DCN Solutions- IT, Computers, Web Site Design and Programming in Perth Western Australia

Gaming Machine Review

2011-11-19T16:32:00.000-08:00

Check out our quick review of a Gaming Machine we built for one of our clients:

http://www.facebook.com/dcnsolutions

Save Your Precious Data!

2011-11-19T16:31:00.000-08:00

Who here has had a computer crash and lost data?

Who wants to prevent data loss in case your computer crashes?

I have several backup servers and special software so all your photos, documents, videos, financial docs etc. are automatically duplicated over the internet to my secure servers. It is a no-brainer for businesses, but think of your personal photos and documents? If there is a fire, or someone steals your PC, it is gone for good!

Find out more here:
http://dcnsolutions.net/products-and-services/off-site-backup/

Unlimited Calls/Text!

2011-11-19T16:30:00.000-08:00

New Offer from ACN: $70 unlimited call/text and $100 international credit.

ACN use the Optus network and their office is in Sydney, so awesome coverage and quick Aussie support when you need it!

Get more info:
http://www.acnpacific.com.au/products/australia?ibo=storefront&ID=7250292900&handle=dcnsolutions

Who is reading your Emails?

2011-09-13T19:35:00.000-07:00

A recent study was able to get many trade secrets of large companies in America. This was done by purchase very similar domain names and waiting for someone to send an email that was slightly misspelled. The results were astonishing! Stock reports, passwords and even employee's personal details were retrieved, all by someone misspelling the recipients email address!

Be weary of the spelling of email addresses, as if you do spell it incorrectly, it may not bounce back to notify you.

Stay up to date with IT in Perth! Visit dcnsolutions.net and signup for our email newsletter

DCN Solutions' Sister Website

2011-08-22T21:04:00.000-07:00

We have created a new page dedicated to our webdesign, custom software and hosting. You can see the site at www.joondalup-web-design.com.au/

New Website: tarullistone.com.au

2011-07-27T19:06:00.000-07:00

We have just launched our latest website: www.tarullistone.com.au!
This site, includes photo galleries, google map and sweet graphics!

Keep your eyes peeled on dcnsolutions.net for the latest in our designs!

Hacker Charged with NBN Attack

2011-07-27T18:59:00.000-07:00

A self taught hacker has been charged with hacking the new National Broadband Network. See the full article at www.news.com.au

New "Indestructible" Virus!

2011-07-07T18:42:00.000-07:00

Kaspersky has revealed there is a new virus going around called TDL-4. This one is special, in that it is designed to hide in peoples computers without their knowing, and is extremely hard to remove. Infections occur when visiting rogue web sites (usually pornography or pirated content). Be very cautious when visiting a website that you have not gone to before!

See the full article at cnet: http://news.cnet.com/8301-13506_3-20075725-17/tdl-4-the-indestructible-botnet/

DCN Solutions: Winner of the 2011 MDBA Awards

2011-06-22T06:24:00.001-07:00

DCN Solutions is proud to announce our win of first place in the 2011 Malaga and Districts Business Association award for the category of Professional Services.

This award was won due to our business ethic of absolute honesty, quick response times, and of course our technical expertise in every IT field.

My thanks to our team members, Sarah, Peter and Beau, as this is a great achievement for our team!

Acer Travelmate 5742 on Special!

2011-06-20T17:13:00.000-07:00

Get the Acer TravelMate 5742, with a 15.6" screen, Corei5 2.66GHz processor, 4GB of RAM and Win7 Pro! Normally $1299, down to $1099! Only before June 30 2011!!!!

Get more info here!

New to DCN Solutions: Online Backup Service!

2011-05-30T07:33:00.000-07:00

DCN Solutions is proud to announce our new off-site back up service! We have a piece of custom software that schedules a backup of your data, compresses and encrypts it, and sends it to several hosting data centres in Perth. By backing up your mission critical files (such as MYOB, Quickbooks, Project Documents etc.) you have peace of mind that your data is safe from hackers and any disaster that might affect your office. For more information, please visit dcnsolutions.net/products-and-services/off-site-backup/

Virus Alert: Old one still doing the rounds...

2011-05-30T05:05:00.000-07:00

A fake virus has been doing the rounds for several years now. It goes under many names, but it incorporates "XP Anti-Virus", or "Vista Anti-Virus" in its name. It pops up repeatedly saying you are infected with many Trojans and other Malware, and prompts you to purchase the full version to remove these threats. All this does is collect your credit card details for unauthorised purchases!

Most anti-virus programs don't detect or remove it, but we have found one piece of software that does: Spyware Blaster! As this fake-virus infects your computer when you visit compromised web sites (via google searches etc.), Spyware Blaster blocks known sites from being accessed! This prevents these type of bugs from being installed at all! The link to Spyware Blaster is on our web site at dcnsolutions.net/about-us/links/

Web Site Update: reefkitchens.com.au

2011-05-25T01:57:00.000-07:00

The Reef Kitchens web site layout has had a bit of a face lift, with a new light box based photo gallery, 3D page border and basic SEO optimisation!

Does your sight need a face lift? Get in contact with us, we have graphics, programming and SEO specialists awaiting to assist!

New Website: villaggiowoodfiredpizza.com.au

2011-05-23T16:39:00.000-07:00

We have just launched our lastest website: http://www.villaggiowoodfiredpizza.com.au/!
This is a fairly simple site, but includes a photo gallery, google map integration, and a full menu!

For more designs, see our re-designed web site at
dcnsolutions.net/products-and-services/web-site-design/

Beware of Phone Scams!

