Steve Winograd, Owner
P. O. Box 2187
Boulder CO 80306
303-444-8247
steve@bcmaven.com
Helping People Use Computers in Boulder for Over 25 Years
Patient, expert help for beginning and experienced computer users of all ages.
The American Heritage Dictionary defines Maven as "A person who has special knowledge or experience; an expert." I have a Master's degree in Computer Science and many years of experience as a computer programmer, teacher, and consultant. Microsoft has recognized me as a Most Valuable Professional and Windows XP Expert for the help that I give to Windows users.
First, I listen carefully to your questions and concerns, so that I understand what you want to do and what problems you're having. Then, I give clear answers, without unnecessary technical jargon, from the experience that I've gained by helping thousands of people. Some clients have told me that I'm the first person who has explained things in words that they can understand. My areas of expertise include:
- Windows Vista, XP, 2000, Me, 98, 95.
- E-Mail.
- Spyware, Virus, and Spam Removal.
- Firewalls, Internet Security.
- DSL, Cable Modems, Broadband Routers, Internet Connection Sharing.
- Wired and Wireless Networks.
- Backing Up Your Personal Files to Protect Them from Loss.
- Troubleshooting, Upgrades, Installations.
- Printers, Scanners, Digital Cameras, Modems, Monitors.
- External Disks, USB Flash Drives.
I can help you, whatever your experience and needs are. My clients include:
- Grandmothers with no computer experience who want to learn to use E-mail.
- People who want to increase their computer knowledge so they can do their work more quickly and easily.
- Families with multiple computers and a broadband Internet connection.
- Businesses, churches, and non-profit groups who need expert help but can't afford a full-time computer person.
I offer consulting at your home, at your office, or by phone. I can help with all of your computer needs, including:
- Making computer and Internet use safe and pleasant for your whole family.
- Making your computer run faster and better.
- Troubleshooting and fixing all types of Windows problems.
- Installing wired or wireless networks to allow all of your computers to share files and printers.
- Giving all of your computers simultaneous access to a dial-up, DSL, or cable modem Internet connection.
- Tutoring on Windows, AOL, Firefox, Internet Explorer, E-mail, Google, Yahoo, Hotmail, Outlook Express, Windows Mail.
- Evaluating your hardware and software needs and advising on upgrades and purchases.
- Installing and upgrading hardware and software.
I've received the Most Valuable Professional (MVP) award from Microsoft every year since 1999. This annual award recognizes people who have made outstanding contributions to Microsoft's technical communities in the past year. MVPs aren't Microsoft employees and don't receive any monetary payment from Microsoft. They receive a small award of software to help them learn about Microsoft products and solve problems for Microsoft customers.
As an MVP, I get to try out new Microsoft products before they're released to the public. I'm now testing Windows 7, the successor to Windows Vista. I have contacts with the product development and test teams and can influence product designs and report problems. But I have no obligation to Microsoft, because the award is in recognition of past contributions. My only obligation is to you: to help you get the most from your computer. If a Microsoft product has problems, I'll tell you so. If a product from another company serves your needs better than one from Microsoft, I'll tell you so.
Here are some web sites that I recommend for computer information:
- Boulder Computer Maven Newsletter - Copies of my customer newsletter.
- Computer Haven - A friendly place to ask questions about anything to do with computers. I'm a moderator for the Computer Haven forums on Home Networks and Internet Browsers and Email.
- File and Printer Sharing with Microsoft Windows - Detailed information on Windows networking.
- Microsoft Most Valuable Professional Program - Recognizing technical community leaders who share their passion and experience with others.
- DTS-L - a group of my MVP colleagues.
Here are some programs that I use and recommend:
- Forte Agent - News reader
- Mozilla Thunderbird - E-mail client
- Mozilla Firefox - Web browser
- Short Keys - Text replacement and keyboard macros
- Second Copy - Backup and file synchronization
- IrfanView - Graphics viewer and much more
- InfraRecorder - CD and DVD Burning
- Whisper 32 - Password manager
- Synergy - Control multiple computers with a single keyboard and mouse
I recommend these security programs to protect your computer:
- Antivirus: ESET NOD32, ALWIL Software Avast! 4, Sunbelt Software VIPRE
- Antispyware: Windows Defender, Sunbelt Software VIPRE
- Malware Removal: Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware
- Security Monitor: WinPatrol
I use these on-line services to protect my personal data files and synchronize files between multiple computers:
- Backup: BullGuard Backup
- File Sync: SugarSync
When I'm not doing computer work, I enjoy performing with these music and dance groups:
![Ars Nova Singers [click for larger view]](pictures/arsnova_08.jpg)
- Ars Nova Singers [click picture for larger view]
- Boulder Concert Band
- Colorado Friends Of Old Time Music And Dance
- The Renaissance Project
- Early Music Colorado
©2002-2008 Boulder Computer Maven. All Rights Reserved.