How Our Team Uses The StartMeStick to Stay Secure Online

By 66 commentsCategory: StartMeStick Blog, StartMeTipTags: ,

Since its release, we’ve heard from many of you about the inventive ways you like to use your StartMeStick. Whether it’s for a worry-free online shopping experience or breathing a new life into an old computer, the StartMeStick team wants to tell you how we use the StartMeStick – both in and out of the office.

Here are some of our favorite ways to use StartMeStick:

Someone online banking with their credit card.

1. Worry-Free Online Shopping

I use my StartMeStick for online shopping to prevent user data tracking and targeted advertising. 

It’s a relief to be protected from online surveillance and data tracking by corporations that not only want to send me targeted ads, but also sell my data to other companies. 

Judy

We could all benefit from a little less tracking and the peace of mind knowing our data isn’t able to be sold. If you want to learn even more ways to protect yourself while online shopping, check out our article here, or take our quiz on how to spot online shopping scams!

2. Bringing an Old Computer Back to Life

My old MacBook runs at a glacial pace, but I can’t bring myself to get rid of it. Rather than purchasing a new Mac, I can just use my StartMeStick! It allows me to do everything I need online, and I can finally make use of an old device that still has some years left on it. 

Because the StartMeStick resets to factory settings after each use, it is always fast and doesn’t slow down my Mac OS.

Cairo

FixMeNote: StartMeStick is currently compatible with Macs from 2006 to 2017. Macs with FusionDrives and/or from 2018 and later are not compatible.

While it can be tempting to swap out your old device for a new one, it might not always be the most economical, or ethical, as e-waste becomes one of the leading materials filling our landfills. Take our quiz here to test how much you know about e-waste!

This is especially useful right now as COVID-19 has disrupted global supply chains causing a shortage of affordable laptops. If you need a new computer but can’t find an affordable one – use the StartMeStick to revive an old computer that you have lying around. It will be fast, secure, and private with just a few clicks!

Image of the StartMeStick.

3. Assuring My Personal Info is Secure

I use my StartMeStick to securely do all of my banking needs. It gives me peace of mind to know that my privacy is protected from online surveillance and that my user data is secure. 

It’s also great to use if you file your taxes online, or any other time you are inputting sensitive information online that you don’t want to be tracked. 

Etienne

4. Privacy On The Go

I use my StartMeStick like a portable private computer wherever I go. I can plug in my StartMeStick and establish a private and secure connection that is my own, even when I’m using someone else’s device. 

Jonathan
Two guys using their computer with the StartMeStick.

5. Seamless Video Chat with Zoom

My computer never seemed to like it when I tried to video chat. It would always freeze up, making it frustrating to communicate with loved ones. I love that StartMeStick has the Zoom application already downloaded.

This makes it so easy to start a video chat, and I never have to worry about the annoying glitching or buffering that I would experience on my regular computer. 

Laura

StartMeTip: StartMeStick temporarily replaces your operating system with a fast and secure one! It never gets slowed down by dozens of applications or other files. This allows the applications on StartMeStick to perform seamlessly. 

Whether you’re working, banking, shopping, or simply browsing the internet, the StartMeStick is an effective and easy way to assure your bases are covered. Keep your computer, save money, and reduce waste with this fast, secure, and private operating system on a stick. 

You no longer need to worry about those targeted ads that seem to follow you from website to website, or surveillance from the tech giants. Every time you use the StartMeStick it creates a new temporary session that is isolated from the rest of your computer. It’s like using a brand new computer every time!

When you shut down the StartMeStick nothing is saved onto your computer. Meaning, no one can access any of your personal information, and it doesn’t collect any of the junk that typically slows down your computer. 

Check out our StartMeStick FAQ page here for answers to even more of your possible questions!

How do you use your StartMeStick? Let us know in the comments below!

66 comments

  1. Anonymous -

    Will fixmestick or startmestick remove or correct a root kit attack?
    I had a denile of service attack but refused to pay the $50 ransom charge. They then sent a root kit that stopped the computer working. It could not be fixed so I took the opportunity to upgrade to a much faster new solid state hard drive.

    • Jonathan -

      Hi there,

      Thank you for reaching out to us!

      In this case, the FixMeStick would be the product for you! The FixMeStick uses several antivirus engines to detect any lingering threats on the device. It’s important to keep in mind that while the FixMeStick can help remove malware from your device, it won’t help decrypt the files that have been locked by the malware.

