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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
 

Building A PC

Monday, 13 March 2006 Declan Tobin
Many people simply go to the retail store and get sold to when it comes to computing equipment. You would be very surprised how easily you can pick up all the core components and assemble yourself or get a friend or family member in the know to do it for you. All the top brand PC manufacturers such as IBM, HP and Fujitsu Siemens offer you pre built PC's, Dell on the other hand will take your order and build to your own style. Off them all Dell will come across more flexible with the specification, however, building your own will not only save you many dollars but make you aware of just how much profit these guys are making.
 

What are the core components of a PC?


Well let's start with the basics you will need no matter how high or low spec you want the computer:

PC Case – Motherboard – Processor Chip – Fan – Power Supply – Hard Disk Drive – Memory (RAM) – Power Cord – Keyboard & Mouse – Graphics Card (may come on the motherboard) – Sound Card (if you require one). All these components will get you started. Remember build the PC to your own needs. Gaming PC's generally need a good graphics card with 3d capabilities while general office PC's do not need such powerful cards.

Processors:


Intel and AMD are the key players when it comes to processors, Intel offer the Pentium chip or Celeron while AMD have their range such as the AMD Athlon and Sempron. While both companies have their benefits Intel's being that they are the largest selling globally but AMD seem to have the faster processing capabilities. When looking at the processors think sensibly and ask yourself do you really need the latest and greatest or would you notice the difference in point two of a processor e.g. 3GHz compared to 2.8GHz.
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Remember keep the cost down, basic components such as the PC case comes in a number of different styles such as Mini Tower, Desktop. Choose what suits you. RAM (memory) will depend on what you plan to do, some games and simulators require large amounts of memory so check before you buy, and the graphics card will also depend on your PC plans. If you are generally using the PC for home and Internet browsing remember to purchase a modem or if you are planning broadband arrange with the installer and get yourself on the waiting list.

Building the PC


Building a PC is not as daunting as it seems. If you have not attempted to do this before it is a good idea to have supervision. Some of the components such as the memory need careful handling due to static electricity. Get an anti static wrist strap to protect the components, they cost very little and could save you a lot of money. There are plenty of cheap books out there to guide you in assembly but you will also find free articles online with diagrams for assembly.

Software:


Hardware is one thing but you also need the software such as the operating system and anti virus software for protection against viruses. Depending on what you want and what you are used to using before you can get free operating system such as Linux. Most of us are used to Microsoft Windows but you will require a licence to use this software. You may also need some office software such as Microsoft Office XP or 2003 standard or Professional edition. The anti virus software is essential and Norton's or McAfee are some of the better known brands. There are also free downloads that will help protect your PC such as Stinger and Ad-Ware.

In Brief:


Building your very own PC gives you the flexibility that most manufacturers do not. The price is greatly reduced if you can assemble yourself and it will give you a great insight to all the components and key terms in computing. You will be surprised to find that not all is as technical as first seems.

Some quick notes: Do not forget the following: Modem – Make sure you also have enough USB ports for external devices such as a printer or digital camera. Always back your files up such externally on the off chance you have a problem with the Hard Disk Drive and your files are not transferable, something like a usb keyring would be ideal.

About the Author
Declan Tobin is a successful freelance writer providing advice for consumers on purchasing a variety of
Computer Parts which includes
Cheap Computer Accessories , and more! His numerous articles provide a wonderfully researched resource of interesting and relevant information for all of your Co
 

Networking Software and Hardware

Wednesday, 08 March 2006 Michael Russell
Networking allows one computer to share information with another. For home office users, this can be a unique advantage. Rather than putting data directly into two computers, you can put it into one computer and then have that computer share the information by using networking software and hardware. Truly, networking software and hardware make life easier and prove to be excellent time saving tools.
 
