It’s safe to say most of us spend a large portion of our time using technology. However, it’s often the simple things that can trip us up. Here, resident Geeks2U technician Eugene Quah answers your common tech concerns, with advice on topics from how to use ChatGPT or clean up old computer files to why you might need a VPN. 

What Can I Use ChatGPT For?

ChatGPT stands for Chat (referring to its chatbot feature) Generative Pre-trained Transformer. Imagine having a really well-informed personal assistant by your side, helping you with getting answers to most of the questions you may have. You can use ChatGPT in a wide range of activities, such as drafting letters and speeches, writing basic computer code, or acting as an aid in teaching and learning environments. It’s driven by artificial technology and allows you to have human-like conversations on a wide variety of topics. 

SEE ALSO: Let the Geek Guide You: How to Set up a Digital Wallet and More  

A portrait of Geeks2U technician Eugene Quah wearing a black polo shirt and red lanyard, standing against a white background.
Geeks2U technician Eugene Quah

‍Do I Need a VPN (And What Is It)?

VPN stands for Virtual Private Network. It ensures internet traffic from your device, modem or router is encrypted and protected from prying eyes. A VPN is useful when you want to add an extra layer of cybersecurity to your digital identity or if you want to ensure that you are transferring data such as files or email communications in a secure manner.

What To Try 

SEE ALSO: Let the Geek Guide You: How to Set up a Mobile Hotspot and More    

How Often Should I Update Cybersecurity On My Devices?

Your device’s manufacturer will often release cybersecurity updates that get applied automatically – unless you’ve turned off the auto update option. I’d recommend leaving your device’s automatic updates turned on so your device is kept secure on a regular basis. To do so, go into Settings and look for System Settings. In this section, you’ll usually see a selection for the device’s system update setting. Ensure that automatic updates are enabled. Most manufacturers will usually support a device for up to five years from the model’s manufacture date. If your device is older than this, you most likely will need to consider replacing it.

What To Try

A woman wearing a white shirt sits at a desk by a window using her laptop, with a large plant and marble-effect wall behind her.

What's the Best Way to Clean Up Files on My Computer?

Our digital devices have a digital bin that needs to be cleared out on a regular basis (just like our household bins, which my wife is always reminding me to put out!). When we delete a file or email, that data goes into the device’s bin and stays there in case you change your mind and want to retrieve it. The best way to clean computer files is to get into the habit of regularly emptying your device’s bin, and your email trash bin and junk as well. 

What to Try

SEE ALSO: Let The Geek Guide You: How to Fix 5 Common Computer Issues 

What Are Smart Plugs and How Do I Use Them?

Ever wondered if you remembered to turn off an appliance while you were away from home? Smart plugs are an easy way to make your home 'smart'. Simply connect these plugs into any standard power outlet, download the corresponding manufacturer app to your phone and follow the instructions to connect the smart plug to your local WiFi network. You’re now able to turn that plug on and off through the app, and also have the option to set timers and different parameters to schedule the operation of the plug.

Hot Tip: Prefer to get some help to connect new smart devices to your WiFi – and each other – and get them up and running? Call in the experts with Geeks2U’s Prepaid Smart Home Setup Service.

What To Try

SEE ALSO: Let the Geek Guide You: How to Set up Chromecast and More