      With that being said, the using the FixMeStick is definitely the best choice if you’re hoping to clean your computer from any malicious threats!

      If you have any other questions, please feel free to let us know! We’re always happy to help.

    • Jonathan -

      Hi there,

      As the title suggests, this article is about how our team uses the StartMeStick! The StartMeStick is a plug-in operating system that revitalizes computers that may no longer be fully functional, and can also be used for additional online security.

      If you have any other questions, please feel free to let us know!

    • Jonathan -

      Hi Don,

      Good question!

      The StartMeStick is compatible on both Mac and PC! It can be used on any computer running Windows® XP, Vista, 7, 8, 8.1, or 10, and any Intel Based Macs from 2006 to 2017

  4. Keith Flanagan -

    Will I be able to use my Microsoft Office 2019 with the StartMeStick?

    • Jonathan -

      Hi Keith,

      Thanks for reaching out to us!

      The StartMeStick using a Linux-based operating system. Unfortunately this means that you won’t be able to run Windows-exclusive programs such as Microsoft Office and other similar programs.

      However, there are many substitutes you can use online instead!

      If you have any other questions, please feel free to let us know!

  5. Bdozier@toast.net -

    Wil startmestick reinstall printer drivers that a hacker deleted. Can it work with a windows 95 and 97?

    • Jonathan -

      Hi there,

      Thank you for reaching out to us!

      The StartMeStick is typically used as a portable operating system to help restore older and otherwise not working computers. However, with that being said, unfortunately it can’t be used to make any changes to the original computer. Typically you can reinstall printer drivers by looking up said drivers online and installing them then, but we typically recommend bringing the computer into a tech beforehand.

      Currently the StartMeStick is compatible with all PC’s that run Windows® XP, Vista, 7, 8, 8.1, or 10 (systems dating from 2001).

      If you have any other questions, please feel free to let us know!

  6. Jaya Abraham -

    What will the ongoing charges be for the StartMeStick ?

    • Jonathan -

      Hi Jaya,

      Thank you for reaching out to us!

      After the initial subscription runs out, the StartMeStick typically renews for CAD$74.99 per year!

  7. John Geiselman -

    can i use the fix me stick on any of my computers i have 2 computers

    • Jonathan -

      Hi John,

      Thanks for reaching out to us!

      The standard FixMeStick subscription is for 3 PCs for 1 year, which means that you can use it on any 3 computers for the duration of that subscription!

  8. Sandra Fairley -

    My computer went out years ago I just keep cutting off its outdated I want to save my pictures , the password i dont remember or screen.name could this help me.

    • Jonathan -

      Hi Sandra,

      Thank you for reaching out to us!

      Depending on the state of the files on your computer, you should be able to use the StartMeStick to retrieve your old files!

      The StartMeStick has a “Files” applications which contains any available local files on the device it’s being used on. If you look within the local files, you should be able to retrieve your old pictures.

      Let us know if you have any other questions!

  9. David Hanley -

    my fix me stick took over 12 hours to cycle and when I removed it….nothing was fixed or erased ! Using this device on Windows 7 proved useless……

  10. Cathryn Hilsabeck -

    Can either the FixMeStick or the start me stick be used more than one time or they are they at one time operation?

    • Jonathan -

      Hi Cathryn,

      Good question!

      The StartMeStick can be used an unlimited number of times on any computer! While the FixMeStick can still be used an unlimited number of times, but is typically limited to a fixed number of computers!

    • Jonathan -

      Hi there,

      Thank you for reaching out to us!

      I’m sorry that you’ve been running into issues with your FixMeStick!

      If you’d like, you can reach out to our support team at support@fixmestick.com where can help you out with some troubleshooting!

  12. Greg -

    How much debt does this cost? On fix me stick which I have you offer a 1year price in the 20.00 range which is better?

    • Jonathan -

      Hi Greg,

      Thanks for reaching out us!

      Currently we’re offering the StartMeStick at these prices:

      $14.99 for the 30 day trial
      $79.99 for the 1 year subscription
      $99.99 for the 2 year subscription

      However, if you’re hoping for something a little less steep, we often offer discounts for our customers. I’d recommend keeping an eye open in our upcoming newsletters!

  13. Salvador Ramirez -

    My computer, at times, does not load the widows. It simply stays with the windows logo and won’t go beyond opening the windows program. What would you recommend for me to use?