In order to create a network in your home you will need to purchase the correct hardware if you don't already have it. You will need, in some cases, a file server, network interface cards, Ethernet cards, local talk connectors, a switch, a router, and/or a bridge. If you are unfamiliar with these products it may serve you well to discuss with the computer hardware distributor, what parts you may or may not require. Further, you might want to hire someone who is knowledgeable to install your network for you.

You might also need to buy networking software. A networking operating system differs from DOS and Windows applications and if your computer does not possess a networking operating system, you may be forced to invest in one. There are two primary network operating systems: client/server and peer-to-peer networks. If you are looking to establish a small, but simple networking system then you will most likely benefit from a peer-to-peer network. For larger systems, however, a client/server is your best option.

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When you have a peer-to-peer network, you will not require a dedicated server to share information between computers. Conversely, a client/server requires the use of a dedicated server and this can result in additional expenses for you. Plus, a peer-to-peer network can adapt easily to a Windows Operating System and a knowledgeable individual can easily configure your existing computer to work with your peer-to-peer software.

Before you decide to set up a networking system, you should most definitely research the process. Networking can be a complicated business and if you are unsure of what you are doing, you can actually damage your existing equipment. Again, if you want a networking system established and you are unsure of how to go about it, your best bet is to spend the extra cash to hire someone who can get the process working for you properly as well as advise you about what options are available.

Ultimately, setting up a home network is meant to make your work easier, not harder. Therefore, when considering your network options, do your research, price comparisons and definitely talk to a professional about the best way to set up your system. Once your home networking system is established you will find that you can share information between computers with ease. In the end, that is your goal - to make your work easier, and you don't need more complications than those that already arise on a regular basis!

About the Author
Michael Russell
Your Independent guide to Networking

 

 

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.

 

StrongBit and 9Rays Partner In The War Against Software Piracy

Saturday, 04 March 2006 Webmaster
Crackers attack thousands of security and protection systems every day, with no company too small to be targeted. Software protection inventors are fighting back against crackers, and it is an endless war. For security companies it is simply “A la guerre comme à la guerre” or Business is Business…

 
Representatives from 9rays.net Inc and StrongBit Technology today announced an exciting partnership. In order to combat the ever-advancing underworld of crackers, and to meet many developers' requests to both companies, they have come together to form a new innovative product. The goal of creating a flexible, multi-layer, universal software copy protection and licensing system, based on a combination of encryption and code obfuscation techniques and aimed at prevention and protection. The new product will be able to combat the latest and future software threats with ease, including: reverse engineering tricks, cracks and illegal use. Now for the first time ever it will be compatible with different programming platforms and environments. While the announcement of the partnership just occurred today, the product itself has been in development state for quite some time Both project participants are planning to launch the beta-version in the near future.

StrongBit Technology- Specializing in windows applications copy protection and licensing systems plans to combine their famous protection techniques with 9Rays.net who currently specializes in .Net software protection and decompilation. Both groups are finally combining efforts in development of a collaborative, cross-platform, software copy protection and license management solution
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Both 9Rays and StrongBit are known by their current anti-cracking tools using encryption and “protection by obfuscation” principles in application protection and license management. Until recently these great products were always for different programming platforms or compilers. StrongBit EXECryptor is intended for protection of 32bit executable files written in Basic, Delphi, and C/C++. Spices.Obfuscator from 9Rays it is oriented to protection of .Net applications.

Based off of in-depth private scientific research in software reverse engineering, analysis, and cracks StrongBit (part of SoftComplete Development) developed an innovative approach to software protection based on various techniques including their renown code obfuscation method coined ‘Code Morphing'. Professionals have used this technique as a complete solution in software copy protection and license management. The EXECryptor 2.x series that combines ‘code morphing' obfuscation with program code encryption launched two years ago, in July 2004. As a result of some of the best protection schemes in the industry, today it has the reputation of “uncrackable software protection” with an open challenge to crackers. Today it is at the top of software protection and licensing tools, with one of the longest standing uncrackable records to date.

