most, and all have entertainment with the best Internet access you could want. If you have questions about Internet availability in any area, give CenturyLink a call at 855-640-4510.
Once upon a time, the only address you needed to know was your residential address. But the Internet has changed all that: in addition to your physical address, you now likely have an email address, as well as an Internet Protocol (IP) address.
If you aren’t sure exactly what an IP address is, don’t be alarmed. While most people have heard the term, few actually understand what it means and how it affects them and their privacy. Here is a quick tutorial on your IP address — what it is, how to find it, and why you should care.
What Is My IP Address?
An IP address is a unique numerical label assigned to any device that accesses a network. This address allows websites to connect with the device and send information to it. Lack of an IP address would be similar to the lack of a physical address: there would be no way to receive mail. If you didn’t have an IP address, websites would not be able to send you pages, images, files, or information.
There are two types of IP addresses — public and private. Your Internet Service Provider (ISP), or the ISP for the network you’re currently connected to, assigns a public IP address to the entire network. The network’s router then assigns a private IP address to each device connected to the Internet through that router. Each device connected to the same network will have a unique private IP address and the same public IP address.
How Can I Find My IP Address?
While your IP address typically works behind the scenes and doesn’t require any action on your part, there a few situations that may require you to locate your IP address, including joining or setting up a network, installing a new wireless router, or working with tech support.
The easiest way to find your public IP address is by visiting one of several websites designed specifically to tell you your IP address. You can even type in “What is my IP address” into an Internet search bar, and your public IP address should appear at the top of the results page.
Finding your private IP address is a little bit more complicated, but still doable. PC users should click the Start button in the lower left corner of their computer screen, then double click “Control Panel” to open a new window. Type “adapter” into the search box and click “View network connections” under “Network and Sharing Center.” Select an active network connection. In the toolbar, click “View status of this connection” (you may need to click the chevron >> to find this option). Finally, click “Details.” Your computer’s IP address will appear in the “Value” column next to “IPv4 Address.”
For Mac® users, click the Apple® icon in the top left corner of the screen. Click “System Preferences,” then open the “Network” pane under “Internet and Wireless.” Select an active connection, and your IP address will be listed on the right, under “Status.”
Can People Locate Me Through My IP Address?
The word “public” may sound intrusive and scary, but the average person actually cannot track you through your IP address. Your device’s private IP address — and the information associated with it — is hidden behind the public IP of your router. That public IP address can give interested parties — website admins looking at who visits their sites, for example — information about which ISP you use and your general geographic area, but your IP address does not lead them back to your real, physical address.
Keep in mind, though, that if you were to participate in illegal activities online, law enforcement agencies may be able to request specific information about you from your ISP.
Is It Possible to Hide My IP Address?
If you are still concerned about your IP address being seen by others, you can take measures to hide it. Hiding your IP address is relatively simple — just sign up for a trusted proxy or a virtual private network (VPN. These services will supply you with one of their IP addresses, effectively masking your location so your IP address won’t be seen or identified.
While it pays to be a bit savvy about the workings of online processes, your IP address isn’t something you need to constantly fret over. It’s basically a way to connect to the Internet and gain access to the sites you want to visit.
Interested in a great deal on an Internet package that provides consistent speeds and affordable pricing? Call us today at 855-640-4510 and one of our experienced professionals will assist you.
How Do I Back Up My Computer?
Though most modern computers are fairly reliable, an unexpected accident or malfunction could result in lost data — childhood photos, irreplaceable school work, and important business files, all gone without warning.
Fortunately, it’s easy to mitigate a data-loss disaster. All you have to do is regularly back up your files. However, despite the simplicity of the solution — and the fact that there’s a World Backup Day — over 50% of computer users ignore backup maintenance. As a result, data loss costs an estimated $12 billion annually in the U.S. alone.
Don’t be part of that statistic. You cannot fall into the mindset that data loss won’t happen to you because, in all likelihood, it will. If you have never backed up your files before, now is a great time to start. You don’t need to be tech-savvy to be able to make digital copies of your important data. To help you get started, here’s a beginner’s guide to a computer backup.
What Is a Computer Backup?
Backing up your computer simply means making an electronic copy of your files and storing those duplicates in a separate location — thus giving you a backup copy of all your data. Though backing up does take time to start, it can prevent the nightmare of having to recover lost data.
What Should I Back Up?
