Computer Security: The Essential Components for A Safe Computer

These days, computers are almost as common in households as telephones. Computers themselves do not cause any threat to individual security. When connected with networks and the chaos that is the World Wide Web, computers have become the tools that identity thieves and hackers use to extrapolate this chaos. In order to establish computer security, software companies have created devices to ward off the hazards and hassles of viruses, spyware, pop-ups and spam.

The first of these creations is anti-virus software. There are two main companies that offer this software: McAfee and Norton. These programs work to scan the files on your computer and check them for attributes that are in viruses or are often linked with viruses. These traits or attributes are often called virus definitions and need to be downloaded on a relatively regular basis. In addition to the files on your computer, files on CDs, floppy discs and e-mails can and should be filed. There is no question on this one: anti-virus software is vital to computer security.

Next on the list is spyware scanning software. Spyware occurs when certain websites run programs in the back ground of your computer while gleaning information from it. The information can be as benign as tracking what type of websites you look at, to actually acquiring passwords. Regardless of the type of spyware, it can slow your computer to a crawl and needs to be removed from your computer. Two popular software options are Spy Sweeper and Ad-ware.

Last, but certainly not least are pop-up blockers and span filters. Not only are pop-ups and spam annoying, but these often contain the spyware scanning software explained above. In addition, they can slow your computer down incredibly. And when you are angry at your computer, your computer is not secure!

In addition to these software items, there are a few more tricks you can use to keep your computer and your information secure. Password secure everything you can, and when you create the passwords, don’t make them easy. Do not use your name, your birthday or your social security number. And, if you are on an unsecured wireless network, do not check your bank statements. These networks allow several people on them at one time. Remember, hackers are smart. You have to be smarter!

Home computers are a favorite target for intruders. This is because home computers are normally not very secure and are easy to attack. With high speed Internet connection, intruders can quickly find and then attack computers. Home computer security takes top priority in this context. There are several methods to secure your home computer.

Installing and using anti-virus programs is a means to protect home computers. The anti-virus program normally provides several options on how to respond, such as removing the offending patterns or destroying the file. It is advisable to keep your system patched.

Clean Your Computer From A Virus

Having a virus on your computer can slow down your computer, install spy ware, or let hackers into your computer to steal your information.
Knowing how to clean your virus-infected computer is easy. Here are some tips to show you how.

As soon as you thing your computer might be infected you should disconnect your computer from the Internet and any networks you computer might be on.
This is to ensure that the virus does not spread to other computers.

If you have an anti-virus program installed make sure it is updated first then run a full system scan.
The anti-virus might not detect the virus if the program is not updated.

Some anti-virus programs will detect the virus, but will not be able to remove it.
If that is the case, you can get a different program but downloading it from a non-infected computer or you can go to your local computer store and get a different one there.

Most anti-virus programs will ask you to restart you computer after it is finished scanning. Once you restart you computer run another scan to make sure that the virus is gone. When you restart your computer make sure that it is still disconnected from the Internet and other networks.
The best way to combat against viruses is to be cautious of programs and files you download. Do not open any e-mail messages or attachments you do not recognize. Get a good anti-virus program that is updated frequently and run system scans regularly.

Computer Do's and Don'ts

Here are a few helpful pointers for your computer experience.

DON'T:

Store personal information on your computer or PDA. Stored data is always open to hackers. Consider storing passwords on CD's or disks that you keep locked in a box or closet.

Shop on-line without being sure of two safety features. Check the order page for the lock icon at the bottom. This way you know the system is encrypted and your personal data if transfered safely. The URL on the address bar should say "https", the "s" stands for secure.

Store credit card information on a website. It may be more convenient, but it's not safe.

Open or answer any unfamiliar e-mails. Just opening an email with an attachment, can add a worm to your computer. If you really think it might be from someone you know, hit reply and ask them to identify themselves. If that doesn't work, you know it's junk.

Fall for phishers. Phishing is a new scam. There are cyber crooks looking for information. They ask for your credit card numbers and social security information, phone numbers or even email addresses. Never respond to these emails.

Use obvious passwords. Don't use anything connected to your social security number. Don't use combinations of numbers and letters. Don't use anything with your mother's maiden name or your birth date.