The 9Rays' Spices.Obfuscator one of Spice.Net suite components is a .Net code protection tool that offers the wide range of technologies to protect .Net code and intellectual properties. Spice.Net comes with five components - Obfuscator, Decompiler, Modeler, Investigator and Documenter. Other features of this technology are automatic size optimization and additional options like assembly merging, adding managed resources, self-installation and encryption features. Thus, Spices.Net does the entire cycle of assembly processing – obfuscation, optimization, and verification of the generated assemblies, with both a .Net Framework and Compact Framework versions and also a Console version.


About Allies:

1) 9Rays.Net is know for partnering with several groups of developers with each group offering its own unique product line. These high-skilled professionals have joined their efforts to achieve better marketing results and to provide the best possible quality product.

9Rays.Net has gained wide experience on the tools and components market, developing high-quality products for the following platforms: Microsoft. NET (Windows.Forms and ASP.Net), Borland Delphi, C++ Builder, ActiveX. The company's primary product focus is on development of .Net tools and components compatible with Visual Studio .Net, C# Builder, Delphi.Net and other IDE's for .Net Framework.

2) StrongBit is a SoftComplete Development division specialized in anti-reversal, anti-crack, and anti-piracy software protection private scientific research and development, creators of the famous EXECryptor Software copy protection and HardKey software license management products.
SoftComplete Development specializes in creating software protection & license management systems, fuzzy text processing and other developer solutions.
9Rays.Net
http://www.9rays.net/
StrongBit
http://www.strongbit.com
 

What do I Need for VoIP?

Monday, 13 March 2006 Calvin Golden
You can try out VoIP for free! All you need is a headset attached to the sound card of your computer. Next, download one of the many VoIP software packages. Skype, Gizmo, Free World Dialup, and Net2Phone are some of the big names. With the software installed, invite all your friends to download the same software and when someone is up and running, give them a call!
 
Most of these "soft phones" (as they are called) allow you to make and receive calls at no charge anywhere in the world as long as you are not connecting to a cellular or landline phone. They are easy to use – simply click on a contact name to initiate a call. Features such as call display, call forwarding, voicemail, and conference calls are included at no extra charge as long as both parties are using computers.

A step up from headsets is Internet phones. These feel a lot more like "real" telephones -- they ring, they have regular number pads, and you use them like traditional telephones. They plug into the USB port or sound card of your computer. These phones are still considered soft phones because you need VoIP software installed on your computer to make and receive telephone calls.

As we progress up the VoIP ladder the next is an ATA (Analog Telephone Adapter) which allows you to connect a traditional analog telephone to a broadband modem. ATA's are usually provided free of charge when you sign up with a VoIP service provider. This is similar to signing up with a regular phone company -- there is a monthly charge and you may have to sign a contract tying you into the service for a certain period of time.
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The ATA is simple to use. It connects to a broadband modem - either a DSL modem connected to your traditional phone line or a cable modem which attaches to your cable TV connection. Any traditional analog telephone can be plugged into an ATA. You do not even need a computer in the house to use this type of VoIP connection.

Using an ATA for Internet phone calls is transparent. You simply pick up the phone and dial a number just as you would with your regular phone service. Anybody calling your phone number will not be aware that you are using VoIP instead of PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network).

If you are travelling, you can take your ATA with you and receive phone calls anywhere in the world by connecting it to a broadband modem. Any calls to your phone number will be routed to your ATA (which has an identification number making it unique in the world) at the same cost as the call to your residence or business would cost.

The third option for VoIP is to have an IP phone. Don't confuse IP phones and Internet Phones. IP phones plug directly into the modem, but Internet phones plug into the sound card or USB port of your computer. An IP phone is a handset which has all the necessary hardware and software installed in it. You connect an IP phone to a broadband modem and make or receive calls the same way that you would make or receive calls with an ATA. The advantage of an IP phone over an ATA is that you do not need an extra telephone set to plug into the ATA -- it is a completely integrated unit.