Back up any data that matters. Most people back up files that are not easy to replace, like financial documents, school projects, and business data. If you have the time and resources, you may also want to consider backing up purchased media, email contacts, address book entries, browser bookmarks, applications, and operating system data.
You’ll need to consolidate files for a clean backup, so take the time to organize your folders and eliminate any duplicate data. Don’t forget to back up files that you may have stored in different places, too, like on a phone or tablet.
Where Should I Back Up Files?
Tech experts generally agree that you should follow the 3-2-1 backup rule: keep three copies of your data, save them in two different formats, and make sure one of those backups is housed off-site, in case something happens to your house or business. The point about keeping data in at least two separate formats is particularly important, because different types of storage have their own benefits and drawbacks. Here’s a closer look at the two most popular storage options — external hard drives and Cloud storage.
External Hard Drive
An external hard drive is a portable storage device that functions a lot like your computer’s internal hard drive. These devices can be easily connected to desktop or laptop computers through a USB port.
Pros:
- Data is easily accessible.
It’s easy to drag and drop your digital files into an external drive, and the process does not require an Internet connection or a high-speed Internet plan.
- Drives don’t cost much.
After the initial expense of purchasing a hard drive, there are no monthly or annual fees.
- Files transfer quickly.
Because information isn’t constrained by available Internet bandwidth, files copy relatively quickly.
Cons:
- Storage space is limited.
An external hard drive can store only a set amount of data, and there’s no way to upgrade that space capacity.
- External drives are vulnerable to physical damage and deterioration.
If drives aren’t kept in a clean, dry location, they may not function properly. Older drives, too, have an increased risk of failing.
Cloud Storage
Cloud storage is a storage model where data gets transferred via the Internet to remote servers, which are monitored and maintained by a Cloud hosting company. Some popular Cloud storage providers are Dropbox, Google Drive, Carbonite, Crashplan, Backblaze, and Amazon Cloud Drive.
Pros:
- Data storage is secure.
Cloud providers encrypt your files so no one else can access them when they’re in storage. Further, stored information is not just kept on one remote drive, but rather on numerous drives in various locations.
- Cloud plans offer more storage space.
Some Cloud storage hosting sites offer plans with unlimited storage capacity.
Cons:
- Backups will take longer on slow Internet connections.
One of the problems with Cloud storage is that many home Internet users don’t have the upstream bandwidth needed to load lots of large files to an off-site Cloud storage server.
- Plans may be more expensive in the long run.
Cloud services usually require monthly or annual fees.
How Do I Back Up Files?
If you only care about protecting a small number of files, the simplest way to back data up is to do it manually. Simply copy the files you want to back up, and then paste those copies onto your external hard drive or upload them individually to your Cloud service.
For those instances when you need to back up a lot of data, it’s a good idea to automate the process. Most Cloud storage plans allow you to set up a customized backup schedule that runs and syncs regularly without needing additional oversight. Just enter in the frequency and organization arrangements you prefer, and you’ll be all set.
If you’re backing up files to an external hard drive, you’ll want to use the native backup options on your computer — Time Machine® for Mac® computers and File History for computers running Windows® 10.
Accessing Time Machine on a Mac
- Click the Apple® logo in the top left corner of the desktop screen, and select “System Preferences” from the dropdown menu.
- Click the Time Machine thumbnail in the new window that opens.
- In the Time Machine window, move the slider over to the “On” position and click “Select Backup Disk” to open a new dialogue box.
- Pick the drive you’d like to use for backup storage. Other settings can be adjusted with the “Options” button.
Accessing File History on a PC
- Open the Start menu and click “Settings.”
- In the Settings window, click on “Update & security,” and then select “Backup” from the menu on the left.
- Click the plus sign next to “Add a drive,” and select the external drive you want to use for storage. Backup frequency and file selections can be changed by clicking on “More options.”
Time Machine and File History will scan the files on your computer and copy any files that have been added or modified since the last backup phase.
Every time you finishing backing up data onto a hard drive, store the drive in a safe place. Fireproof and water-resistant safes are your best bet, but if an expensive, bulky safe is not an option for you, try to keep your drives in a safe area free from static discharge and moisture. You may also want to store the drive in its original packaging, which should include a cardboard box, protective foam to prevent impact, an anti-static bag for shock protection, and a packet of silica beads to absorb moisture.