DO:

Use virus and spyware protection.

Without virus and spyware protection your computer is an open door to hackers and virus spreaders. Norton and McAfee use the most up-to-date anti-virus protection available. Always get their security updates every 2 weeks.

Completely erase your hard drive, if you throw away or give away your old computer. There are free downloadable programs to scrub the system before you give or throw it away.
Use only one credit card on the internet

This way if your information falls into the wrong hands you can cancel it. Always use a different credit card out in the "real world."

And to be sure you are not a victim of identity theft, get a copy (every year) of your credit report from all 3 major credit bureaus.

Computer Memory is an Essential Part of the Computer

Computer memory is an essential part of the computer because it allows it to store vital information that you will need. Whether the information is in the form of pictures, data or sounds, a computer with a lot of memory can store it for you. There are three basic types of computer memory and you will need to know a little bit about each to ensure your computer is running effectively.

Random access memory or RAM is the same thing as your computer memory. RAM is the main memory center, so essentially, it is the most important. Your RAM is used almost every second you're on your computer each day. The reason RAM is so crucial is that it is used to store your files and programs and it affects many other computer aspects as well.

DDR computer memory can be bought to increase the amount of memory you have, but first you will want to learn a little more about your computer. Understanding how it works will help you work better with your computer.

The more RAM computer memory your computer has, the faster it will work for you. If you find that you're computer has been very slow lately, you might want to look into buying some DDR for it. If you aren't sure what to buy or how to install it, it's best to let a professional do it this time around. You will find that all electronic stores that sell RAM will offer optional installation services for a small fee. If you choose this option, it would be a great idea to ask them exactly what they did so you can do it yourself if the need ever arises again.

But, if you know a little something already about computer memory, why not install your DDR program yourself? It will save you some time and money and your computer will be back to working at optimal speed in no time. Either route you choose, don't neglect the health of your computer. If it starts working differently than it ever has, get it checked out or troubleshoot the problem yourself. This will ensure that it stays working great for years to come.

Top 7 Home Computer Repair Check Points

Your home computer is prone to damage as any other machine in your house, more, if you are connected to the Internet. You must take measures and learn some basic home computer repair methods to safeguard your computer against any potential damage. Here are the top-most important tools that serve as home computer protection as well as home computer repair methods:

1. • Anti-virus: You should invest in good anti-virus software for continuous online protection. To help with home computer repair, anti-virus software provides fixes for latest viruses and guards against spamming and phishing. You should update the anti-virus package periodically. The most popular ones include BitDefender, McAfee, Kaspersky Lab, F-Secure, Symantec Norton, and Panda. A typical package will cost you $30 to S50. Some basic anti-virus packages are also available for free.
2. • Anti-spyware/Anti-adware: Spyware and adware prove a menace when it comes to the performance of your computer. As a home computer repair and protection method, scan your computer using an anti-spyware, anti-adware package like Ad-Aware and Spybot Search & Destroy. These packages are available for free online.
3. • Operating System and Program Update/ Specific Computer Manufacture's Update: Updating your computer periodically with critical and recommended updates goes a long way in protecting your home computer against damages and rectifying non-functional devices.
4. • Firewalls: Your operating system may provide you with a firewall by default. You should install a personal firewall if your computer does not have one. A firewall acts as a filter, protecting your computer from malicious content from the Internet. Some popular firewalls include McAfee, Norton, and Zone Alarm. Some firewalls like Kerio are also available for free.
5. • Disk Defragmentation and Disk Cleanup: These tools come built-in with your computer and serve as important home computer repair methods. These tools help free up space on your computer. You should run these tools periodically.
6. • Error-checking utility: The computer provides another built-in home computer repair utility called the Error-checking utility. It checks the hard disk for bad sectors and tries to recover them.
7. • Back up and Recovery: A very dependable method for home computer repair is system restore. You should create restore points on your computer so that in case of any damage, you can restore your computer to a previously secure checkpoint. Also, to avoid losing any important data in case of a system damage or failure, it is a good idea to back up your data periodically.

