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Computer Security - The #1 Issue In Personal Computing

Friday, 10 March 2006 John Dow
The Internet is a wonderful place. Anyone with an Internet connection can stay in touch with family and friends via email. Starting an Internet business is easier than ever and can even lead to the lifestyle of your dreams. And, thanks to eBay, you can even hold a "virtual garage sale" without worrying about the weather or bothering the neighbors.

But the Internet is also a DANGEROUS place to be. In fact, YOU are at RISK right now.
 
Computer security is the most important issue of being on the Internet. Just consider the following statement - startling I know, but VERY true.

"If you are connected to the Internet and you don't have current anti-virus software, ALL security updates to your Operating system and browser, as well as a firewall properly configured, you have a virus or adware on your computer RIGHT NOW!"

That is what I've been telling clients of my computer repair business recently. Some of them listened and took action. Others didn't and had to learn this important lesson the very hard way.

Let's look at the problem first, then I'm going to give you FIVE ways you can solve that problem today!

First: the facts.

Fact 1. There are three types of programs that are attacking your computer right now: Spyware, Malware, and Adware. All three are programs that get downloaded to your computer as part of a legitimate download, then hang around sending data like your credit card numbers to the villains who write them.
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While this article is too short to define each, all three types are a threat. For now let's call them all adware.

Fact 2. In the last 12-18 months I have not seen ONE unprotected computer that doesn't have a virus or adware.

Doing computer repair on a daily basis for a living I see a LOT of computers. Some units have OVER 50 pieces of adware on them. Please understand; these people are just like you and me, not some 14 year old gamer who will download anything. They THOUGHT they were being careful enough, and were shocked when they discovered that they had a problem.

Some of these machines even had anti-virus software, but weren't updated with the latest security patches.

Fact 3. While onsite or phone support service calls used to involve bad hard drives, equipment failure, or adding new devices, about 80% of all service calls now involve virus and adware removal.

Fact 4. It's getting worse. The adware and virus creators are getting smarter, and the software is getting much harder to remove.

Here is what you can do TODAY to solve the problem, a problem you might not have even been aware existed, yet could cost you untold hours of frustration as well as put your financial life at risk.

Step 1. Be aware! Does your computer run slower now than when you bought it? Do some software programs no longer work or "hang up"? Does your browser go to some strange home page? If so, the odds are 99.9% that you ARE infected.

Step 2. Install anti-virus software that automatically updates. There are several good choices out there that fit that criteria, Norton, MacAfee, AVG, PC-cillin are the top brands. The important thing is to make sure that the software is setup to update the virus signatures automatically.

Step 3. Install all security patches for your operating system. Go to the Microsoft site and run a test of your computer and software. It will tell you what updates you need to install and even install them for you.

There is no cost and it is extremely effective against many of the virus and adware out there. Go here to check your system: www.microsoft.com and look on the menu on the left for Windows Update and click on that. Depending on what operating system you have, it will take you to the appropriate update page. Also turn on auto-update if your operating system allows that feature.

Step 4. Install a firewall. A firewall looks at network traffic coming into or going out of your computer. Viruses or adware that may try and infect you is scrutinized and rejected. Windows XP has an included firewall (automatically turned on in the SP2 update) that can help but you may find a 3rd party program like Zone Alert (www.zonelabs.com) to be a better choice.

Step 5. Now that you know the danger, use a generous amount of common sense in reading email and surfing the web. If you get an email attachment from anyone you don't know, don't open it, ever!

If you know the person sending the attachment but it looks questionable, don't open it. You may also want to set your email to open only in text mode, that keeps any html (that can run a program) from doing any harm.

Never, and I mean never, click on a hyperlink in an email to fill out any financial, password, or login data. No legitimate vendor will ever ask you to do this under any circumstances.

When you are surfing the web and a window pops up and asks you to install a program, just say no. If you don't recognize the company or publisher, don't do it. You can go into your browser security section and make changes so that no outside source can make any installations or changes with out prompting you to approve.

Keep current backups of all your important data. We all know to do this, but so few actually do it. No matter the method - just do it!!!! If disaster strikes, your critical data will be safe.

By following these five tips you will have peace of mind knowing that your online experiences, be they playing games or making money or something totally different, are safe as well as enjoyable.

Protect your data, and your peace of mind, by taking action on these five steps today.

John Dow owns www.jdWebWorks.com, a website that specializes in web site design tools, computer troubleshooting tools, and security. John has helped many new and existing website owners by providing a collection of tools, utilities and how to articles on Web Site Design & Computer Troubleshooting. Click here to learn more: http://www.jdwebworks.com
 

File Security Manager 1.5 Released - Security Solution for Windows XP Home

Friday, 10 March 2006 Alexander Vankov
How to allow access to file or folder for ones users or groups and deny for others in Windows XP Home which has no Security tab in folder properties dialog window? It's simple now!

