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“Maximizing Your Health and Fitness with the Help of Basics-n-Beyond and Apple Devices”

Fitness and Health
At Basics-n-Beyond, we understand the importance of incorporating technology into your daily routine to improve your health and fitness. That's why we're excited to talk about how Apple devices, combined with our expertise, can help you reach your health and fitness goals. In this post, we'll explore some of the ways that Apple users can use AI technology to maximize their health and fitness. Health and Fitness Tracking with the Apple Watch The Apple Watch is one of the most powerful tools for tracking your health and fitness, and at Basics-n-Beyond, we can help you get the most out of this device. The Apple Watch features a range of sensors and features specifically designed for tracking your health and fitness, including:
  1. Activity tracking: The Apple Watch uses AI technology to track your daily activity levels, including steps taken, calories burned, and minutes of exercise.
  2. Heart rate monitoring: The Apple Watch also uses AI technology to monitor your heart rate, providing valuable insights into your cardiovascular health.
  3. Sleep tracking: With the Apple Watch, you can track your sleep patterns and use AI technology to make recommendations for improving your sleep habits.
  4. Workout tracking: Whether you're running, cycling, or doing another form of exercise, the Apple Watch uses AI technology to track your progress and provide personalized recommendations for improving your workout performance.
Integrating Your Health and Fitness Data with Basics-n-Beyond At Basics-n-Beyond, we're here to help you make the most of your Apple devices and your health and fitness data. That's why we offer a range of services, including:
  1. Connecting your Apple Watch to the Health app: The Health app provides a centralized location for storing and analyzing your health and fitness data. By connecting your Apple Watch to the Health app with the help of Basics-n-Beyond, you can see a comprehensive view of your activity levels, heart rate, and other important health metrics.
  2. Using third-party health and fitness apps: There are many third-party health and fitness apps that are compatible with the Apple Watch and Health app, and we can help you find the ones that work best for you.
  3. Sharing your data with your doctor: With the Health app, you can share your health and fitness data with your doctor, making it easier for them to monitor your progress and provide personalized recommendations. At Basics-n-Beyond, we can help you set up this feature and ensure that your data is being shared securely.
Conclusion At Basics-n-Beyond, we believe that AI technology has the potential to revolutionize the way we approach our health and fitness, and Apple devices are at the forefront of this revolution. Whether you're an avid fitness enthusiast or simply looking for ways to improve your overall health, we're here to help you take advantage of AI technology to maximize your health and fitness. With the Apple Watch, Health app, and third-party health and fitness apps, you have all the tools you need to track your progress and make meaningful improvements to your physical well-being. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you achieve your health and fitness goals.
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How to Troubleshoot Your Macintosh Computer

January 20, 2023 By. Chris Ridzon

PLEASE NOTE: WE STRONGLY SUGGEST TO ALWAYS MAKE SURE YOUR COMPUTER IS BACKED UP WITH TIME MACHINE BEFORE TRYING ANY OF THESE STEPS.

As a Mac user, you may encounter technical issues from time to time. These issues can range from simple glitches to more complex problems that can impede your productivity. But don't worry, most common Mac problems can be easily resolved with a few simple troubleshooting steps.

  1. Restart your Mac: The first step in troubleshooting any issue with your Mac is to restart it. A simple restart can often resolve problems caused by software bugs or conflicts.
  2. Check for updates: Make sure your Mac's operating system and any installed applications are up to date. Many issues can be resolved by installing the latest updates.
  3. Check your storage: Make sure you have enough free space on your hard drive. A full hard drive can cause performance issues and prevent your Mac from running smoothly.
  4. Check your network connection: Make sure your Mac is connected to the internet. If your Mac is not connected, try resetting your router or modem.
  5. Check your peripherals: If you're experiencing issues with a specific peripheral, such as a printer or external hard drive, disconnect it and see if the problem persists.
  6. Try Safe Mode: If your Mac is not starting up properly, try starting it in Safe Mode. This will help you determine if a specific app or setting is causing the problem. (For directions on starting in Safe Mode follow the link); https://support.apple.com/guide/mac-help/start-up-your-mac-in-safe-mode-mh21245/mac
  7. Use Activity Monitor: If your Mac is running slowly, use the Activity Monitor to identify which apps or processes are consuming the most resources.
  8. Run Disk Utility: If you're experiencing issues with your Mac's hard drive, use Disk Utility to check and repair any errors. ALWAYS MAKE SURE COMPUTER IS BACKED UP BEFORE RUNNING DISK UTILITY or you could lose your data.
  9. Use Time Machine Backup: If your Mac is unable to start up properly, use Time Machine to restore your system to a previous state.
  10. Keeping your Mac updated and maintaining regular backups can also help prevent issues from arising.
  11. Reach out for help: If none of the above step’s work, contact Basics-n-Beyond for all your Apple support, repair, and training needs.