Steps to Solving the Spyware Threat

Spyware has become a prominent factor in using the internet. To keep your computer free from spyware and working well as well as to protect your private information it is necessary to install one or more spyware tools. Spyware can and will strike a computer system as soon as possible which means users must immediately install anti-spyware software upon connecting a computer to the internet. Some forms of spyware work fairly silent and do not have many adverse side effects while others have a mission to bombard to aggressively with pop ups email advertisements.

Once current spyware infected files are fixed there is a process you can take your computer through that technicians say will arm your computer against spyware. Start by downloading the latest software updates from your software provider and get in the habit of regularly checking for new updates.

You computer should also have a secure personal firewall running, especially for users with a direct internet connection. Without a firewall your computer is open to threats including hackers, spyware, viruses and more. For Windows users it is advised you have the Service Pack 2 which has a built in firewall along with other vital updates. For other users or alternate firewalls there are several free for downloading.

With a firewall established users should run Spybot Search and Destroy, a spyware scan and removal tool. Spybot is well known and trusted by many computer users because of its effectiveness at catching and fixing thousands of known spyware problems. Always run Spybot or any other spyware tool with the latest updates and perform scan regularly. A second spyware scan tool recommended for use along with Spybot is AdAware. Using two spyware tools together will assist in finding all spyware threats, as one program is incapable of catching them all.

Although spyware is a threat it is still important for users to update and run their anti-virus tools regularly. Also try downloading Firefox to use as your browser as opposed to Internet Explorer. Internet Explorer has many spyware and other types of threats targeting it while Firefox is known as a much more secure, less vulnerable browser.

Performing each of these tasks on your computer will greatly help in protecting against spyware and other invasive internet threats. The results found in the spyware scans may surprise your but the performance of your computer after spy files are found and prevented will be worth the cautious efforts.

Corner Computer Desks

With the high price of office space today, getting maximum usage of all your space is essential. Placing your workstations on corner computer desks can efficiently use an overlooked are of that space, the corners. These desks are designed to fit into that underused space compactly while still allowing more than adequate room to perform the tasks needed on your computer. There are many attractive designs available that will add shelf space for storage of supplies for your computer as well. You can find corner computer desks at most office furniture stores and many web sites on the Internet.

When you shop for your corner computer desks to use those underutilized areas of your expensive office space on the Internet, you should stay aware of a few things. First is to look for the shipping costs and types of shipping available. What seems to be a great price on those corner computer desks may turn out to be much higher after adding the shipping costs onto the price. Some firms may offer you free ground shipping with your order and then take six to eight weeks to get your order to you. So look at the shipping costs and look for the method of how it will be shipped before sending your payment.

Payment methods brings us to the second important thing to stay aware of. When you place that order for those corner computer desks you want for your office, never put your payment information on any page that is not a secure page. You can tell a secure page from a regular page by looking at the page address on your browser. A secure page will start with https://. Regular pages start with http://. That extra letter is only used on secure pages and is a sign that you are dealing with a reputable dealer. If the site that offers the corner computer desks you desire does not have a secure page for your ordering information, it is risky to do business with them. You will be better off to seek your corner computer desks elsewhere.

Corner computer desks are available in a wide variety of styles and finishes. With a little searching, you can find them in select hardwoods and even in faux finishes to appear as select hardwoods. One model I noticed appeared to be a corner hutch until you opened the cabinet to see the monitor and pulled out the keyboard tray to type. Others have a minimalist style that just utilizes that underused area of your office in an efficient manner. The choices are endless.

Corner computer desks are available at prices to fit any sized budget. A quick search on the Internet will locate corner computer desks starting well below a hundred dollars with some of those prices including shipping. They may have to be assembled upon delivery. Start using that under utilized space in your office today by placing your workstations on corner computer desks. You will be happy that you did.

A Guide to Computer Security

As the number of people connecting to the Internet continues to increase at a rapid pace, more and more of us are now creating our own home computer networks.

With these we can enjoy the benefits of having high bandwidth, instant access to the Internet and make this connection available to multiple computers in and around the home.

But for those unfamiliar with computer security, they are completely unaware of the risks they may be exposing their computer to.

Without implementing a proper computer security solution, your computer may become infected with viruses, spyware, and/or adware. These are all forms of malware than can play a part in rendering a computer unusable, destroy valuable information your storing, provide complete control of a computer to another person, allow someone to steal the information on your computer, record your keystrokes and give a 3rd party access to your online bank account, allow someone to use your computer to attack a computer belonging to somebody else, etc.