IP phones also have the advantage of having all your phone numbers stored in the phone as well as a display screen which gives you information about incoming calls.

Discover more secrets of the exciting world of VoIP technology. Unlimited calls over the Internet as clear as traditional phone lines. Go to http://www.get-hot-voip-secrets.com.
 

Computer Diagnostics 101

Saturday, 04 March 2006 Natalie Aranda
If your PC is sluggish, the screen freezes more, the hard disk makes strange noises and/or you reboot frequently due to error messages then computer diagnostics are essential to sort out the trouble.

A complicated machine is bound to have trouble in delivering every time, smoothly. Apart from external factors sometimes, internal factors also might result in the malfunctioning or crashing of a computer. To determine the nature of the problem there are computer diagnostic tools . Though the word diagnosis means identifying and analyzing the problem, computer diagnostic tools go all the way to set things right after preliminary diagnosis. A comprehensive computer diagnostic tool would diagnose dead PCs, motherboard, power supply, memory, hard drive and the central processing unit. Data recovery diagnosis is a part of this process too.
 
Computer diagnostic tools flood the markets in both software and hardware form. A lot of computer diagnostic software is available for free and can be used by an end user without any technical help. The assistance of technicians may be sought to set problems like stuck keys on the keyboard, mouse related problems, rolling pictures, memory loss and loss of data with the help of computer diagnostic software.
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Most of the computer diagnostic programs are easy to run and come with useful instructions that can be performed by PC users themselves, unless there is a serious problem concerning the hard disk or the CPU. Computer diagnostic programs should be run periodically by end users even when there is no obvious problem to check for troubles that might be lurking in the system. It is advisable to leave some space in the drives to accommodate the computer diagnostic software. Computer diagnostic programs would run a set of tests either individually or simultaneously to identify the problem and prepare a report. This report may be saved for future reference. After this, the computer diagnostic program would proceed to trouble shoot.

Computer diagnostic software can retrieve lost data in minutes. However, complete testing of a PC by using a computer diagnostic program may take as long as 100 hrs. The costs of computer diagnostic software is higher than the cost of computer data recovery software, as the later does a myriad of functions that includes identifying, analyzing and trouble shooting that also includes data recovery.

Windows mode computer diagnostic software is compatible with 2000, 2000 Pro, XP and 2003. DOS mode computer diagnostic programs are compatible with IBM XT, PC, AT and Pentium, Pentium Pro, Pentium I, II, III, and Pentium IV to name a few.

 

Natalie Aranda is a freelance writer. She contributes to Ecommerce Guide and Gift Ideas for Wedding and Valentines .

 

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
 

Tips to protect your PC files from external attack

Wednesday, 15 February 2006 Paul Wilson
Essential to peace of mind is protecting the PC and your online privacy. When connected to the web, your work and data is open to attacks of various kinds including harmful downloads. A simple game, picture, or program may be the vehicle for malevolence. So, you need to check whether every file that you download, open, or save, is safe or whether there are irregularities of any kind.

Protect your PC by:
 
• Blocking hackers and viruses by installing the latest firewall and antivirus software. It is advisable to install a software firewall even if you have a hardware firewall in your system. A software firewall is designed to query whether or not it should permit “X,” access. The user can specify which applications can access the port and which cannot. A bi-directional firewall such as ZoneAlarm3 and Personal Firewall 5 will monitor both inbound and outbound traffic preventing Trojans and backdoor programs from functioning.

• Block downloads that install unwanted programs by using the options in Internet explorer to block all software from source X specified by you.

• Install software programs that will constantly scan your PC for spyware, adware, dialers, and web bug traces which can create a nuisance and cause crashes, slow down systems, or steal financial information. By adding a schedule you can instruct NoAdware to automatically scan your PC at set times for in-filtrations.

