Computer Tips Archives - Page 33 of 232

Q&A: Can I retrieve a forgotten password from my web browser?

Posted on March 11, 2025

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Question from Eddie: Hi Rick. I hope you can help me with an odd situation I’m in.

I opened an online account several years ago (I’d rather not say which company) and I let Firefox store the password.

Ever since then I’ve always logged into that account using the stored password.

I’m getting ready to buy a new computer so I won’t be able to use the stored password to log into that site anymore.

The problem is I have forgotten the password. I’ve tried resetting it but it asks for my email address and none of the ones I can think of trying will work.

I know the password is still stored in Firefox because it comes up (covered with asterisks) and I can log in with it. Is there any way to retrieve that password from the browser?

Rick’s answer: [Read more…]

Why you should ignore messages warning that your PC has outdated drivers

Posted on March 8, 2025

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Several people have messaged me recently asking about “driver update notices” that are popping up on their computers.

These messages are usually presented in pop-up windows or messages in the notifications area at the bottom-right corner of the screen.

Regardless of how these messages show up, many of them are outright scams, and the ones that are legitimate are recommending a piece of software that you don’t need.

[Read more…]

8 tips for searching Google like a pro

Posted on March 6, 2025

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These days you can find virtually anything you’re looking for with a Google search.

But as you’ve probably noticed, the search results pages can sometimes be confusing and cluttered with results that have little or nothing to do with the topic you’re interested in.

But by using a few tricks you can eliminate many of the distracting non-relevant listings and find the info you need in a jiffy.

With that in mind, here are eight tips for searching Google like a pro: [Read more…]

5 tips for keeping your web browser running fast and secure

Posted on March 5, 2025

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These days most home computers are used primarily to visit websites and perform other Internet-related tasks such as checking email and shopping online.

Truth be told, a web browser is the only program that many users ever open in the Internet age.

If you depend on your favorite browser as much as I do, here are a few things you can do to keep it working fast and protect your online accounts from hackers: [Read more…]

How to send postal mail right from your computer or mobile device

Posted on March 3, 2025

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The other day I read an interesting story about a local charity that uses an Internet service called LetterStream to produce and send fund-raising letters and postcards to their mailing list via postal mail.

They also use the same website to mail physical “Thank You” postcards to everyone who makes a donation.

In my opinion that’s a lot more personal (and effective) than thanking the donors via email. [Read more…]