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Top Five Ways To Benefit From Pinterest
Pinterest, developed in 2009, allows users to create and manage theme-based image collections online. It's one of the fastest-growing web sites in existence. Recently, it was noted that use of the service had skyrocketed to over ten million visitors monthly, a rate that neither Facebook nor Twitter can yet boast of.
But what's so great about Pinterest? Isn't it just random people showcasing their random collections of favorite outfits and works of art online for the world to see? Not exactly. Pinterest offers much more value to some users than it may initially reveal. There are several ways to use this unique service to benefit on both a business and personal level, 5 of which are detailed below.
As a website owner, understanding how people are using Pinterest to manage their lives can give you insights into how you can utilize this tool to promote your online presence.
Mobile Business Marketing
In order to get your business out there, you need many pairs of eyes to see it. And Pinterest definitely offers that. Any Pinterest board you create can have a link attached to it. And this kind of traffic generation appears to be effective. Tracking reveals that Pinterest is responsible for more traffic to sites than Google+ or Facebook. Speaking of Facebook, Pinterest also allows you to link your board to your business's page, in addition to your Twitter account. And, Twitter will automatically tweet any pins you make from your board, even if you do it on the go with your wireless internet connection and mobile device.
Comparison Shopping On The Go
Many companies have now begun to use Pinterest as a way to connect with their customers. Whether you're searching for a new wireless internet provider or want to know who has the best deal on the electronics you're looking to buy, Pinterest may end up being your go-to place. And the best part is that you can find deals for a specific area, which can greatly benefit you if you are looking for a company that services your neighborhood.
Your favorite brands may also be a few taps or swipes away. Using Pinterest to check their boards for coupons and other deals can mean that you save money the next time you go shopping. Or, you can save money while you're still in the store, just by checking the boards on your phone.
Travel Ideas As You Travel
We have all dreamed of traveling. But visiting your local travel agent can result in enough pamphlets to leave you overwhelmed. So why not go wireless instead? Using Pinterest allows you to pin anything online as a theme. Even if you see something in a store window that you like, it can be pinned in seconds; all you need is the camera that's on your phone and your internet connection. When you've returned home from your journeys, you can even post your vacation photos on your board to share with family and friends.
Cooking On The Fly
If you're thinking about scouring Kijiji for find extra storage for all of those recipe books, note cards and bits of paper, Pinterest could be the ultimate solution. Not only can your favorite dishes be pinned to your board, but you can also pin whatever else you find while you're surfing for new nosh. Did you walk by a café and smell something delicious? Post your ingredient guesses with your mobile and see if you get some dish suggestions.
More Savings With Easy Ideas And Online Deals
As well as looking at flyers online and printing coupons for the items you use, you can also go online to see how others are keeping more money in their pockets. For example, do you really need to buy a new case for your mobile phone, or are there instructions for how to make one on the cheap? Can the boring items in your closet be transformed into brand new outfits you never thought of? And could you be doing something less expensive to make more room in your home than renovating? The answers to all of these questions will be an enthusiastic "Yes!" when you've spent some time surfing the Pinterest boards.
At HostingAndBackup.com, we are dedicated to helping people find solid advice and achieve success when they are trouble shooting both the technical as well as the practical aspects of setting up, managing and promoting a website. Check back often for more useful information.
Article Posted by Expert Author: 3 on 09/09/2013
Article Posted In: Useful Tips
Computer Safety in the Workplace
A common misconception by many using computers in their place of work is that there is nothing they need to do in order to be more secure. This misconception most often occurs because people assume that if their office has an IT department, that any threats to any computers in the network are already being prevented. But the truth is that there are many ways for office computer security to be breached, and they may have nothing to do with the IT department at your office location.
One example includes email. Even though your office's IT department may have email scanners galore, viruses can still get through. The main thing to understand is that no anti-virus method is going to be 100% successful. And so, it becomes up to the individual user to know the signs to look for, as well as the appropriate steps to take when a suspicious email has been received.
