| How do I keep my PC safe and clean? Turn On Windows Update: Because of the constant security holes and threats to Windows, Microsoft is forced to regularly issue updates, fixes and patches. Fortunately, users of Windows XP Service Pack 2 have an easy way to ensure they get all of these critical updates. You can manually run Windows Update by clicking the icon in your Start Menu, by selecting Windows Update from the Tools menu in Internet Explorer, or by manually going to the Windows Update Website. To read more about Windows Update, check Microsoft's page about it. You Must Use Anti virus Software! This one is an absolute must! If you use the internet (and if you're reading this, you do) you must use anti virus software and you must keep it current! No if's and's, or but's! A good, automatically-updating anti virus program may cost you a few dollars, but think of it as an investment. Think of how much time and frustration it will save in the long run! Another important point is that buying an anti virus is not a one-time purchase. Most antivirus companies require you to renew your subscription each year. If you don't renew your subscription you will no longer get virus updates, and the anti virus software will become useless. Remember that the cost of your anti virus software and updates is far less than the cost of your lost data and information or the cost of professional repair services to remove viruses from your computer. Anti spy-ware Software If you havn't already, read about spyware on this page. After virus', spyware is the biggest threat to your PC. Many experts say spyware is an even bigger threat due to how easy it is get get into your computer. Firewalls A firewall is a hardware device that blocks incoming connections from the internet from reaching your PC. This helps prevent hackers from getting into your PC uninvited. Most routers also have built-in firewall features. If you have high speed cable or DSL internet you may already have a router and therefore a firewall protecting you. If you don't, there are several inexpensive home firewalls that you can find for $30-$50. Use the links on our page or use the search feature to find one. Here are some brand-names to look for: Linksys, D-Link, iPhantom, Belkin, Netgear or 3Com. Any can be found at your local Best Buy or Circuit City, but you can probably find better deals by shopping online. Software Firewalls A software firewall is a program that you install on your PC that performs the functions of a hardware firewall. Because the software is running on your PC it's prone to virus' and other programs that can cause it to not work properly or turn off altogether. We don't recommend relying only on a software firewall. Some experts will tell you that software firewalls are not necessary at all - but The Grown Up Geek disagrees. Why do I need a software firewall?: What is a software firewall? A software firewall gives you one thing that no hardware firewall can: Outbound protection. In the event that you somehow end up with a virus, trojan, worm, or some form of spy ware on your PC, a software firewall will notify you of the OUTBOUND or outgoing connection to the internet that the spyware/virus/trojan/worm is attempting to make. Each time something on your PC tries to connect to the internet a software firewall will give you a message saying "Hey! that program you just installed is trying to get on the internet and send some information!" You then have the option of telling your software firewall if you want that program to 'phone home' or not. This feature of a software firewall has saved my PC many times, and I'm a geek! In my opinion, you need the protection of both a hardware and a software firewall. Use A Safe Web-Browsing Program Most experts agree; if you're using Microsoft's Internet Explorer to surf the web, you are putting your PC at risk! See our safe web browsers page to learn about safer options when accessing the internet. Firefox is is the best free internet browser that you can download for free. What if it's too late? If you think you already have spy-ware or a virus, please read our how to clean a virus infected PC page. |
HOW TO PREVENT SPYWARE
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