How To Keep Your Computer Running Healthy - Part 1 of 2

Welcome to my first article, related to "all things" computer - that means anything related to computer repair, installation, maintenance, software, hardware... you name it! For now, this relates to Windows-based computers only. Of course, many computer issues are beyond what can be easily taken care of by the average person for a variety of reasons. We'll concentrate on what's in our control from the onset and see where this takes us going forward.

That said, let's get right into some of the things you can do to help ensure that your computer stays in shape and running smoothly!

1) Keep Windows Updated

You should always keep your installation of Windows updated with the latest fixes, patches, and upgrades. Typically, you should set Windows Updates to "automatic" with a set time. When Windows updates are available, you should see a yellow or blue icon in your bottom right system tray, depending on what version is running. Double-click that icon to bring up the Windows update dialog. For Windows versions prior to Vista, click "CUSTOM" to show ALL the updates available, and make sure that all of the updates are selected. For Vista and Windows 7, ensure that you select "OPTIONAL" updates and select all of those as well as the recommended and critical updates. I'm not really sure why Microsoft labels some updates as optional, but as far as I'm concerned, if Microsoft or a particular vendor puts out an update, there's usually a good reason for this. So, do all updates. And note that you may or may not have to reboot your computer after updates have been installed. Check to see that none of your updates have failed. And when rebooting, the installation of these updates may continue for a few minutes, depending on what updates were installed. Once your updates are complete (and optionally, if a reboot was needed), manually check Windows updates again to ensure that there are no "second-level" updates to be done.

2) Get CCLEANER

CCLEANER is a small, free program available at http://www.ccleaner.com that will clear your computer of the build-up of temporary Internet files, old log files, and a lot more. These days, useless files can really build up on your computer and potentially slow it down. Download and install this program and set it to run every time you reboot or power on your computer. You can leave the default settings as is.

3) Reboot your computer daily, at a minimum

For many computer users, this is not an issue, as the computer is shut off at night and turned back on at some point during the day. For others, such as myself, I tend to leave the computer on always. If the latter is the case, leaving the computer on all the time will eventually take up most of your computer's memory resources, and you will notice a slowdown in how your computer is running. This can be frustrating, to say the least. At least once a day - or as needed - save all your work, and reboot your computer to free up the resource hogs from the past number of hours and get a "fresh start". It's important to note that depending on your computer, you may not have enough memory installed that the reboot itself will produce any noticeable difference. We will get into that at a later time.

4) Install a good computer "TUNE UP" program

For this topic, there are a number of programs out there that make all kinds of claims regarding helping to keep your computer tuned up and running efficiently. Some of these programs are nothing more than "registry cleaners" (more on that in an upcoming blog). Some programs are free; some are paid. Some are very good, some are not. Generally, you can do a little "due diligence" and search for editor and user reviews on these types of software at, for example, a trusted source like CNET's DOWNLOAD.COM.

My personal preference is TUNEUP UTILITIES 2012. This is a paid product, but it doesn't cost much - and it has a fully functional 15-day trial. This is the best program that I have found in this category that is light on CPU resource usage, can be configured easily, and runs seamlessly and quietly in the background to help keep that electronic friend of yours in good shape as you do your internet surfing, reading, emailing, playing...oh, and speaking of playing, it also has a "turbo" setting for gamers to disable a number of services for optimum performance during these times. But, you have to be careful with this setting as you'd want to revert back to "normal mode".

Andy Cooper is the owner of IFIXPCZ, an independent computer repair services company servicing the entire North Shore area of Chicago and beyond. Please check out our website at http://www.ifixpcz.com/ and make sure you "LIKE" us on Facebook for special content, discounts, and our exclusive Computer Repair / Windows Q & A Community! 1.866.224.8420 info@ifixpcz.com

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How To Prevent and Detect Remote Access Trojans

Wondering how to prevent and detect Remote Access Trojan's, also known as RAT's? RAT's, like other malware, are an all too real threat to your Internet security and privacy. This malware actually allows criminals to control your computer through your computers Internet connection. In fact, they can have even more control over your computer than you do. Cyber criminals use Remote Access Trojan's to remotely view and change your computers files and functions, monitor and record your activities, store files and programs on your computer, remotely turn on your own webcam to spy on you, and even use your computer to attack other computers. Having your computer infected with a RAT can lead you to having your personal information stolen; added to the ever-growing list of victims of identity theft, which happens to be one of the fastest growing crimes in all of the USA and Canada. Don't disconnect your computer from the Internet forever just yet. It is somewhat reassuring to know that there are some ways to help detect Remote Access Trojans (RAT's).

