Server Guru’s Hacks & Tips

Life hacks and free advice

f:id:serverguru:20210428113440j:plain


Computer Blue Screen Repair

If you have owned a computer with Microsoft Windows then you are certainly aware of the term blue screen. Also sometimes referred to as blue screen of death - although noone ever died from a blue screen it does sound serious.

 

BSoDs have been around since Windows 1.0. In Windows 1.x-2.x, if Windows found a newer DOS version than it expected it would give a blue screen with white text saying "Incorrect DOS version" followed by a list of loaded kernel modules and their respective memory addresses, before starting normally. This BSoD, however, was triggered by a bug in the logo code, and was not an actual crash screen; when the system did crash, it would either lock up or exit to DOS. Windows 3.0 had a modal dialog for displaying important system messages, usually from digital device drivers in 386 enhanced mode, or other situations where a program could not run unless an issue was resolved.[3][4]

In Windows 3.1, this modal dialog was changed from black to blue, and it would be displayed when pressing Ctrl+Alt+Del (which opens Task Manager) while no programs were unresponsive. Windows 3.x continued to exit to DOS if an error was severe enough. From wikipedia.

 

Understandign why you get a blue screen could me summarised as either a hardware related issue or software. Lets look at hardware first.

 

Depending on the error number and its nature, all, some, or even none of the parameters contain data pertaining to what went wrong, and/or where it happened. In addition, the error screens showed four paragraphs of general explanation and advice and may have included other technical data such the file name of the culprit and memory addresses.

 

Software related blue screen errors are becuase an instruction was made that referenced an inccorect memory space causing an error.

 

Many computer repair businesses will troubleshoot my method of elimination.

Sometimes when the problem is caused by faulty hardware it is cheaper to replace the computer, if the computer is deemed old.

 

Computer errors does not always mean the end of the computer, in most cases its an easy fix

 

Also check in with a managed IT services provider for assistance, being proactive can certainly prevent these issues.

 

Helpful IT links

f:id:serverguru:20200214143326j:plain

If you are anything like me you need a post it to remind you of important things right? I have compiled a list of computer services right here on this page

Helpful links or bookmarks to IT support pages.

Let me know if you have suggestions?

Managed IT Services
IT Support
IT Support Brisbane
Small Business IT Support
IT Consulting
Computer Repairs Brisbane
Server Support
Computer Network Support
WiFi Network Support
Business Data Backup Solutions
Web Design
Small Business SEO Brisbane
Website Maintenance
Fix Hacked Website
IP Blacklist Removal
NBN Battery Replacement
Computer Support Brisbane

 

f:id:serverguru:20180802133653j:plain

 

7 ways to build a successful relationship with your real estate agent

f:id:serverguru:20200214143604j:plain

Choosing the right property manager for your investment property is not an easy task, the key to buildng a long lasting relationship with your real estate property manager is paramount to success.

1. Never break trust
It’s easy to fixate on agents’ trustworthiness and forget trust runs both ways. Trust must exist at the start of every agent/client relationship and remain rock solid throughout.

2. Show some respect
Mutual respect goes a long way to creating “win/win” relationships. Clients usually do best when buying and selling if they view their agent as “a trusted advisor”. They keep us on side with an attitude of mutual respect, referring us business and running with our advice on selling strategy. It stands to reason that we would favour our loyal advocates.

3. Pick up the phone
We encourage our clients to call, particularly when the campaign hits tough times. We live in an age of emailing and that is usually fine for simple matters but the emails can easily be taken the wrong way as you can’t hear the tone in which it’s projected. Face-to-face or a call are far more effective in a lot circumstances.

4. Don’t be a scrooge
If you insist on agents discounting their commissions, don’t be surprised if your agent loses interest and/or feels unloved. Less commission can result in rushing sales and more pressure on sellers to take unacceptable offers, instead of working on a seller’s behalf. Until the property is sold, your agent is working for you for free. So if the agent is professional and does a good job marketing and selling your property, he/she deserves to be paid and not have to discount commission.

5. Be punctual
It is a common courtesy to be on time at all appointments with your busy agent and if you can’t be there, never pull a no-show.

6. Don’t cover your ears
Relationships can be tested and that’s when really good listening skills can save the day. Listen to what the agent is saying. When an agent tells you, ‘we are getting feedback that the price is too high’ don’t automatically shut down or get defensive because that is very counter to what your agent, hopefully chosen based on trust, is trying to achieve – hear them out.

