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How do I clear out my web browsers history, cookies, and cache?

1663 views   |   0   0   |   Last updated on Feb 24, 2016    Cookies and Cache

Chrome (Version 23 and Newer)

  • From the menu bar, click the three horizontal lines icon, click More Tools, and choose Clear browsing data.
  • Choose the beginning of time in the drop down menu beside "Obliterate the following items from:"
  • Check the boxes for Empty the cacheDelete cookies, and other site and plugin data.
  • Choose Clear Browsing Data.
  • Close and reopen Chrome. 

 

Internet Explorer 8

  • From the menu bar, click on Safety, and select Delete Browsing History.
  • Check the Temporary Internet filesCookies, and History boxes, and click Delete.
  • Close and reopen Internet Explorer.

 

Internet Explorer 9 and higher

  • From the menu bar on the right side, click on the Gear icon, choose Internet Options.
  • Click Delete..., check the Temporary Internet filesCookies, and History boxes, and click Delete.
  • Lastly, close and reopen Internet Explorer.
  • Shortcut (ctrl+shift+del)

 

Firefox (12.0 and higher):

  • From the menu bar at the top left, click Firefox, select History, and choose Clear Recent History. (ctrl + shift + del)
  • From the Time Range drop-down menu, choose Everything. For the Details, check CacheCookies, and Active Logins. Then select Clear Now.
  • Close and reopen Firefox.

 

Safari (Version 5.1 to 5.10):

  • From the menu bar, click on Safari, and select Empty Cache. Once the box comes up, click Empty.
  • If you tried the above steps and are still having issues, click on Safari, and choose Reset Safari.
    • Check only Remove all website data.
    • Click Reset.
    •  

Safari (Version 6.0 or Higher)

  • From the menu bar, click Safari, and choose Reset Safari.
  • Check only Remove all website data.
  • Click Reset.
  •  

Safari (some newer versions)

  • From the menu bar, click on Safari, and choose Preferences.
  • On the Privacy tab, select Remove All Website Data
  • Click Remove Now.

 


Additional troubleshooting steps


Try a different browser

With many issues, it is prudent to try the same service or system in a different web browser. The Bethel University IT Help Desk recommends downloading the free web browser Mozilla Firefox

Flush DNS

When websites are updated, or servers change, you may need to clear the DNS cache to refresh the information for the computer to access those sites again properly.

Windows

  • Open command prompt.
  • Type the command: ipconfig /flushdns
  • Restart the computer.

Mac OS X v10.6

  • Open terminal
  • Type the command: sudo dscacheutil -flushcache
  • Press enter and restart the computer

Mac OS X Mountain Lion, Mavericks, and Yosemite

  • Open terminal
  • Type the command: sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder
  • Press enter and restart the computer
 
 
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How do I temporarily remove or disable programs that automatically start when my computer is rebooted?

1439 views   |   0   0   |   Last updated on Feb 29, 2016    Settings

Temporarily remove or disable Terminate-and-Stay-Resident (TSR) programs that automatically start when the computer is rebooted.

  • To temporarily remove TSR from memory and currently running programs in Windows 7: press Ctrl+Alt+Del, click the Task Manager option, select the program that you want to end, and click End Task*It is recommended that you only end programs that you  know.​​
  • To temporarily remove TSR from memory and currently running programs in Windows 8: press Ctrl+Alt+Del, then click the Task Manager option or press Ctrl+Shift+Esc to open the Task Manager directly. Click the Processes tab, select the program that you want to end, and click the End Task button.

Keep in mind that some of the programs may not be removed on the first attempt, continue to the next program. When you are attempting to end a programs task, you may see a message the says "This program is not responding", click End task. Pressing Ctrl+Alt+Del twice in a row, will reboot your computer. All of the items that are removing will come back when your computer is rebooted unless you permanently remove them. 

Disabling TSRs from Loading Automatically after a Reboot

It can be a hassle to end an application from running every time you use your computer because it is slow. If you decide that you don't want the program to run unless you need to use it, you may want to disable it from the starting automatically after a reboot. 

Windows 8 or 10 users: 

  • Press Ctrl+Alt+Del and click Task Manager option or press Ctrl+Shift+Esc to open the Task Manager directly.
  • Click the Startup tab
  • Select the program you want to stop loading automatically at startup, and click Disable.

