Well, in keeping with our word, we want you to be as informed as possible.  It is our true belief that to serve you best, you should have access to information that can help you understand computing and help protect yourself from malicious attacks.

 

Some might say, well if you are handing out such valuable information aren’t you hurting your own business.  Simply put, NO, we have confidence in you and we appreciate feedback from you, and should there be something you cannot resolve on your own; then by all means give us a call, we are more than happy and more than qualified to assist you!

 

Keeping your system safe:

 

*      Keep your version of Windows® up to date

*      Run a resident Antivirus software

*      Top antivirus software in my opinion is, Kapersky®, McAfee®, Computer Associates® or TrendMirco®

*      ZoneAlarm w/ Antivirus uses a system by Computer Associates, I use this on several of my systems, a great economical firewall and antivirus combo

*      Use a firewall, whether it be software or hardware based, I personally use both☺

*      Hardware: If you are running a high-speed internet connection, make sure you ask for NAT/SPI modem commonly they do not offer this as a standard option and it will cost you extra, but never fear there are exceptional modem/router packages available that are competitively priced. Otherwise, if you wish to share your high-speed using a router make sure it has NAT/SPI

*      Software: Commonly used as an installed program these are very effective at preventing attacks but they do require interaction and knowledge before preventing “good” programs from accessing the net.  One of the best and free software firewalls available is ZoneAlarm®; this enabled with Windows XP SP2® Firewall provides excellent protection.  Other freeware is available but I have chosen ZoneAlarm® based on my experience

*      Run multiple anti-spyware/anti-adware software, some of the most useful are even FREE!

*      Ad-Aware®, scans and allows removal of malicious Ad-ware from your PC

*      Spybot Search & Destroy® scans and removes malicious Ad-ware.  When you install the program, select the Tea-Timer resident and you will be protected from browser hijackings, malicious software installs, and registry additions. This software is for more advanced users, but if you take time to read, you will have no problems.  While this software is free, they do accept donations if you are so inclined to help

*      a-squared®, an excellent and thorough scanner for adware and spyware, adding yet another layer of protection

*      Use an ISP that has built-in anti-spam features

*      All reputable Internet Service Providers offer this feature

*      Configure your Web browser and email client to fill in gaps against spam and pop-ups

*      Internet Explorer® has built pop-up blocker, make sure it is enabled and your “Privacy” settings are at Medium at the very least, ensure it is updated frequently

*      Download the latest version of Firefox®, much like Internet Explorer® except safer and more functional with tabbed web browsing, customizable with themes and additional plug-ins. Best feature…100% Free!

*      PROTECT YOUR PRIMARY EMAIL ADDRESS AS IF IT WERE YOUR SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER!

*      Make sure your mail client (Outlook Express, Outlook, etc.) are up to date

*      Download Thunderbird® as a safer and great replacement for Outlook, etc.  Thunderbird® offers many unique features, profile manager, themes, password encryption and master password, and many more.

*      Sign-up for a free web-mail account so when websites ask for an email you can give them the web mail address eliminating unsolicited messages to your primary account

*      When shopping online, use a fraud protected credit card, read privacy policies, and read carefully the questions asking you if you’d like to be added to their mailing list

*      When entering personal information or making purchases, make sure the website is a secured site denoted by the https:// in the sites address or certification by TWATHE®, VERISIGN®, etc.

*      Ensure all Antivirus, firewall, anti-spyware/anti-adware, web browsers, email clients, java, and plug-ins are up to date, check these monthly regardless if you have setup automatic updates

 

 

 

Disclaimer: All information is presented "as is,” Perry Computing assumes no liability for your system by presenting the above material; we implore you to research and call Perry Computing when you need us.  Perry Computing is not an affiliate of, nor endorsed by the companies listed above.  However, our opinion is these companies provide quality utilities for the average home user.

 

 

Copyright Perry Computing 2005