• Immunize your PC and prevent malicious add ons to your system.
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• Configure your PC browser to protect you when you are working online. Use a ‘real time shield' and prevent intrusions. Be sure to click the “protect IE Favorites” box and ensure that no thief can add an URL without your permission to your browser's favorites list. This will block offensive and dangerous websites from entering your PC environs.

• Say “no” to any web address or site that instructs you to download specific software to view their pages. Such software can contain a virus, Trojan horse, or auto dialer.

• Create a regular back up schedule for your work. Once a week is ideal if you are a virtual worker or running a business. This will minimize any damage should problems arise.

• Be sure to update your software with the latest patches and bug fixes. Then use the updated or enhanced security settings provided by the updates. There are in built ways which you can operate to block damaging viruses, stamp out cookies, and keep unwanted visitors away from your computer system. The method is easy for example if you are using Internet Explorer just go to Tools-Internet Options-Privacy tab. Click the edit button to accept or reject a specific cookie. Go to the advanced settings and check block third party cookies.

• Scan all downloaded files before use. Never launch executable or scriptable files namely those that have dot.exe; .bat ;.doc; .vbs extensions. Do not access attachments of any kind before they are certified as safe.

• Remove file sharing and windows printer options these increase vulnerability of the PC.

• Encrypt your e-mail and embed an identifying key.

Better be sure than sorry. Preventing snoops is easier than trying to recover after an attack. Take informed steps to protect yourself and your PC.

About the Author: Paul Wilson is a freelance writer for http://www.1888Discuss.com/software-download/ , the premier REVENUE SHARING discussion forum for Software Download Forum including topics on all about software, download, spyware, freeware, shareware and more. He also freelances for the premier Software Download Site http://www.1888SoftwareDownloads.com
 

Virus Protection not enough to keep your system safe

Monday, 13 February 2006 David S
The Internet is a dangerous place for people as well as computer systems. Every day there is a new threat that seeks to do harm to your computer and the information contained within your hard drive.

Many people believe that they are protected because they have anti-virus protection. Sadly, this is not the case. There are many threats that your anti-virus software will not protect you against. If you are surfing the Internet with just anti-virus protection then you may already have malicious programs running in your computer ‘background', unknown to you and doing irreparable harm.
 
These programs are more commonly referred to as spyware. Spyware is similar in nature to a computer virus in that they both infiltrate and affect system resources and often times both are hard to detect. The main reason that anti-virus does not protect against such threats is because spyware does not appear to be malicious. Often times spyware is disguised as something as harmless as a computer cookie. Once it is logged into your system a whole host of problems can occur.
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By its very name, spyware is used to spy on your computer system. This gives whoever created the code a chance to access all of the confidential data that is stored on your hard drive, like passwords, financial data, and personal identification items. Hackers can also use spyware to hijack your computer system and use your accounts for illegal activities such as sending spam mails from your email account, or worse-stealing credit card information. Of course this is all happening right under your nose because your anti-virus protection software was never meant to catch this new kind of code.

People often ask how they can avoid getting spyware. The simple answer is there is no way to keep from getting spyware, absent setting your browser security options to a very high level, but there is a way to remove it from your system before it does any damage.

You will need to purchase and use spyware removal software. This is the only effective method to protect yourself and your computer from the malicious content that is found on the web. A spyware removal program acts as a sweeper, and ultimately a protector by destroying the spyware code found on your drives. It is as simple as that.

The best course of action that one should take is to run the spyware removal software after each session on the web, or weekly if that is to much of a burden. There is no way to avoid all of the potential threats that are on the net these days. Even if you visit only reputable sites that you have visited before you still run a high risk of getting spyware. Most often, a webmaster has no idea that his site is being used to distribute spyware. Producers of the spyware code are getting smarter everyday, and they're learning to cover their tracks well.

The only way to protect yourself is with this knowledge and a great spyware removal program.
If you need the very best in spyware removal then visit http://spyware-removal.thrcomputer.com
Here you will be provided with the best spyware removal program that is currently available on the market, hands down.

Spyware Removal
 
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