Windows 7 users: 

  • Click Start
  • Click Programs
  • Click Startup
  • Right-click and delete the file which you do not want to start automatically.
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What is Adware or Spyware? How do can I protect myself from Adware or Spyware?

1369 views   |   0   0   |   Last updated on Feb 29, 2016    Adware Spyware

Adware and spyware are software programs designed to gather information about you and your internet browsing habits for marketing purposes. These programs gather information by means of  advertisements and embedded applications. Often these programs are installed automatically  because they are bundled in with other software and are sometimes difficult to uninstall traditionally. Adware is designed to feed advertising by means of pop-up ads and/or toolbar installations, these toolbars will often redirect your searches to unintended sites.  Spyware monitors your computer and internet use, some of the effects include "keyloggers" that can capture of your keystrokes, credit card numbers, passwords, and sensitive information. 

The best way to prevent your privacy and the effects of adware and spyware is to:

  • Read the fine print when downloading and installing software programs.
  • Do not click unfamiliar links in pop-up windows, the best way to close a pop-up window is to right click on it in the taskbar and select Close or select active window and use Alt + F4 on the keyboard.
  • Use caution when installing free software of Freeware, read the fine print as these programs utilize spyware and adware to fund their software projects.
  • Keep your Windows software updated. Microsoft publishes updates every time they discovers a flaws in their operating system which viruses and spyware find vulnerabilities to penetrate. 
  • Keep your Anti-virus software up to date.
  • Ensure that you are utilizing a good software firewall, this blocks attacks on your computer at a remote location and prevents the computer and its network location from being hijacked.

For assistance call or email the IT Help Desk:

(731) 352-4040 option 2    cpshelpdesk@bethelu.edu 

 

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How do I configure Windows updates?

1369 views   |   0   0   |   Last updated on Feb 23, 2016    Windows Updates

For security reasons, it is important to download and install Window updates as they become available. By keeping your Windows software up to date, you are ensuring that your privacy and sensitive personal information is protected. Below are the directions on how to bring your computer up to date both manually and automatically.

Manually configure Windows updates for Windows 7 and Windows Vista

  • Login to your computer as the Administrator or a user that has administrator permissions.
  • Click Start, the select All Programs, and then select Windows Updates
  • Click Check for updates

After Windows checks for updates, if any are available, you will have the option to install them. This process can take some time, be patient. 

  • Click install updates, your computer will most likely require a restart after the updates have finished install. 

Manually configure Windows updates for Windows 8

  • Open the Charm Bar, press the Windows Key + C
  • Click Settings
  • Click Control Panel
  • Click System and Security
  • Click Windows Update
  • Click Check for Updates
  • Click install updates, your computer will most likely require a restart after the updates have finished install. 

Turn on the Windows Automatic Updates feature for Windows 7 and Windows Vista

  • Login to your computer as the Administrator or a user that has administrator permissions.
  • Click Start, the select All Programs, and then select Windows Updates
  • Select the radio button for Install updates Automatically 

Turn on the Windows Automatic Updates feature for Windows 8

  • Open the Charm Bar, press the Windows Key + C
  • Click Settings
  • Click Control Panel
  • Click System and Security
  • Click Windows Update
  • Click Change Settings in left column
  • From the drop down menu, select Install updates automatically (recommended)

 

Keep in mind that you can set the automatic times for the updates to download for anytime, day or evening.

It is recommended that you set this automatic download time for a time when you are not using the computer to avoid a downtime or a slowing down of your computers performance. 

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What is a strong password?

1352 views   |   0   0   |   Last updated on Feb 29, 2016    Password

A strong password includes the use of letters (upper and lower case), numbers, and special characters. A strong password generally has a minimum of 12-14 characters in length.

Here are some general guidelines pertaining the the creation of a strong password:

  • Has a minimum length of 12 characters
  • Includes the use of numbers, special characters, capitol letters, and lower case letter.
  • Isn't a word in the dictionary or a combination of dictionary words
  • Doesn't include common substitutions -for example, "Learn1ng" in'st strong simply because a 1 was used instead of i. 