You definitely want to have anti-virus software installed on your computer to prevent and detect Remote Access Trojans, or any malicious software for that matter. It is important to remember to keep it up-to-date. Try to get into the habit of running a "full system scan" on a regular basis as well.

Have anti-spyware software running on your computer. Most Trojan Horses are detected with anti-spyware software.

It is a good idea to have anti-keylogger installed on your computer, as RAT's are often bundled with keystroke loggers; malware that secretly records every keystroke and even captures screen shots. Anti-virus and anti-spyware software alone do not detect all keyloggers. You need anti-keylogger software installed to detect and block keyloggers.

Have your computer guarded with a personal firewall. A firewall will keep hackers out and block any malware already installed on your computer, such as a Remote Access Trojan or a keylogger, from remotely sending your personal data to a cyber crook.

Try to avoid visiting sites from dubious corners of the Internet; containing file-sharing, freeware, shareware, warez, and the like. These sites are absolutely notorious for containing malicious software, such as a Remote Access Trojan.

It really is not a good idea to open email attachments from someone you don't know. Even if you know the sender, think twice before opening attachments that you are not expecting or do not recognize. Sadly, these attachments may very well be infected with malware, including a Remote Access Trojan.

As you can see, there are steps that you can take to prevent and detect Remote Access Trojans, also known as RATs and Backdoor Trojans. Remember, when it comes to Internet security, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

Christopher is passionate about sharing his knowledge and expertise on online security and privacy. Visit Internet Security 101 for the tools and resources to protect your Internet security and privacy, including free Internet security software.

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Hackers On The Move: Is My Tablet Vulnerable?

The concept on which hacking is done does not change with the tablets since they are also gadgets that run on systems and software which are used in computers. This also translates to the fact that internet security will apply for the tablets as well. Tablet security, like smartphone security, is an area which has been focused on due to the increase in hacker activity directed at these gadgets. The security challenges can now be seen mostly with the operating systems which are used with the gadgets. The operating systems have formed a platform which is getting exploited by hackers just like it has been exploited by the application developers. The platforms have allowed for extensive work by application developers as they go about their trade. Unfortunately, this opening has been exploited by a whole lot of devious people out to steal data and utilize it unfairly to swindle unsuspecting users of the tablets and smart phones.

Tablet security has been a challenge due to the nature of the distribution system which does not tie the tablets to networks or systems. This kind of model makes it very difficult to create security measures aimed for the tablets especially when they are used in a network. In the scenario of companies, employees will come to the workplace with individual tablets whose use is not guided in any way by corporate procedures. Then this becomes the second way which tablets become avenues for compromised security. Companies are therefore forced to find ways and means to make sure that security of company data is not compromised in any way. Best practices guidelines is one of the ways through which the companies get to protect their networks. Another way is through finding tools which are now coming up that work to secure the tablets themselves. This becomes a good solution to secure individual tablets before solutions are found to secure networks on which the smart phones and the tablets are used.

Internet security has shifted from the preserve of companies and has become the concern of individuals as well. No better evidence can be placed to this than tablet security which has become the responsibility of individual users of the tablets. Tablets have grown very popular in recent times and their use extends to access of information from the internet and even for business. With such advanced use, tablet security becomes a priority just like it happens with the personal computers. The biggest caveat in the use of the tablets like the iPad and the tablet PCs has become their security. Many people are unaware of the fact that the tablets should be installed with security measures. Specifically, the security of the tablet is to be looked at since these are devices which utilize wireless networks.