It's important to note that these steps may not resolve all issues, and it's best to consult an Apple Authorized Service Provider such as Basics-n-Beyond for further assistance if needed. Our shop is located Upstairs at The Forum Shopping Center in Carlsbad, California in Suite 200C. Feel free to walk or schedule an appointment anytime during business hours, 9AM to 6PM Monday through Friday.

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Deactivating Find My iPhone

Deactivating Find My iPhone by Chris Ridzon As technology continues to become more mainstream in our lives, so does the frustration of a device not working properly. Servicing your device can be a daunting experience, it is best to be prepared before dropping off your iPhone/Mac for service. Here are a few helpful steps that will better expedite the process. Prepare Your Device 1. Have your Apple ID and Password ready 2. Backup your device 3. Update iOS Turn off Find my iPhone 1. Open settings 2. Tap your name at the top 3. Tap "Find My" 4. Tap "Find My iPhone" 5. Tap the "Find My iPhone" switch to turn it off 6. Enter Apple ID password and select "Turn Off" Backup Your Device 1. Open settings 2. Tap your name at the top 3. Tap iCloud 4. Scroll down and tap "iCloud Backup" 5. Tap "Back Up Now" and wait for your device to complete a backup Update iOS 1. Open settings 2. Open"General" 3. Tap "Software Updates" 4. If an update is available, tap update and install Watch the video below for a detailed tutorial on all items listed above.
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IT Concierge

IT CONCIERGE – Technical Support Without Leaving Your Home or Office

IT CONCIERGE - Technical Support Without Leaving Your home or Office By Chris Ridzon 12 March 2020 On Wednesday, the World Health Organization declared the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak a pandemic. The agency reports that there are currently over 118,000 cases with more than 4000 deaths. Because of this the CDC has responded by instituting travel restrictions, limiting large gatherings, and asking people to work from home or to stay indoors as much as possible. In an effort to better support our community and in the event of a full outbreak of COVID-19, Basics-n-Beyond has developed a new groundbreaking program. This service will give you the ability to get personalized Apple IT support without leaving your home or office. We call this service IT Concierge. No longer will you need an appointment to talk directly to a Certified Apple Technician. No more will you have to visit a crowed shopping center to get help from an Apple store. IT Concierge will provide users with the tools needed to keep you up and running. This program is designed with remote support at its core. Remote support means you won’t have to come into our office if you need help. You’ll gain access to our Apple certified technicians who will work with you to resolve issues over the phone using a screen sharing application. Get help with general questions, technical troubleshooting, or training from the comfort and safety of your own home or office. What if you need a hardware repair? We’ve got you covered! Membership includes access to our mail-in repair services. Send us your device, we’ll fix it, and get it sent back to as soon as possible. This also includes all AppleCare Warranty repairs. As a Premium Apple Authorized Service Provider all Basics-n-Beyond repairs are performed and completed under Apple standard specifications. Call our office today to speak to a member of our staff about signing up for IT Concierge.
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Faraday-Sword-and-Shield

Helping to Keep the Earth Green – Basics-n-Beyond Teams up with Local Artists and Certified Green Recycling Centers.