In first days of March, 2006 UNGSoft Developers Group releases new version of File Security Manager - unique and useful program makes NTFS security available in Windows XP Home. With File Security Manager today every Windows XP Home user can get permissions editor like Win XP Pro provides. The program can work with user rights, ownership, effective permissions and has even more power features: Security Wizard, very fast file browser, secure deletion, and permissions assignment over network. New version contains user interface and core updates, new nice icons, new file management operations, help documentation improvements and a critical bug fix with ownership management. Today every Windows XP Home user can manage advanced security settings for files, permissions, and ownership, perform other security tasks more easily and faster than XP Pro users. Also now it is possible to use File Security Manager as Explorer-style file manager: you can move, copy, paste and remove files to recycle bin and perform any security operations more quickly.
File Security Manager is not just folder locking software - it works with NTFS permissions and security descriptors. That's why it is best file and folder protection software - it provides highest level of security!

If you don't know why this program so necessary for Windows XP Home users let's discuss: What are differences between windows XP Home and Professional?

Main difference is that Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition has no usable tools for performing security tasks:

• Access Control feature not included in Windows XP Home Edition, as you can see here at the Microsoft website in the Windows XP Comparison Guide
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• There are no Security tab in folder (of file) Properties Dialog window, if you use Windows XP Home Edition. And this tab can not be enabled in folder options like when using Windows XP Professional Edition.

• Windows XP Home cacls command line tool and freeware programs isn't suitable software for Access control.

• Windows XP Home also has other limitations but they are not so significant.

There are plug-ins for Windows Explorer and cracking methods which allows you using Windows XP Home with some features of Windows XP Pro. According to the License Agreement for Windows XP Home their use is illegal and eligible as a piracy because some of them contain copied form Windows XP Professional distributive (or NT/2000 Server) library and by that such usage break copyrights.

If Windows XP Home Edition is not allows managing file and folder permissions using Windows Explorer and any other standard Windows program, how it is possible to use File Security Manager? The answer is simple: Win XP Home allows other, third-party software to perform any security operations including managing file and folder permissions.

Why It's better to use File Security Manager in comparison with purchasing Windows XP Professional?

Intel-based PCs and especially laptops usually come with Windows XP Home. Win XP Pro license costs twice more than Windows XP Home Edition.
By ordering File Security Manager you can save your money in comparison with purchasing Windows XP Professional.

UNGSoft's File Security Manager is a program for everyone who uses Windows XP Home at office, home or laptop. It is suitable for IT professionals, network administrators. License type of the program is shareware and you can try it before you buy. Download trial version for free at http://www.ungsoft.com/fsm/index.html.

File Security Manager developed by UNGSoft Developers Group. (c) 2005-2006 UNGSoft Developers Group. All rights reserved. Windows XP Home and Professional are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.

 

Windows Vista - What to look foward to

Saturday, 04 March 2006 Richard Callaby
Perhaps you have heard about the next new version of Microsoft Windows, called Vista? The Vista operating system has many promises to one great, stable and dynamic operating system. Not only will this operating system have the .Net framework built into the core of the operating system it will also feature some other key communications, user interface and security breakthroughs.

 

For instance Vista will utilize the Windows Presentation Foundation (WPF) which will greatly increase the aesthetic value of each application. Perhaps you may be familiar with a website developed with Flash animation software. Now picture the same type of functionality and aesthetics however instead of being restricted to a website format having the freedom to develop the interface so it is a true Windows application. Further, this WPF will allow for much easier and faster deployments of these applications through the use of "one click deployment" technology. If you are familiar with the updater application block and the BITS service then you are already familiar with innovation. However, instead of being some cumbersome application block you will be able to easily deploy these applications with just a few clicks from your development environment.

Secondly the Windows Communication Foundation (WCF) will provide a secure and reliable messaging platform which will allow for a new era in the creativity of application developers. This WCF will bring in a new time when true service oriented applications will become commonplace. This will make it much easier to connect businesses to each other and their customers.
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The in built security mechanisms will make for a much more secure platform as well. Since this operating system is built around the .Net framework Code Access Security will be much easier to enforce and maintain. Code access security is when the author of the program can specify exactly what the program is allowed to do based upon the role of the user who is accessing the software. This will allow for a much finer grained security mechanism which will make software much more trustworthy by the end user.

Another feature of Vista is called SuperFetch. SuperFetch seems to be a caching mechanism for frequently used files so that the end user experiences fast response times and is not hindered by the background tasks that the operating system is performing. This will greatly speed up and perhaps cause less system crashes thereby making the OS much more stable.