The importance of tablet security becomes an issue that leads to appreciation of the fact that the tablet and other mobile devices are not really an easy target for hackers due to flaws in their operating systems or hardware. Tablet security deals with the problems presented by applications which are becoming a big threat. There has no such thing as a secure tablet that has been produced since there has been nothing very wrong with the tablet itself. Security measures have been aimed at what the tablet handles and what it is capable of achieving. Hence it therefore goes without doubt that tablet security is aimed at protecting sensitive information and data as well as important applications from getting accessed by the hackers.

The use of tablet security will allow companies to feel free to the level of allowing their employees to use their tablets and smart phones for business and all other operations that can get accomplished on the company network. It is with confidence that this is allowed due to the knowledge that information and data will remain secure. Tablet security alongside other measures like the rules to govern the use of the tablets is a perfect combination that works and will definitely protect information and data on a network until better solutions are discovered and developed.

The other benefit of tablet security would be that of filtering through content to only allow access to appropriate or security passed information. The tablet security measure adopted will be one that corresponds to the activities of a firewall. In this way, the tablet becomes a useful device that can be appropriately used even by children without fear of them getting exposed to material and information which is out of the scope of their tender ages.

Further the importance of security gets realized through the protection of data packages and the communication channels utilized irrespective of whether the network into which the tablet is connected is secure or not. This makes the usage of the tablet whether for personal or business and company use secure for whatever interests getting pursued or any information that is of value. The tablet security is therefore emphasized more than it is done with the Smartphone due to the reason that the tablets become more vulnerable from handling more data. The tablets also have many access routes to internet connectivity which become yet another risk area.

Rather than restriction of access and use of tablets to a public network, tablet security enhances safe use of these devices without consideration of whether the network is secured or not. Having a security solution for the tablet does not in any way limit the impact that they have been currently making in the information world. Instead, it expands the scope to which the tablet together with all applications and software developed to work on it can impact on everyday life.

It becomes necessary to find tablet security solutions which are going to ensure that as more and more tablets find users who want to benefit from the much functionality that they offer. What concerns many individual users and the companies is that the tablets will be in a position to handle sensitive information and data without the danger of the information landing into the wrong hands. So efforts have been directed into finding an out of the box or encompassing security solution both by the manufacturers as well as stakeholders within the internet security sector. Such a security solution traversing different platforms will be welcome in the face of the rising popularity of the tablets and the increased use in transacting business. So for the moment there is no such thing as an entirely secure tablet; efforts go towards users getting vigilant in their use of these gadgets.

Guardian Network Solutions or GNS is an IT solutions value-added reseller that specializes in providing tablet security for businesses, government, and education organizations as well as home users. GNS Solutions Professionals work with manufacturers and businesses of various sizes to find secure, cost-effective solutions, and currently provide the fastest and easiest transactions for users of all sizes.

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Cyber Lies and Russian Spies - Cyberspace Is Alive, Time to Revisit a Virtual Cold War?

By some estimates there are 1800 to 3000 Russian Spies in the US today, but if you asked the average citizen about this, they wouldn't have a clue. Now don't get me wrong there are plenty of spies from other nations too, scurrying about, making important friends in high places and combing our universities and corporations for scientific information and trade secrets. The combined intellectual property theft is completely staggering in every regard.

Worse is the reality that there are even more spies siphoning secrets who are not even in the US, rather they use cyber intrusion and hacking techniques coming in from multiple foreign servers online hiding their tracks. Yes, things have changed, and the stakes are much higher than you might imagine. Okay so, let's discuss this shall we?

The Wall Street Journal had an interesting article published on April 21, 2012 titled; "Russian Spies Haven't Gone Away," by Michelle Van Cleave (former head of US Counterintelligence under President Bush II) which stated; "Even when presented with extensive evidence, the Obama White House looks the other way."