In terms of frequency, if you use your computer for work, experts recommended backing up files every day. If you use your computer exclusively for personal purposes, the frequency is up to you. Weekly or bi-weekly may work for unimportant data, but urgent projects and in-process documents should be backed up more often unless you want to risk losing progress on those files.
With proper planning and backup methods, you won’t have to worry about losing important data anymore. To really optimize your storage, you may need to upgrade to a better Internet plan. Call 855-640-4510 to find out more about CenturyLink® High-Speed Internet and learn about deals on Internet bundles available in your area.
Where do I go for help with Windows?
If you use a computer, you’ll likely need help at some point. Windows® is the Microsoft® operating system, and it’s what most computers use to function. Fortunately, it’s relatively painless to find support for Windows — no matter which version you use.
Windows Help and Support
Windows Help and Support is built in to your operating system and a great place to start if you want to troubleshoot or ask common questions. To open Windows Help and Support, click the Start button and select Help and Support. You can access Help and Support with or without an Internet connection, but linking to the Internet will give you the most up-to-date information.
Once you are in the Help and Support window, type a few words describing your problem into the search box and hit Enter. A list of topics will appear, with the most useful results at the top of the list. Review the list and select the topic that seems most helpful for your current issue.
Online Windows Help
If you don’t find the answer you need through Help and Support, you can conduct a general Internet search for the help topic you need. Others have probably already dealt with the problem you’re experiencing, and their solution can be found on a website, in a forum, or in an article.
If you’d rather do a more focused search, you can turn to websites that are dedicated to Windows or resolving computer problems. Some useful sites to check out include the Windows website, Microsoft’s online support site, and Microsoft TechNet.
You may also want to visit a forum dedicated to Windows, like the one by PC Advisor or the Windows Forum. Forums can be especially helpful for finding solutions to issues that might not have been experienced or anticipated by Microsoft’s official help topics yet. You get to learn from others’ mistakes and benefit from their trial and error.
What differences are there among Windows versions?
You are mostly likely using one of the following Windows versions: Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows XP, or Windows Vista. All versions of Windows will help you do everything you need to do on a computer, from creating documents to going online, but there are some significant differences from version to version.
One of the biggest differences is the amount of time for which Microsoft will provide technical support, including security updates, for each version. At this point, Windows 10 has the longest support window, which won’t end until 2020. Windows XP is no longer supported, and Microsoft recommends upgrading to Windows 10 to avoid security risks.
Another differentiator is the ability for the operating system to function across different devices, including desktops, laptops, tablets, and smartphones. Once again, Windows 10 is the most compatible with all current and future Microsoft devices.
When it comes to requirements to run the operating system, Microsoft 7 and Microsoft 8 have lower requirements than Microsoft 10, which may make them more accessible for people with older computers or limited RAM or hard disk space.
How can I tell which Windows version I have on my computer?
You can find information about your Windows version in the System section of the Control Panel on your computer. Once you get to the System section, the main page will contain information about your operating system, including the Windows version.
No matter what version of Windows you’re running, having quality Internet will enhance your Windows experience, even if you’re not troubleshooting while looking through their Internet forums. If you’re not satisfied with your current ISP or are just in the market for high-speed Internet service, check out some of the offers and Internet bundles that CenturyLink has to offer you.
There are many ways to connect to the internet, but Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) is one of the most reliable and long-standing connections still in use. Because DSL uses existing phone lines to transmit data, it was one of the first widely available methods for both businesses and homes to get online. DSL is still a viable—and affordable—option for internet connectivity. As recently as 2020, nearly 80% of adults in the United States have a broadband connection in their home.
Does DSL internet need a phone line?
DSL and phone lines are intertwined because they use the same copper lines to transmit and receive data. Unlike dial-up internet, with DSL both technologies can use the same line without interference because DSL transmits at a higher frequency than voice communications. Sometimes a DSL filter is required to minimize potential static on a phone line, but typically there is no disruption to either service.
Do I need a home phone to get DSL Internet?
It used to be common for DSL providers to require a home phone line in order to install DSL. However, that is no longer the case. You can now choose from either a standalone DSL line or an internet and phone bundle from your Internet Service Provider (ISP). If you don’t currently use a home phone and don’t need one, you can still take advantage of a DSL internet connection.
Will a home phone help DSL work faster?
There is no relationship between a home phone and the download or upload speeds of your DSL internet connection. Because DSL uses a different frequency for data than phones use for voice, the two signals neither interfere with nor help each other. Home phone and DSL internet basically work around one another even as they use the same landline for transmission.