2011-05-21T02:09:00.000-07:00

In recent months, we have heard of scams where people are called up and told that they have a virus and need to run a scan on their computer. They are then directed to download or run software which actually infects the computer, or they are directed to a web site to download software. Be wary of phone calls like this! Only use trusted anti-virus software, like AVG, Microsoft Security Essentials, McAfee etc.

If you feel that you way have been compromised, contact us as soon as possible! These people may have access to your computer!

The Next Generation in Online Business Directories

2011-04-28T20:00:00.000-07:00

It has been a busy month for us at DCN Solutions. We have a new technician named Peter helping us out, have several websites in the works and we have started a beta testing campaign on willhelp.com.au. Any suggestions are welcome!

Stay tuned for the launch of our new web site designs at dcnsolutions.net/webdesign!!

New Website Services!

2011-03-27T22:11:00.000-07:00

A while ago we did a website for Jeska Design - jeskadesign.com.au. We have now updated her website with an online ordering system, new graphics and slide transitions. We made her graphical vision become a reality! Are you a graphic designer, wanting to broaden your horizons and offer web design amongst your services? We can help! Have a look at our other web designs at http://dcnsolutions.net/webdesign and our new outsourcing page at http://dcnsolutions.net/outsourcing!

iPad 2 Has Been Launched!

2011-03-25T16:14:00.000-07:00

The apple iPad2 was released in Perth yesterday. Dozens of people queued for hours to get the latest tablet offering from Apple. See the full article here from PerthNow.com.au

New Website: cameradynamics.com

2011-03-11T01:05:00.001-08:00

We have been busy with a new website: http://www.cameradynamics.net/. This website, although basic, can store thousands of items for sale in the custom eStore database. There is a backend to add new products, and all customer orders are emailed through to the office straight from the website.

For more ideas for your website, check out dcnsolutions.net/webdesign.

Cheap Hosting - Pros and Cons

2011-03-10T00:20:00.000-08:00

There are many options for hosting your website, and some companies are offering extremely cheap deals, which include databases, email and even Google adwords coupons. So why stay with an Australian hosting provider? Here are some pros and cons

Pros:
Overseas hosting is cheaper
More features included in their base products

Cons:
Delays in access times (traffic has to be routed out of the country, then back in. This is a problem for local customers, especially if your target market is in Australia)
Delays in talking to a real person in your area (some companies setup instant messaging links overseas for technical support)
Downtime due to network outages (since the servers are many links away, there is a greater risk of an outage)

Our hosting packages are run from dedicated servers in Malaga, maintained by local people, working in our timezone. Really it boils down to this: is the sweetness of a cheap price worth the risk of delays and outages?

Solid State Hard Drives Keep Your Files Safer

2011-03-08T01:01:00.000-08:00

Solid State hard drives are the latest in the evolution of storage technologies. They will eventually replace hard drive based storage devices currently used in your laptops and desktop computers. They are designed to save information directly on to silicon chips as opposed to magnetically encoding a rotating steel platter. One of the interesting by-products of this move is that Solid State drives can be easily and quickly erased. Older hard drives would take considerably longer to do a low-level format which would permanently erase all data. This has now allowed criminals to erase evidence instead of being caught.

See the full article on the Sydney Morning Herald

New Processors are Out!

2011-03-05T00:28:00.000-08:00

Intel has raised the performance bar again with a new CPU, the Core i7 990X. Its is just slightly faster (about 100 Mhz) than the current top of the line 980X, but with the same price tag. The only catch is that it wont be available for a while in Australia.

Still, stay tuend to the Core i7 section of our website to see when it arrives!

iPad 2 Coming Soon!!

2011-03-03T16:56:00.000-08:00

The new iPad 2 was just released in San Francisco yesterday, boasting a thinner case, 2 cameras, a faster processor and better screen response.

Stay tuned to our blog to see the Perth release date, or submit your interest by emailing us at info@dcnsolutions.net!

See the full article at techdigest.tv

New Website: roberthollhomes.com.au

2011-02-16T19:32:00.000-08:00

We have yet another new web deisgn, this time for Robert Holl Master Builder. This site includes our easy to edit photo gallery, testimonials and more!

Have a look at our other web designs at http://dcnsolutions.net/webdesign!

Recommended Companies

2011-02-09T23:47:00.000-08:00

At DCN Solutions, we pride ourselves on excellent service at competitive rates. This business ethic has earned us many loyal customers, who in turn offer great services at fair prices.

Some of these include:

All Boat Business - For everything from boats to tackle and everything in between
Robert Holl Master Builder - Quality homes and extensions
Australian Protection Services - Security and crowd control for any event, any venue
Jeska Design - For everything graphical; logos, flyers business cards - you name it!
Fruit-Express - Get snacks delivered to your office; fruit, milk, coffee and more!
HelpDesk - Training for office software systems and standards compliance
Camera Dynamics - Manufacturer of quality camera jibs, including the Pro-Jib
Mossy's Mini Excavations - Underground cabling installations: in sub divisions or new areas!
Reeves Engineering - Structural steel fabrication for anywhere in WA!
Inflatable Packers International - Manufacturers of high-quality inflatable packers
Shepherd Studio - Photography, Web Design, Graphic Design and much more!
St James Conveyancing - Managing the hassle of buying and selling properties, both commercial and residential!

Microsoft and Google - Someone is Cheating!

2011-02-06T16:08:00.000-08:00

Have you tried searching something in Google and then in Bing, just to see if the same results pop up? If you have, there is a bit of a pattern... but not just because the info on the internet is the same: Google claims Microsoft is copying its search results for Bing searches!

See the full article at foxnews.com

Internet Addresses Have Run Out!