One other great feature of Vista is its use of the sidebar and gadgets. Gadgets are small programs that either you or someone else has created that performs some frequently used task such as viewing the latest weather or traffic information from your desktop. Now this might seem to be a small feature but I am sure the general public will eat this feature up and it is one place where some new innovative
software inventions might take place. It might even make managing your life that much easier.

Perhaps the best feature of Vista is its new ability to easily search through and organize your files for later retrieval. I cannot tell you how many times I have had to search my own hard drive for a file that I knew I created but could not
remember where I stored it.

Let's face it Windows XP and Windows 2000 are by now old fashioned. The public needs a new operating system simply because the other's are beginning to show their age. It is time for an upgrade.

Richard Callaby is a Independent Computer Consultant, Writer, Author, Speaker and Instructor. More articles from this author can be reached at his blog at http://blog.richard-callaby.net.

Richard Callaby is a Independent Computer Consultant, Writer, Author, Speaker and Instructor. More articles from this author can be reached at his blog at http://blog.richard-callaby.net.

 

Security and Internet browsers ? Firefox vs. Internet Explorer

Saturday, 04 March 2006 Igor Pankov

Introduction


The Internet is becoming a more and more dangerous place to be, due in no small part to the inherent security risks posed by viruses and spyware. Additionally, applications that access the Internet as part of their normal operations may have errors in their code that allows hackers to launch attacks against the computer on which those applications are running. The safety and integrity of digital assets is further compromised by the fast-growing threat of cybercrooks who devise and implement large-scale hoaxes such as phishing and ID theft.

ActiveX restrictions

Aside from some graphics enhancement of web pages, in most cases ActiveX is more damaging than beneficial. Many sites that serve up spyware and pop-up ads use ActiveX scripting technology, and ActiveX scripting in the Windows environment can be allowed to run unrestrictedly with administrator (root) privileges. Firefox 1.5 does not support Microsoft's proprietary ActiveX technology and so the Firefox browser is more resilient against spyware infection.

In IE6, even with SP2, ActiveX is allowed to run by default, which automatically renders IE users less protected against the threat of spyware. In the upcoming IE 7, it is not yet known whether Microsoft will continue this approach, but early indications point to this being the case. This would be unfortunate, since the current approach is a clear security vulnerability.

In the light of all this, it's clear that users need a reliable and secure web browser between them and the Internet, which will be free of these problems and won't let harmful content invade the computer.
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The web browser industry continues to be dominated by the Windows-bundled Internet Explorer, with an 85% market share, but in recent years a new breed of free, more functional and resilient browsers has appeared – the most popular being Mozilla/Firefox and Opera. All have received serious security upgrades to help protect against recent scares and safeguard users online.

Internet Explorer is at version 6.0, essentially the same product that was included with Windows XP in 2001. Eighteen months ago, the release of Windows XP Service Pack 2 substantially increased IE safety; however, it did not eliminate many of the loopholes exploited by hostile program code. At present, Firefox is at version 1.5, but its very different development history (see next section) means that it can be considered at a similar level of maturity as Internet Explorer.

Currently, Microsoft is preparing its next-generation browser, Internet Explorer 7.0, which it plans to introduce sometime during the first half of 2006. The company has stated that it intends to make the browser stronger and more secure to help protect its users against the many problems that have dogged the software over the years.

We, along with Internet users everywhere, await the final results with interest. In the meantime, we decided to undertake our own security evaluation of both IE 7 (beta) and its closest rival, Firefox 1.5.

History and overview


Internet Explorer is a proprietary graphical web browser developed by Microsoft. In 1995, the company licensed the commercial version of Internet Explorer 3.0 from Spyglass Mosaic and integrated the program into its Windows 95 OSR1 edition. Later, it included IE4 as the default browser in Windows 98 – a move which continues to raise many antitrust questions.

Firefox is an open-source browser developed by the Mozilla Foundation; anyone who is proficient enough can collaborate in writing and improving its program code. Mozilla is known for its stringent approach to security, promising a bounty of several thousand dollars for any major vulnerability found in the product.

Security incidents and threat response


While no browser is perfect, major security lapses happened rather more frequently with IE than with Firefox. To be fair, Firefox has less than a 10% market share and is thus a rather less enticing target than IE; that's probably also why security researchers focus much of their attention on the vulnerabilities of Microsoft's browser, not Firefox's. Some people have argued that if the market shares were reversed, bugs in Firefox would start appearing on a more frequent basis, as has recently been the case with Internet Explorer.

