Becoming a Problem Solving Tech
Tactful Tech is the project that helps you learn IT skills. You really should learn about the stuff you use everyday. Save time, make yourself feel awesome, and learn something new by becoming tech savvy. This is especially important if you offer tech support!
Some of What You Need to Know
Laptop and Desktop Repair
Sometimes good tech goes bad. You need to know how to diagnose issues and work with manufacturers and their RMA process.
Malware Removal
This category includes viruses, spyware, adware, and more. Sometimes users accidentally install this garbage. Most of the time it's on purpose because they choose shady applications.
Data Recovery and Backup Plan
You can't always recover deleted data but you can try. Most of the time stuff goes out and data isn't recoverable. Make sure to stress the importance of backups.
Network Support
You'll most likely be supporting wireless connectivity but it also helps to understand how to terminate ends if you have to run cable. Cable management a plus.
Mobile Device Support
Email and wireless will be huge here. There will be general application support but the big issue now is EMM (MDM) usage and support.
Cybersecurity
This category encompasses so many things. You'll run into this with basic support to accounts, antivirus, filters, system availability, VPNs, and more!
There's so Much to be Excited About
You don't have to be a tech for the rest of your life. IT and even cybersecurity are such broad fields.
There are many pivot points and so much stuff to manage!
If you don't have a clear path or even have a tech job yet, volunteer or freelance! I did this as side husles and even in gaps in employement.
Tactful Tech Articles
Do's And Don'ts Of Safe LCD Monitor Cleaning
Before you clean that screen again, double check to make sure you're following safe LCD monitor cleaning practices. Safe LCD Monitor Cleaning Do's Do turn off the monitor and allow it to cool down Do be careful cleaning the monitor as to not tip it over Do use a...
How To Find Out If Your System Can Run Virtual Machines
Here's a few ways to see if your system can run virtual machines: Look at your CPU box or manual Look up your CPU online Use a program like Speccy, CPU-Z, or SecurAble Intel users can run tests AMD users can run tests Boot into your BIOS and look for the V settings...
FTP Setup On E4200 Linksys Router
The E4200 Linksys router is pretty amazing. However, there are many features that I've neglected. Here's how the FTP setup on the E4200 shapes up on your router. Login as admin on the setup page Click on storage tab Click enable FTP Server and use the default port 21...
When A Client's PC Doesn't Boot After 2 Years
Unless someone specifically pays for support, I usually don't actively support a PC I've built after a few months (a year at the most). This is especially true of a client's PC doesn't boot after 2 years. I had a client call me today to look at her PC because it...
What Can You Do With Your Old PC?
If you've recently upgraded your computer or have 1 or 2 lying around, you may be wondering what can you do with your old PC. Here are a few ideas on what you could do with your old hardware: Find another use for it Use it as is or upgrade it to be used as a guest...
What's The Biggest Security Risk?
What's the biggest security risk? Have you guessed it? No, it's not the intricacies of BYOD. It's YOU! Top reasons: Posting information on social media. Opening unexpected attachments through email. Sending sensitive files and messages through email. Using work email...
Discover Your Favorite Tasks
Even though techs are deemed generalists, you can still find stuff to specialize in. You'll naturally gravitate to things anyway.
My favorite aspect was working with hardware – desktops, laptops, servers, and network devices. I love tech and could tinker with the hardware all day.
You Still Have Other Obligations
Unfortunately you can't spend all your time doing what you love. You still have to meet the needs of the department and overall business.
Learn to become a people person if you aren't becoming one already. This is the biggest lesson in being a Tactful Tech. Learn to talk to anyone and learn to love people! Don't get too swept up by tech or coding.
Invest in Yourself
Education doesn't stop after college and experience isn't the only thing that matters out there.
Keep up with learning by using learning platforms such as Udemy, Skillshare, LinkedIn Learning, and CBT Nuggets.
You're not done when you get that course certificate though. Prove you're ready to use your new knowledge and put yourself out there.
What Employers Are Looking For
Potential Tactful Tech Topic Sources
It's quite a challenge coming up with everything you'll see in IT. Listed below are some of the things I could think of that I've gone through as a tech. At some point I'll most likely write about these topics.