You can mix it up and create strong passwords -for example, "LiquidLearning!123" fits most of the above requirements. It is 18 characters long and includes upper and lower case letters, a symbol, and some numbers. But it is however fairly obvious because of the words in the phrase are found in the dictionary, the letters a capitalized in the traditional way, there is only one symbol, all the numbers are on the end and in order. 

A GREAT TRICK

A great way to create memorable passwords which are strong is to think of a phrase.

For example- My favorite teacher from the 5th grade was Mrs. Rambo

This phrase creates the password- Mftft5gwMrs.R!!  

Use the first letter of each word to generate your strong password, don't forget to include special characters! 

Another example- Bethel University was founded in 1842 in McLemoresville, Tennessee

*BUwfi1842iM,T

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Where do I find the user manual for my Chromebook?

1334 views   |   0   0   |   Last updated on Feb 26, 2016    Chromebook User Manual

You can locate the user manual for your Chromebook directly at or by clicking here.
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How do I backup my files and information from my laptop?

1313 views   |   0   0   |   Last updated on Feb 29, 2016    Backup Files

There are various reasons to backup your files from a personal computer. Files can be lost due to viruses, hard drive issues, accidental deletion, and from theft of our equipment. It is essential to keep regular backups to ensure that you do not lose any files which are important to you. There are a many options available to you when backing up your files, ranging from external hardware storage to online storage options. A couple of these options are listed below. 

Google Drive

  • Free storage space is limited to 30 GB
  • More storage can be purchased if needed
  • Documents, images, audio, and video files are supported
  • More information can related to Google Drive can be found here.

Uploading file to Google Drive

You can "drag and drop" files directly into you Google Drive or you can use the file uploader. When using the file uploader, you upload files individually or entire folders. If you want to upload a folder, you will need to ensure that you have the latest version of Chrome

  • Go to your Google Drive.
  • On the left side, click New.
  • Choose either File upload or Folder upload.
  • Select the file you want to upload.
  • Click Open.

*You can choose multiple files by pressing Ctl and clicking on them. You can also drag files and folders directly into your Google Drive.

External Hard Drives and USB Flash Drives

  • Storage space varies depending on external hard drive capacity 
  • All files are supported

Creating a backup of your files to an external hard drive or USB Flash Drive using Windows 7

  • Close all programs and files.
  • Click the Start menu.
  • Click Computer.
  • Double-click on C:
  • Double-click the Users folder.
  • Locate the user folder which contains the file you want to backup, right-click, and select Copy.
  • Close the window.
  • Make sure the external hard drive is plugged in. Note: Close the AutoPlay window if it appears.
  • Click Start menu.
  • Click Computer.
  • Locate and right-click on your external hard drive.
  • Click Paste.
  •  Depending on the amount of data, this may take several minutes.

Creating a backup of your files to an external hard drive or USB Flash Drive using Windows 8

  • Close all programs and files.
  • Click the Start menu.
  • Click Your Name.
  • Hold down the Ctrl key while clicking each folder and file you want to copy.
  • Right-click and select Copy.
  • Close the window.
  • Plug in your external hard drive. 
  • After a few seconds, your external hard drive window should appear (most likely drive D:)
  • If the window does not automatically appear, follow these steps:
    • Click Start menu.
    • Click Computer.
    • Locate and double-click on your external hard drive (most likely drive D:)
  • Right-click in the external hard drive window and select Paste.
  • A small dialog box will appear displaying time remaining. Depending on the amount of data, it may take several minutes.
  • Be sure you backup file located in other places like your desktop as well. 

Ensure that your backup was successful

It is very important to make sure that yr files were successfully backed up. You can verify the backup copied your files to the external hard drive or USB flash drive by the following steps:

  • Click the Start menu.
  • Click My Computer.
  • Double click the external hard drive or USB flash drive.
  • Click through your folders in ensure that your files are all there. 

Restore your backup 

If you have had to restore your Windows software, you will want to restore the files from your backup. This is a fairly simple process with just a few short steps. 

  • Close all programs and files.
  • Click the Start menu.
  • Click Computer.
  • Locate and right-click on your external hard drive or USB flash drive.
  • Right click on your user folder and click Copy
  • Close the window.
  • Click the Start menu.
  • Click Computer.
  • Double-click on C:
  • Double-click the Users folder.
  • Locate the user folder which contains the file you want to restore your files to.
  • Click Paste.
  •  Depending on the amount of data, this may take several minutes

 

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How I do I put my laptop in Hibernation mode?