2011-02-03T20:21:00.000-08:00

Its official. As of Thursday the 3rd of February, 2011, the world's pool of IP addresses has been allocated. Further to our last story on IPv6 (article here), the roll out is well underway, and we should have a seamless transition from IPv4. Some people may need to upgrade their modems or routers to work with the new protocol, but your ISP should let you know what you need to do.

New Virus Alert!

2011-01-26T18:18:00.000-08:00

There is a new virus going around called Security Tool 2011. The virus seems to be transmitted by victims clicking on links to websites in emails or web pages. These websites are infected in such a way, that the virus is downloaded in the background, without you knowing. After you are infected, messages pop up suggesting that you have many infections in your system, and that you need to purchase the full suite to remove them. This is a classic fake-alert, designed to get your credit card details.

If you think you have been infected, contact us here, and we will arrange to fix your computer.

Internet Addresses Running Out!

2011-01-24T15:37:00.000-08:00

The world's allocation of IP addresses will be exhausted in a matter of weeks. This will mean that Internet Service Providers will need to start sharing addresses, or implement IPv6 protocols.

At the moment, we are running on IPv4 protocols, which allows roughly 4 billion addresses. With the popularity of the Internet in the late 90's and the prevalence of mobile computing devices, all requiring their own unique IP address, the pool of addresses is predicted to run out this year. The long term solution is IPv6, which will allow 3.4*10^38 addresses (that is 34 with 37 zeros after it!)

On June 8, there will be a global test run of the new protocol, to make sure there are no problems before a wide scale implementation.

What do you need to do? When the Australian ISP's go over to IPv6, we will need to upgrade our routers, modems and other Internet connectivity equipment to be able to communicate using the new protocols. Stay tuned to dcnsolutions.net/blog to hear more!

See source article at test-ipv6.com

New Processors are Out!

2011-01-23T21:33:00.000-08:00

Both Intel and AMD have developed new processors which will both be availbe this quarter. What does this mean for you? If you are in the market for a new computer, and want something faster, wait about 2 months or so. By then, the new processors will be out, meaning the price of "older" models (those in the 6-12 month range) will drop!

Stay tuned to our blog at dcnsolutions.net/blog, or our store at dcnsolutions.localline.com.au to see the performance specs and prices on the models!!!

(see full article at itwire)

Prevent Data Loss!

2011-01-06T16:22:00.000-08:00

Do you backup your data on a regular basis? If not, now is the time to act! External hard drives with hundreds of gigabytes of storage are at an all time low, and an automated backup script can be setup so you don't have to worry about your backups at all.

If you have fallen victim to a hard drive failiure, there is hope via a data recovery. There is a good chance that most of your data is intact if your drive still spins up!

For more information, please visit our website at dcnsolutions.net

New Website: westcoastpatios.com.au

2010-11-29T16:10:00.000-08:00

We have been busy creating new websites lately! Our latest design for westcoastpatios.com.au incorporates our editable photo galleries and testimonials. Also note, that Google Maps are integrated into the contact page, a great way to find directions!

Have a look at our other web designs at http://dcnsolutions.net/webdesign!

New Website: hutchcrafthomes.com

2010-11-28T16:07:00.000-08:00

Does your website need a refresh? This is a great way to keep your business image up to date. We have just done this for hutchcrafthomes.com, and included editable testimonials, photo galleries, contact forms and more!

Have a look at our other web designs at http://dcnsolutions.net/webdesign!

New Website: jeskadesign.com.au

2010-11-24T17:39:00.000-08:00

Are you a graphic designer, wanting to broaden your horizons and offer web design amongst your services? We can help! Take our latest website, jeskadesign.com.au for example. Jess sent us the graphics of what she envisioned her site to be and suggested a TV transition effect on the home page... and we made it a reality!

Have a look at our other web designs at http://dcnsolutions.net/webdesign!

Virus Alert!

2010-10-29T15:36:00.000-07:00

There is a new breed of fake anti-virus going around at the moment called Think Point. The difference between this one and other fake anti-virus programs is that it modifies Windows Operating System files, making removal quite tricky.

Adobe has also announced that there is an email going around with an infected PDF file that will install Trojans on your computer. They are currently working on a fix (see article here)

If you think you have a virus on your computer, don't wait! Contact us now to fix it!

How Often Do You Backup?

2010-10-20T01:37:00.001-07:00

Your office computer network is probably the backbone of your business. It stands to reason then to make sure things are configured and running smoothly. Imagine what would happen if a fire breaks out, or thieves break in, and you lose your computer with critical data? A backup solution is imperative, including a list of all CD keys and CD images that you have running, so that you don't have to try to hunt down older software versions when reinstalling on a replacement PC. Most importantly, do a full backup at least once a week onto an external drive that is taken off-site at the end of the day. That way you will be protected from the majority of data disasters!

New Websites - perthpatios.net.au and globalwebsiteservices.com.au!

2010-10-07T23:40:00.000-07:00

We have just finished 2 more websites, www.perthpatios.net.au/ and www.globalwebsiteservices.com.au/! To see more of our designs, please visit dcnsolutions.net/webdesign/

RAM Problems?

2010-10-03T17:20:00.001-07:00

Does your computer randomly crash? Do you have problems installing things on one computer specifically, but not on another? Try testing your RAM for errors, as faulty RAM can cause almost any symptom. You can download a free RAM tester from here.

Webcams: More than Just Video Conferencing!