However, the higher frequency used by DSL internet allows data to be transmitted at a faster rate. Regardless of the presence of an existing home phone line, DSL connection speeds are faster than voice. In addition, the closer a DSL connection is to the ISP’s central location, the faster the speeds will be.
Is there any advantage to having both a home phone and DSL?
If you currently have a home phone line, one of the main benefits of DSL internet is that you can surf the internet and catch up with friends or relatives over the phone without any disruption to either service. Another benefit of DSL internet is that it works like your home phone in the sense that the line completely belongs to you. You always get an instant connection and there’s no one else sharing your bandwidth or fighting for speed during peak hours.
For those who want to save on their monthly bills, the value of a bundle is probably the biggest advantage of having both a home phone and DSL. When you combine your home phone and DSL subscriptions with the same ISP, you can receive significant savings on both services. If you already rely on a home phone or are considering adding one for emergencies, a home phone and DSL bundle can be the smartest, most frugal option.
What is a home phone and DSL bundle?
A bundle is a package deal that a provider offers to help customers save money. Depending on the service provider, bundles can combine home phone, internet, and sometimes TV service as well. There are multiple benefits to combining services, including cost savings, simplified billing, and centralized customer service.
Bundling DSL and home phone service makes a lot of sense because both services use the same landlines to work. And, unlike dial-up internet, there’s no competition for the line. You can surf and talk all you want—at the same time—without running into any interference between your phone and DSL connections.
If you need high-speed internet service and want to make sure you get the best connection for the best price, CenturyLink is a reliable, affordable option that provides you with a dedicated connection. When bundled with home phone, you can even save money.
The Public Switched Telephone Network, or PSTN, is the traditional public telephone network that facilitates communication all over the world. Also known as the Plain Old Telephone Service (POTS), PSTN is how phone calls are placed through hardwired landlines, using a dedicated circuit between two points.
In addition, the PSTN provides much of the infrastructure for VoIP, or Voice over Internet Protocol, which is based on digital technologies. The PSTN infrastructure can also provide access to services such as graphics, video, and data.
Differences Between VoIP and PSTN Systems
VoIP and PSTN are similar in that both systems allow users to make and receive phone calls. But they also have some significant differences.
- TechnologyVoIP utilizes packet-switching technology, where digital voice information is divided into packets that move across the Internet independently before being recompiled into a single message. In contrast, PSTN transmits analog voice data through copper wires over dedicated circuits and routes it through switching centers.
- Power Outage AvailabilityDuring power outages, the PSTN is usually available and active, so landline phones are available for use. VoIP relies on power, so it’s unavailable during a power outage unless a backup power source is provided.
- EquipmentWith the PSTN, you can make a call through your traditional landline telephone — no Internet connection or computer required. With VoIP, you need a high-speed Internet connection, and calls are generally made through a personal computer, a special VoIP phone, or a traditional phone with an adapter.
- Emergency Call HandlingWhen you dial 911 from a landline on the PSTN, location tracking automatically finds your address in a database. In an emergency, first responders can be directly dispatched to your location — even if you can’t provide the address. With VoIP, location data is limited. Since the service is not tied to a physical address and VoIP calls originate from an IP address, the geographic location must be provided to the 911 dispatcher.
7 Reasons to Keep Your PSTN Line
Despite the somewhat old-fashioned nature of the technology, PSTN lines offer significant advantages that make them less than obsolete. Here are seven reasons to keep your landline.
- Consumer Protection:The PSTN’s copper lines are protected by various consumer regulations and protections. Telephone service over these lines is regulated as a public utility and, as such, the service provider must afford consumers a number of rights. For example, service cannot be cut off if you miss a payment, or in most cases, even if you are two months late on your bill.
- Convenience:A traditional wall phone needs no charging — and since it’s mounted to the wall, it cannot be lost. You can save yourself time and unnecessary frustration by always knowing where your phone is and that it’s ready whenever you need it.
- Location Tracking: As noted above, landlines are tied to your address, and location tracking will automatically trace where the call is originating from. This capability eliminates the concern of losing precious seconds during a medical emergency, particularly if you’re unable to speak. Similarly, if a child needs to call 911, he or she would not need to know the street address to summon assistance. If you’re in a dangerous situation, the ability to dial 911 and get help without speaking out loud could be very beneficial.