The open-source architecture of Firefox contributes to the overall safety of the browser; a community of skilled programmers can spot problems more quickly and correct them before a new release is available for general use. It's been said that threat response time for Firefox averages one week, while it may take months for Microsoft engineers to fix critical bugs reported by security analysts – an unacceptable situation for users who remain unnecessarily vulnerable to exploits (hacker attacks) during that time.

From the threat response standpoint, Firefox is clearly the winner.

Security features


Phishing safeguard


New protection against financial fraud and identity theft has been incorporated into the new IE. A so-called “phishing filter” now appears on the Internet Options menu, which is intended to protect users against unknowingly disclosing private information to unauthorized third parties. Here's how it works:

If a user visits a spoofed site which looks exactly like a genuine one – usually as a result of clicking on a link in a fraudulent email - the browser senses a phishing attempt and compares the site against a list of known phishing sites. If the filter finds the site is a phishing culprit, it blocks access to the site and informs the user of the danger of leaving his/her personal details on sites like this. The database of known phishing sites is updated regularly, and users have an option to report a suspected phishing instant to Microsoft for evaluation.

We're pleased to report that, even in beta, the filter appears to work quite well, correctly identifying half of the test sites we visited as phishing sites.

In Firefox, phishing protection is delivered through third-party extensions such as Google Safe Browsing (currently in beta for US-based users only (see http://www.google.com/tools/firefox/safebrowsing/index.html); this can be plugged into the browser's extension menu.

Restriction of executable Web content


In the current version of IE, suspect websites have been free to install almost any software they want on visitors' machines. While XP SP2 has dramatically reduced this possibility, many unnecessary add-ons and toolbars can still be easily installed by inexperienced users. IE 7 should provide more protection for naïve users, as it will offer to run in protected mode, thus restricting access to the host OS files and settings and making these critical elements of the computer inaccessible to malware.

The default setting for Firefox 1.5 is to have installation of extensions and add-ons disabled; the user must manually change settings in order to enable adding extensions to the browser.

There will always be a tradeoff between security and functionality, but security experts always maintained that letting websites unrestrictedly launch executable code within the browser creates unlimited potential for exploitation. IE 7 will offer much greater flexibility in configuring which external code will be permitted to run within the browser and what impact it would have on the OS.

Of course, IE users can manually disable ActiveX scripting on a particular website and let ActiveX be started automatically on all other sites visited. Or, vice versa, they can disable ActiveX scripting on most of the sites visited and permit it to run on a particular site. All this can be configured under the Security tab in IE's Options menu. However, it is hardly realistic to expect Internet novices, who need the most protection, to do this.


Java, JavaScript and Visual Basic components

Java and JavaScript can be enabled and disabled by both browsers. Firefox allows users to specify permissions for particular actions performed by these scripts. IE 6 allows users to create a group of trusted sites to which global limitations on these scripts will not apply. In IE 7, more flexibility will be added that will lead users toward a more customized display of web pages belonging to a particular site; it appears Firefox also plans to introduce more flexible parameters.

Internal download manager


IE 7's download manager will be revamped, and feature an option to pause and resume downloads - a feature not available with the current version. Specific actions will be able to be defined following the completion of a download, and users can check the newly-downloaded file with their anti-virus before running it. This approach is already in place with Firefox, so Microsoft appears to be playing catch-up here.

Encryption of data on protected sites


When you submit sensitive information, such as transaction details to a bank or financial institution, it travels in an encrypted form through a secure HTTP (SHTTP) connection. The information is encrypted by your browser and decrypted at the receiving end. The new version of IE will use stronger encryption algorithms to reliably transfer your data without the risk of being intercepted and deciphered by someone in transit. A padlock icon indicating that a user is on a secure site will be placed in a more obvious place than currently, and more detailed information will be provided to help visitors check the authenticity of such sites.

Firefox currently has a better-organized display of security certificates for its users, so clearly Microsoft has a room for improvement.

Updating


Both browsers are updated automatically when new code is ready. Firefox has this update mechanism already in place, and for IE 7, it is expected that updates will be provided through Windows update technology.

Privacy enhancements


IE 7 will have the ability for users to flexibly set what private data will be saved and can be applied to different sites; users will be able to easily remove browsing history and other private details such as passwords, cookies, details submitted on web forms, download history, and temporary files. In IE 6, these files were stored all over the place and users have complained that there is no clear way to delete this information. Firefox 1.5 already provides this capability.

Conclusion


IE 7 promises a lot of interesting security and privacy enhancements that will help users stay more secure. With the final release users will receive a good, solid browser that, if Microsoft promises are fulfilled, will help it to compete well on the security front. As we have seen, Firefox 1.5 is already a role model, and it will be interesting to see what lies ahead for this talented challenger.

Igor Pankov is a Product Marketing Manager at Agnitum Ltd., the developers of Outpost Firewall PRO. Free Version is available for download .
 

