Window 8 Anti-virus - Don't buy one

Is seems that our classes are getting more and more popular.  I am not sure whether it is because technology is changing so fast or just because the more people want to learn and take control of their technology purchases.  Either way, our attendance has double since last year.

Today we are discussing "Backup and Recovery", transferring data to a new computer and Anti-virus.  Many people in the class had recently purchased new Windows 8 based machines and almost in every case they were sold an Anti-virus program like Web Root even though the manufacturer of the laptop had added Norton or McAfee to their standard bloatware.  None of these are necessary - when you purchase Windows 8 with or without a computer you have already
a great Anti-virus included in the price.  It comes with Windows and is call Windows Defender.  Much of our time after the class was spent removing the Anti-virus that was installed on the system and letting Windows Defender take over.

iPad Class

Today's iPad class was a lot of fun.  We had about 40 people show up and spend an hour learning how to use their iPad.  We started with the very basics and ended the session with a demo of Siri.  I had done one class previously but started with the assumption that when someone owned the iPad they already knew how to use it.  I later found out that that was not so.

Starting with the very basics - A hardware tour, some basic setting, how to organize the iPad apps, and setting up Email was very popular.  Even those who had used their iPad for a couple of years admitted to learning a lot.  Most of the 40 people had never used Siri and didn't even know it was on their iPad.

At the end of the hour, when asked if they learned any new things and if it was worth the time they spent - EVERYONE raised their hands.  That is why I love doing this.  Thank you all.