From the Mailbag

MICHAEL AND EVETTE have a laptop that is badly infested with malware. What is the best software to clean it up?

Sorry guys but I stopped doing cleanings thirteen years ago. As far as I am concerned, the only way to be 100% certain that you have removed all traces of the malware is as follows:

• Back up all of your data - e.g. documents, music, pictures, videos.

• Format the hard drive.

• Reinstall Windows from a known good source.

Yes, it is a pain but it is the only way to go. It is too bad you guys are all the way out in Nevada. I would come to your home and take care of this for you. Good luck!

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PAOLA has several large files that she needs to send to multiple family members. She tried attaching them to email but ran into problems doing that. What do I recommend?

All you have to do is set up an account with one of the free Cloud storage services like Dropbox, Google Drive, iCloud, or OneDrive. Upload the files to The Cloud and then send everyone a link instead of an attachment. This is an exception to my rule about not clicking links in email, since everyone will be expecting to receive the link from you and will know that it is legitimate.

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ALBERTO needs a new all-in-one printer and wants to know what brand he should buy?

I like Brother and Epson. What about inkjet versus laser? A laser printer is a better choice if you do not print very often. However, if you intend to be printing a lot and/or need color, then an inkjet is a better choice. If you really need to print a whole lot then take a look at the Epson EcoTank printers.

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Keep the questions coming!

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