iYogi Re-Defines Technical Support – BizTech2.

Remote managed services are gaining a lot of attraction these days. Companies are looking to outsource the maintenance and monitoring of their IT infrastructure to a third party to improve efficiency and save costs. BizTech2.com caught up with Uday Challu, founding partner and CEO, iYogi, to see what the company has to offer in this space.

As far as Enterprise and SME customers are concerned, which verticals are you focusing on?

Our focus will mostly be on small companies with around five to 100 users and also firms that have multiple small branch offices like travel agencies, retail stores etc.

What kind of support services do you provide to your customers? What is the Green PC service?

iYogi provides the next generation of remote computer support services for consumers and businesses. For consumers, our live 24/7 support extends to technologies we use everyday, including hardware, software applications, devices, peripherals and networking equipment. iYogi also offers a full range of business IT solutions including managed monitoring, managed services, set-up and installation services, and incident-based services.

Green PC Service

With the current state of the global climate and increasing dependency on the computer, iYogi helps PC users reduce their carbon footprint and save money at the same time. iYogi’s Green PC service is the first in the independent computer support industry to offer customers a way to save money, conserve energy and protect the environment by optimising their PC’s efficiency. Consumers and businesses can save up to $200 per year, per desktop, in energy costs with iYogi’s Green PC application. This green application makes the computer environmentally friendly by reducing power consumption by almost 50 percent.

Our Green PC dashboard helps customise power settings and calculate power savings in kWh (kilowatt hour). The Green PC dashboard also gives a status on the reduction of CO2 and how responsible usage will benefit the environment by saving trees. A customised service that increases the energy efficiency of computers, undertakes the below-mentioned three primary initiatives:

- Computer assessment, analysing settings and PC energy use
- Customised efficiency planning geared specifically to the individual’s usage patterns
- Implementing setting changes to maximise the computer’s energy use

What are the technologies that allow you to offer 24/7 support and ensure there is no downtime at the client site?

We have invested significantly in developing a comprehensive monitoring and management tools stack. This enables us to manage and monitor all devices in the office network as well as for branch offices and mobile users. Our tools continuously monitor the customer’s network and notify our NOC (Network Operations Centre) in case of problems. Based on the set of events, tickets are automatically generated and escalated to corresponding teams. Over and above our proactive approach, the customer always has an option to call our 24X7 support line for issues that are not identified via the monitoring tools.

Please throw some light on your proprietary iMantra technology.

iMantra is a CRM system, which is tailor-made to suit the emerging business needs at iYogi. It allows for the formation of individualised customer relationships with the aim of providing personalised services to each subscriber. This tool is built on the latest java technology with a layered architecture that makes it scalable and secure. This architecture provides a seamless workflow and independent channels for various business needs: sales, support, quality and customer service. The entire system can be exposed in the form of secure APIs and Web services, which makes it a re-usable entity.

Your business model is similar to BPOs in India providing technical support to offshore customers. What unique values do you bring to this ecosystem that would help a potential client choose you over a competitor?

iYogi’s business model is different from traditional BPOs. Some key factors that differentiate iYogi include:

- Direct-to-consumer and -small business: iYogi delivers technical support services directly to consumers and small businesses and is a global technical support brand based out of India. Unlike traditional BPOs in India, iYogi does not provide any private label support and/ or work on behalf of large OEMs or software publishers.

- Optimised Processes: iYogi has developed proprietary processes for consistently delivering on a resolution rate of 87 percent, which is among the highest published benchmarks in the support industry, where averages hover in the range of 50 percent.

- Comprehensive technology platform: iYogi’s global delivery platform, iMantra, gets smarter with every customer interaction. It documents every problem, the solution and relevant hardware and software aspects, while capturing each customer’s demographic information and creating a behavioural profile. All of this information is at the fingertips of iYogi’s Global Tech Experts. This set-up combines a knowledge base with a comprehensive set of tools and technology expertise. iYogi offers a range of tools that complement its remote support services for helping customers maintain technology at peak performance levels. iYogi’s products include iYogi Smart PC Scan, iYogi Support Dock, iYogi Green PC and iYogi PC Optimisation.

How do you plan to move up the value chain in the times to come?

The growing use and penetration of the Internet and new Web-based applications has consequently opened the door to threats and vulnerabilities, which affect the system performance and ultimately lead to degrading performance. If the threats are diagnosed early on, the impact on efficiency can be minimised considerably. Currently, a user only realizes that he needs technical support once the damage has occurred and reactive methods of support are used to recover from the loss.

At iYogi, we are developing our capabilities to not only provide support when demanded, but to also monitor, pre-empt and fix threats before they can cause any damage to the computer. This will be possible only by combining technology with processes that are capable of re-defining the way technical support is delivered today.

What is your India strategy?

Technically, we are capable of servicing any geography including India. At this stage, we are looking for the right kind of partners to find access to potential customers and provide them a consolidated, 360-degree solution and services for issues relating to hardware, software, network etc. We aim to launch our India services in the coming six to eight months. Our services will offer clients a one-stop solution for all their business needs.