If you receive an email with an attachment that you were not expecting, do not open it under any circumstances. Even if someone you do know has sent you the message, the message could still have become infected without the sender's knowledge. Similarly, the sender's computer may have been being used by another party with the sender's permission. Speaking with the sender to ensure what was sent is the best way to know whether an attachment is legitimate.
Authorization
Do you know how many people are authorized to use your particular computer? If not, this may be something to take a second look at, because the more who are authorized, the more likely a breach may be to occur. If there are a large number of people listed as being authorized, perhaps looking at the permissions each person has may help to limit the risk.
In limiting what others are able to do while at your workstation, you can greatly minimize the risk of infected emails being sent, as well as reduce the chance that suspicious files will be downloaded while you aren't there to see what is going on. It may have been awhile since the IT department has set permissions for particular workstations. If no permissions have ever been set, then it may be time to hand this task over to the IT department.
Media
Limiting the use of external media like CDs and flash drives at a workstation can also contribute to the optimal safety of your workplace's network. It is not uncommon for a company to order computers that don't have a slot for a DVD burner or USB port for flash drives, as this prevents workers from saving company data on this external media.
A good idea may be to have computers with such abilities, but in a secure area such as the IT department itself, where the use of the media can be monitored. Some experts say that there should be no reason for those who are considered to be regular employees to have burners or USB ports on the computers they use while at work.
Privacy vs. Security
Some employees may wonder about their right to privacy in this kind of situation. And while it's true that some security measures will raise eyebrows among employees, recent mandates have revealed that where the protection of a company is concerned, employers are well within their rights to monitor the actions of their employees.
The best way to avoid conflict between employer and employee over safety measures is to ensure that every employee is aware not only that security measures are in place, but what kind of measures are being employed. In addition, employees must be given information packets which contain all of these policies and procedures, in addition to guidelines for the safe use of their work computer.
Clear communication about the measures put in place by a company to protect both itself and its employees is the best way to ensure there are no misunderstandings about the reasons for security measures or the implications of not adhering to the guidelines given.
Safeguarding Digital Files
The best laid plans can go up in smoke if you have some type of problem that wipes out your digital files. Companies should provide a comprehensive way for employees to regularly backup computer files. Look for ways to streamline the process by enabling scheduled backups, either incrementally, with selective backups or even periodic full backups of your entire system.
Article Posted by Expert Author: 5 on 07/10/2013
Article Posted In: Useful Tips
Types Of Encryption
The proper definition of encryption is the use of an algorithmic scheme in order to encode a message. Online, encryption is used to protect the data within credit card transactions. And most often, SSL, or Secure Socket Layer encryption is used. Encryption is needed more and more as we increasingly rely on our computers to communicate and store information.
Encryption can be applied to everything from financial transactions to e-mail. And there are three types: volume and virtual disk encryption, full disk encryption and file/folder encryption. A volume is like the boot or system volumes on your computer at home. These can be encrypted and then set to require the proper authentication before access can be granted. The virtual disk involves encrypting a container, which can contain any number of folders and files. Again, proper authentication is required to access those files. But the difference is that a container can be copied from one medium to the other without affecting its encryption.
Full disk encryption is also known as FDE, and is a process whereby all data on a hard drive that's used to boot a computer is encrypted. This includes the computer's operating system. Access to the data that's been encrypted with the FDE process can only occur on successful authentication. File and folder encryption occurs when individual files on any kind of storage medium have been encrypted. Folder encryption protects the folder from unauthorized access, while file encryption protects each file.
There are many types of software available to successfully apply encryption. One popular solution is the software which can encrypt all the files and folders that exist on a disk. However, no encryption method is 100%. If the encryption software has not been updated, there could be much vulnerability which can easily be exploited to gain unauthorized access to sensitive information.
At www.hostingandbackup.com we provide answers to common questions that new or future webmasters may have regarding setting up their own website. We also give unbiased reviews of the top web hosting sites and online backup services available.
Article Posted by Expert Author: 5 on 06/11/2013
Article Posted In: Useful Tips Tutorials
How to Sell Your Domain
Just as with everything else in life, things change. Sometimes we need to get rid of some clutter in order to make room for new additions. And the same is true for domain names. When a business changes its direction, the time may come to procure a new domain name for the company. But what happens if the old company's name was popular and attracted a lot of visitors and business?