Helping to Keep the Earth Green – Basics-n-Beyond Teams up with Local Artists and Certified Green Recycling Centers. February 11, 2020 By Chris Ridzon Some frequently asked questions at Basics-n-Beyond (http://www.basicsnbeyond.com) are: What can I do with my old computer? and Can it be recycled?  The answer is yes, and we can help you with that. Since the company first opened its doors in 2009, I have continued to foster my vision for a greener earth through recycling. By partnering with several local organizations, we have achieved a system that benefits not only the earth, but local residents as well. Working with local artists like Tracy Black, The San Diego Makers Guild and government funded groups like Solana Center in Encinitas, Basics-n-Beyond has created a one hundred percent green e-waste recycling program. So, what does this mean for you? For those who have an interest in protecting and preserving the environment, you now have a convenient and safe place to recycle your old Apple devices, at no cost to you. Basics-n-Beyond has a dedicated process to ensure your device is handled in the most responsible way possible. It starts with securely erasing all of your personal data. Once your data has been deleted, our Apple Certified technicians will begin the breakdown of your device, separating reusable components from those that will go further down the recycling path. Repurposing components is another way to further reduce the environmental impact electronic components have on the planet and will provide customers with a low-cost alternative for repairing other devices. What happens to components that are not reusable?  These components are donated to local artists and makers guilds to be upcycled. Upcycling gives leftover components new life, allowing them to be used in new and creative ways. Local artist Tracy Black is just one of the many people we work with. Tracy uses these upcycled components along with other materials to create whimsical three-dimensional art that would tug on the heart strings of any science fiction or fantasy fanatic. Her exhibition, Space & Surface: An Exploration in Art, was recently on display at La Playa Gallery (La Jolla, CA), under the curatorship of Erica Putis and at the internationally acclaimed Corpo Gallery at Bergamot Station Arts Complex (Santa Monica, CA), curated by Monte Beauchamp. Tracy’s earliest piece, “Mac the Knight,” can currently be viewed at the Basics-n-Beyond offices Upstairs at the Forum in Carlsbad. We are also delighted to announce Basics-n-Beyond will be hosting a limited viewing of her newest piece, “Halo Energy Sword,” beginning on March 27th, 2020. We encourage you to stop by the shop and view both of these fantastic pieces while they are still on display. (http://www.theforumcarlsbad.com) Tracy’s artwork can be seen by clicking on the links below: https://misstracyblack.wixsite.com/mstblack/mstblack https://www.laplaygallery.com/exhibitions.html http://www.coproason.com What happens to the parts that are not reusable or upcycled? Basics-n-Beyond partners with Solana Center in Encinitas, California (https://www.solanacenter.org). Known statewide for environmental innovation, this non-profit organization focuses on Zero Waste and food recovery programs, composting, water conservation, and e-waste recycling. Founded as Solana Recyclers in 1983, Solana Center pioneered the first comprehensive curbside recycling program in San Diego, one of the first such programs in the state of California. Together with their partners, they work creatively to promote the sustainable management of our natural resources and connect the community to real solutions. We also partner with the San Diego Makers Guild where ingenious local minds create anything from robots to lightsabers completing the full circle of reusable e-waste. (http://www.sdmakersguild.org) In summary…  At Basics-n-Beyond we are passionate about solving common public problems. We are committed to the environment and are collaborating with local community members and companies to support a green earth, providing real solutions for consumer recycling. Please stop by our office any time between the hours of 9am and 6pm, Monday through Friday. No appointment is required. As always, we look forward to helping you with all of your technology and recycling needs.
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Don’t update to macOS Catalina without reading this first

Don’t update to macOS Catalina without reading this first By Chris Ridzon . January 17, 2020   Have you been itching to update your Mac’s operating system to Catalina? Before clicking the upgrade button, you may want to read this article to avoid a possible nightmare situation. The new Mac operating system makes some serious changes, which means that at least a handful of apps on your Mac will no longer work. If you’re a long-time Mac user who has not upgraded your software in a while, the Catalina update could bring you to tears. This is particularly true for some creatives, including DJs, writers, graphic designers, video editors, architects and photographers if they immediately upgrade without talking to a Basics-n-Beyond certified tech first. Adobe, makers of Photoshop, Illustrator, Premiere and Lightroom, are telling users to hold off on updating to macOS Catalina until it can iron out a number of compatibility issues. Music DJ’s will lose iTunes capabilities. They also lose XML file support used to sort tracks into playlists. Third-party DJ apps. like Traktor and Rekordobx that use the XML format, will be obsolete with Catalina. The biggest change in Catalina is that all your 32-bit apps will no longer work. This has been coming for a while. Way back in High Sierra, Apple started warning us that certain apps were no longer compatible and would stop working in future. That future arrived with the macOS Catalina update. Apple began transitioning to 64-bit hardware and software technology for Mac over a decade ago, and all modern Macs now include powerful 64-bit processors that can run advanced 64-bit apps. These apps can access dramatically more memory, enable faster system performance, and take advantage of technologies that define today's Mac experience. Apple has been working with developers to transition their apps, and in 2018 Apple informed them that macOS Mojave would be the last version of macOS to run 32-bit apps. Unfortunately, some application makers have lagged behind or have decided to use this transition period to force people to buy upgraded software. A good example of this would be Microsoft Office 2011 which is a 32-bit application. If you upgrade to macOS Catalina your Office 2011 software will no longer work and you will be forced to purchase Office 365 if you expect to use Word, Excel or PowerPoint. With all this being said, with the right precautions and a Basics-n-Beyond Apple certified tech supporting you, macOS Catalina could be an exciting upgrade. However, be forewarned do your research first and always have a current Time Machine backup before clicking that update button. As always, if you are at all apprehensive about upgrading, we suggest that you stop by our shop anytime Monday through Friday between 9am and 6pm to speak to a Basics-n-Beyond tech before doing anything. We are always happy to help you achieve greatness.
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Transitioning to the Cloud