And if you opted for a wireless network, you could be sharing out your Internet connection to your neighbors or that person who has been sitting outside your house in the car for the last few hours. What is more, you are increasing the risk of exposing your own computer to hackers as a result.

So What Are The Basics of Computer Security?

1. Make sure that the link between you and the Internet is safe.
You need to have a hardware firewall installed between you and the Internet. Most recent devices that connect you to the Internet have one built in, but in any case you need to make sure that what you have is a stateful firewall.
It should give your computer full access to the Internet, but block all traffic trying to access your network when originated from the Internet side.

2. Secure your Internet router.
Change the administrator password and if possible the administrative account name as well. Everyone who has bought that device will know what the default account and password is, so you must change these and make them difficult to guess. This is especially important if you have a wireless network.

3. Install anti-virus software on your computer.
Make sure it scans the computer for viruses at least once a week. Keep the software up to date and make sure that the virus definitions are updated every day. Also make sure that this is monitoring the computer all the time to help prevent it being infected in the first place.

4. Install a personal firewall on your computer.
Not only should this help limit the damage malware can do to your computer, but it should also reduce the chances of this spreading to other computers. Get in the habit of checking the dialogues that you are prompted with and only allow Internet access to applications that really need it

5. Install anti-spyware software on your computer.
Make sure it fully scans your computer for spyware at least every week. Keep the software up to date and make sure that the definitions are updated every day. Also make sure that this monitors your computer all the time.

6. Keep up to date with the security patches for your Operating System.
Microsoft release security updates for Windows every month. However, make sure your computer is configured to automatically check for downloads every day and at a time when your computer is most likely to be turned on.

7. Secure your wireless network.
Do not broadcast your SSID (Service Set IDentifier). Although it can be learned by someone who is determined, there is no point making things easy. So make sure this is disabled.
Restrict access to your wireless network based on the MAC (Media Access Control) address of your computer. Yes, these can be faked, once known, but why make things simple?
Implement WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access) or WPA2, if you can, to further secure your wireless network. And use a pre-shared key which is not easy to guess.

Secure File Transfers

The insecure nature by which data is transferred through a network between an FTP server and a client computer has made it necessary to create software that can make the transfer more secure. Given the importance of the information that is transferred among large companies, which involves large amounts of money, it is vital that confidentiality is protected. The software that has been developed uses different systems to protect the information that is being transferred.

Some security software used in FTP provides both the FTP server and the client computer with software that will secure the data that is uploaded or downloaded. Other software also provides encryption technology as to further secure the information and to prevent others from viewing the files that have just been transferred. The information on this software is not “transferred,” so as not to be seen by others; rather it is used to protect the information while the transfer is being done. It does so by activating software that will accept, validate, and secure incoming connections and file transfers. The software will also be able to monitor and analyze file-transfer activity with real-time reports and alerts and provide receipts of the transfers made for record purposes. Such software can be used on Windows and other operating systems as well, which makes it very practical and cost-efficient.

With the security issue of file transfers slowly being resolved, the importance of such technology will further be highlighted as it becomes a vital part in the operations of various companies.

Creating Strong Computer Passwords

Good computer security includes the use of strong passwords for your network logon and the Administrator account on your computer.

For a password to be strong and hard to break, it should:

• Be at least seven characters long. Windows 2000 passwords can be up to 127 characters long.

• Contain characters from Three of the following Four groups:

1. Letters (uppercase) A, B, C,...

2. Letters (lowercase) a, b, c,...

3. Numerals 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

4. Symbols

(all characters not
defined as letters
or numerals)`

~ ! @ # $ % ^ & * ( ) _ + - = { } | [ ] \ : " ; ' < > ? , . /

• Use at least one symbol character in the second through sixth positions.

• Make it significantly different from prior passwords.

• Cannot contain your name or user name.

• Cannot be a common word or name.

They can be the weakest link in a computer security scheme. Strong passwords are important because password cracking tools continue to improve and the computers used to crack passwords are more powerful. Network passwords that once took weeks to break can now be broken in hours.