Most often, domain names like this are worth money. And so instead of simply thinking of a new name and walking away from the old one, selling the name becomes an option. And this can either be done by the business owner themselves, or via a domain name broker.
Doing It Yourself
The first thing that will need to be done in the domain selling process is to let people know it's for sale. This will have to be done whether or not you are doing it yourself. There are many free and low cost advertising methods at your disposal for doing this, including social media.
You may find that creating a simple web site for your domain name offer is a good way to begin. All it takes is one page that has been connected to your domain name. And all that needs to be said is something similar to "This domain name is for sale. Please contact you@youremailaddress.com for more information." If you've recently relocated your business from that web address, you can notify your customers using this page as well.
Even if someone gets in touch with an offer for your name that's a long way below your asking price, it's important to respond. Also important is keeping an open mind about the process; if this is your first time selling your own domain name, then you will benefit greatly by reading the experiences of others. Much information is available to help guide you through any rough patches you may encounter.
Even the best advertisers may have to wait awhile before receiving any enquiries about their domain name. This is true even if you decide to go with a broker to help you sell it.
Hiring a Broker
A domain name broker is simply a company who is in the business of helping domain name owners like you to sell them. But many don’t' know where to start with finding one. The good news is that finding a good broker is just like any other worthy product or service; with a little bit of research.
A good broker should have extensive knowledge and experience in all aspects of selling domain names. This means understanding the ins and outs of domain name valuations, how to find and connect with buyers and how to close the deal.
The broker you choose should have no problem being persistent about selling your name, and should be willing to work together with you as a team. Your goals should be the same: to sell your domain name for the highest possible price with the best possible terms.
Using an Escrow Service
Another available option to selling your domain name is to use an escrow service. This involves storing everything associated with the sale of your domain name into an escrow account which is run by a third, unbiased party. Once the deal has been completed, the third party's job is to release the funds and the domain name to seller and buyer respectively.
But one thing to note is that all escrow services will differ. Some may not transfer funds or ownership until certain conditions have been met. As well, there are many fly-by-night escrow operations who are also doing business. One way to avoid these is to not work with any individual who will only work with one particular service.
At HostingAndBackup.com, we are dedicated to answering all pertinent questions related to your online presence, from web hosting to content management systems and website builders and other related topics. Make us your go-to resource for learning about managing your own website.
Article Posted by Expert Author: 3 on 05/17/2013
Article Posted In: Useful Tips
All About The Dedicated Server
In your search for a web host, you have most likely come across the term 'dedicated server'. The dedicated server is just that: a server dedicated to you and you alone. Usually, a web site is hosted in a space that's shared by other users, hence the term 'shared hosting'. Where shared hosting may be less expensive, it also allows for slower data transfer rates.
If you need a lot of space to store large files or a large number of files, and if you want a higher degree of security, then a dedicated server may be something to consider. A dedicated server gives you full control over your web site. Conversely, if you don't have the time to keep a dedicated server up and running or you need to own your own server, then the dedicated server option is likely not for you.
Having a dedicated server means much more responsibility on your part. This is because in a dedicated server scenario, all of the maintenance is up to you. If your server happens to crash, it will be up to you to fix it. If a new version of web server software is released, the onus is on you to install it as soon as possible so that your site will be less vulnerable to hacker attacks.
Having a dedicated server also means that, despite all of the control, you don't actually own the server itself. This means that you cannot move the server to another location or perform upgrades on the server hardware. Last, but not least, the cost to obtain a dedicated server can run you into hundreds of dollars every month. This is for the dedicated service as well as the bandwidth you use as a result of the traffic your web site receives.
If you are looking for tips on finding the best web hosting sites, you have come to the right place. We have assembled information for newbies to make sense on web hosting and online backup providers.