- Call Quality: Landline calls over the PSTN offer better voice transmission. The connection is typically clear and free of background noise or interruption, and both parties can be easily heard and understood. This is particularly beneficial when calling someone with limited hearing. VoIP calls are only as good as the connection quality and can vary from call to call, or even your location in your house.
- Emergencies: During windstorms, hurricanes, floods, and other natural disasters, electricity is often the first service to go down, leaving VoIP users without the ability to make telephone calls. Cellphones usually work when the power is out, but only until the battery dies. On the other hand, the PSTN is completely dependable and usable during power outages, which could make a real difference — and offer great peace of mind — when help is needed.
- Child Monitoring: A landline telephone makes it much easier to monitor a child’s phone use. You could even argue that as long as there’s a landline in the house, your child doesn’t really need a cellphone — yet.
- Security Systems: Many home security systems require a landline so the system can send a signal to the monitoring service in case of an intruder. If you have or are thinking of installing a security system, you may want to keep that PSTN landline.
Over the past several years, countless households have removed their PSTN-facilitated landline telephones in favor of VoIP or smartphones. But depending on your situation, you may find a solid reason (or several) to keep your landline phone hooked up and ready to use. You can find more information about CenturyLink Phone services here, or take advantage of extra savings on both phone and Internet service through CenturyLink Bundle packages.
Even if you have a great high-speed Internet service, if you spend time online, you’re never completely free of all the dangers that come from computer viruses. Just like the viruses that affect our bodies, computer viruses keep evolving and finding new ways to breach unsuspecting users. Since being introduced in the early ’80s, viruses have caused immeasurable damage to individual computers, email accounts, company data, consumer credit, and more.
Because “Elk Cloner,” the grandfather of all viruses, was considered a prank, some may wonder if every computer virus is harmful. The short answer is yes — at their best, viruses are unpredictable and exploitable; at their worst, they slow down Internet connections and wipe hard drives. But even though new viruses keep emerging, you don’t have to become a victim. Understanding the world of computer viruses and virus protection measures will help you defend your computer against potential attacks.
How Viruses Infect Computers
Viruses typically infect computers by masquerading as something benign, like an email attachment or a pop-up notification. When a user engages with the infected link or file, they’re essentially inviting the virus to work its way into their computer. If the attacked device doesn’t have an updated security program installed, the bug can easily make its way through various files and programs, wreaking whatever havoc its developer intended.
Recent Computer Virus Threats
As increasing numbers of interactions happen in the digital sphere, viruses are becoming more prevalent and dangerous. Rombertik, one of 2015’s worst viruses, was designed to attack the heart of infected computers, ultimately leaving them in a perpetual reboot cycle. Another virus, Cryptolocker, hit Australia particularly hard, and citizens reportedly ponied up nearly $400,000 to buy back data that the bug’s creators were holding hostage.
One of the biggest threats in 2016 was known as “KeRanger,” a ransomware virus made to penetrate Apple® operating systems. The virus was delivered via a program called Transmission, and most users didn’t realize they were infected until three to five days after downloading the bug. Researchers at Palo Alto Networks warn that any user who downloaded Transmission between March 4 and March 5, 2016, could be infected.
Computers aren’t the only victims of viruses or malware — smartphones and other connected tech is also susceptible. Just last year, for example, Android phones were plagued by a series of Trojan viruses hiding in third-party apps. The viruses were reportedly so difficult to remove that Digital Trends suggested that many users would find it easier to simply purchase a new phone than to try and oust the offending programs. You can also find information about some of the all time worst computer viruses here.
Protecting Yourself From Computer Viruses
Despite the pervasiveness of computer viruses, you can take steps to protect yourself. Remember, it’s better to prevent an infection altogether than to try and mitigate damage after the fact. Here are a few tips to help boost your computer’s defenses.
- Use Antivirus Protection:
An antivirus program defends your computer against viruses and works to detect any malicious programs that may be trying to penetrate your operating system, email, or hard drive. Keep antivirus software updated, because new threats appear daily.
- Look Before You Click:
Before you click on anything — a link in an email, an attachment, or a pop-up update — verify that it’s legitimate. One absent-minded click can be all it takes to give a virus access to your computer.