1277 views   |   0   0   |   Last updated on Feb 29, 2016    Hibernate Sleep

To keep your computers sensitive information safe from others while your computer is left unattended and to save the power of your battery it is best to put it in Hibernation mode.  

 

You can also put the computer to sleep by using the Start Menu.

  • Click on Start
  • Click the small arrow next to shut down
  • From the pop out menu, click Hibernate

Another option that can be used to lock your computer is to use CRT+ALT+Delete

  • Press CRT+ALT+Delete
  • Click Hibernate
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How do I lock my computer when it is unattended?

1257 views   |   0   0   |   Last updated on Feb 29, 2016    Lock Computer

To keep your computers sensitive information safe from others while your computer is left unattended it is best to lock it.  The easiest way to do this to use keyboard shortcuts.

Lock your computer using keyboard shortcuts by:

  • Press the Windows key and the "L" key 

 

You can also lock the computer by using the Start Menu.

  • Click on Start
  • Click the small arrow next to shut down
  • From the pop out menu, click Lock

Another option that can be used to lock your computer is to use CRT+ALT+Delete

  • Press CRT+ALT+Delete
  • Click Lock Computer
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What is http and https?

1227 views   |   0   0   |   Last updated on Feb 29, 2016   

HTTP (Hyper Transfer Protocal) is the communication protocol or language which enables web browsing.

HTTPS (Secure Hypertext Transfer Protocol) Indicates a secure and encrypted http connection.

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How do I put my laptop to Sleep?

1209 views   |   0   0   |   Last updated on Feb 29, 2016    Sleep

To keep your computers sensitive information safe from others while your computer is left unattended it is best to put it to Sleep.  The easiest way to do this to use keyboard shortcuts.

Put your computer to sleep by using keyboard shortcut:

  • Press the Windows key, the right arrow twice, and the "S" key 

 

You can also put the computer to sleep by using the Start Menu.

  • Click on Start
  • Click the small arrow next to shut down
  • From the pop out menu, click Sleep

Another option that can be used to lock your computer is to use CRT+ALT+Delete

  • Press CRT+ALT+Delete
  • Click Sleep
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What do I do if my Kindle E-Book isn't in my library for my new Conflict Resolution class?

897 views   |   0   0   |   Last updated on Feb 23, 2016    Amazon Kindle

Your classes E-Books generally show up in your Kindle library a few days before class begins. If your book does not appear in your library by the first day of class, you can contact: crstudentsupport@bethelu.edu

Please be sure to include your full name and the class you are enrolled when sending this email.

 

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What are the different types of display ports on my laptop?

820 views   |   0   0   |   Last updated on Feb 23, 2016    Chromebook Video Display

High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) is a unique technology which offers a interface for any audio or video source. and audio or video monitor. HDMI supports standard, enhanced or high-definition video as well as multi-channel digital audio on a single cable. Plug in a HDMI cable to the corresponding HDMI port on our computer and the other end to your monitor or television's HDMI port.

 

The Video Graphics Array (VGA) is the analog standard for connecting monitors to computers. Generally these cables ends are colored blue. To setup your VGA connection, simply plug up your monitor or television with a VGA in the corresponding VGA port and plug the other end of the cable to your computer.

  

 

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How do I contact the Bethel IT Help Desk?

808 views   |   0   0   |   Last updated on Mar 04, 2016    Help Desk

Bethel Univsersity, College of Professional Studies

Information Technology Help Desk

1801 West End Ave Suite 220

Nashville, TN 37203

 

(615) 277-8924

cpshelpdesk@bethelu.edu 

Open from 8-6 pm Monday-Friday

 

 

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Can I pop my Bethel Gmail account?

807 views   |   0   0   |   Last updated on Mar 07, 2016    Email Gmail POP Post Office Protocol

Post Office Protocol (POP) is a protocol or language that transfers email from servers and allows it to be accessible using a email client. There are numerous choices of email clients such as Outlook, Apple Mail, and Eudora which use POP to deliver email.