2010-09-30T16:29:00.000-07:00

Webcams are a pretty standard thing these days. With Skype installed, you can have video conferencing to anywhere in the world for virtually nothing. But did you know that your web cam can also be a security camera? Webcams can be setup securely to stream a live video feed over the Internet to another location, without other people eavesdropping in. Imagine being able to make sure things are fine at the office while you are away! The same system can even be used in an "online-classroom" setup, with multiple people viewing a single stream. The possibilities are limited only by your imagination! For more information, please contact us.

AFACT Gets DDOS Attack

2010-09-29T02:36:00.000-07:00

The website for the Australian Federation Against Copyright Theft (AFACT) was attacked earlier today by hackers using a Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attack. This is where a website or other resource is sent many requests at once, essentially block the website from being visible to intended users. See the full article here.

Remote Desktop - Access Your PC from Anywhere!

2010-09-27T21:05:00.000-07:00

One of our most popular setups is Remote Desktop. This is a system that allows you to access one computer's screen from another over the internet. For example, say you needed to check some figures in MYOB, but it is only installed on your work computer in your office. You can use Remote Desktop to access your work computer from home over the internet! This same setup can be used if you have multiple people in off-site locations that need access to resources from the one computer (this is called a Terminal Server). For more information on Remote Desktop, please contact us!

All in One Means Telephone and Network Cabling Too

2010-09-23T17:07:00.000-07:00

At DCN Solutions, we offer a one stop IT service. This includes network, telephone and other low voltage cable installation. From additional telephone points, to multi-storey network cabling complete with networking rack, switches and other equipment, we have done it all!
We are also licenced to check your existing cabling for compliance with current Australian standards. If you need any cabling done, just give us a call! (Open Cabling Licence T24002)

Bargain Graphics Laptop!

2010-09-20T17:35:00.001-07:00

Getting a laptop to have a decent graphics chipset for a bargain price is hard to come by these days. However, the Acer TravelMate 5740G has ATI Mobility Radeon HD 5650 with 1GB DDR3 RAM, XP Pro downgrade and 12 months CA anti-virus for under $1000! For more info, see the specs at dcnsolutions.localline.com.au, or contact us at info@dcnsolutions.net

We Are Close by For All Your IT, Web Design and Programming Needs!

2010-09-19T17:28:00.000-07:00

Are you looking for someone close by for your computer, networking, Internet, web design or programming needs? Have a look at dcnsolutions.net/contact, and click on your suburb name to see what zone you are in! If your suburb isn't listed, give us a call, and we'll let you know how far away we are! The zones are in 15 minute blocks, so Zone 1 is 15 minutes away, Zone 2 is 30 minutes away, Zone 3 is 45 minutes away etc.

For any queries, you can call, skype, IM or email us!

Great All Round PC!

2010-09-16T18:41:00.000-07:00

This month we have a special on a new computer package:

Intel Core i5 650 3.2 Ghz Dual Core Processor (upgrade to Quad core for less than $50)
Asus P7P55 Motherboard (dual video card slots for CrossFire)
4 GB DDR3 RAM
1.0 TB Hard Drive
Ati HD5770 Graphics Card w/1GB RAM
24x DVD Burner
18.5" LCD with Speakers
Logitech Keyboard/Mouse kit
Windows 7 Home Premium
Microsoft Office Basic (Word, Excel PowerPoint, OneNote)

All for under $1550, installed on site, complete with anti-virus, Microsoft Office etc.!

This system is ready for games, internet, 3D design and much more! Upgrades are available for Graphics cards, CPU, RAM, Hard drive etc. So if there is something that you specifically need (or want), just let us know!

For more details, please contact us here.

Laptop Won't Boot? Check the Battery!

2010-09-15T16:39:00.000-07:00

We have had quite a few cases where laptop batteries are no longer storing charge. Every time, the laptop has been left for weeks without use, with the battery still attached to the laptop. This causes the battery to be unable to retain charge properly, so if you are not going to be using your laptop for a while, disconnect the battery, and save the $200 that will be needed to order in a new one!

On the subject of laptops, we have access to Asus and Toshiba and MSI laptops, check out our estore here for more details.

So Many CPU Choices - Which Is The One For You?

2010-09-15T01:52:00.000-07:00

When deciding what to get in a new computer, the processor is the most critical part of a system, as it determines the maximum possible speed that the computer can run at. There are many sockets that CPUs are made for, and many processor models for each socket. The sockets that are currently available are:
AMD AM3
Intel LGA775 (soon to be phased out)
Intel LGA1156
Intel LGA1366

The actual models are:
Athlon II X2
Athlon II X4
Phenom II X2
Phenom II X4
Phenom II X6
Intel Core 2 Duo
Intel Core i5
Intel Core i7

So which is the best? It depends on what you need the computer for. As a general rule of thumb, the Athlon II X2 processors are the cheapest, and still fairly fast for office work, MYOB, web browsing etc. For a quick boost in speed, you could go for a Phenom processor. If you want a gaming machine, work on 3D drawings, or process large amounts of data, go for the Intel Core i5 processor (our best seller!), as these are considerably faster, and even though more expensive than AMD, they are the best value for money at the moment. If you want the top of the range and don't mind spending the dollars, go for Intel Core i7. They are the fastest processors out, but you do pay for the privilege!

Protect Your Data with a Server

2010-09-13T16:51:00.000-07:00

Do you have files shared on multiple computers in your office? Do you have a backup of your data done every week? It is essential for smooth operations and multiple redundancy that you centralize your data and do regular backups. A simple server doesn't need to cost you a fortune either, as we can supply and install server computers with backup drives for under $1500! For info, contact us at info@dcnsolutions.net

Beware of Anti-Virus Scams!