The article noted another fact; today there are just as many Russian spies in the US as there were during the cold war, and the ten spies caught and traded back to Russia were not tried as spies in 2010, they were merely called "illegal aliens" and deported in trade in a "spy-swap" deal. Trust me you don't have to read any spy novels, or Bill Gertz's books to realize what's going on, as there are stories in the mainstream media nearly every day.

If you think the cyber threat is merely the computer industry industrial complex trying to sell more computers, software, and consulting to the government, yes, there is some of that too, but make no mistake we are being ripped off blind, so if you are somehow under the impression that the Cold War is over and the Russians are no longer engaged in espionage or spying, then you are clearly misinformed.

In fact, now with Putin back in power, he's made no bones about the importance of his intelligence teams, and there is a new sense of vigor and nationalism in a decent segment of their nation which is ready to sign up for surveillance service, so now Russia will be picking from the cream of the crop, and they have lots to choose from. These new agents won't be flunkies like the last group detected. Please consider all this and think on it.

Lance Winslow has launched a new provocative series of eBooks on Future Internet Security. Lance Winslow is a retired Founder of a Nationwide Franchise Chain, and now runs the Online Think Tank; http://www.worldthinktank.net/

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How To Protect Your Computer From Spyware

Concerned about how to protect your computer from being infected with spyware? Worried that your PC is infected with spyware already? Spyware is an Internet threat to be taken very seriously. Having your computer infected with this malicious software can in fact lead you to having your personal information stolen, becoming yet another statistic; a victim of identity theft, one of the fastest growing crimes in Canada and the USA. The good news is that there are some ways to drastically reduce your chances of being infected with spyware; at the same time detecting and removing any spyware or other malware already installed on your computer.

Think twice before visiting sites containing freeware, shareware, warez, file-sharing, and other similar sites. They are well-known for containing more than you bargained for; spyware or other malicious software. That pirated "free movie" might very well come at a real price; your online security and privacy.

Try to resist the temptation of opening email attachments from unknown senders. A matter fact, it is wise advice to think twice before opening attachments from people you know, that are unrecognizable or you are not expecting. That "cute joke" may not be so cute after all; bundled with spyware or other malware.

Be sure to have anti-virus software installed on your computer to help protect your computer from being infected with spyware. It is essential for your online security to keep your anti-virus software up-to-date. Set your anti-virus software to update automatically, so you are protected against the latest threats. Internet security vendors are constantly playing a "cat and mouse" game with cyber criminals; coming up with new updates all the time to help protect you from malicious software. Get into the habit of running a "full system scan" on a regular basis, such as once a week, as well.

It is wise to have anti-spyware software in your arsenal of weapons against spyware. Anti-virus software detects most, but certainly not all spyware. There is spyware available for download online, that is both reputable and free. That said and done, be extra vigilant in making sure that you're downloading anti-spyware software with a good reputation. Sadly, there is so-called "free anti-spyware software" that is anything but free; charging you $39.99 to remove a "keylogger" that may or may not exist and even infecting your computer with more malicious software.

Finally, install and run anti-keylogger software. Anti-virus software detects very few spyware. Anti-spyware software does a better job; detecting most, but not all spyware. You need anti-virus software installed to detect and block spyware.

Following these tips will definitely help protect your computer from being infected with spyware, or any malicious software for that matter.

Christopher is passionate about sharing his knowledge and expertise on online security and privacy. Visit Internet Security 101 for the tools and resources to protect your Internet security and privacy, including free Internet security software.

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Secure Your Business, Use Mail Encryption Software

If you rely on electronic mail for your business, make sure you have mail encryption software installed in your network. This program can protect all your business files. It features safe encoder system, which protects your email account from unauthorized users. This means you can send your messages through codes. For example, if you're the sender, the system translates your messages into certain codes. The receiver, in turn, will get the "code key," and use this to unlock or read your message.

These programs usually have anti spam service protecting recipients from unauthorized mails. Junk mails or irrelevant messages often come from individuals or companies endorsing a product or service. While most unsolicited messages are harmless, some may have viruses, bugs, and other threats. As you open this message, it can remove your database. This usually happens when your computer is connected to an open network. In most cases, you need to reformat your computer to remove the virus.