7. Be honest
If you are looking to buy, give sales agents “all your parameters” so he/she can assist without wasting time. There is a tendency for buyers not to tell the truth about how much they want to spend or the area they wish to buy in. The agent then takes time to find a property in the price range only to find out the buyer has bought elsewhere in a higher price bracket and a different area.

Trying To Setup A FTP Server?

f:id:serverguru:20200214143326j:plain

What is a FTP server?

The File Transfer Protocol (FTP) is a standard network protocol used to transfer computer files from one host to another host over a TCP-based network, such as the Internet.

FTP is built on a client-server architecture and uses separate control and data connections between the client and the server.[1] FTP users may authenticate themselves using a clear-text sign-in protocol, normally in the form of a username and password, but can connect anonymously if the server is configured to allow it. For secure transmission that protects the username and password, and encrypts the content, FTP is often secured with SSL/TLS (FTPS). SSH File Transfer Protocol (SFTP) is sometimes also used instead, but is technologically different.

 

Why use FTP?

FTP can be used through a command-line interface such as DOS in Windows and Terminal in Linux & MacOS. If that is not your cup of tea, then you can also use one of many FTP clients available online, some even for free. Some browsers also allow you to download files using the protocol. It is possible to transfer any type of file with FTP, and in some cases, it is even faster than HTTP.

FTP is a very simple way to move fles from one location to another via the internet or a network.

 

Setting up a FTP server

Setting up a ftp server if your a server engineer or IT professional is a quick and easy task that guys like me have done litteraly hundreds of times. FTP server's are great for sharing and storing data. Most IT support companies will be able to assist with the instalaltion of an ftp server.

For most people settign up a ftp server is a totally new experience, and frankly if you dont know what you are doing do not attempt it. If you do you could allow hackers and unsolicited users into your network.

 

Buying A Property? This Is The Conveyancing Process

f:id:serverguru:20181109091823j:plain

Queensland Wide

Conveyancing is the process of transferring ownership of real estate from the seller to the buyer.

The conveyancing process is generally the same throughout Queensland and is carried out by a qualified solicitor.

 

1. Signing the contract

The first step is for the seller and buyer to agree on the terms of the transaction and sign a contract which should embody the terms for the sale and purchase of real estate.

 

It is highly recommended that you obtain legal advice prior to signing a Contract in order to protect your rights. This applies to both the seller and purchaser.

 

The contract should generally provide for: -

· a 5 business day cooling off period;

· a further period to allow for a satisfactory ‘building and pest report’ to be obtained;

· a further period to allow for a ‘due diligence’ investigation to be done on the property; and

· if finance is required to purchase the property for a ‘finance approval’ period.

(between 14 and 21 days is recommended for the building and pest, due diligence and finance periods)

 

2. Insurance

Commonly, the risk associated with the property will pass to the buyer from the first business day after the contract is signed by both parties regardless of the fact that the buyer is not the owner of the property yet. Therefore, it is imperative that the buyer arrange insurance for the property as soon as the contract is signed by both parties in order that it is covered in the event of damage to the property during the contract period.

 

3. Pay your deposit when required.

You may be in breach of the contract if you do not pay your deposit when required. It is imperative that you pay the initial deposit which is usually required when you sign the contract or shortly thereafter.

 

Depending on the terms of the contract, a balance of the deposit may be due at a later date. Diarise this date in order to ensure you do not miss same and be in breach of the contract.

 

4. Getting the contract to your lawyer

If there is a Real Estate Agent involved advise them to get the contact to your lawyer as soon as possible.

 

5. Cooling off period

Once the Contract is signed by all parties and received by either you or your lawyer, it is subject to a cooling off period of five (5) business days. During this period you may terminate the contract without providing any reason. Please note a termination penalty may apply.

 

6. Finance

If the Contract is subject to finance you need to make arrangements with your bank or mortgage broker without delay. Time is of the essence.

 

7. Building and Pest and Due Diligence Reports

If the Contract is subject to a Building and Pest Inspection and Due Diligence reports you will need to arrange for these or instruct your lawyer to do that. Again, time is of the essence.

If you are not satisfied with the outcome of these inspection reports you may be able to cancel the transaction without any penalty. You will need to discuss this with your lawyer.

 

8. Searches

Your lawyer will carry out standard searches on the property which may be: -

Title Search;Registered Plan of the Land;Full Council Rates Search;Body Corporate Information Certificate (if unit or townhouse);Company Search (where the seller or the buyer is a company);Court Register Search;Bankruptcy Search;Heritage Search;Contaminated Lands Search;Queensland Transport Search;Flood Search;Land Tax Certificate; and Title Search on the day of settlement.

