Author: By J. D. BIERSDORFER

If your computer needs repairs, back up your files and lock them down before someone else works on your system.

Newer devices may balk at some ancient video formats, but you can often get them rolling with the right software.

Instead of tossing your previous phone in a drawer, you might be able to turn it in for a small profit or donate it to someone in need.

Manufacturer system updates and patches are supposed to fix problems, but sometimes they cause more.

If you find your Start menu is overloaded, you can save space by storing groups of apps in folders.

When the phone rings and you can’t (or don’t want to) answer the call, you can send it directly to voice mail even if your phone is locked.

You don’t have to log in and out of the Twitter mobile app each time you want to post from another account you own.

If using your phone’s camera has sparked a serious interest in photography, upgrading to a more versatile camera can have creative rewards.

The mobile app for the social network can be a bit of a battery hog, but you can do a few things to rein in the power grab.

Even though you don’t have to pay for free apps, the Google Play store will urge you to add a payment option to your account.