Source : BizTech2.com

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How to install a new printer in windows

If you have a new printer and don’t know how to install the new printer in windows then just follow the below steps to install the new printer in windows ,

1. Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Printers.
2. 2. Double-click Add Printer, and then click Next.
3. 3. Click Local Printer or Network Printer as appropriate, and then click Next.
4. If you click Network Printer, you are prompted for the network path for the printer. If you do not know the correct path, click Browse. Click either Yes or No in the “Do you print from MS-DOS-based programs?” area, and then click Next.
5. 4. Click the appropriate manufacturer and model for your printer, and then click Next.
6. 5.If you chose to install a local printer, click the correct port and then click Next.
7. 6. Type a name for the printer (or accept the default name), and then click either Yes or No in the “Do you want your Windows-based programs to use this printer as the default printer?” area. Click Next.
8. 7. To print a test page, click Yes. Click Finish.

If you have still problem in installing printer then look for some printer troubleshooting

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How To Enable Shutdown without logging in

With Windows NT, enabling the shutdown button on the logon screen was as simple as editing the registry at HKEY_LOCALMAC_HINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion/Winlogon\ShutdownWithoutLogon , changing the value from 0 to 1.

But with windows 2000, it's no longer that simple. Sure the registry key is still there, but changing it, will not have any effect, as next time you logon, it will have changed back. The reason for this is because there is a group plolicy setting, that overrides your registry setting. To change the setting for good type gpedit.msc in the start->run dialog, and the Group Policy Tool should start.

The setting you want is tucked right down at Local Computer Policy -> Computer Configuration -> Windows Settings -> Security Settings -> Local Policies -> Security Options -> Allow system to be shut down without having to log on

That’s a long way down, change the setting to enabled, and you should be set !

Source:
http://windows.gumph.org/content/tips/enable-shutdown-without-logging-on.html

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HTTP Error 500 - Internal Server Error

Cause
The 500 Internal Server Error is a very common HTTP status code that means something has gone wrong on the web site's server but the server could not be more accurate on what the exact problem is.

Resolution
The 500 Internal Server Error is a "server-side" error, meaning the problem is not with your PC or Internet connection but instead is a problem with the web site's server.

Even though the issue is not yours to troubleshoot or resolve, there are a few things you can do:
1. Retry the web page by clicking the refresh/reload button or trying the URL from the address bar again. Even though the 500 Internal Server Error is reporting a general error on the web site's servers and not your computer, the server error may only be temporary.



Trying the page again will often be successful.

Note: If the 500 Internal Server Error message appears during the checkout process at an online merchant, be aware that duplicate attempts to checkout may end up creating multiple orders - and multiple charges! Most merchants have automatic protections from these kinds of actions but it's still something to keep in mind.

2. Come back later. The 500 Internal Server Error message is one of the most common error message seen when checking out during an online purchase so sales are often disrupted. This is usually a great incentive to resolve the issue very quickly.

3. If you can't wait any longer for the problem to be resolved or if you'd like to help out, you may want to attempt to contact the webmaster or another website contact and advise them of their server error.

The webmaster of most Internet sites can be reached via email at webmaster@website.com, replacing website.com with the actual website name.

Source:
http://pcsupport.about.com/od/findbyerrormessage/a/500servererror.htm

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How to disable the "Turn Off Computer" in windows XP?

Today topic is very helpful mainly for those users who want to restrict the common users to shutdown public computer in common areas. You can disable the "Turn off Computer" button on the start menu and a common user will not "Turn Off, Restart and Stand By" a computer. Using registry editor, you can implement this task in all windows XP versions with minimum effort.

Follow the given steps to disable Turn off Computer" button on the start menu:
To use this feature, you will need to be logged into your computer with administrative rights.
Click Start button and type regedit in Run option then press Enter for next.

Here locate the location to:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer
Here in right side panel, right click to create a new DWORD value with the name NoClose.

Now assign number 1 in value data box and close the registry editor.
Now close the registry editor and restart your computer after any changes to go into effect.
But next time, if you want to enable "Turn Off Computer" button on start menu then simply change the value of data box to 0 or delete NoClose DWORD item.

See Also
microsoft technical support

source
http://computerfreetips.com/windows_registry_tips/Disable-Turn-Off-windows.html

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Why You Have to Regularly Install Updates on your PC?

What is an update?
Generally updates are those patches and hot fix which are provided by software manufacturer. New technologies, hardwares and viruses are coming day by day and people do not know when viruses infect their computer while browsing Internet. Updates protect your computer against latest viruses and other kind of security threats. New updates increases the software functionality, enhanced security and performance. Windows often release critical update and Service Packs, computer user's should installe the update on regularly basis whenever its available.

Some user ask is it safe to download update form net? answer is “yes” because it is noticeable thing when you download any update that winnows updating process does not send any information about your computer and its configuration to Microsoft. Before downloading any updatesyou you should be damn sure that you have a original software , Otherwise your Operating System might get corrupted.

