The worst-case scenario has befallen even the most careful computer user: a coffee mug spills on your laptop or an update wipes all your files and photos. Despite your best effort, accidents happen.

Microsoft no longer supports Windows 8.1. If you're still running it on your PC, you're long overdue for an upgrade. Lance is an experienced writer who tries to unravel the mysteries of personal tech.

Did you know that, back in the Windows 3, 95, and 98 days, you could simply type in your password to log into your computer? It sounds crazy, I know, but it's true. Since Windows XP, the process has ...