- Install a Firewall:
While firewalls don’t offer comprehensive virus protection, they can block unwanted traffic, preventing hackers from depositing viruses or other malware programs into your system. Many operating systems have built-in firewalls, so make sure yours is turned on and updated regularly.
Cloud computing is fast becoming a commodity, with price wars a natural result of a competitive market. Amazon, just a couple short years ago, Amazon was the overwhelming leader in the industry, generating an impressive $7.88 billion from its Amazon Web Services (AWS) in 2015 — Q4 even experienced a 69.37% year-on-year increase against Q4 2014, according to a recent earnings call. But early in 2016, Amazon’s competitors, namely the Google Cloud Platform (GCP), announced price cuts as a way to level the playing field.
As of Q2 in 2017, Google controls approximately 5% of the total market share, sitting just behind IBM at 8%, and Microsoft which controls about 11%. Amazon is still the clear leader which is still in control of a huge 34% of the total market.
Global Cloud Infrastructure
When people talk about the Cloud, it can be easy to imagine a server stored in a Mythical Realm, far from the prying eyes of Men. The truth is much less fantastical. The Cloud is merely a global network of large, highly secure, and efficient data centers — basically, many, many computers housed in warehouses around the world.
Most Cloud providers offer one of three different layers of services:
- Software as a Service (SaaS)
— Applications designed for end-users and delivered over the web. Examples include Salesforce and Dropbox.
- Platform as a Service (PaaS)
The collection of tools and services that enable developers to build and host those software applications. Examples include Heroku and Openshift.
- Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)
The hardware and software that make it possible: the physical servers, storage, and networks. Examples include CloudSigma and Softlayer.
Both Google and Amazon offer IaaS services and aim to serve the SaaS market for end-users as well. Both companies have been investing heavily in infrastructure and are aiming for “hyperscale.” Hyperscale is a global portfolio of data centers designed to serve worldwide demand, ensure customers can access the Cloud wherever they are, and stay competitive.
In general, single powerful data centers (along with redundancies and backup centers, in case of failure) serve specific regions. AWS has four regions in the United States, and thanks to its “virtuous cycle” — a reference to the fact that more customers means more servers, resulting in greater economies of scale and enhanced enterprise appeal — has 12 regions total (with five more planned), compared to Google’s four worldwide.
Price Wars
Price wars are nothing new when it comes to Cloud services. One of the benefits of hyperscale global infrastructure investments is that customer acquisition generates cost savings. These savings are passed on, forcing competitors to cut costs or improve services, or both.
In typical Google fashion, the company has forced Amazon to increase innovation and competition.
- Amazon has already announced two price cuts: AWS reserves are now 10% cheaper than last year.
- Google usually stays quiet about competitors, but not this time. They went on the offensive, publishing a comparison table showing they are 15–41% cheaper than AWS.
How to compare Google vs. Amazon
Although Cloud services are often thought of as modern-day utilities (not unlike Wi-Fi and broadband Internet), direct comparisons between providers are difficult to make. Strictly speaking, utilities don’t come with different features. As far as consumers are concerned, the water, gas, and electricity that run into our homes and offices are the same the world over, regardless of who provides it. All that differs when it comes to utilities is the price.
Cloud services, on the other hand, are not comparable — and may never be, given that each Cloud provider is attempting to win over customers with new features and capabilities. To avoid confusion, Cloud providers, journalists, and benchmarking services have been working hard to put together direct comparisons.
Google’s price comparison earlier in 2016 wasn’t the first time they sought to highlight the benefits of their Cloud versus AWS. In 2015, they commissioned the Enterprise Strategy Group (ESG) to compare the two. The study found that GCP’s on-demand pricing was 44% lower than the best-case AWS reserved instance pricing.
VPS Benchmarks, a provider of benchmarking services for IaaS and Virtual Private Server (VPS) platforms, also conducts regular comparisons. Those comparisons show that GCP often demonstrates better performance and faster response times.
Google has also made an effort, mainly to differentiate itself from Amazon, to simplify its pricing. Amazon is often criticized for its confusing buying options, including on-demand prices, spot prices, and reserve fees. One way that Google sought to offer lower prices was to provide preemptible virtual machines, which offer short-lived compute instances with the caveat that Google may shut them down at any time if they need the resources for other tasks. These preemptible VMs are 70% cheaper (they cost around $0.01 per hour) than other GCP services.