13 Comparisons of Vista vs Tiger

Saturday, 04 March 2006 Paul Wilson
Competitive and fast are two terms that are applicable to the world of computers. Constantly changing and evolving computer systems bring many advantages to the users and techies alike. The race for supremacy between the yet to be launched Vista (scheduled for 2006) and Mac OSX Tiger began in 2003 with Microsoft's announcements of plans for an integrated desktop search functionality in Windows Vista.

While opinions vary and are really personal choices in many ways, the following sums up the functionalities between Vista and Tiger.
 
1. Vista has a completely redesigned look and feel; it is aesthetic, functional, and exciting according to industry sources. Mac Tiger on the other hand was always famous for its technology and aesthetics which are clean and clutter free. In fact, many of the visual effects that Vista has like translucent icons, high resolution, and animation effects have been integral to Tiger for more than four years.

2. Vista is yet to resolve problems caused by underlying windows, while Tiger has fine tuned the bleed caused by windows beneath the surface ones.

3. The 128 x 128 pixel icons of Tiger have better rendition and clearer resolution than the 32 x 32 or 64 x 64 pixel icons of Vista. However one will only know whether Vista will have resolution independent vector graphics once the final version comes to the market.
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4. Both Vista and Tiger have closely similar desk top search functions. The only immediate difference is that in Tiger the filtering becomes operational only after creation of a Smart Folder or using the shortcut keys. The Virtual Folder of Vista is identical to the Smart Folder of Tiger.

5. Vista has next generation features, where the system has enough inbuilt intelligence that organizes data. This fine tunes any searches that need to be done. In comparison to this, the Tiger has an old fashioned system with no specials.

6. Vista supports meta data processing while with Tiger meta data can be created or edited only by using document processing applications.

7. Vista permits users to visually locate files while Tiger does not. Image previews in Tiger are turned off by default.

8. As far as security is concerned the Tiger is by far superior to Vista. Since the Tiger user base is small the number of hackers and attackers are fewer as compared to Windows.

9. User accounts and log ins are safer in the Tiger system and Microsoft plans to incorporate similar systems in Vista to strengthen security.

10. Vista has new systems similar to Tiger that will enable users to assert parental locks or blocks. Parental controls help limit computer usage by children protecting them from several dangers.

11. Security in Vista includes inbuilt protection against rogue attacks, malware, spyware, adware and so on. In the case of Tiger its security system has remained secure and unbreached. Whether Vista will earn the same distinction will be known only after it comes into use.

12. Both Vista and Tiger have great networking features making both immensely usable both at home and in businesses. The Tiger is simpler while Vista is a bit more complex to use.

13. The hibernation mode works instantly in Tiger and Vista is also trying to match its facilities.

While the above draws tentative comparisons between the two systems a true evaluation can only be made once Vista is released in its completed version and comes into use.

About the Author: Paul Wilson is a freelance writer for http://www.1888SoftwareDownloads.com, the premier website to find Free Software Downloads including free anti-virus software, free spyware detection software, free toolbars, free chat software and more. He also freelances for http://www.1888FreeOnlineGames.com
 

Identify Theft: Security for a Digital World

Monday, 13 February 2006 Jack Lee
If you've opened up the newspaper lately, turned on the radio, or spoke with a colleague, chances are you will have heard of the new rampant levels of identify theft that is taking place and growing to new heights each year. You or someone you know may have already been a victim of this serious crime.

Why should you worry about identify theft? For one thing, a seriously damaged credit report can ruin your chances of getting a new job, a bank loan, insurance, and even rental housing. In the worst case scenario you could even be arrested if someone utilized your identity to commit a crime.

Here are some tips to help reduce the chances of having your identity compromised:


1. When making a credit card purchase, blank out the 12 numbers of your credit card number on the printed receipt (assuming that all 16 are printed as some places still do). This holds especially true at restaurants. Try not leaving the signed receipt left on the table with all numbers visible. You are permitted by law to mark out 12 of them so that passerby's can't get a glance and memorize your credit card number.
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2. Avoid relaying your social security number to anyone unless it's absolutely required. Use common sense in most cases, for example to open a bank account you will probably need to give out your social security number, but if a store clerk simply wants to use your social security number to use as an ID, then you should reserve from doing so in most cases.

3. Have access to a personal shredder. For any documents you plan on throwing away it helps to shred anything that contains personally identifiable information including social security, credit card numbers, phone numbers, and birth date.

4. In the worst case scenario, i.e. if your identify has been stolen, here are some steps to assuage the situation: Contact your credit card companies and have them close your accounts as well as issue new cards for you. Put a fraud alert via one the three major credit bureaus. One will notify the other two automatically. File a police report to use as evidence when creditors ask for it. File a notice or complaint with the Federal Trade Commission, which manages a database of identity theft related cases which are used by law enforcement personnel for their investigations.

