Tuesday Tidbits Issue 586
Xtra-PC® Review
We recently received a request from a valued client to review Xtra-PC®, considering it as a potential holiday gift idea. Your input is invaluable, and we genuinely appreciate your suggestion! Here’s our response to your inquiry.The Xtra-PC® USB device promises a quick fix for slow or outdated computers by utilizing a Debian-derived Linux distro pre-installed on a thumb drive. It aims to breathe new life into old PCs, primarily functioning from the thumb drive itself and storing files therein.
While Linux can optimize older computers, Xtra-PC® has limitations. It won’t support most Windows applications, making it unfamiliar territory for many users. Its usability differs substantially from typical Windows systems and might be a challenge for non-tech-savvy individuals.
The product is more suitable for IT experts and Linux-savvy users, considering its limitations with Windows applications and potential incompatibilities. It’s not recommended for general clients unless they fully grasp the differences between Linux and Windows and are comfortable using alternative applications.
Regarding the claim of making a computer “like new,” it’s important to note that hardware limitations, particularly outdated processors, can hinder software compatibility. Even with Linux, certain software might not run on older 32-bit machines, restricting their functionality.
The concept of Xtra-PC® raises concerns among IT professionals. One major concern is potential data loss, especially if the computer has underlying hardware issues like a failing hard drive. Moreover, device compatibility issues, lack of self-updating for security purposes, absence of technical support, and the risk of encountering counterfeit products make it a risky choice.
An alternative solution, ChromeOS Flex by Google, offers a secure and user-friendly option to repurpose old PCs into Chromebook-like devices. Its reliability and robust security features make it a safer and more viable choice compared to Xtra-PC®.
For more information on repurposing old PCs with ChromeOS Flex, visit https://chromeenterprise.google/os/chromeosflex.
This Tuesday Tidbits series is one great way to keep your employees informed, but you STILL need a good AUP in place and training. If you’d like our help creating one for your company based on best practices, call us at (608) 755-1524. You’ll be glad you did.Contact us if you have any computer-related needs by visiting computer-center.com.
“Ideas are a commodity. Execution of them is not.” ~ Michael Dell
This Tuesday Tidbits series is one great way to keep your employees informed, but you STILL need a good AUP in place and training. If you’d like our help creating one for your company based on best practices, call us at (608) 755-1524. You’ll be glad you did.
Contact us if you have any computer-related needs by visiting computer-center.com.
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Testimonials
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐I would give them 10 stars if I could. Computer Center revolutionized our reality of what an outside IT company should look like, act like and offer as a support model. We’ve been a client of theirs for over 15 years and have no interest in even discussing any other options.James and his team are amazing and “Johnny on the pot” when it comes to issues we face. Gone are the days of IT companies having to leave the office with your computer to fix the issues. Their Comprehensive Care Package, remote access and trouble ticket process all function seamlessly to keep our company information safe and up and running!Gerald is one of his off-site techs that help solve issues over the phone or, better yet, remotely jumping on to my PC to address any issues. He is a joy to speak with, as are all the techs I’ve had the pleasure to speak with. ~CS
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Sincerely,
James Pearson, President
The Computer Center
39 S. Main St., Ste 300
Janesville, WI 53545
(608) 755-1524