In 2025, the line between laptops and desktops is thinner than ever—but the right choice still depends on how you work. In this episode of Act on Tech, Alex breaks down the pros and cons of each option, from performance and portability to cost, longevity, and flexibility. Whether you’re upgrading your home setup or equipping your business team, this episode will help you make a smart, future-ready investment in the system that fits your workflow best. Send us a text Stay tuned fo...

With Windows 11 changing the rules of the game—new hardware requirements, forced updates, and deeper cloud integration—many in the tech community are asking: what’s next? In this episode of Act on Tech, Alex explores how IT professionals really feel about Windows 11, what Linux offers as a serious alternative, and how businesses can prepare for a more flexible, hybrid future. From open-source freedom to cloud-connected control, this episode breaks down what life after Windows could look...

Did you know you can still watch live TV for free—no cable, no streaming subscriptions, no monthly bills? In this episode of Act on Tech, Alex explains how Over-the-Air (OTA) television works in 2025 and why it’s the perfect complement to your cord-cutting setup. Learn what gear you need, how to get HD channels like ABC, NBC, FOX, and PBS, and why free broadcast TV is still one of the best ways to stay informed and entertained. Whether you’re trying to save money or want a reliable backup whe...

Slow speeds, dead zones, dropped Zoom calls—we’ve all been there. In this episode of Act on Tech, Alex explains the most common reasons your Wi-Fi isn’t working the way it should, and the simple fixes that can make a huge difference. From router placement and interference to outdated equipment and overloaded networks, you’ll learn how to troubleshoot and improve your setup. Whether you’re at home or running a small business, this episode will help you finally get Wi-Fi that works. Send us a t...

Not every gadget with the word “smart” in it is worth your money. In this episode of Act on Tech, Alex separates the smart devices that actually save time and money—like smart plugs, thermostats, and cameras—from the gimmicks that sound cool but add little real value. Learn how to choose the right devices, avoid common pitfalls, and keep your setup secure. Whether you’re building a smart home or upgrading your office, this episode will help you invest in the tech that works—and skip the...

Tired of paying too much for cable? In this episode of Act on Tech, Alex breaks down what it really means to cut the cord—and how to switch to streaming without running up a bill that’s just as bad as cable. Learn about the best streaming devices, how to pick the right services for your needs, and the pitfalls to avoid, like subscription creep and internet dependency. Whether you’re a casual viewer or a sports fan, this episode will help you build a streaming setup that saves money and ...

In this episode of Act on Tech, Alex shares his personal perspective on the rise of AI and large language models—and why he believes they’re more good than bad. From saving time in business to powering creativity, AI is already reshaping how we work. But with new opportunities also comes misuse, from spam content to even people forming unhealthy attachments to AI chatbots. Alex explains how he uses AI transparently in his own business and podcast, why adaptation is key in an evolving economy,...

What happens when your internet goes down in the middle of the workday? For most businesses and home offices, everything grinds to a halt. In this episode of Act on Tech, Alex explains the importance of internet failover—backup connections that keep you online when your primary ISP fails. Learn the different options, from dual ISPs to LTE/5G backups, the hardware you’ll need, and how to decide what level of redundancy makes sense for your setup. If downtime costs you money, this is an episode...

Noticing your computer running slower after a recent Windows 11 update? You’re not alone. In this episode of Act on Tech, Alex explains how a recent Windows 11 patch has been causing SSD performance issues—leading to longer boot times, sluggish apps, and slower file transfers. Learn what’s behind the slowdown, how to check if your system is affected, and the steps you can take to restore your PC’s performance. Send us a text Stay tuned for more insights on how to leverage technology to boost...

Every small business needs a basic tech toolkit to keep operations running smoothly — and you don’t need to be an IT pro to put one together. In this episode of Act on Tech, I walk you through the essential gear and software every business owner should have ready to tackle common tech issues. We’ll cover: The must-have tools for quick fixes and maintenanceAffordable gear that saves you time and headachesBackup and security essentials you can set up yourselfHow to choose the right tools withou...