Google still has a long way to go to catch up with AWS. At the same time, Amazon may have to reduce and simplify its pricing to avoid losing customers to Google. And both have to be wary of Microsoft. For customers, whether you are a startup or enterprise, this global Cloud war will continue to generate benefits, from cheaper pricing to more innovative services.
If you’re in the market for cloud services, remember that no matter which provider you decide to go with, your experience depends heavily on your existing internet connection. Learn more about CenturyLink High-Speed Internet and Internet Bundle options that are currently available in your area right now!
A Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) is one of the most reliable and widely available Internet connections on the market. It’s fast and easy to set up, which means you can connect to the Internet and start surfing the web, emailing your friends, and streaming movies right away. If you’re looking for the best Internet for your needs, learn more about DSL and how to easily set up a connection.
What You Need to Knw About DSL.
There are many different types of DSL connections. However, there are two main types that are more common than others: Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line (ADSL) and Symmetric Digital Subscriber Line (SDSL). ADSL is the most common type of DSL connection and can be delivered through the same phone cables that already exist for landline phones. An SDSL connection, on the other hand, may require a separate line.
Think of a telephone line as a multi-lane highway that information can travel along: when you make a phone call, you use a single lane to transmit data. Dial-up connections use this same lane to connect your computer to the Internet — while you’re connected to the Internet via dial-up, you cannot use the line for phone calls. An ADSL connection, on the other hand, uses the other lanes of the highway. Doing so not only allows more data to travel along the lane (making DSL a high-speed connection), but also allows you to use your landline for calls at the same time.
What Other Kinds of Connections Are There?
DSL and dial-up connections both use telephone networks that landlines use for phone calls, but other types of Internet connections use different methods. Cable Internet connections use the coaxial networks that cable TV providers use to transmit data, while satellite Internet uses a satellite dish to connect to the Internet, even from places where a landline or cable TV is not available. Fiber-optic Internet transmits data as light waves through glass fibers, but this technology is relatively new and is unavailable or prohibitively expensive in many areas.
DSL connections are significantly faster than dial-up, tend to be faster than satellite Internet, and are comparable to cable Internet. In general, you can expect speeds around 20 Mbps for downloading and 3 Mbps for uploading.
What Are the Advantages of DSL?
Using DSL has some serious advantages over other types of Internet connections.
- DSL connections are specific to your phone line, so speed isn’t affected by peak hours (unlike cable, where every cable subscriber in an area shares the connection).
- DSL uses an existing land line, so it doesn’t require any intense hardware installation or renovations.
- DSL doesn’t interrupt phone service and is constantly connected.
What Are the Disadvantages of DSL?
Before installing any Internet, you should consider the disadvantages as well.
- Data transmission over phone lines gets slower the farther away you are from the provider or from a repeater. If you live in a rural area, DSL may be slow or unavailable.
- If you have lots of individuals using the Internet, some DSL connections might have difficulty handling the high bandwidth use.
- DSL is not ideal for businesses with high bandwidth needs.
What Do I Need to Get started?
Setting up a DSL network is easy, requiring little time and no specialized knowledge. All you need is a DSL modem, an Ethernet cable, DSL filters, and a router (or a combined modem and router). Your Internet Service Provider (ISP) will likely supply everything you need to get started, though you have the option to use your own modem instead of renting or buying one.
How Do I Set Up My DSL Connection?
Most providers have technicians available to set up your Internet connection for you. If you want to set up your DSL connection yourself, however, the process is simple.
- Turn off your computer before beginning the installation process.
- Attach DSL filters to any landline phones in your house. These filters plug directly into the phone jack and keep the DSL signal, which is being sent through your phone line, from causing static on any line with a phone on it.
- Once you connect the filter to the phone jack, simply plug the line from the phone back into the other end of the filter.
- Plug your DSL modem into an electrical outlet using the provided power supply cord. Your modem communicates with your ISP’s network, and you need the type of modem that works with your ISP’s infrastructure. Make sure you have a DSL modem, not a cable or satellite modem.
- Use a phone cord to connect the WAN (wide area network) port on your modem to an un-filtered phone jack. If you have a phone connected to every jack in the house, you can use a special filter that has two connections on it: one filtered connection for the telephone and one unfiltered connection for the modem. Be sure to hook up the modem to the unfiltered connection, or your Internet won’t work.
- If you have a combined modem and router, plug an Ethernet cable into the LAN (local area network) port on the modem/router and a port on your computer.