    Thank you.

    • Jonathan -

      Hi Salvador,

      Thank you for reaching out us!

      In this case, I would recommend looking the StartMeStick! The StartMeStick revives old computers with its fast, private, and secure operating system. You can likely boot the USB from your computer’s boot menu, and from there use the StartMeStick’s operating system for all your computing needs!

      If you have any questions, you can check out our FAQ, or you can reach us at support@fixmestick.com

  14. Dale Torrence -

    Cancel my subscription. I cannot get the thing to work

    • Jonathan -

      Hi Dale,

      Thank you for reaching out to us!

      I’m sorry to hear that you’ve been running into issues with your product!

      I’ve gone ahead and sent a followup email where we can go over some possible steps together.

    • Jonathan -

      Hi Barbara,

      The cost for the StartMeStick is as follows:
      $14.99 for the 30 day trial
      $79.99 for the 1 year subscription
      $99.99 for the 2 year subscription

      Let us know if there’s anything else we can help with!

  16. Paul Harless -

    Apparently I purchased the wrong stick . I thought I was purchasing the start me stick . What do I do .

    • Jonathan -

      Hi Paul,

      Thank you for reaching out to us!

      I’ve gone ahead and sent you a followup email where can we go over the problem together.

      I look forward to hearing back from you!

    • Jonathan -

      Hi Richard,

      Thank you for reaching out to us!

      Yes, you can purchase both the FixMeStick and the StartMeStick! Unfortunately we do not have the option for joint orders, so you’d need to order each item separately from our web store.

      You can purchase the FixMeStick here
      You can purchase the StartMeStick here

  18. Anonymous -

    What’s the cost? Can I give my credit card over the phone? I do not want to give it over internet.

    • Jonathan -

      Hi there,

      The cost for the StartMeStick is as follows:
      $14.99 for the 30 day trial
      $79.99 for the 1 year subscription
      $99.99 for the 2 year subscription

      If you’d like, you can email us at support@fixmestick.com where we can look into setting up a call!

  19. Judy -

    If you have the start me stick do you need the fix me stick?

    • Jonathan -

      Hi Judy,

      Good question!

      Because the StartMeStick uses a Linux-based operating system, the chances of you running into any viruses are fairly low. Even in the off chance that you do encounter a virus, because the StartMeStick resets upon each use, any trace of the threat will be effectively wiped out.

      In this sense, if you’re constantly using the StartMeStick, you won’t have to run the FixMeStick as often!

      Let us know if you have any other questions! We’re always happy to help.

  20. Dale Thomas -

    Is the start me stick like the xtra-PC 2.0 stick?

    • Jonathan -

      Hi Dale,

      Thank you for reaching out to us!

      Yes, the StartMeStick is similar to Xtra-PC 2.0, however the StartMeStick goes beyond the limitations of the Xtra-PC stick in terms of it’s performance and security boosting capabilities.

      Feel free to let us know if you have any other questions!

  21. Eric Dunlop -

    I run an old PC operating Windows XP. I use Fixmestick to keep it clean of malware.
    If I use startmestick what operating system will I be using and, will I be able to run my cad programs.
    I have resisted upgrading to Windows 10 because my car programs will not run on it and will require upgrading Costing me a great deal of money.

    • Jonathan -

      Hi Eric,

      Thanks for reaching out to us!

      The StartMeStick runs on a Linux operating system. If you’d like to use your car programs on the StartMeStick, they’d need to be able to run on Linux as well as Windows.

      However, if you have any questions, you can always reach out to us at support@fixmestick.com!

  22. Barbara Grant -

    If my dead computer is not revived by the StartMeStick, can I return it for a refund?

    • Jonathan -

      Hi Barbara,

      Thank you for reaching out to us!

      In the case that you find the StartMeStick isn’t the right product for you, we’re always fairly lenient in terms of returning the order! If you have any questions regarding an order, you can always reach us at support@fixmestick.com, where one of our support staff can assist in any questions you may have!

    • Jonathan -

      Hi Barbara,

      Thank you for reaching out to us!

      The StartMeStick is compatible with both Mac and PC! It can run on any computer using Windows® XP, Vista, 7, 8, 8.1, and 10, or
      Intel Based Macs from 2006 to 2017.

    • Jonathan -

      Hi Eileen,

      Thank you for your interest in StartMeStick!