Try to use your intuition in most cases. The most reported incidents of identity theft generally are not necessarily the most technologically sophisticated.

Don't take security for granted in any form. Secure your business and home with home security cameras as well as safety procedures you should be aware of.
 

Basic computer security pointers

Wednesday, 15 February 2006 Roy Penfold
If the phrase computer security was mentioned to you, what would come to mind?

  • Viruses?
  • Hackers?
  • Physical Security?
  • Users?
  • Backup?

 

 

 

It may be surprising, but most (if not all) breaches in security arise as a result of user actions.

In my role as an independent computer consultant, I frequently require user names and passwords to access systems. I have lost count of the number of times, I have telephoned a client and asked whichever user for a user name/password combination and been given just that without even basic security (such as a telephone call-back to my published number).

In addition, many passwords are referred to as 'weak', consisting of the name of significant others/children or even as basic as 'password'. For password security, users should be forced to change their passwords at least once per month and each password should be unique. In addition, it is recommended that passwords are at least 5 characters long and contain numbers as well as alphabetic characters. An easy way to prevent 'dictionary' attacks (one of the most common password cracking schemes) is to substitute numbers for letters e.g. 1 for i, 3 for e, 5 for s, 7 for l and 0 for o and adding 3-4 numbers at the end.

Viruses are fairly easy to deal with, assuming fairly simple common-sense rules are applied;

Ensure you have anti-virus software installed, both on servers and workstations (AVG make an excellent package that is free for single machine use).  Do not open unsolicited emails, or emails that contain attachments that are unexpected.  If an email requires you to run a program – ensure you scan this for viruses before executing it.
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Educate users to the steps above.

Hackers pose a constant threat to security, but realistically, a small business is unlikely to be targeted for commercial gain. Install a firewall (such as ZoneAlarm), switch off internet routers when not in use, however, again user education is the best step – most hacker attacks succeed due to 'social engineering', where a hacker pretends to be from a support company and elicits passwords from users. Having said this, most hacking attempts arise from within organisations, so ensure that you have robust policies in place with regards to computer usage.

Physical security is another consideration. If your server is located in your main office, what is to stop the cleaner from un-plugging it to plug in the vacuum cleaner? In addition, if you have technically aware users, or visitors ensure that there is no monitor/keyboard attached. I have seen numerous clients where the server is in the main office and administrator password is on a 'post it' note attached to the monitor. At the very least, your server should be in a locked cupboard/closet that provides sufficient ventilation for cooling.
Users have already been partially covered above, but to re-iterate;

Ensure you have a password policy.
Ensure you have an acceptable use policy.
Keep your users happy (most successful attacks on computers originate within the organisation).

Backup is another issue altogether, but you should aim to ensure that you can recover from complete failure/loss of your server/computer system with minimal downtime. There are various options available from on-line storage, through to re-writable DVDs/Tape.
 
Roy Penfold Computer Services providing computer help and support to small and medium businesses in and around Hastings, St Leonards, Battle and Bexhill, East Sussex.

Roy has over 15 years of information technology experience across a wide variety of business fields which he can call upon (together with associates in related fields such as telecoms and web site design) to fully support and help grow your business.
 

Advancements In Antivirus Software Suites

Wednesday, 15 February 2006 Louis Roggio
Protecting your computer from a virus is getting harder and harder each day. While it may border on the paranoid, it goes without saying that you can't leave your guard down for one second. Even corporate giant Microsoft has found its own systems compromised on more than one occasion.
 
Remember the "good old days", before the advent of the Internet and downloadable programs? Life was simple then in terms of computer viruses. With the primary way in which a virus could be transmitted being limited to floppy disks, the ability to catch and eradicate the virus was a lot easier. By today's standards, it used to take quite a while before a virus was able to infect a computer and slow down the system. The antivirus software of that time was typically able to identify and eradicate viruses before they caused too much damage. Additionally, computer users were pretty savvy on how to protect themselves in terms of scanning all floppy disks before copying them to our desktop.

The Internet helped change all that. The Internet provided a conduit by which viruses could move from host to host with lightening speed. No longer could a computer user just worry about floppy disks as points of entry, but they now had to worry about email, email attachments, peer-to-peer file sharing, instant messaging, and software downloads. Today's viruses can attack through multiple entry points, spread without human intervention, and take full advantage of vulnerabilities within a system or program. With technology advancing everyday, and the convergence of computers with other mobile devices, the potential of new types of threats also increase.
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Protecting Your Computer

Luckily, the advancement of antivirus software has kept pace with current virus threats. Antivirus software is essential to a computer's ability to fend off viruses and other malicious programs. These products are designed to protect against the ability of a virus to enter a computer through email, web browsers, file servers and desktops. Additionally, these programs offer a centralized control feature that handle deployment, configuration and updating.