Transitioning to the Cloud

November 6, 2019 By Chris Ridzon / Basics-n-Beyond Are you considering moving your company to the cloud? There are a lot of perks. First, it allows your company to more easily scale up and down based on system needs. When you host software on site, you have to invest wholly in the server required, whether or not you’re utilizing that server fully. If the software is in the cloud, on the other hand, you only have to pay for what you use. Second, you have access, anytime, anywhere you choose to be, which opens up tremendous opportunities for remote work and greater efficiency. Finally, consider security.   Data loss is not a matter of if, it’s a matter of when – and, unfortunately, it happens to every company, big or small. More than half of businesses locate their disaster/backup systems in the same physical location as their primary system – red alert! If you only have one copy of your system’s backup at your office, and your hardware fails or a breach occurs, then a backup is completely useless. In a bit of irony, it turns out that the safest place to be during a storm (whether literal or figurative) is “in the cloud.”   So, let’s say you’ve finally agreed that it’s time to move to the cloud – where do you start?   Here are some recommendations that can help you though the process:  
  • First off, moving to the cloud doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing process. Companies that weren’t “born in the cloud,” meaning any company more than a couple years old, need a plan for transitioning to the cloud. Establish the plan, let your data trickle into the cloud and take your time. No need to jump in headfirst. It is perfectly fine to keep your business operating in a hybrid cloud environment (some items on site, some in the cloud) for as long as you need, perhaps indefinitely.
 
  • Make sure you know your data. Truly understand what is going on before you begin to move your data and applications. Say you’re going to sell your house; you first need to clean and organize your belongings before putting them all away in storage. Same exact concept when it comes to transitioning to the cloud: clean and organize before you store. You may find that while a software works in the cloud, but it experiences extensive lag and downtime. Knowing this before you make a move will significantly reduce frustration.
 
  • Know your options. Public cloud, private cloud or hybrid cloud? Refer to our previous blog, To Cloud, or Not to Cloud, to learn the difference between these types of clouds. How much storage, bandwidth, and support do you want to pay for? Make sure you tailor your cloud service to best fit your company’s needs. What works for someone else might not work for you and vice versa.
 
  • Do your research. Here’s the reality: we have heard and experienced the effects of far too many subpar cloud solution horror stories. Companies that were put up on a half-built cloud solution eventually had to return to their on-premise solutions. With unreliable cloud partners, comes hidden costs such as unexpected fees for the overuse. Choose a reliable provider.
 
  • Define key roles. Who will have access? Who can add, delete, or modify data? What responsibilities belong to who and how will this change with the cloud? It is crucial to know your staff’s access limitations.
 
  • Add encryption. Most cloud service providers offer encryption features such as service-side encryption to manage your encryption keys. Who controls and has access to these encryption keys? What data is being is being encrypted and when? Ultimately, you decide how safe your solution is.
  While the road ahead may be tough, with these tips in mind, you can begin moving your business processes to the cloud safely and efficiently with the support of the Basics-n-Beyond team. Please contact us anytime Monday through Friday between 9AM and 6PM for any questions.
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WHAT IS A PHISHING SCAM?