2010-09-12T17:13:00.000-07:00

There is a fake alert bug that has been going around for quite a while now, and we are still coming across infected systems. It goes by various names such as Anti-Virus XP, Anti-Virus 2010, Win 7 Antivirus Pro, Total security, plus many more. Your system would get infected by opening an email with a link to an infected website. Once installed, it modifies the system registry so that when you open any program, the fake anti-virus is run first. Once it is open, a fake scan takes place, and an alert is given saying that your system is infected, and that you need to purchase the program to fix your system. This is a scam, and we have found that some anti-virus programs have trouble detecting and removing it. It is a bit tricky to remove as well, as there are registry settings that need to be edited as well as removing the actual file. If you believe that you have been infected, please contact us, and we'll get it sorted for you!

Monitor Web Activity

2010-09-10T21:39:00.000-07:00

With the prevalence of unsavoury content on the internet these days, a way to monitor and block these web sites is in high demand, whether it be to keep employees from recreating during work hours, or protecting your children. K9 web protection is your answer, as it can limit web access based on categories, keywords, URLs or even the time of day! it also has a built in log, so that you can see waht sites have been accessed. For more information, please contact us.

Manage Your Business With a Custom Program

2010-09-09T17:15:00.001-07:00

There are many different invoicing and accounting packages available today, each with their own set of features. Which one is best for your business?

We have found that each package has its own unique benefits, and incorporated them into our own web based Business Manager. Our program allows you to keep a database of contacts, create financial reports for any time period, email invoices and outstanding statements, view statistics on your customer's payment history and much more! And like any other DCN Solutions program, it can be customised to fit your business setup (such as integrating an eStore, stock management, or Mailing List Editor).

For more information, please contact us and we will be more than happy to answer any queries you might have.

Which Anti-Virus?

2010-09-08T17:41:00.001-07:00

There are many anti-virus programs on the market today, and some are available for free. Other promise excellent protection for a fee. So which should you choose?

In a home environment, we recommend AVG as it automatically updates and protects your PC in real time from any web or email-based virus attacks. However, it is free ONLY in a non-commercial environment.

For businesses, we recommend CA anti-virus, which is available in a 12 month 3PC pack for $50.

There are other more expensive programs that include firewall, spam protection etc. but the majority of people on ADSL connectionsa can configure their modem/router to block incomming hacking attempts. If you think that your computer may be infected with a virus, or wish to check your security against hackers, you can book a computer repair by contacting us at info@dcnsolutions.net

The Latest PC Technology in Perth

2010-09-07T17:35:00.001-07:00

DCN Solutions has access to all the latest technologies in Perth, including Solid State hard drives (SSD's). These drives have no moving parts and use a parallel bus architecture, so there is no spin up time or defragmentation needed... EVER!We also have Core i5 and Core i7 processors. Core i5 CPUs are great value for money, while Core i7 are the fastest available! For more info or a quote on a system or upgrade, email us at info@dcnsolutions.net, or go to our

Laptop of the Month!

2010-09-06T17:08:00.000-07:00

Want a value for money laptop, something that will get your work done quickly and not break the bank? Then the Acer TravelMate 5740G is for you! It has an ATI Mobility Radeon HD 5650 with 1GB DDR3 RAM, XP Pro downgrade and 12 months CA anti-virus, all for under $1000! For more info, see the specs at dcnsolutions.localline.com.au, or contact us at info@dcnsolutions.net

Get Your PC Up to Speed!

2010-09-06T02:59:00.000-07:00

Is your PC more than 5 years old? Thinking of throwing it out and getting a new one? Depending on your configuration, you can get an upgrade for a fraction of the cost! The motherboard, CPU and RAM are upgraded to current spec Intel or AMD setups, with the option to upgrade the hard drive to faster speeds and greater capacities, all while keeping your existing copies of Microsoft Windows and Microsoft Office and even your current data (no extra software to buy!). For more info on parts, have a look at our eStore at dcnsolutions.localline.com.au, or give us a call for a free quote.

Backup Everything... Even Your Keys!

2010-09-02T15:40:00.001-07:00

Your office computer network is probably the backbone of your business. It stands to reason then to make sure things are configured and running smoothly. Imagine what would happen if a fire breaks out, or thieves break in, and you lose your computer with critical data? A backup solution is imperative, including a list of all CD keys and CD images that you have running, so that you don't have to try to hunt down older software versions when reinstalling on a replacement PC. Also, keep in mind that dust build up inside the PC case can overheat components, and cause major failures, and a regular maintenance schedule is recommended.

Should I Upgrade?

2010-09-01T19:52:00.000-07:00

The temptation to keep up with the latest technology is rampant in our world today. But should you throw away your 3 year old computer for a current model? Have a look at this article at Tom's Hardware. If you computer is not running as fast as it did when you first bought it, it might be an idea to keep your PC as it is and do a software clean out (see our Computer Repairs page)

Special for September!

2010-08-31T01:24:00.000-07:00

This month's special is the Acer Aspire AS1820PT. If you are thinking of an iPad with its limited memory and keyboard input, you might want to think of this instead! The AS1820PT is a small laptop with a built in touchscreen and keyboard, so you can use it as a tablet OR a regular laptop, depending on what you want to do! It comes with Windows 7, built in web cam and plenty of hard drive space, so you have all you need for work or play! For September only, you can get this laptop for $1449 (RRP $1599), see more details at dcnsolutions.localline.com.au!

Affordable eCommerce Solution!

2010-08-30T17:05:00.000-07:00

Do you want to sell items online? If you are just starting off, we recommend a localline.com.au eStore. localline.com.au offers an eStore rental service, which allows you to sell anything you want for a fixed annual fee. You can customise your store front colours, logo etc. in real time! Check it out at localline.com.au/estore.