A computer user should remain diligent and follow a few simple steps to protect against the threat of a virus:

1. Evaluate your current computer security system.
With the threat of a new generation of viruses able to attack in a multitude of ways, the approach of having just one antivirus software version has become outdated. You need to be confident that you have protected all aspects of your computer system from the desktop to the network, and from the gateway to the server. Consider a more comprehensive security system which includes several features including antivirus, firewall, content filtering, and intrusion detection. This type of system will make it more difficult for the virus to penetrate your system.

2. Only install antivirus software created by a well-known, reputable company.
Because new viruses erupt daily, it is important that you regularly update your antivirus software. Become familiar with the software's real-time scan feature and configure it to start automatically each time you boot your computer. This will protect your system by automatically checking your computer each time it is powered up.

3. Make it a habit to always scan all new programs or files no matter from where they originate.

4. Exercise caution when opening binary, Word, or Excel documents of unknown sources especially if they were received during an online chat or as an attachment to an email.

5. Perform regular backups in case your system is corrupted. It may be the only way to recover your data if infected.

Recommended Antivirus Software:

There are numerous applications available to consumers. With a little research, you can pick the program that is right for you. Many programs provide a trial version which allows you to download the program and test its abilities. However, be aware that some anti-virus programs can be difficult to uninstall. As a precaution make sure to set up a System Restore point before installing.

Here are a few programs which typically receive high marks in terms of cost, effectiveness, ease of use, and customer service.

The Shield Pro 2005(tm) provides virus protection and hacker security through ongoing support and updates. When a virus breaks out, The Shield Pro 2005(tm) promises to provide a patch within 2-3 hours and a fix for the virus within 5 hours. You can set your computer to update viruses weekly and run a complete virus scan.

BitDefender 9 Standard provides antivirus protection, as well as Peer-2-Peer Applications protection, full email protection, and heuristics in a virtual environment. This provides a new security layer that keeps the operating system safe from unknown viruses by detecting malicious pieces of code for which signatures have not been released yet.

Kaspersky Anti-Virus Personal 5.0 program is simple to install and use. The user only needs to choose from three levels of protection. It allows updates as frequently as every hour while promising not to disrupt your computer. The program also offers a two-tier email protection feature and round-the-clock technical support.

PC-cillin Internet Security combines antivirus security and a personal firewall-for comprehensive protection against viruses, worms, Trojans, and hackers. It also detects and removes spyware and blocks spam. It even guards against identity theft by blocking phishing and pharming attacks.

AVG Anti-Virus Free Edition is a free downloadable antivirus program that has received high marks for its reliability. In the past, free downloadable antivirus programs have been viewed skeptically because of issues relating to its reliability. However, AVG from Grisoft, remains one of the best-known free anti-virus programs available. While AVG can not be installed on a server operating system and there is no technical support, it still makes a good choice for many home computer users. The best part is that since it is free, you can try it with no further obligation necessary.

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10 Steps To A Safe Smooth Running PC

Wednesday, 15 February 2006 Michael Silva
10 Steps To A Safe, Smooth Running PC
By Michael A Silva

These ten steps will help you increase your computer's
security. From discovering viruses to learning how to avoid
them, this article is a must read!

Windows password This is the easiest way to make sure you
know who is using your pc. Choose a lengthy password that
contains capital and lower case letters. Including a number
or two will greatly increase your security. Having a
Windows password means that the only people that can log
onto a Windows session are people that you have granted
access to.

Password manager You should never write your passwords
down. Using the same password all the time will also make
it very easy for hackers to reach your personal
information. So if you can't write it down and you're not
supposed to use the same one – how are you supposed to keep
track of all of your passwords? The easiest way to do this
is to use a password manager. We prefer to use Roboform.
Roboform is an easy to use password and profile manager
that docks neatly into your Internet Explorer toolbar and
keeps track of all of your passwords for you. Roboform also
uses a master password system. You will have one password
that accesses all of the passwords in the program. This way
you can keep all of your information safe and secure. You
can download Roboform for free by http://www.roboform.com.