Below are the updates which Microsoft support.

Advanced Security updates: When a new security problem face by Microsoft, they released instantly new hot pix and patches. This patch protect you computer against viruses. If you does not update this patch then you will need to use virus removal software.

Service Packs: service packs contains lost of critical updates. windows XP service pack 3 is latest update bundle of Microsoft. Service packs help your system reliability, Program compatibility, security and drivers upgradation and more.

Recommended Updates: Some type of updates are recommended by Microsoft for windows operating system. These type of update are generally give you pop-ups for downloading.

Device Drivers Update: This kind of update to computer hardware such as sound or video card. They updates hardware, firmware and makes your device perform better.

How to Schedule Windows Update:

If you are ready to download windows update either you can download it manually , or schedule it automatically. You can install updates manually from windows web site. There are four option for Windows Update. You can select within this option according to your needs.

1) Automatic: It is a recommended Option, if you are select this option, windows finds and downloads updates in the background process and you are not interrupted during this process.
2) Download updates for me, but let me choose when to install them : It is gives you a notified alert pop-ups when windows search any updates, and download them.
3) Notify me but don't automatically download or install updates: It give you a notified alert pop-up and ask you to download or not update.
4) Turn off Automatic Updates: Some time your hardware requisiteness is not meet for new coming software, and you do not need to latest update then you can select this option for turn off the windows update.

To turn on the Automatic Updates feature

Step 1. Click Start, and go to Control Panel.
Step 2. Click here Performance and Maintenance tab.
Step 3. Now click on system and after click the Automatic Updates Tab.

Source
http://www.articlesbase.com/software-articles/why-you-have-to-regularly-install-updates-on-your-pc-974305.html

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Enhance Your Knowledge about Computer Virus

Computer viruses have the ability to copy itself and spread infection to all computers connected through a common network. And it targets its aim like a terrorist i.e. without any prior information or knowledge of the computer users. The term "computer virus" is nowadays widely used. This is why; it is at times baffled with other malware like spyware, Trojan, and adware.

Computer virus are loaded with another kind of capability virus which is that it can change its behavior according to the data you are working on or have on your system. This is actually one of the properties of a metamorphic virus. As such, a computer virus can only copy itself and spread infection when its host is taken to an uninfected computer, for example by a user sending it over network or the Internet, or by carrying it on a removable mode such as a floppy disk, tape, CD, VCD or USB drive.

As opposed to a computer virus, a computer worm does not call for a need to be transferred through any host, and a Trojan horse is a file that appears safe to computer users. Worms and Trojans can definitely spoil the functionality of your computer and hamper its performance, or networking throughput, when executed.

Generally, most computers are connected to the Internet as well as local area networks, which push the growth and spread of malicious code. Computer viruses may use network services such as the e-mail, Instant Messaging and file sharing systems as a mode to reproduce and spread. Moreover, there are numerous other resources which use alternative terminology in which a computer virus is represented in any form of self-replicating malware , you can use virus removal software to protect yourself.

Computer malware is always deliberately designed to damage your computer programs, deleting files, and reformatting the hard disk. In case, you are looking for solutions to fix your virus infected computers, you must immediately call a computer professional to free your precious system of the virus slings before it actually proves to be harmful for you. Moreover, online computer support resources run their services for 24x7. Therefore, you don’t have to worry about their availability.

http://www.articlesbase.com/security-articles/enhance-your-knowledge-about-computer-virus-830007.html

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Remote Computer Repair Services are Rising in Popularity

Remote computer repair is fast rising in popularity and emerging as one of the most preferred choice of customers looking for repairing their desktop PCs, laptops, hardware and peripherals. The technicians offering remote support can fix most of your PC errors as long as you have Internet facility.

As far as service charges are concerned, these resources usually charge according to the service plan you choose. There are some remote computer repair vendors who can send the technicians at your premises. You can search for any remote computer repair shop through a simple search on the Web. They have their websites which give you an idea about these technicians and the services they offer.

A remote support technician can watch everything going on your PC screen while fixing your computer errors. However, there is no thing like security threats in remote computer support. You can control the actions taken on your system if you feel suspicious about the on-going diagnosis. The technicians disconnect the connection program once their repair work is done. Although the entire method is gaining in popularity; it is always preferable that you narrow down on a reputable remote repair company. This way you will able to verify their credentials better and ensure the safety of your data.

You can avail remote computer support for any of your PC problems and errors related to computers. Some common services that are easily available with these resources are antivirus installation, virus & spyware removal, software installation, up gradation, cleaning up of disk, and pc optimization. The success rate is also soaring like anything when it comes to availing computer support services. One of the best advantages with such services is their ability to save money in long run, since the technicians are working from their own location.

You can carry out a quick search on the Internet regarding these services with the help of keywords like remote support, remote computer support, computer support services etc.

Source
http://www.articlesbase.com/computers-articles/remote-computer-repair-services-are-rising-in-popularity-918877.html

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