July 2025

How to Keep Devices and Sanity in Sync
Welcome to the July 2025 issue of Ken’s Korner Newsletter.

A practical look at everyday IT challenges and easy solutions for your digital life and small business.

Are Your Devices Secretly Competing for Your Attention?

Between phones, laptops, tablets, and smart speakers, most homes and businesses have more connected devices than ever. The convenience is real. But so is the overwhelming sensation. Notifications, updates, and alerts can feel like a constant distraction. Here’s how to reduce the digital clutter:

• Set quiet hours. Most devices let you schedule “Do Not Disturb” times. Use them—especially for family events and after work.
• Customize notifications. You can turn off nonessential alerts (those weather apps can chill).
• Declutter apps. Delete what you don’t use. Outdated or unused apps can be a security risk and often slow things down.

Backups: May be more Important Than You Think:
Delete by accident? Coffee meets laptop? It happens. Regular backups are the only real insurance for your digital life.

Simple backup tips:

• For phones and tablets, cloud services like Google Drive or iCloud handle backups automatically.
• For computers, plug in an external drive or use a cloud service—once a week is plenty for most home offices.

Small business owners: Consider a backup plan for your main files and customer data. Ask Ken's Korner if you need a hand.

The Smart Home:
What’s Worth It and What’s Not?

Smart gadgets are everywhere, from voice assistants to Wi-Fi light switches. But are they right for you?

• Pros:
  • Automation (like lights on a schedule) saves time.
  • Energy-saving features lower bills.
  • Fun for gadget lovers and to show off and impress friends!

• Cons:
  • Compatibility headaches—devices from different brands may not “talk” or play nice with each other.
  • Some gadgets work best with strong Wi-Fi (and can slow your internet if you have too many).
  • Privacy: Always read privacy policies, especially for cameras and microphones. If nothing else, at least change the default password.

Tip: Start small. One smart plug or light is enough to try it out before adding more.

Quick Fix: The Three-Minute Reboot

“Have you tried turning it off and on again?” It still works. A reboot can solve:

• Frozen screens
• Slowdowns
• Wi-Fi dropouts

If it’s still not right, call your friendly IT person (hint: that’s me!).

Company Update
This month, our team helped several families and businesses set up new computers, troubleshoot pesky printers, and wave goodbye to mystery pop-ups. Thanks for letting me be your tech helper!

Until next time, take it easy—and let your devices work for you, not the other way around.

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And remember — always back it up!