Software / Guides

Guides

Short practical guides, without jargon.

• How to check your PC's health
  A simple method to check a computer's health on Windows, macOS and Linux: drive SMART status, SSD wear, battery wear, temperatures and startup.
• Is my SSD or hard drive failing?
  The signs of a failing hard drive or SSD, the SMART values to look at, and what to do before you lose your files.
• How to check that a backup is really complete
  Why a finished copy is not always identical to the original, and how to verify a backup file by file with a SHA-256 fingerprint on Windows, macOS and Linux.
• How to spot a scam text message
  The warning signs of a scam SMS or email: false urgency, lookalike links, unusual payment requests. What to check and what to do.
• How to keep a record of power outages
  Why and how to log every power cut (start, end, duration) to support a claim or a complaint to your electricity supplier.
• Windows or Mac blocks the installation
  Windows SmartScreen or macOS Gatekeeper warns about a small publisher's app? Here is what the message means and how to open the app safely, step by step.