Misc Software Tools, Apps, Sites/Services & Utilities

🛠️ Misc Tools

• msconfig
  System configuration Wikipedia Overview
• Task Manager
  System performance and process viewer Task Manager Info
• schtasks /query
  View scheduled tasks Microsoft Docs
• Services Manager
  Manage system services Windows Services Info
• Event Viewer
  View system logs Event Viewer Docs
• LogParser
  Microsoft tool that lets you query Event Logs, IIS logs, etc. LogParser

Suspicious Network & Endpoint Activity Investigation Guide

Suspicious Network & Endpoint Activity Investigation Guide

This guide combines a structured documentation checklist with an actionable toolkit in PowerShell and Python to help rapidly investigate and respod to suspicious activity on a Windows-based endpoint. It includes tutorials for all tools and programs mentioned.

Documentation, Triage/Remediation & Reporting Structure

1. Initial Triage & Observation

Symptoms Observed: 

• Unexpected outbound connections
• CPU/disk spikes
• Unknown open ports
• Software behaving erratically
• System slowdown
• Time & Date Logged
• System(s) Affected: IP address / Hostname
• Alert Source Verficication/Review:
• User report
• SIEM
• EDR alert
• IDS/IPS
• Valid Security Alert (OS/AV)
• Etc.

MoCA Networking

MoCA Networking: The Best Alternative When Running Ethernet Isn’t an Option

If you've ever struggled with unreliable Wi-Fi in certain parts of your home, you've probably considered adding more access points or even running network cables. At Pacific Northwest Computers, we always recommend hard-wired Ethernet as the gold standard for home networking.

But what if running Ethernet cables isn’t possible? Maybe you're in a multi-story house, a rental property, or just don’t want to tear open walls. That’s where MoCA (Multimedia over Coax Alliance) steps in as a powerful, reliable alternative. In the right setup, MoCA can deliver Gigabit or even 2.5 Gigabit speeds—rivaling traditional wired networks.

Let’s walk you through what MoCA is, how it works, and how to build a successful network using it.

Recommended Computers: Desktops & Laptops, Used & New

Whether you're setting up a home office, upgrading your workspace, or simply looking for a dependable computer for daily use, finding the right system that balances performance, reliability, and price can be tricky. That’s why I’ve put together this quick list of recommended computers across different categories—from small towers to slim desktops, from affordable mini-PCs to reliable laptops—so you can choose what best fits your needs and budget. These are systems I’ve personally worked with, recommended to clients, or even used myself in the field. Let’s dive in!

Benefits of a Custom-Built Computer

Top Benefits of a Custom-Built Computer

✅ 1. Tailored Performance for Your Needs

You’re not paying for things you don’t need (or missing things you do). We can build specifically for:

• Office work, QuickBooks, spreadsheets
• Photo or video editing
• Music Production
• Gaming
• Server or virtualization environments
• Quiet or low-power systems

💡 Example: If you don’t game, you won’t be sold a power-hungry GPU. If you do edit video, you’ll get the right CPU/GPU combo.

Apple Store - Share a Customized Apple Computer Build from the Apple Store

How to Share a Customized Apple Computer Build from the Apple Store

Whether you're an IT consultant, helping a friend, or buying a Mac for your business or creative work, Apple makes it easy to customize a Mac and share that build with someone else. They can then review, tweak, or purchase the system as-is directly from the Apple Store.

I use this method often for clients at Pacific Northwest Computers—it’s fast, professional, and ensures they get the exact specs they need.

General Quickbooks Network Troubleshooting & Repair

For a QuickBooks network setup, routine troubleshooting and repair procedures typically involve both network-level and QuickBooks-specific checks. These ensure proper file sharing, database server access, and multi-user functionality. Below is a clear, organized breakdown of routine troubleshooting and repair steps for a QuickBooks multi-user network setup (usually for QuickBooks Desktop versions).

Intel CPU Instability Issues; 13th & 14th Gen Processors

​Intel has addressed instability issues in its 13th and 14th Gen Core desktop processors, particularly the K, KF, and KS-series Core i5, i7, and i9 models. These issues were linked to elevated operating voltages causing premature aging and system instability.
(​The Verge)

To mitigate these problems, Intel released microcode updates, including version 0x12B, which limit voltage requests above 1.55V. This update aims to improve stability without significantly impacting performance. ​
(techpowerup.com)

QuickBooks Desktop: Error 350

Error 350 in QuickBooks Desktop during a rebuild process usually indicates corruption within the company file that QuickBooks' built-in tools (Verify/Rebuild and File Doctor) are unable to fix. Since you've already worked with QuickBooks support and used their repair tools without success, here are some advanced steps to try:

HIPAA-Compliant Cloud Storage

If you're looking for HIPAA/HITECH-compliant cloud storage, you'll need a provider that offers encryption, access controls, audit logs, and a Business Associate Agreement (BAA) to ensure compliance with HIPAA regulations. Here are some of the best options!