For those that wish to have their own store, we have designed custom shopping cart programs that include stock control, electronic payments, photo galleries, search functions... we can do anything you can think of! Have a look at some of our web sites at dcnsolutions.net.

Computers Don't Like Dust!

2010-08-30T02:24:00.001-07:00

Is your computer making funny sounds or rebooting randomly? These are classic signs of overheating, usually caused by dust. Some of the computers that we have seen are so clogged with pet hair, dust and cigarette smoke, that fans have stopped working, and they overheat! If you think your computer may need a clean out, we have a mobile compressor that we can bring to you to clean your computer, anywhere in the Perth metro area. Prevent any unnecessary down-time, just give us a call!

Get your Web Site to Work Without Google!

2010-08-26T20:30:00.000-07:00

Some people think that web sites are only good if you want to get customers from online searches. Getting this done effectively with SEO is quite expensive, and time consuming. However, a web site can ALSO be your shop front and showroom! Some businesses simply can't afford all the floor space and man-hours to have a retail shop-front, but by having it electronic, you can direct people to the web site either by business cards, car decals, Facebook, Yellow Pages or other similar marketing strategies, and get more customers coming to you without all the extra rent in floor space. Visit our web site here to see the designs we have implemented for other businesses, or contact us to see how our web and graphic designs can improve your business image!

Why Hosting is Needed

2010-08-25T17:09:00.000-07:00

Hosting is needed by websites to keep them accessible at all times. Web sites are hosted on servers, which are special computer systems that are kept running 24 hours a day. When you type in a web site address or send an email, a Domain Name Server is contacted (normally managed by your internet provider) and it is then routed to the correct server, which is hosting the required content.

Hosting can handle more than just emails and web site storage though. Databases, and even your company server can be "co-located", so that your company files can be accessed quickly from Wangara, Joondalup, or Tokyo! This is especially useful if you have a Terminal Server. For more information, please feel free to contact us!

Terminal Server: Is it Right for Your Business?

2010-08-24T17:09:00.000-07:00

A terminal server is a single computer running a software package that allows multiple, simultaneous remote connections. With permissions setup to limit access to certain files, this will allow your employees to access files from any location!

This is especially useful for MYOB, as the only information that is sent over the Internet/network is, not that actual data file, but just a virtual screen shot as if you were physically on that computer.. perfect if you need to have multiple people accessing files while in locations around Perth... or even the state! With a terminal server, not only will MYOB and other database programs run faster, but you have the flexibility to access data wherever you are!

For more information on a Terminal Server, and if it is appropriate for you, please contact us.

Test Your RAM!

2010-08-23T15:52:00.000-07:00

Does your computer randomly crash? Do you have problems installing things on your computer, but not on anything else? Try testing your RAM for errors, as faulty RAM can cause almost any symptom. You can download a free RAM tester from here.

Use Your Web Cam for Security!

2010-08-21T21:46:00.001-07:00

Do you want to monitor your home or workshop when you are not around? Do you have an office out the back, and need to keep an lookout for customers entering your shopfront? Security cameras can be setup to do this, but did you know that even webcams can be setup securely to stream a live video feed over the internet to another location, without other people evesdropping in? Imagine being able to make sure things are fine at the office while you are away! The same system can even be used in an "online-classroom" setup, with multiple people viewing a single stream. The possibilites are limited only by your imagination! For more information, please contact us.

Access Your PC Anywhere!

2010-08-18T17:41:00.000-07:00

Network and Telephone Cabling

2010-08-17T06:08:00.001-07:00

We are also licenced to check your existing cabling for compliance with current Australian standards. If you need any cabling done, just give us a call! (Open Cabling Licence T24002)

Graphics in Laptops

2010-08-16T17:43:00.000-07:00

Your Local IT Guy

2010-08-14T17:55:00.000-07:00

Value for Money PC

2010-08-12T23:32:00.000-07:00

This month we have a special on a new computer package:

Intel Core i5 650 3.2 Ghz Dual Core Processor (upgrade to Quad core for less than $50)
Asus P7P55 Motherboard (dual video card slots for CrossFire)
2 GB DDR3 RAM
250GB Hard Drive
Ati HD4350 Graphics Card
24x DVD Burner
18.5" LCD with Speakers
Logitech Keyboard/Mouse kit
Windows 7 Home Premium

All for under $1200, installed on site, complete with anti-virus, word processor etc.! This is a base system, with upgrades available for Graphics cards, CPU, RAM, Hard drive etc. So if there is something that you specifically need (or want), just let us know!

For more details, please contact us here.

Laptop Won't Turn On?

2010-08-11T16:13:00.000-07:00

We have had quite a few people complain that their laptop batteries are no longer storing charge. Every time, they have left their laptop for weeks without use, with the battery still attached to the laptop. This causes the battery to be unable to retain charge properly, so if you are not going to be using your laptop for a while, disconnect the battery, and save the $200 that will be needed to order in a new one!

On the subject of laptops, we have access to Asus and Toshiba and MSI laptops, check out our estore here for more details.

Which Processor to Buy?

2010-08-10T17:20:00.001-07:00

When deciding on a computer, the processor is the most critical part of a system, as it determines the maximum possible speed that the computer can run at.