Article Posted by Expert Author: 5 on 04/17/2013
Article Posted In: Web Hosting Information Useful Tips
Domain Parking
If you want to be able to own your domain name before you get your web site created and published, then domain parking is a great way to reserve your space on the web. Your domain name is the address of your website, and what you would put on a business card or in an email when you want people to be able to learn more about you.
A common issue is that most people purchase a domain name before they create their web site, which means there's no place to point their domain name to. But with domain parking, the registrar, or company via which you've registered your domain lets you point your domain to a 'dummy' page. This benefits you, because anyone who types in your domain name, they will get a message that something great - your site - is coming soon. You may even be able to place your own message for future visitors to see.
Domain parking is a great solution when you have several ideas for a business name, but haven't chosen one yet. It can also come in handy if you have many future sites in mind that you will need domain names for. Most people will park their domain names on a very temporary basis. But there is different advice for those who will be parking their domain names for a long period of time.
The 'dummy' page mentioned before will, much of the time contain content put there by your registrar. And even though it is a placeholder, if left there for a long time, it risks becoming associated with your web site once you create and publish it. Taking a close look at the content your registrar has placed on your placeholder page is a good idea so that you can ensure that your visitors will understand that any advertising on that page is not yours, but your registrar's.
Here at The Web Host Guru we enjoy helping those less experienced than us benefit from our years hosting websites. We hope that these articles, reviews and tutorials will help make your life easier as you learn the ins and outs of being a webmaster.
Article Posted by Expert Author: 5 on 02/05/2013
Article Posted In: Useful Tips Tutorials
File Transfer Protocol (FTP)
When you upload files to or download files from your web site, there are usually two main methods of transfer. You can either use your site's web-based interface, or transfer your files via FTP with a computer program. FTP stands for file transfer protocol, and requires you to have software installed on your computer so that it can communicate with your web site.
FTP clients can generally be had for no cost. A quick search will reveal many options for free FTP clients. This fast and reliable method of transferring files requires having a server address for the FTP program to connect to. This address can be retrieved from your web site's host, usually in the profile or settings section of your web site account. You will also need the username and password of your web site account.
FTP provides convenience when transferring large numbers of files. When you upload an archive, this means that you are transferring a large chunk of files as one file. An archive can include several types of files, and an additional benefit of this format is that it automatically compresses the files, which greatly reduces transfer time.
The kinds of files that can be transmitted with FTP include images, web pages, documents and programs. However, it is important to note that any files you plan to upload to your website that aren't of your own creation were obtained with the permission of the original creator and/or owner of the files. In addition, it's advised that you list the name and content information of the creator on your site in order to provide proper credit and avoid copyright infringement accusations.
Although using FTP may seem like a confusing process for the first-time user, there are many resources available which can take you through the steps. The first place to look for advice about using FTP may be at your site host, as they may have a section of their site which is dedicated to tutorials of this kind.
Article Posted by Expert Author: 5 on 02/05/2013
Article Posted In: Web Hosting Information Useful Tips
Web Hosting and Database Support
Database support as it relates to web hosting refers to the type of storage your web host may offer. Different kinds of storage will be needed in order for your web site to have various functions. For example, if you want your site to have a forum where members of the online community can gather to share their thoughts, then you will likely need a PHP database. Business web sites requiring shopping carts will need access to a database like OSCommerce or ZenCart.
Many users wonder why text isn't a sufficient way to store data. After all, it does sound much simpler! However, a text database would only allow one person at a time to access it. If your web site were to become popular, how would all of your visitors be able to post their comments in your forum or order the same product from you at the same time? This is where database support comes in. Just like a spreadsheet, database support offers multiple options for organizing data, as well as allowing a large number of people to access, record and use the data at the same time.
SQL is probably the most common database in use on modern web sites. SQL stands for Structured Query Language, and represents a standard method of modifying and retrieving data from a database. It's essential that any website having database support be as reliable as possible, which will require regular maintenance and the best tech support from your web site hosting company.
Choosing the best type of database support for your website is not always an easy task. But you can contact your web host or list of prospective hosts and ask them which kinds of servers and operating systems they would recommend to you. It may also be a good idea to ask the host about the advantages and disadvantages of each option so that you can make an informed decision.
