AskBob's Best of 2015 - Part One

Your Favorite AskBob Stories of 2015

Getting smarter and more productive... staying safe... saving money. Those phrases seem to sum up the most popular items published here during 2015. If those things appeal to you, you'll enjoy reviewing my Top Ten list below, whether you're a long-time reader, or a recent subscriber.

1. HOWTO: Connect Your PC to TV, Wirelessly!

Wouldn't it be great to beam whatever is on your computer screen directly to your big-screen TV? Now you can wirelessly send Netflix, Hulu, YouTube videos, photos and computer games from your PC, Mac or mobile screen directly to your television. Even browse the web on your fancy big-screen HDTV. Here's how to make a wireless connection from your desktop, laptop or mobile device to your living room TV set.

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2. Can Roku Replace Cable TV?

If you're thinking about dropping your cable TV in favor of online TV and movie streaming, you should know about the Roku box, which makes it simple to bring online video to your big screen TV. Here's my take on whether it can replace your cable TV subscription, along with some competing devices in Apple TV vs. Chromecast

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3. Free Internet Faxing Services

Why use an expensive, complicated and obsolete fax machine when there are so many Internet alternatives? Some even allow you to send and receive faxes online for free. See my roundup of free Internet fax services, learn how to Get a Free Inbound Fax Number and don't miss my Six Reasons to Trash Your Fax Machine.

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4. Free Anti-Virus Programs

Are you stll paying for Internet security software? If you're using the Norton or McAfee antivirus package that came with your computer, you need to know about some excellent free alternatives. When you've digested that, see my list of the Best Antivirus Software for 2015 and then learn how to Deep Scan for Malware.

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5. How to Get FREE Satellite TV

Can you really get free satellite TV? Yes! If you're paying for satellite TV service, it may surprise you to learn that there's a free version, too. "Free to air" (FTA) satellite TV delivers thousands of channels of broadcast content via satellite to consumers all over the world. Read all about it, and also, learn about the Free Satellite TV on PC scam you should avoid.

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6. Ten Ways To Boost Your WiFi Signal

Wireless devices are everywhere now... from laptops to smartphones, tablets and ebook readers. Even printers and hard drives can be connected to a wifi network. So it's important to get the best possible signal from your wireless router. Here are 10 ways to boost or extend your WiFi signal, and most of them won't cost a penny. Oh, and you'll also want to read about Five Wifi Security Mistakes you must avoid.

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7. 5 DIY Home Security Systems

A do-it-yourself (DIY) home security system can reduce your homeowner’s insurance premium and boost your home’s resale value; provide peace of mind while you’re away or asleep; make an intruder change his mind; and even summon police or firefighters when necessary. Thanks to modern technology, home security systems don’t have to cost a lot, and you can save a bundle by installing one yourself. Here are five do-it-yourself home security options to consider.

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8. Keeping Software Updated Simply

Many computer problems can be avoided or cured simply by keeping all of your software up to date. Updates include patches for security vulnerabilities as well as fixes for bugs, new features, and improvements of existing features. Check out these free programs that will do the job for you.

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9. Take the Free Google Security Checkup

It's becoming a more dangerous world every day, both offline and online. So it makes sense to take a good look at your security practices, and ensure that everything is in order. This security checkup will help you secure your accounts from unauthorized access, and recover them if they are ever compromised. I do strongly recommend that you complete the two-minute Security Checkup. And when you're done, I have an extra credit assignment for you.

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10. Five Common Computing Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)

I hate to sound unsympathetic, but most computer problems are caused by careless users. There are a few basic steps you can take to avoid malware infections, data loss, and performance issues. Too often, people try to save time or money by cutting corners, and they end up paying the price. Check out my list of common computing mistakes, and how to fix (or even better, avoid) them. Read on...

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I hope you enjoy reading (or re-discovering) each of these, and of course, leave your own comments! Tomorrow I'll have Part Two of AskBob's Best of 2015, so stay tuned!