An infected computer or network can lead to major problems. At first, you may have experience slow connection. Your database may also slow down. If you don't have a back-up, you may lose all your files. Computer virus can easily affect your system and some antivirus programs are not enough to prevent this. Your safe bet is to look for programs with anti spam service. This system is very efficient when it comes to preventing potential threats. It also limits communications seen on inbox. Programs with these features can easily manage your files. You can make separate folders for your personal and business mails.

There are also programs that feature outbound filtering tools. These are very effective when it comes to filtering important information. One popular method for this is stripping attachments. When the system detects oversized or suspicious file attachments being sent out, you will receive a notification. This prevents large amount of information from getting out whether it includes images, documents, and videos.

Some programs can also send coded messages for non-intended recipients. This usually happens from bulk options. For example, if you send an important message to someone, you set a code to a particular receiver. The recipient may forward this message to someone else, but the second receiver may not open the file. The original sender needs to provide different codes for each receiver.

There are also other programs that prevent file printing. This is very important, especially for confidential documents. The receiver must ask permission from the sender to activate the print options. In this case, the recipient may only view the file. This is usually seen as PDF files.

These programs are very important so it is better to get one as early as possible. It's easy to find the best anti spam or mail encryption software for your system. You can search online and choose the best product. Read the requirement and make sure all your programs are updated. You can make your business more efficient by using simple programs like this. Read more product reviews if you want to know more about encryption software.

Mae O'Connell writes reviews about anti spam service and mail encryption software.

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How To Prevent and Detect Computer Viruses

Is your computer running slower than your old Vic 20? Getting that dreaded black screen of death? Computer acting strange? Your computer could be infected with a computer virus. A computer virus puts your Internet security and privacy in jeopardy. In fact, it could lead you to having your personal information stolen; becoming the next victim of identity theft, one of the fastest growing crimes in Canada and the USA. Fortunately, there are some simple steps that you can take to help prevent and detect computer viruses.

It is paramount for your online security to have anti-virus software installed and running on your computer. You might be happy to know that you don't have to break the piggy bank to get anti-virus software; there is free anti-virus software available for download online. Don't forget to keep your anti-virus software up-to-date, to help protect you against the latest viruses and other Internet security threats.

In your quest to prevent and detect viruses, be sure to have anti-spyware software installed.Many computer viruses come bundled with spyware. Anti-virus software does detect most, but far from all spyware. You need anti-spyware software installed to detect and prevent spyware. There is free anti-spyware software online that has a good reputation. That said and done, there is so-called "free anti-spyware software" available for download online that is far from free; charging you around forty dollars to remove a "backdoor trojan" that may or may not exist and even infecting your computer with more malicious software. Bottom line; be sure that anti-spyware software is reputable before downloading.

It is paramount for your online security to install and run anti-keylogger software. This type of Internet security software is often forgotten. That is a big mistake however. More often than you'd care to know computer viruses contain a keylogger; spyware that secretly records every single keystroke and might even capture keystrokes. Anti-keylogger software will detect and block keystroke loggers.

Have a personal firewall installed on your computer to prevent and detect viruses and other malware. A firewall acts as a road block between your computer and the vast world of cyberspace; keeping the bad guys out and stopping any malicious software already installed on your computer from sending your personal data to criminals. A free personal firewall is included in Windows Vista, 7, and XP; make sure you have it activated.

Try to resist the urge to open email attachments from unknown senders.In fact, even if you know the sender it is wise to not open attachments you do not recognize or are not expecting. They could be infected with a computer virus or other malware.

Finally, stay away from sites containing warez, shareware, freeware, file-sharing, and other similar sites. They are notorious for containing malicious software, including computer viruses.

These steps will go a long ways in both preventing and detecting computer viruses and other malware. When it comes to computer viruses, and all online threats for that matter, an ounce of prevention is indeed worth a pound of cure.

Christopher is passionate about sharing his knowledge and expertise on online security and privacy. Visit Internet Security 101 for the tools and resources to protect your Internet security and privacy, including free Internet security software.

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