My Computer Back in Service

It’s important to take care of your computer before you start having problems that cause crashes or worse yet, someone else taking over control of your computer for their own purposes. To that end, I’d like to share four tips that will help you optimize your computers security and keep it running longer and faster:

1. Get a Firewall. A firewall acts as a barrier between the online world and your home (or business) computer, that filters information to keep your system safe.  Everyone needs a firewall to protect the information and functionality of your computer.  Some newer computers come with a firewall built into the system, others don’t. Quite a few anti-virus software products have firewalls built in. If you want to make sure your firewall is set properly, contact me.
2. Block and Remove Spyware and Viruses. Spyware will track your activity online and off to gather information about your computer and you.  Viruses can take over the functionality of your computer and use your system for their purposes and they are always bad. The more spyware you have on your system, the slower your computer will be, and put your personal information at risk. Hackers can see and possibly use your personal information once they’ve attached themselves to your system. contact me to make sure your system is safe, or to download anti-spyware/virus software.
3. Keep your computer updated.  Almost every type of software comes with some updating function, usually automatically. These updates can be annoying, but they are very important to the health of your computer  These updates are actually patches created by your software and computer manufacturer to keep your system updated and protected. The best thing you can do to keep your computer running smoothly and safely is to pay attention to these updates or to set up auto-updates on your system.
4. Secure your wireless connection. When setting up a home wireless network, be sure to use the security codes provided by your wireless internet carrier. Many people think using public WiFi spots at coffee shops, airports etc. are safe. Not always true. Whether you pay for the WiFi or the location offers it free, you are vulnerable to hackers as the public WEP key provided is used by everyone in that location. To protect yourself, make sure the wireless connection is encrypted. Ask the service desk, if the location is not sure, don’t use their WiFi.  Remember, hackers can see your data as it is going to and from your computer in these environments so protect yourself when in a public setting.

Following these four basic rules is only the beginning for keeping your computer protected and optimized for longevity. For more information on protecting your computer, contact me.