In this episode of Act on Tech, Alex shares five affordable tech upgrades that can make a huge difference in how your business or home office runs. From speeding up your network with a prosumer router to boosting productivity with dual monitors, these upgrades deliver real results without draining your budget. Learn how to improve performance, security, and efficiency—and find all the recommended tools on the Alex Recommends page at alexcustomtech.com. Send us a text Stay tuned for more insi...

Looking for tech gear that actually delivers? In this episode of Act on Tech, I highlight some of my top recommended devices—products I personally use, trust, and stand behind. From smart security cameras to mini PCs and PoE switches, these tools aren’t just feature-packed—they’re dependable, efficient, and perfect for small business or home setups. I break down: Eufy Cam S330 (S3 Pro Kit) – A wire-free, solar-powered surveillance system that’s perfect for residential use Feit Electric SEC...

In this episode of Act on Tech, Alex breaks down the essential tools every small business should have in their 2025 tech stack. From communication and collaboration to project management, invoicing, cybersecurity, and automation—you’ll learn which tools are worth your time and which ones to skip. Whether you're running solo or managing a growing team, this episode will help you simplify your setup, eliminate app overload, and build a lean, effective system that actually supports your bu...

📄 Description: In this episode of Act on Tech, Alex breaks down the real differences between cloud and on-premise infrastructure—and why the answer isn’t always “just move everything to the cloud.” Learn when on-prem still makes sense for performance, control, and long-term cost, and where cloud services shine for collaboration, remote access, and backup. Whether you're a business owner, IT decision-maker, or just cloud-confused, this episode will help you decide how and where your business ...

In this myth-busting episode of Act on Tech, Alex takes on the most common—and outdated—tech beliefs that are still floating around homes and small businesses. From “Macs don’t get viruses” to “closing apps saves battery,” we’re breaking down what’s fact, what’s fiction, and why believing the wrong thing could cost you time, money, and security. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or just tired of bad advice, this episode will sharpen your understanding and clean up your digital habits. Send us ...

Cyber insurance is becoming a must-have for small businesses—but do you really know what you're paying for? In this episode of Act on Tech, Alex breaks down the ins and outs of cyber insurance: what it actually covers, what it leaves out, and why some claims get denied. You'll learn how to qualify, what insurers are looking for, and how cyber insurance fits into your overall security strategy. If you handle customer data or rely on tech to run your business, this is an episode you can’t affor...

Your employees are either your first line of defense—or your biggest vulnerability. In this episode of Act on Tech, Alex breaks down how to turn your team into a human firewall through smart training, strong habits, and a security-first culture. Learn how phishing, social engineering, and weak passwords lead to breaches—and what you can do to stop it. From simulated phishing tests to cybersecurity awareness programs, this episode gives you the tools to turn everyday users into cyber-awa...

In this episode of Act on Tech, Alex breaks down the role of a Security Operations Center (SOC) and why it's no longer just for big corporations. Whether you're an MSP or a small business owner, a SOC can provide 24/7 monitoring, threat detection, and incident response that could save your business from major cyberattacks. Learn what a SOC actually does, the different types (in-house, outsourced, and virtual), and how even small teams can afford enterprise-grade protection. If you’re serious ...

In this episode of Act on Tech, Alex breaks down the essentials of endpoint security in today’s hybrid work environment. From laptops and smartphones to tablets and personal devices, every endpoint is a potential risk to your business. Learn what endpoint security really means, the most common threats, and the tools that every small business should be using—like EDR, encryption, patch management, and mobile device control. Whether you’re running a remote team or just using your own devices, t...

In this episode of Act on Tech, Alex dives into the critical role Managed Service Providers (MSPs) play in protecting businesses—and why MSPs themselves are now prime targets for cyberattacks. From weak internal practices to poor RMM configurations, one mistake can open the door to a supply chain disaster. Learn the essential cybersecurity strategies every MSP should implement to secure their operations, protect their clients, and stay ahead of evolving threats. Whether you're running a...