[ Home | Communication Tools | Web Development | PC Support | Contact ]

Keeping your system safe

There are my recommendations to help keep you and your computer out of trouble:

• Download and install the recommended programs. Internet Explorer and Outlook can easily be replaced without losing any data from either application.
  • Internet Explorer => FireFox
  • Outlook => Eudora
• If you must use Internet Explorer, then be sure to install MS service pack 2 and always keep current on MS updates. Turn automatic update ON.
  • You need to do a clean sweep of your system before installing SP2. Use AdAware or Search & Destroy for this.
• Install a good personal firewall to keep the bad guys from getting inside your computer. This is especially important if you have an "always-on" broadband connection.
  • I recommend Sygate or ZoneAlarm.
• Get a good AntiVirus app installed and always keep the updates current.
  • AVG is the one that I use, but there are many to choose from.
• Never enter any important personal information (credit/banking numbers, etc.) into a website that has been sent to you via an email or other website. Read more about identity theft.
  • Even if the website looks legit, it maybe a front to make you think it's your bank or credit card website.
  • Safer: open a fresh browser window and enter the web address (www.mybank.com) directly into the URL box.