There are many sockets that CPUs are made for, and many processor models for each socket. The sockets that are currently available are:
AMD AM3
Intel LGA775 (soon to be phased out)
Intel LGA1156
Intel LGA1366

The actual models are:
Athlon II X2
Athlon II X4
Intel Core 2 Duo
Intel Core i5
Intel Core i7

So which is the best? What one do you need for your application? As a general rule of thumb, the AMD X2 processors are the cheapest, and still fairly fast for office work, web browsing etc. If you want to play games, work on 3D drawings, or process large amounts of data, go for the Intel Core i5 processor (our best seller!), as these are considerably faster, and even though more expensive than AMD, the best value for money. If you want the top of the range and don't mind spending the dollars, go for Intel Core i7. They are the fastest processors out, but you do pay for the privilege!

Secure and Centralize Your Data!

2010-08-09T02:27:00.000-07:00

Do you have files shared on multiple computers in your office? Do you have a backup of your data done every week? It is essential for smooth operations and multiple redundancy that you centralize your data and do regular backups.

A simple server doesn't need to cost you a fortune either, as we can supply and install server computers with backup drives for under $1500!

Beware of Fake Anti-Virus Programs!

2010-08-07T18:30:00.000-07:00

Censoring Websites?

2010-08-05T17:24:00.000-07:00

Business Management Made Easy!

2010-08-04T21:52:00.000-07:00

There are many different invoicing and accounting packages available today, each with their own set of features. Which one is best for your business? We have found that each package has its own unique benefits, and incorporated them into our own web based Business Manager.

Our program allows you to keep a database of contacts, create financial reports for any time period, email invoices and outstanding statements, view statistics on your customer's payment history and much more! And like any other DCN Solutions program, it can be customised to fit your business setup (such as integrating an eStore, stock management, or Mailing List Editor) For more information, please contact us and we will be more than happy to answer any queries you might have.

Special For August!

2010-08-03T17:30:00.000-07:00

This months special is the Toshiba L550 17.3" widescreen laptop! This month only (or while stocks last) you will get a free mini-mouse and laptop stand! For more info, see the Toshiba L550 at our eStore, or contact us here.

Latest Technologies Available!

2010-08-02T17:22:00.000-07:00

DCN Solutions has access to all the latest technologies in Perth, including Solid State hard drives (SSD's). These drives have no moving parts and use a parallel bus architecture, so there is no spin up time or defragmentation needed... EVER!

We also have Core i5 and Core i7 processors. Core i5 CPUs are great value for money, while Core i7 are the fastest available! For more info or a quote on a system or upgrade, email us at info@dcnsolutions.net, or go to our contact page.

Great Deals on Mobile Broadband

2010-08-01T17:15:00.000-07:00

Iinet have just joined the mobile broadband game, with new Mobile plans. If you are an existing customer, you get an extra $5 off per month, and if you sign up for 24 months, the modem is free! Check out the details at www.iinet.net.au/mobile-broadband/

Upgrades for Older PC's

2010-07-31T02:44:00.001-07:00

Office Maintenance

2010-07-30T00:20:00.001-07:00

Your office computer network is probably the backbone of your business. It stands to reason then to make sure things are configured and running smoothly. Imagine what would happen if a fire breaks out, or thieves break in, and you lose your computer with critical data? A backup solution is imperative, including a list of all CD keys and CD images that you have running, so that you don't have to try to hunt down older software versions when reinstalling on a replacement PC. Also, keep in mind that dust build up inside the PC case can overheat components, and cause major failures, and a regular maintenance schedule is recommended.

Reminder: July LCD Screen Specials!

2010-07-28T17:55:00.000-07:00

Don't forget that we are offering cash backs on 2 screens for this month only: Acer G225HQBD 21.5 inch and Acer G235HBMD 23 inch. These are redeemable after purchase, but only for this month! For more info, click on the descriptions for the G225HQBD and G235HBMD. Both screens also come with a 3 year warranty by Acer! If you are thinking of getting a new screen, now is the time to get it!!!

DIY SEO!

2010-07-28T17:34:00.000-07:00

The Internet is the most sought after advertising medium today. To get good results requires a hefty upfront cost and several hundred dollars a month in SEO maintenance. Many small and medium sized businesses shy away from such advertising due to the costs, but there is a free way to advertise: Social Networks! The aim of the game is to get news articles or RSS feeds on sites such as Facebook, Blogger/Blogspot, Twitter etc. The more articles you do, the more potential there is for customers to find your web site! We have done this ourselves:

RSS Feed - our news article feed

Blogger - Our news article Blog

Twitter - Get quick updates of our articles

Facebook - A copy of our blog, links in to our website's blog

Linkedin - Profile of me, links in with twitter

We also have our blog on our website at dcnsolutions.net/blog/

To improve your listing in Google:

1. Add a news article everyday
2. Put your articles on as many bloging/social networking sites as possible!
3. Always link your article to your web site
4. Use key words that relate to the Google searches you want to optimise!
5. Link up to other blogs/tweets to increase your reputation

There are many tricks and tools that can be used, so for more info, please contact
us!

eCommerce - Selling Things Online

2010-07-27T17:00:00.001-07:00

PCs Need Dusting!

2010-07-26T17:35:00.001-07:00

One thing that I have noticed that people do not do is a physical clean of computers. Some of the computers that I have seen are so clogged with pet hair, dust and cigarette smoke, that fans have stopped working, and they overheat! If you need assistance with that, we have a mobile compressor that we can bring to you to clean your computer, anywhere in the Perth metro area, and prevent any unnecessary down-time! Just give us a call!

Why Web Sites?

2010-07-25T17:06:00.000-07:00

Some people think that web sites are only good if you want to get customers from online searches. Getting this done effectively is quite expensive, and time consuming. However, a web site can ALSO be your shop front and showroom! Some businesses simply can't afford all the floor space and man-hours to have a retail shop-front, but by having it electronic, you can direct people to the web site either by business cards, car decals, Yellow Pages or other similar marketing strategies, and get more customers coming to you without all the extra rent in floor space. Visit our web site here to see the designs we have implemented for other businesses, or contact us to see how our web and graphic designs can improve your business image!

