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Brandon Phipps

Technology Specialist

Brandon Phipps is a Technology Specialist based in Bakersfield, CA. He is the owner of Second Star Technologies and specializes in Managed IT Services for SMBs in Bakersfield, CA. With over 23 years of experience, he offers expert cloud computing, cybersecurity, and network management solutions. Brandon is a committed community member and coach who leads and innovates in tech and sports coaching. His dedication to local businesses and communities is evident in his hands-on, tailored approach to IT solutions.

Education

  • AAS, Computer Technology, Heald College

Professional Achievements

  • Published Author of "The MSP Hustle: How to Avoid the Con and Choose A Managed Service Provider"
  • 99% IT uptime for customers since 2011

Favorite Piece of Advice

Top-level customer satisfaction, achieved through fanatical customer service, is fundamental to the success of a small business.

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Q&A Comments (3)

Can you recommend sites that offer free faxing services?
To send a fax for free on a computer, you can use online services or apps that offer free faxing options. One popular option is Google Fax, which allows you to send faxes directly from your Gmail account using the "Compose" email feature. Another method is to use online fax services like HelloFax or FaxZero, which often provide a limited number of free fax pages per month. Simply upload your document, enter the recipient's fax number, and follow the instructions provided by the chosen service to send the fax without incurring any costs. Keep in mind that free fax services may have limitations on the number of pages or the frequency of use.
How can I update my Bluetooth drivers?
There are a couple of options for updating Bluetooth drivers. You can either visit the hardware manufacturer's website or utilize the Windows Update Settings. For example, Dell provides the Command Update program for this purpose, or you can visit their website to download the necessary updates, including Bluetooth drivers, directly through Windows Update. The method you choose depends on your preference and the available tools from the hardware manufacturer.
Is a Bluetooth connection safe and secure?
Bluetooth safety has been a topic of debate in the past. While it's known that two devices typically need a PIN code to connect, there have been concerns about the security of these connections. In the past, there were instances where the PIN code could be intercepted. Any Bluetooth transfer, especially if it involves sensitive data, raises concerns for me, but when it comes to connectivity for hardware purposes, such as connecting peripherals, those aspects are ideal and generally considered safer. Especially with the most latest version of Bluetooth.

Co-authored Articles (31)

How to Change a Windows Password Using Command Prompt

Easily change the password for any account on your Windows computer Did you forget the password to one of your Windows user accounts? Maybe you are an administrator who wants to change the password for another user. I...

3 Simple Ways to Open & Convert HEIC Photos on a Windows PC

An easy-to-follow guide to open or convert HEIC files on Windows Did somebody send you a file that's in the HEIC format? When somebody who has an iPhone or an iPad takes a photo, the picture is usually saved as an HEIC ...

How to Create or Change a Password on Windows 10 or 11

Secure your PC with a password for a local or Microsoft accountSetting a password on a Windows computer is a relatively quick and easy process that will greatly increase the security of your files. Security is important,...

How to Tell if Your Phone Has Been Tapped

Look for the signs that your phone is being monitoredAre you worried that your phone is being tapped or monitored? There are a number of signs that may indicate a tracked phone, as well as several measures you can take t...

Easy Ways to Find the WPS PIN for Printers: Common + Specific Models

An easy-to-follow guide for locating the Wi-Fi Protected Setup PIN on printersDo you need to find the WPS PIN for your printer? WPS stands for '''W'''i-Fi '''P'''rotected '''S'''etup and allows your printer and router to...

How to

Access Blocked Websites

Are you trying to access a website that's blocked at school or work? If your network administrator (or your parents) restricted your access to a website, getting around the block might seem tricky. Fortunately, you have ...

4 Simple Ways To Add an HP Printer to a Wireless Network

Print wirelessly from any HP printer This wikiHow article teaches you how to connect a wireless HP printer to your Wi-Fi network. Doing so will allow you to print from a computer on the same network without attaching the...

How to Tell If Your Phone Is Tapped: Telltale Signs + Fixes

Plus, tips to keep your phone from getting bugged in the futureIf you're worried that a stalker, hacker, employer, parent, or even the police is monitoring your phone calls, you've come to the right place. Whether you're...

How to Tell if a USB Cable Supports Hi Speed & Fast Charging

Find out the speed of your USB cable in secondsDo you need a high-speed USB cable? Are you having a tough time telling if a USB cable you own or are thinking of purchasing supports high-speed data or fast charging? Faste...

How to

Fax from a Computer

This wikiHow teaches you how to send a fax from your computer. Both Windows and Mac computers have built-in fax programs which will allow you to send a fax if you have a fax modem or printer attached to your computer. If...

How to

Remember a Forgotten Password

Forgetting a password to a computer or an online account can prove disastrous in this day and age. Unfortunately, it happens to most people at one point or another. With so much happening from day to day, it's easy to lo...

How to View MP4 Videos on an iPhone or iPad (4 Free Options)

Quick and easy ways to watch MP4 files on your Apple deviceThis wikiHow teaches you how to open an MP4 file on iPhone and iPad. MP4 is a common video format, used on all devices. You can open videos using the Files or Ph...

How to Make Your Phone Harder to Track

Make it nearly impossible for hackers and other third-parties to track your phone Do you want to make it nearly impossible to track your phone? In today's society, most people are becoming increasingly reliant on their...

How to Download YouTube Videos as MP4: Safe & Easy Options

Download high-quality MP4s of your favorite YT videosIf you want to download a video for later viewing, even online, your best option is to download it as an MP4. These files can be viewed on almost all video programs, l...

Convert DVD to MP4: Simple Methods to Rip DVD Movies to MP4

Digitize your DVD movies to the MP4 format for freeThis wikiHow teaches you how to convert a DVD's contents into an MP4 file on your computer, which will allow you to play the DVD without having the disc itself. Keep in ...

How to

Change Your Password from Your Windows 10 Lock Screen

If you've forgotten the password to a computer that runs Windows 10, or you simply want to change your password, one of the easiest solutions is to change your password directly from your Windows 10 lock screen. This art...

How to Connect an Xbox One Controller to an Xbox One (Plus, Series S/X)

Learn how to connect an Xbox One controller to your iPhoneThere are two ways you can connect your controller to your Xbox One: wirelessly or wired via a USB to Micro-USB cable. There are also ways to connect your Xbox On...

The 5 Best Ways to Convert HEIC Photos to JPG on a Mac

Easily convert HEIC image files from your iPhone to JPG on your MacWhen you take a photo on an iPhone or iPad, it’s saved by default as an HEIC (High Efficiency Image Container) file. While HEIC images are high-quality...

How to Change Your VPN Location on Any Device

Spoof your GPS location and IP address on a computer, Android, iPhone, or iPad If you want to trick a website or app into thinking you're in a different country, you can use a VPN (virtual private network) to change your...

How to Clear Out System Data on Your iPhone: 9 Methods & Tips

Reclaim some precious iPhone or iPad storage space by clearing out system data Have you noticed that your iPhone or iPad is running out of space? If you check your device storage in the Settings app, you may have seen th...
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