WHAT IS A PHISHING SCAM? By; Basics-n-Beyond LLC. August 28, 2019 Phishing is similar to traditional fishing with a hook and pole, but instead of trying to catch fish, phishers are attempting to steal your personal information. Hackers will send out e-mails that appear to come from legitimate websites such as Facebook, Google, PayPal, or other banking institutions. A phishing e-mail scam will often look very official and state that your information needs to be updated or validated in some way. The email will then ask that you enter your username and password. Some scams will even ask that you enter even more information, such as your full name, address, phone number, social security number, and credit card number. However, what you must keep in mind, even if you just enter your username and password, the hacker may still be able to gain access to more information by just logging in to your account. Phishing is a con game that scammers use to collect personal information from unsuspecting users. The false e-mails often look surprisingly legitimate, and even the Web pages where you are asked to enter your information may look real. However, the URL in the address field can tell you if the page you have been directed to is valid or not. For example, if you are visiting a Web page on eBay, the last part of the Domain Name should end with "ebay.com." Therefore, "http://www.ebay.com" and "http://cgi3.ebay.com" are valid Web addresses, but "http://www.ebay.validate-info.com" and "http://ebay.login123.com" are false addresses, which may be used by phishers. If the URL contains an IP address, such as 12.30.229.107, instead of a domain name, you can almost be sure someone is trying to phish for your personal information. Sometimes the hacker will use a personal IP address as the redirect page, linking you directly to their computer or network. If you receive an e-mail that asks that you update your information and you think it might be valid, go to the website by typing the URL in your browser's address field instead of clicking the link in the e-mail. For example, go to "https://www.paypal.com" instead of clicking the link in an e-mail that appears to come from PayPal. If you are prompted to update your information after you have manually typed in the Web address and logged in, then the e-mail was probably legitimate. However, if you are not asked to update any information, then the e-mail was most likely a spoof sent by a hacker. Most legitimate e-mails will address you by your full name at the beginning of the message. If there is any doubt that the e-mail is legitimate, be smart and don't enter your information. Even if you believe the message is valid, following the guidelines above will prevent you from giving phishers your personal information. In conclusion; Phishing is a form of social engineering used to collect personal information from the intended victim. Phishing campaigns have existed for quite a while and continue to increase in attempts and sophistication. It is important to stay aware of the phishing trends and to keep your computer and internet browsers up to date with current antivirus and security patches. These methods may not keep you one hundred percent safe, but are the best way to try. One thing to keep in mind, “a little knowledge goes a long way”, to keep yourself safe take a minute or two and give Basics-n-Beyond a call or stop by our shop anytime Monday through Friday between 9AM and 6PM to learn more about your computer environment. Below are two good examples of what a phishing email scam might look like.
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WHAT IS DARK MODE?

What is Dark Mode?

Have you ever stared at a computer monitor for over an hour? Do you get headaches from the bright light of the computer monitor? Do your eyes get tired when viewing the computer? Try dark mode it might just be the option you have been looking for... What is dark mode? It is a software option built in to the master code that makes the user interface darker. It reverses white light backgrounds in to a darker color and changes text from dark to light. The result is a dark interface that makes it easier on the users eyes. Dark mode, also sometimes referred to as "night mode", this mode has been popular with code developers for many years. Because developers are required to stare at a computer monitor several hours a day, the dark background produces less eye strain. Recently, dark mode has become a very popular option for consumer users after it became a standard option for both macOS and Windows. In September, 2018, Apple was the first to build in the dark mode option standard with their macOS 10.14 (Mojave) release. Windows immediately followed the trend by releasing the same option on September, 2018 in Windows 10. There is no standard dark mode palette, so each developer can choose how to implement it. Some dark modes have dark grey themes, while others are almost black. Other versions have different hues, such as slate or dark blue. The option to switch to dark mode is typically located in the "System Preferences" or "General Preferences" section of a users settings. At times you can also find the option on individual websites. How to Initiate Dark Mode in macOS 10.14 (Mojave):
  1. Click on the black Apple ( ) in the top left corner of your desktop window
  2. In the dropdown window select (System Preferences)
  3. Click on the (General) icon
  4. At the top of the window see Appearance and select (Light or Dark) option

Sourced: Christensson, P. (2019, May 31). Dark Mode Definition. Retrieved 2019, Jun 24, from https://techterms.com

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Topic: Cyber Security – Subject: Strong Passwords

Topic: Cyber Security - Subject: Strong Passwords Written by; Chris Ridzon - CEO Basics-n-Beyond LLC. Have you ever struggled with passwords? If so you are not alone! In the age of smartphone’s, smart homes and computers, our everyday life can become inundated with passwords. To the common user, a new password means frustration or complacency. Did you know 8 out of 10 passwords created by a consumer have something to do with a family member’s name or birthday, a home address or a pets name? Not only that but 9 out of 10 people use the SAME password for everything! This makes it very easy for someone to hack your passwords gaining access to your most sensitive data.  Below I have put together and quick support guide to help you create a secure password that you can feel good about. 4 Tips to Build a Strong Password Culture Use a phrase: · Around 12 letters long · Something simple to remember, but hard to crack · Can integrate things you like or do to make it more memorable · Give an example Keep each account unique: · Never use the same password more than once · Give an example (the idea here is to build on your previous example as you progress through each tip). Play with spellings: · Use homonyms . Two or the number “2” instead of To . Ant instead of Aunt · Build on your previous example Random capitalizations and numbers: · Use numbers and capitalizations but keep it memorable . If you go overboard, your password will be impossible to remember · Idea: Can use a capital letter on the second word of every password · Idea: Can use the same number behind the first word of every password · Build on your previous example. Download a password manager:
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