      You can purchase the StartMeStick through our online store here

      Let us know if you have any other questions!

    • Jonathan -

      Hi Wilma,

      The StartMeStick is compatible will all PCs running Windows® XP, Vista, 7, 8, 8.1, and 10! It should work fine on your HP

  26. Anonymous -

    I have an older version of FixMeStick, Is there an upgraded version or does this work as well as the current version.
    David Goldblatt

    • Jonathan -

      Hi David,

      Thanks for reaching out to us!

      The difference between the older and newer version is purely cosmetic. We provide regular and free upgrades for our customers – you can upgrade your device by following the instructions here

      Let us know if you have any other questions!

  27. Anna -

    I have 2 old computers 1 that just blank when turned on and the won’t even let me because I forgot the password. I bought the fix it stick would that work but no instructions. How do I use it and would it work for or do I need start me stick.

    • Jonathan -

      Hi Anna,

      Thanks for reaching out to us!

      It sounds like your computers are running into instances of hardware failure. While the FixMeStick is a great virus removal tool, in cases like these the FixMeStick won’t be of much help. However, the StartMeStick can be used to breathe new life into your old computer, letting you get some use out of it!

      If you have any other questions, feel free to let us know! Or you can check out our FAQ here

  28. Anonymous -

    what? if I have a lap top Big Sur version 11.2.3 and it doesn’t have a USB port BUT I haven’t to use a External, USB DRIVE, will your fix me stick or smart me stick work with this kind of drive? if so let me no.

    • Jonathan -

      Hi there,

      Typically a direct connection to computer is needed in order to properly launch the device. However, this is typically only an issue with the FixMeStick, which requires a direct connection to properly scan the drive. You should be able to launch the StartMeStick without an issue, even if you’re using an external drive!

      It’s also important to keep in mind that our devices are only compatible with Intel-Based Macs from 2006 to 2017. 2018 and later systems are not yet compatible

      Hopefully this answers your question! Feel free to let us know if you need anything else.

  29. David Teeter -

    Is there a discount if you purchase both the Fix me Stick and the Start me Stick at the same time and renew them at the same time/

    • Jonathan -

      Hi David,

      Thank you for reaching out to us today!

      While we do often offer discounts for our renewals, unfortunately we don’t have offer joint discounts for purchases made at the same time.

      Let me know if there’s anything else I can help you with!

  30. Anonymous -

    STILL HAVEN’T GOT STARTME STICK TO WORK ON MY MAC/

    BILL B

    • Jonathan -

      Hi Bill,

      Thank you for reaching out to us!

      I’m sorry to hear that you’ve been running into issues getting the StartMeStick to run on your Mac. If you’d like, here are some instructions for getting started.

      If you’re still running into difficulty getting the StartMeStick to run, please feel free to reach out to us at support@fixmestick.com, where we can help lend a hand!

  31. Paul Simpson -

    I just loaded my new 2020 tax software from Intuit and it loaded ok but won’t let me open it. It tells me that I need macos 14. I currently have macos 13.96. will the start my stick let me run my tax return?

    • Jonathan -

      Hi Paul,

      Thank you for reaching out to us today!

      Because the StartMeStick uses a Linux-based operating system, it can only run Linux-based applications. In this case, while you’d be able to file your taxes using an online browser, you wouldn’t be able to file taxes using a downloaded application.

      If you have any other questions, please feel free to reach out to us at support@fixmestick.com

  32. Geoff Dilks -

    Is there a monthly subscription offered on the Start me stick the same as the Fix me stick?

    • Jonathan -

      Hi Geoff,

      Thanks for reaching out to us!

      Yes, the StartMeStick is available for a monthly subscription! I would suggest placing an order for a 30 day trial, and then reaching out to our support team at support@fixmestick.com, where we can provide you with the proper link to opt into the monthly subscription.

  33. Alfred Currier -

    I used Fix Me Stick first , And it worked fine. Then I was told that Start me Stick would work an any computer. Not the case. Start me stick worked on only one computer and only once. Tried several times and nothing. Feel like I have been scamed .

    • Jonathan -

      Hi Alfred,

      Thank you for reaching out to us!

      I’m sorry to hear that you’ve been running into issues with your StartMeStick. In some cases, it requires a bit of troubleshooting to get it up and running.

      If you’d like a hand with the issue, you can send us an email at support@fixmestick.com where we can take a closer look into the problem!

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