At HostingAndBackup.com our goal is to help people new to the web hosting and online backup scene to grasp how to navigate various tasks, and to understand the flexibility they have in utilizing these services. We will continue to provide useful articles that are quick to read and clear to understand so that you can learn at your own pace.
Article Posted by Expert Author: 5 on 02/04/2013
Article Posted In: Web Hosting Information Useful Tips
Tutorial - How To Change Your NameServers And Point Them To Your Host
In this tutorial we will explain how to set the nameservers through your registrar so they point at the appropriate host. If you received a free domain or have your domain registered with your Hosting company, you don't need to do anything since the hosting company will have this done for you. Setting your nameservers should only take a few minutes from start to finish.
- You will want to locate your Welcome email from your hosting company. On the welcome email there will be important information about your account that you will need to help you setup various features on your account so be sure to keep the email in a safe place. In the email you will want to look for the name servers. Most of the time there will be 2 but from time to time there can be up to 4. The name servers will likely be in the following format NS1.domainxyz.com and NS2.domainxyz.com. Write both of those down or copy them into a notepad for future use.
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Login to your Registrars account - For this example, we will use Godaddy, but all registrars will have a similar process. You will want to go to "My Accounts" and then click on "Launch" next to the domains section. For other registrars simply locate the domains section and proceed. Once you are in the domain manager, click on the domain name you want to work on.
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Under Nameservers, click on "Set Nameservers." This will open a small window that will allow you to input the 2 new nameservers that you wrote down earlier.
- Click OK - The process can take up to 2 hours, but we usually are up and running in a couple of minutes.
You are done! It really is that simple. Now you will want to get started with your website and loading those files at your hosting account either directly or through FTP. If you are planning on installing a wordpress blog you can either upload and configure files or utilize the auto installer.
If you are new to all of this, it can seem overwhelming. At HostingAndBackup.com, we are dedicated to helping newbies with important tasks related to setting up a website. Please visit soon for more tutorials related to the subject!
Article Posted by Expert Author: 3 on 02/01/2013
Article Posted In: Useful Tips Tutorials
Do I Have to Register All My Domains With My Hosting Company?
If you are planning on only having 1 domain, then you might as well take advantage of the freebie. Usually, hosting companies will give you a free domain for the first year along with the hosting plan and then charge higher than normal prices to renew each year. For example at the time of this article in 2013, the renewal cost with JustHost was $13.99 per year. If you only have 1 domain it is better to have everything in one place and the renewal price difference isn’t significant once you average in your free year.
However, if you are planning on having more than one domain, we suggest keeping all the domains in one place with a company that specializes in domains. Without a shadow of a doubt, we recommend Godaddy which holds approximately 32.5% of the market share among ICANN Registrars. eNom with 8% and Tucows with 6.7% are options, but are priced higher. Their customer support is by far the best experience I have ever had in any industry. You can take our word for it or ask any of their customers and you will get the same response. Their pricing at the time of this article was $8.19/year. They also offer additional discounts for multi-year registrations.
Once you register your domains you can then point the nameservers to the new host. If you are not familiar with Nameservers, we have an easy tutorial - Changing Your Nameservers - that will quickly get you on your way.
Why not choose Godaddy for Hosting as well?
Their entry level plan is only supports one domain. We have hosted with them in the past, but when you have multiple domains, it is definitely an advantage to have the ability to host multiple domains under the same package. Their next tier offers unlimited domains, but limits the number of databases and this is at a higher price than some of the other companies that specialize in “hosting.”
What to Watch Out for – What is Domain Hijacking
Some hosting companies actually will register your domain under their name giving them full control of the actual domain. If you ever want to move the domain over to a different host or registrar, they either won’t do it or will charge astronomical fees. We have experienced this in the past and rather than single out companies, we simply suggest keeping domains with domain companies and hosting with hosting companies.
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Article Posted by Expert Author: 3 on 02/01/2013
Article Posted In: Useful Tips
Categories: Tutorials, Useful Tips, Best Web Hosting Sites, Web Hosting Information, Online Computer Backup, Industry News & Articles,