- If you have a separate modem and router, plug the router into an electrical outlet, then use the Ethernet cable to connect the LAN port on the modem to the WAN port on the router. Use another Ethernet cable to connect the LAN port on the router and a port on your computer.
- If you have a wireless router, you do not need a second Ethernet cable to connect the router to your computer. Instead, you can use the default password on the bottom of the router to connect wirelessly.
- Turn your computer on and follow the instructions on screen to set up your network.
If you’re looking for Internet that is reliable, fast, and easy, DSL may be your best option. Check out CenturyLink’s High-Speed Internet and Internet home service bundle options by calling 855-640-4510.
In 2014, more than 317 million new computer viruses, worms, trojans, and other malicious software — also known as malware — were released, which is the equivalent to nearly one million new threats each day. As a result of so many viruses flooding the Internet at large, it’s possible that nearly one-third of the world’s computers have been affected.
Computer viruses have been around almost as long as the Internet, and while there’s no definite date, it’s believed that the first antivirus software program was developed in the late 1980s or early 1990s. While antivirus software has significantly evolved and improved since then, the basics remain the same. The software is used to scan for, detect, expose, and remove malware and help protect your computer from future viruses and attacks. Some antivirus software also protects against other unwanted programs, such as spyware and adware. Read on to learn more about the importance of reliable antivirus software.
Why Is Antivirus Software Important?
Even the most tech-savvy users are at risk of becoming the victim of a hack at the moment that they connect to the Internet. Antivirus software is essential because it protects against three major threats:
1. Viruses
Viruses are most commonly acquired by downloading infected files or visiting a phishing website, and hackers are constantly developing more sophisticated viruses that appear to be safe files or websites. An infected computer can slow down, delete files, or become unusable.
2. Identity theft
Spyware is a type of malware designed to steal personal information stored on your computer. Through the use of spyware, hackers can gain access to your bank accounts, credit card numbers, account usernames and passwords, and other personal information. With this information, they can steal your identity, make purchases with your money, and more.
3. Spam
Are you suddenly receiving emails and seeing pop-up advertisements every time you use the Internet on your computer? If so, you’re being spammed and it’s likely coming from a virus stored on your computer. If you can’t find and remove the virus, you’ll keep receiving spam.
Are PCs or Macs More Prone to Viruses?
A common myth is that PCs are more vulnerable to viruses than Macs. Less than a decade ago, this was the case due to Apple’s smaller user base. For hackers to make the biggest impact, it makes the most sense to create viruses that infect the most frequently used hardware. A decade ago, that was the PC.
In 2009, around 90 percent of web traffic came from PCs and only 6 percent from Mac computers. However, by 2015, traffic from PCs made up just 41.7 percent and Macs 5.4 percent, with the rest coming from tablets and smartphones. But what those numbers don’t reflect is the increased number of connected users overall — and that greater usage has made it more profitable for hackers to attack both Windows and Apple operating systems. So while there may be a wide perception that PC users are more vulnerable, recent attacks against Macs serve as good reminders that viruses and malware don’t discriminate.
Do I Need Antivirus Software?
The answer is simple: everyone should use antivirus software on their computer, whether it’s a PC or Mac. Many antivirus software programs are inexpensive and easy to use, and they can help protect both your personal information and your computer. Just as you buy car insurance if you drive a car, you should protect your computer with antivirus software.
What Are My Options for Antivirus Software?
There are dozens of antivirus programs available, both free and paid. Here are some of the most reliable software options on the market:
Free Antivirus Software
One of the highest rated free options for PCs is from Panda Security. A “set it and forget it” program, Panda Antivirus relies on the Cloud to protect your computer while you use the Internet. You never have to update it or run scans.
For Macs, one of the top rated free programs is Avast. Protecting your Mac against malware, Avast runs a continuous stream of small automatic updates, which keeps your protection current without slowing down your computer.
Paid Antivirus Software
If you don’t mind paying for a program and you’re looking for an antivirus software that provides advanced features, Norton Security is one of the best options for both PCs and Macs. The Norton Security Standard program provides real-time protection against viruses and malware, delivers comprehensive protection most free programs don’t offer, safeguards your identity and online transactions, and even comes with a 100 percent virus-free device guarantee.
Once your computer is equipped with antivirus software, you can feel more confident in your Internet browsing. Learn more about CenturyLink Internet and Internet home service bundle packages available in your area by calling 855-972-6589.