Why Do I Need Hosting?

2010-07-24T21:46:00.000-07:00

We have been asked this question several times by our customers, so here is a simple answer. Hosting is needed by websites to keep tham accessable at all times. Web sites are hosted on servers, which are special computer systems that are kept running 24 hours a day. When you type in a web site address or send an email, a Domain Name Server is contacted (normally managed by your internet provider) and it is then routed to the correct server, which is hosting the required content. Hosting can do more than just emails and web site storage though. Databases, and even your company server can be "co-located", so that your company files can be accessed quickly from Wangara, Joondalup, or Tokyo! For more information, please feel free to contact us!

Speed up your Office!

2010-07-21T17:55:00.001-07:00

Is your MYOB access time getting slow? Do you have multiple database programs running on each of your computers? Do you need people to access work files from off site locations? If any of those are true, then a Terminal Server may be the ultimate solution for you.

A terminal server is a single computer running a software package that allows multiple, simultaneous remote connections. All information is processed on that single computer and the speed is much greater than VPN as the only information that is sent over the internet/network is, not that actual datafile, but just a virtual screen shot as if you were physically on that computer. This makes MYOB, Retail Manager or other database programs so much faster. Best of all, a terminal server can be setup on just about any computer (must have professional/ultimate/server version of Windows, and 2GB+ RAM), for under $400. For more information on a Terminal Server, and if it is appropriate for you, please contact us.

Facebook and Twitter Making Kids Dumber?

2010-07-20T19:28:00.000-07:00

The latest research suggests that parents think social media sites like Facebook and Twitter distract their kids from their homework, contributing to lethargic learning. The full article can be found here. Let us know your thoughts!

New Virus Designed to Steal Secrets!

2010-07-18T17:55:00.000-07:00

A new virus has been detected in the last week that is designed to steal industry secrets. It infects USB memory devices and targets specific program data. In general it should not be a problem for small businesses, but larger businesses with Industrial control programs may be at risk. See the full article here.

Is it Geniuine Software?

2010-07-16T20:10:00.000-07:00

Have you ever had a message pop up on your computer saying that your software is invalid, expired, or illegal? There are some programs that genuinely are trial versions, but there are some clever scams going around at the moment, trying to trick you into buying software that you really don't need. If you have any queries with any software package, please contact us, and we'll get it sorted for you!

New iPhone Has More Than Just Teething Problems!

2010-07-15T17:18:00.000-07:00

The new iPhone 4 has been launched in the USA, and quite a few people are complaining about dropped calls. Looks like the antenna design wasn't thought through very well! See the article here.

Reminder: July LCD Screen Specials!

2010-07-14T23:34:00.000-07:00

Test Your RAM!

2010-07-13T23:20:00.000-07:00

Which Web Browser?

2010-07-12T17:59:00.000-07:00

Today there are many different web browsers, Internet Explorer, Firefox, Safari and Chrome, just to name a few. Internet Explorer is the most popular as it comes bundled with Windows, but quite a few people have had problems with it, especially with anti-virus software conflicting with it. Sometime a different browser will allow you to get back on to the internet, and we recommend Firefox (which can be downloaded from here). It has better security features, and displays most websites in a recognizable way.

Australian Privacy Act Gets Updated

2010-07-11T17:45:00.001-07:00

Since Google has been busted for snooping people unprotected wireless networks, the Government has decided to change the Privacy Act to be a bit more up to date. See the full article here.

Even though you can sue someone for snooping your network, it would still be prudent to have a decent password and encryption protocols in place. For more information, please contact us.

Which Processor to Buy?

2010-07-10T17:13:00.000-07:00

When deciding on a computer, the processor is the most critical part of a system, as it determines the maximum possible speed that the computer can run at. There are many sockets that CPUs are made for, and many processor models for each socket. The sockets that are currently available are AMD AM3, Intel LGA775 (soon to be phased out), Intel LGA1156, and Intel LGA1366, while the actual models are Athlon II X2, Athlon II X4, Intel Core 2 Duo, Intel Core i5, and Intel Core i7.

So which is the best? What one do you need for your application? As a general rule of thumb, the AMD X2 processors are the cheapest, and still fairly fast for office work, web browsing etc. If you want to play games, work on 3D drawings, or process large amounts of data, go for the Intel Core i5 processor, as these are considerably faster, and even though more expensive than AMD, the best value for money. If you want the top of the range and don't mind spending the dollars, go for Intel Core i7. They are the fastest processors out, but you do pay for the privilege!

Google in Trouble!!

2010-07-09T16:53:00.000-07:00

Google has been using a piece of code to access personal information on unsecured wireless networks. As a result, they are in a bit of trouble! See the full article here.

This could be easily avoided by securing your wireless network. For more information, please contact us.

Gillard to Stick to Web Filter Plan

2010-07-08T21:14:00.000-07:00

The new PM wants to go ahead with a nation wide web filter, designed to stop illegal content from being accessed. Many people have voiced their concerns that this filter will enable to Government to limit access to legitimate sites as well. See the full article in the Sydney Morning Herald

IPTV: the new Foxtel!

2010-07-07T17:40:00.000-07:00

iiNet have just released a new product called fetchtv. Movies, programs, games, music and interactive applications are all available through a set top box, and all streams through your internet connection. You can pause/rewind live TV, access the latest movie titles, even access social networking sites like Facebook, all from your TV! For more info, have a look at the iiNet site, or contact us!