Some of the advantages of using email clients is that your email is stored locally on your devices and available to you offline. This means that you only need to be connected to the internet when trying to send or receive email. Another great advantage of using POP and an email client is that you can view multiple email accounts in one email box at once, consolidating your email can be a time saver if you have multiple email accounts to manage.

You can learn more about the basics of POP here.

Can you POP your Bethel Gmail account to a email client?

Yes, you can pop your email into another email client such as Outlook, Apple Mail, and Eudora!

Learn how to pop your Gmail here

 

 

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How do I sign in to the E-Portal?

802 views   |   0   0   |   Last updated on Feb 29, 2016    E-Portal

The E-Portal can be accessed by navigating to:

http://eportal.bethelu.edu/estudent-cps/index.asp

Your username is: your first initial + last name + last 2 of social (cpeterson24)

Your password is: your complete social security number including the dashes (111-22-3333)

 

If you are unable to login in to the E-Portal system, please contact the IT Help Desk at: 

(731) 352-4040 option 2

cpshelpdesk@bethelu.edu 

Open from 8-6 pm Monday-Friday

 

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How can I move files from my Chromebook's "downloads" to my Google Drive?

723 views   |   0   0   |   Last updated on Feb 19, 2016    Chromebook

Files can be moved from your Chromebook's "downloads" and into your Google drive by clicking and dragging them to your Google Drive folder. 

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Why does my laptop turn off without warning?

719 views   |   0   0   |   Last updated on Feb 29, 2016   

When computers get overheated, they are designed to turn themselves off automatically. Heat related computer issues occur when they are working hard for extended periods of time. There are a few things that you can check to see if your computers issue is heat related.

  • Check to see if the computers fan is coming on and running quickly and smoothly.
  • Listen to the fans movement. If you hear any loud squealing sounds or abnormal sounds, this could be an indication of a fan malfunctioning.
  • Check you surge protector, ensure that it is free from breaks in its plastic covering and in proper working order. You could have a problem related to the surge protector or the walls outlet. Try using a different wall outlet and surge protector. 

 

It is also possible that your computer has a virus or malware that is designed to shut down your computer.

  • Does your computer shut off when performing certain tasks or using specific programs?
  • Does your computer shut off at specific times of the day?
  • Try running a scan using the Avast Antivirus antivirus software program that came on your laptop to see if your system has become infected.

 

If none of the above solutions have helped, please contact the Help Desk:

(731) 352-4040 option 2

cpshelpdesk@bethelu.edu 

Open from 8-6 pm Monday-Friday

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My computer is running very slow, how can I fix this?

715 views   |   0   0   |   Last updated on Feb 29, 2016    Windows Updates Spyware Backup Files

There are several things that you can do to help resolve the issue with your computer running slow.

  1. Reboot your computer if not rebooted recently. Reboot your computer before trying any of the steps below. A common problem a computer runs slow are programs running in the background. You can temporarily remove or disable programs that start automatically after your computer is rebooted.
  2. You can delete temporary files stored on the hard drive which are no longer needed on the computer.
  3. Free up hard drive space. Verify that you have 200-500 MB of free disk space. Hard drive space is needed to allow the computer room for temporary files and the swap file to increase.
  4. Scan for malware and viruses. Run a scan of your computer files using your Avast software program.
  5. Check for Windows updates. Ensure that your Windows system is up to date to protect your files from security threats and to be sure that your software runs smoothly. 
  6. Reboot your computer again.
  7. Consider upgrading your computers RAM memory. By allowing your computer to have enough RAM memory to run the programs you use, you will not need to swap information stored in the memory.

For further assistance call or email the IT Help Desk:

(731) 352-4040 option 2    cpshelpdesk@bethelu.edu

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What is Google Docs?

711 views   |   0   0   |   Last updated on Feb 23, 2016    Google Docs

 

Google Docs is an online word processor that allows you to collaborate with others in real-time, create and edit new documents, and convert existing Word documents into Google Docs. Google Docs allows you to easily format text and paragraphs by  offering hundreds of fonts, add links, images, and drawings. You can choose from a wide variety of templates, reports, and pre-made documents. You can access your documents from anywhere with your smartphone, tablet, or computer.

You can find more information on Google Docs here.

 

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