So, one thing you can do to make your computer more secure is make your passwords strong. Don't use only letters or numbers. Include symbols -- the percent sign, the pound sign, parenthesis - even exclamation points.

Try exchanging some letters with symbols (such as: instead of the word "Computer" make it

"C()nnPu+3r" or instead of "Montana" make it "M0^+@na". As you can see it can be fun coming up with unique passwords that will never be broken by cracking tools using dictionaries.

With a little practice you will be able to makes passwords that are very difficult to break and your computer more secure.

How To Secure Your Computer System?

Today, more and more people are using their computers for everything from communication to online banking and investing to shopping. As we do these things on a more regular basis, we open ourselves up to potential hackers, attackers and crackers.

There are numerous ways in which the security of your computer can be breached. The most common threats come from worms, viruses, Trojans, phishing, hackers and crackers. Potential security breaches can come in the form of downloading unfamiliar email attachments, being monitored by spyware, maliciously attacked by malware, or probed through port scanning.

Computer security can be a difficult concept for many people. But as long as you follow these easy, cost-effective steps, you can take to make your computer more secure.

1. Always make backups of important information and store in a safe place separate from your computer.

There are so many ways you can lose the information on your computer. Your child decides to play Chopin on your keyboard, a power surge, lightening, a virus, or even simple equipment failure. Therefore, backing up the contents of your hard drive is an absolute MUST. By regularly making backup copies of your files and storing them in a separate location, you can typically get some, if not all, of your information back in the event your computer crashes.

2. Don't run unfamiliar programs on your computer and do not open unknown email attachments.

It sounds like common sense, but many of the most prominent attacks have involved spyware and email attachment worms such as Bagle and Netsky. If you don't recognize the sender, don't download its attachments. Sometimes it is simply not enough that you may recognize the address from which it originates because many viruses can spread from a familiar address.

3. Update and patch your operating system,web browser and other applications frequently.

Many industry experts believe that most network security attacks would be stopped if computer users would just keep their computers updated with patches and security fixes. Too often, we forget to do this on a regular basis. Remember that every day, new viruses, worms and Trojans are being created and distributed. They are looking for the weaknesses in your computer system. Having outdated software is basically the same as holding the door open and inviting them in for a visit.

4. Install a firewall.

Without a good firewall, viruses, worms, Trojans, malware and adware can all easily access your computer from the Internet. Consideration should be given to the benefits and differences between hardware and software based firewall programs.

5. Install antivirus software and set for automatic updates so that you receive the most current versions.

6. Don't use weak passwords.

Use passwords which are difficult for someone to figure out. People frequently use the names of children, pets, anniversary dates, or birthdays. Because there seems to be a password needed for everything, it is not uncommon to see many people using the same password for everything. Big mistake! The use of only one password provides a hacker with easy access to a smorgasbord of personal information. If you have to write your passwords down, it is best not to leave them on a post-it, attached to the screen of your computer. You may chuckle at the absurdity, but it happens more than you think.

7. Don't allow unrestricted physical access to your computer.

A Computer Firewall is Your Primary Defense Against Virtual Attacks

If you have any personal information on your computer at all and access the Internet it is vitally important that you consider the benefits of a computer firewall. Many people lock their homes, lock their cars, keep a watchful eye on their children, and yet leave the bank accounts, personal information, and all kinds of other information vulnerable and exposed through their personal computers.

A virtual attack can be just as devastating financially and emotionally as someone breaking into your home. They are allowed access to secrets you may have shared in confidence with online friends or even offline friends that you correspond with online, they will have passwords for financial and banking accounts, they will know where you buy your coffee; they can learn where your children go to school. The information we have on our personal computers is staggering in terms of personal security nightmares and yet so many people take no steps to secure this information from prying eyes by investing in a simple computer firewall.

The amazing thing is that you can even find free computer firewalls available online if you know where to look. I highly recommend paying for a computer firewall though if you have little knowledge of the inner workings of your computer. If you’re going to secure your families secrets you may as well invest in a very good program with constant updates in order to do so.

A computer firewall isn’t just a nice thing to have on your computer; it is a vital line of defense for you and your family. Keep this in mind when choosing the best computer firewall for you. Remember you want to have a service that will provide updates and keep up with evolving technology that would harm your computer or steal your personal information.