Spyware Remover Next to spam, spyware is the internet's
biggest annoyance. By definition, spyware is “any software
that covertly gathers user information through the user's
Internet connection without his or her knowledge, usually
for advertising purposes. Once installed, the spyware
monitors user activity on the Internet and transmits that
information in the background to someone else. Spyware can
also gather information about e-mail addresses and even
passwords and credit card numbers.” The amount of spyware
that exists on your pc is dependent on the amount of
internet surfing you do. A good rule of thumb here is to
scan for spyware once per week or whenever poor system
performance surfaces. If you don't have a spyware scanner,
we recommend http://www.webroot.com.
{mosgoogle}
Antivirus This should go without saying, but if your
computer is connected to the internet you need antivirus
software. With weekly scans and program updates you should
be protected from most threats. For added protection, we
recommend using more than one anvtivirus scanner.

Firewall A firewall will keep unwanted visitors out of your
computer. You can obtain a firewall either by using
software application like ZoneAlarm or Black Ice Defender,
or by using a router with your internet connection. For
more information on routers plese visit http://www.Linksys.com.

File sharing Basically, file sharing programs are the
single biggest security risk you will come across. This is
because the only facts you have about the files you are
downloading are the file name and the file size. It is
quite simple to change a filename to dupe someone into
downloading a virus or other malware like keystroke
recorders. Our advice – stay away from file sharing at all
costs. If you need to use it, make sure you have updated
antivirus software installed and running.

Research In a sentence – know what's out there.
http://www.Symantec.com has a section on their website
that will serve you well. Knowing what types of viruses exist
and how to avoid them will make you a much smarter
internet user.

Email protection Most of the antivirus applications
available offer email scanning. If yours does not, you will
want to get one that does. Email scanning will make sure
all of your incoming and outgoing emails are safe for both
you and the recipient. Email viruses spread very quickly by
using your address book to propagate. Never read email from
people you don't know and always make sure your email
scanner is active.

Network security Another way that viruses spread is through
computer networks. We have a few quick tips to keep your
network safe. Always scan any files that come in from other
computers. Even if it's a file you have brought from home.
Never allow a file to be placed on your network until it
has been scanned. The main server should be the only
computer with file sharing enabled. By not allowing
computer users to transmit files, you can quickly
neutralize a threat.

Maintenance Performing weekly virus and spyware scans will
go a long way to keeping your computer safe. Defragmenting
weekly will also greatly improve performance. If you put in
the effort, you will be rewarded with a safe and smooth
running pc. Not to mention less headaches!

By following these ten guide lines, you will greatly
improve the performance of your computer. You will also
generate peace of mind as you gain a new sense of security.

------------------

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Three Ways To Jumpstart Your IT Career

Tuesday, 07 February 2006 Chris Bryant
We all get stuck in ruts from time to time, and that happens on the job as well. You've thought about doing something different with your information technology career, but just haven't quite gotten around to it yet. Sound familiar?

You can make 2006 the best year yet for your IT career. There are several simple steps you can take to accelerate your career - but you have to take the step, not just think about it!

Learn something new. One of the biggest reasons you get tired of a job is that you're doing the same thing every day. If you happen to love what you do, that's great, but if not it's time to break out of the box. Besides, learning a new skill adds value to your career. If you've been doing server work for a long time, take the time to learn some Cisco skills. If you're an Exchange specialist, learn some Linux skills.
{mosgoogle}
Get certified. Not very many of us get to work for the same company for the rest of our IT careers. The only job security is the security you give yourself, and one of the ways to get that security is to add professional certifications to your resume. Certifications such as the MCSE and CCNA get you noticed and help you stand out from the crowd. Ask yourself what your resume would look like if you were laid off today, and then take steps to improve yourself and your professional standing.

Be prepared to take one step backwards in order to take multiple steps forward. You may be in a situation I was in a while back when my employer saw me as strictly a server guy. I wanted to get on the Cisco side of things, but there was this perception that I was "only a LAN guy". I had to leave that company to get my shot. There was some short-term financial pain, but in the long run it was the best career move I've ever made.

People get typecast in every field. In his book "Often Wrong, Never In Doubt", Donny Deutsch writes about a job candidate who wanted to become a junior ad executive, but couldn't break in with his current employer - which was an ad agency! He was typecast in a support role, so he applied to other ad firms and was quickly hired.

Sometimes you have to look outside your current situation in order to create a new situation for yourself. Don't be afraid to take a step backwards in order to open up new possibilities for yourself. There's an amazing career out there, waiting for you - if you have the courage to make it and take it. 

Chris Bryant, CCIE #12933, is the owner of The Bryant Advantage ( http://www.thebryantadvantage.com ), home of free CCNA and CCNP tutorials, The Ultimate CCNA Study Package, and Ultimate CCNP Study Packages. Video courses and training, binary and subnetting help, and corporate training are also available. Pass the CCNA exam and CCNP exam with Chris Bryant, CCIE #12933!

For a copy of his FREE "How To Pass The CCNA" or "How To Pass The CCNP" ebook, just visit the website and claim your free copies!

 
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