| <<Tech Corner home |
| Keeping your PC safe |
|
 |
With the proliferation of "always on" internet connections thanks to DSL, cable, and other broadband services, insuring your computer is secure has become increasingly important. Here are some basic steps to help Keep your system free of viruses, spyware, and other common problems.
1. Anti-virus Software : This is a crucial piece to the security puzzle. Many PC users think they have anti-virus protection installed, but often times aren't aware that their trial period has expired and the software is no longer getting the necessary updates to continue protecting their computer. Be sure yours is up to date. Norton Anti-Virus is the most popular and will keep your system safe. If you are looking for a free option, try AVG Anti-Virus. |
 |
 |
Tech Corner Articles: |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
|
| 2. Windows Updates: A key to maintenance of any system running Microsoft Windows is to regular check for updates. The Windows Update site offers critical patches as well as drivers and software enhancements. Windows XP Service Pack 2 is now available, and offers several security enhancements. |
| 3. Firewalls: If you have a home network, or even just one computer hooked to a broadband connection, a wireless router can greatly enhance your level of security since it effectively 'hides' your computer's IP address from the outside world. If you do use a wireless network, be sure to change the default Admin password and make sure to turn on the security functions (most are WEP or WAP enabled). At the very least, any broadband user should turn on Windows XP's built-in firewall or look into any of several free software firewalls, such as Zone Alarm. |
| 4. Email: First and foremost, be sure your Anti-virus software is checking both incoming and outgoing emails for viruses. Never open an attachment, even if it appears to be from someone you know, if you aren't 100% sure it is virus free. Many viruses come into your inbox as attachments which appear to be from someone you know, when in fact they are not. When in doubt, don't open an attachment is the best rule of thumb. |
5. Spyware: If you are inundated with pop-up ads, web search tools, and other software utilities, chances are you have spyware running on your PC. Many of these software programs that sound so convenient are in fact causing system slowdowns that make your PC performance sluggish at best. But with free software such as Lavasoft's Ad Aware or Spybot Search and Destroy, you can rid yourself of annoying spyware programs. Microsoft also has recently added a free anti-spyware program that does an excellent job of detecting and preventing spyware. If you would like to run an effective pop-up blocker that isn't adware or spyware, try Google's FREE Toolbar or use the one that comes with XP Service Pack 2 for Internet Explorer.
|
| Final notes |
|
|
Keeping your PC up to date and 'hidden' from the outside world will go a long way toward making your online experience a safe one. If you want to stay on top of the latest news regarding viruses and other security concerns, check out the Windows Security and Symantec websites regularly. |
|