Security Software - Always Stay Secure

There are several reasons why you should use security software to protect your personal information and your computer while online. Security software offers Internet users with protection against viruses, worms, spyware and other programs that are designed to infiltrate your computer system without your permission.

Internet security software will help prevent identity theft. Identity theft is a crime that affects over nine million Americans each year. It can take a victim years to recover from identity theft. Sometimes a victim of identity theft is unable to get an educational loan or a credit card or a loan or is turned down for a job.

Another benefit to using security software is that the software is designed to stop hackers in their tracks. This is the best way to protect your privacy while you are online. Plus with security software you can make your IP address unlisted. This is great because often time’s hacker will use your IP address to access the Internet for free. This can disrupt your computer system. When you install security software onto your computer you are ensuring that your information and computer system when you are at an unsecured location such as a Internet café or a hotel or a airport. This is perfect for the Internet user who is always on the go.

With Internet security software you are protecting all of the data on your computer with specialized encryption software. Other benefits are that security software eliminates popup, offers hard drive security, and eliminates censorship by your ISP and so much more. The Internet has changed the way the we live, we work and we play. We are connected to people and information from different parts of the world in a matter of seconds. The Internet has revolutionized the way we conduct business or look fro a job. The only negative aspect is that the Internet has created a new form of crime, cyber crime. Protect yourself while online with security software.

Internet Security

The Internet is a wonderful tool that provides us with entertainment and information. It is important that while you are on the Internet you use the latest developments in Internet security to protect your computer and personal information. There are several different types of programs that ensure Internet security while you are accessing information on the Internet. A router is a device that prevents a connection from being made to an inbound computer while permitting Internet connections out. If you get a router for your home or for your small business it will improve the security of your home network.

A firewall is a software program that ensures Internet security. The responsibility of a firewall is to block all areas of traffic that are not through authorized ports on your computer. This means that the firewall restricts access to certain webpages or emails or programs that may be a potential virus risk to your personal computer. There are different types of firewalls that can be used in a home or business. There is a stateful firewall, software firewall and a proxy firewall.

An anti-virus program is designed to protect your computer system from programs like computer viruses, spyware, Trojan horses and worms. Each of the programs that were just mentioned infiltrate your computer system by being unwanted software that installs itself onto your personal computer or office computer through a form a deception. Some of these programs can actually ruin your computer so it is important to make sure that you use the latest developments in Internet security to protect yourself.

An anti spy ware software program was created in order to protect your home or office computer from spyware or adware. Adware is a program that runs without the owner’s consent. It will slow down your computer and cause software conflicts. Spyware is a software program that gathers personal information through your computer without your permission. Use Internet security and protect yourself while on line.

Computer Security Products

A number of computer security products cater to every situation and every need. A surge protector is an electrical device commonly used to protect computers and related computer components from power surges. If a surge in the voltage occurs, causing the voltage to exceed the norm, the computer equipment can be damaged.

Security cables are a very effective method to protect computers. If a desktop is secured with a lock and cable, it prevents a thief from walking off with your property and data. Various types and sizes of chain or cable locks are available. These include desktop computer security combination lock, notebook security lock, cable lock with clip, flexible cable lock and cable lock with key holder.

The wireless fingerprint mouse is used to protect the information stored in the computer. Privacy filters protect your screen from anyone looking from either side to read what is on your screen. All information is protected from unauthorized eyes. Identity tags are small effective anti theft devices. A small aluminum bar coded plate is attached to your computer, to track it in case of theft. If the tag is removed the computer is permanently marked as stolen property. Projector alarms with siren will protect the computer.

A security shield handles all the downloaded information and technical support. It is simple to begin and easy to maintain. There is no setup cost and no ongoing costs for support. The security shield offers a competitive and aggressive cost per download.

Plates enjoy the best place in computer security. Plates attached to almost any desktop surface secure your computer, monitor, mouse, keyboard, chassis and any peripheral device. Entrapments are gadgets that give the maximum level of security.

Security management software helps to protect your enterprise systems and servers against security threats, malicious attacks and configuration vulnerabilities, with strong security control and maintenance capabilities. With security management software you can perform patch management, execute anti spy ware management, carry out antivirus enforcement, do security threat management, block applications and perform systems management functions.