 

There are a number of additional searches you may wish to undertake on the property which your lawyer will discuss with you.

 

9. Once the Contract is Unconditional

Once the Contract is unconditional your lawyer will contact your financier to arrange a time for settlement.

 

In order for your lawyer to be able to book settlement you must ensure that your mortgage documents have been signed and returned to your bank.

After having signed your loan documents it takes up to a week for your bank to be ready for settlement. Remember… time is of the essence.

 

10. Stamp duty

In most transactions you will be required to pay stamp duty. Stamp duty may be substantial depending on your purchase price and whether you qualify for any form of concession. Stamp duty is payable within 30 days after the contract becomes unconditional.

 

You will have to pay the stamp duty to your lawyer when requested to do so. If stamp duty is not paid within the 30 day period after the contract becomes unconditional you may be charged penalty interest by the Office of State Revenue.

 

11. Arrange a pre-settlement inspection of the property

The buyer usually has a right to do a final inspection of the property prior to settlement. Arrange this inspection as close as possible to the settlement day. The purpose of the inspection is to ensure that the property is in the same condition as when the buyer offered to purchase the property. The buyer also needs to ensure that all chattels remained in the property which was part of the purchase. If the property is not in the same condition as expected the buyer needs to discuss this with its lawyer prior to settlement.

 

12. Settlement and Settlement Funds

The buyer’s lawyer will prepare settlement calculations which will include taking into account the council rates, water rates and body corporate levies paid or due and ensure that the seller pays its portion up to the settlement date and the buyer from the settlement date.

 

The buyers lawyer will liaise with the incoming financier and if there is a shortfall of funds available from the incoming financier the buyer will have to provide that shortfall directly to its lawyer. Remember time is of the essence.

 

Your lawyer will attend settlement on your behalf.

Once settlement is completed your lawyer will contact you and the real estate agent. The real estate agent will then release the keys to the property to you, hopefully with a bottle of champagne.

 

13. Post settlement

After settlement is completed your lawyer will contact any relevant authorities to advise of the transfer.

 

14. Safety switch, smoke alarms and pool safety certificate

As the new owner of the property you are required to ensure that the property has a compliant safety switch, smoke alarm and pool safety certificate within 90 days of settlement.

Your House May Contain This Deadly Substance

What is asbestos

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral. It forms part of six naturally occurring silicate minerals. All are composed of long and thin fibrous crystals, each fiber being composed of many microscopic ‘fibrils’ that can be released into the atmosphere by abrasion and other processes.

Asbestos was once used in our homes, structures, buildings, roofs, fences, pipes and more because it is strong, it insulates well from heat and electricity and was deemed affordable.

Common uses for asbestos

Asbestos had many uses, this naturally occurring mineral was an excellent electric insulator making it useful as insulation in electrical wiring in homes, factories, office buildings and more.

Asbestos was great at resisting heat and was commonly used in fire retardant coating for steel girders in buildings, thermal insulation for homes and offices, heat resistant gaskets and packing materials.

As a building material is was strong and flexible and was widely used throughout the world in roofing and flooring compounds, asbestos cement, drywall and plaster.

In certain parts of the world, as cars became more common its use in asphalt on roads was deemed appropriate for making roads more durable. Asbestos removal Brisbane.

Health risks associated with asbestos

Records indicate that as early as 1897 an Austrian doctor referred to pulmonary troubles in one of his patients caused by asbestos dust. The first documented death of an asbestos worker was in 1906, the 33 year old male’s autopsy revealed large amounts of asbestos fibers in his lungs.

Reports of asbestos workers dying from “asbestosis” flooded news papers across the globe. Even insurance companies began decreasing coverage and benefits, while increasing premiums.

Exposure to asbestos is considered dangerous and working with asbestos has been proven to cause serious health issues. Studies have shown that exposure to asbestos causes malignant mesothelioma in humans and tumors in animals.

Asbestos Removal

f:id:serverguru:20181109091823j:plain

The dangers of asbestos is no joke, millions of people after 20 or 30 years of exposure to asbestos now suffer the consequence. Asbestos lung and lung cancer are the diseases spawned from inhaling asbestos fibres.

Prolonged exposure to this hazardous material raises the risk of you getting lung cancer. Protection in the form of respirators or filtered masks made especialy for filtering abestos fibres are essential to avoid breathing this dangerous material.

Asbestos removal experts that specialise in inspecting asbestos and removing it is the best way to minimise your exposure to this fatal substance.

Asbestos removal is usually done by an asbestos removal contractors that follows strict guidelines and safety protocols.