Yesterday I discussed how to keep your system away form infection. I realize that this issue is so important that I have to give you a comprehensive instruction today. I wish you a happy reading time .
There are many different ways to classify viruses, and each of these methods comes with its own set of colorfully-named categories. Worms, macroviruses, trojans and backdoors are some of the more well-known examples. Many of these viruses spread over the Internet, using email, malicious webpages or other means to infect unprotected computers. Others spread through removable media, particularly devices like USB memory sticks and external hard drives that allow users to write information as well as reading it. Viruses can destroy, damage or infect the information in your computer, including data on external drives. They can also take control of your computer and use it to attack other computers. Fortunately there are many anti-virus tools that you can use to protect yourself and those with whom you exchange digital information.
Anti-virus software
There is an excellent freeware anti-virus program for Windows called Avast, which is easy to use, regularly updated and well-respected by anti-virus experts. It requires that you register once every 14 months, but registration, updates and the program itself are all free-of-charge.
Clam win is a FOSS alternative to Avast and the various well-known commercial anti-virus programs. Although it lacks certain features that are important for a primary anti-virus program,Clam win has the advantage that it can be run from a USB memory stick in order to scan a computer on which you are not allowed to install software. This is extremely helpful when you have no choice but to use public computers or Internet cafes for sensitive work.
How to use anti-virus software effectively
• Do not run two anti-virus programs at the same time, as this might cause your computer to run extremely slowly or to crash. Uninstall one before installing another.
• Make sure that your anti-virus program allows you to receive updates. Many commercial tools that come pre-installed on new computers must be registered (and paid for) at some point or they will stop receiving updates. All of the software recommended here supports free updating.
• Ensure that your anti-virus software updates itself regularly. New viruses are written and distributed every day, and your computer will quickly become vulnerable if you do not keep up with new virus definitions. Avast will automatically look for updates when you are connected to the Internet.
• Enable your anti-virus software's 'always on' virus-detection feature if it has one. Different tools have different names for it, but most of them offer a feature like this. It may be called 'Realtime Protection,' 'Resident Protection,' or something similar
• Scan all of the files on your computer regularly. You don't have to do this every day (especially if your anti-virus software has an 'always on' feature, as described above) but you should do it from time to time. How often may depend on the circumstances. Have you connected your computer to unknown networks recently? With whom have you been sharing USB memory sticks? Do you frequently receive strange attachments by email? Has someone else in your home or office recently had virus problems? For more information on how best to scan files..
Preventing virus infection
• Be extremely cautious when opening email attachments. It is best to avoid opening any attachment received from an unknown source. If you need to do so, you should first save the attachment to a folder on your computer, then open the appropriate application (such as Microsoft Word or Adobe Acrobat) yourself. If you use the program's File menu to open the attachment manually, rather than double-clicking the file or allowing your email program to open it automatically, you are less likely to contract a virus.
• Consider the possible risks before inserting removable media, such as CDs, DVDs and USB memory sticks, into your computer. You should first check that your anti-virus program has the latest updates and that its scanner is running. It is also a good idea to disable your operating system's 'AutoPlay' feature, which can be used by viruses to infect your computer. Under Windows XP, this can be done by going inside My Computer, right-clicking on your CD or DVD drive, selecting Properties and clicking on the AutoPlay tab. For each content type, select the Take no action or Prompt me each time to choose an action options then click OK.
• You can also help prevent some virus infections by switching to free and open source software, which is often more secure, and which virus writers are less likely to target.
How much of Spyware do you know ?
Spyware is a class of malicious software that can track the work you do, both on your computer and on the Internet, and send information about it to someone who shouldn't have access to it. These programs can record the words you type on your keyboard, the movements of your mouse, the pages you visit and the programs you run, among other things. As a result, they can undermine your computer’s security and reveal confidential information about you, your activities and your contacts. Computers become infected with spyware in much the same way that they contract viruses, so many of the suggestions above are also helpful when defending against this second class of malware. Because malicious webpages are a major source of spyware infection, you should pay extra attention to the websites you visit and make sure that your browser settings are secure.
How about using Anti-spyware software ?
You can use anti-spyware tools to protect your computer from this type of threat. Spybot is one such program, and it does a very good job of identifying and removing certain types of malware that anti-virus programs simply ignore. Just like with anti-virus software, though, it is extremely important that you update Spybot's malware definitions and run regular scans.
How to prevent spyware infection
• Stay alert when browsing websites. Watch for browser windows that appear automatically, and read them carefully instead of just clicking Yes or OK. When in doubt, you should close 'pop up windows' by clicking the X in the upper right-hand corner, rather than by clicking Cancel. This can help prevent webpages from tricking you into installing malware on your computer.
• Improve the security of your Web browser by preventing it from automatically running the potentially dangerous programs that are sometimes contained within webpages you visit. If you are using Mozilla Firefox, you can install the Never accept and run this sort of content if it comes from websites that you don't know
August 28, 2009
August 27, 2009
Malware Removal
Is your system troubled by malware virus, never mind! Every problems has strategic steps that can help you deal with them. Before we highlight the solution to this, we shall start by helping you understand what Malware is. The first step to solving a problem is recognizing it's exsistense and understanding how it works.
How much of malware do you know?
Malware otherwise considered as a malicious software, is the scourge of the Internet designed to infiltrate a computer without the owner's consent. Malware includes computer viruses, worms, trojan horses most roocket kit, spyware, dishonest adware, crimeware and other malicious and unwanted software
What effect does it have on the system?
Malware can slow a computer to a crawl by running unauthorized background processes. It can consume bandwidth leading to a sluggish Internet connection, and cause annoying popup advertisements or redirects of your browser. Malware might also bypass security measures, steal sensitive information, and trigger system instability. Luckily, there are various ways to remove malware.
Most computers have at least some anti-malware software already installed, such as an anti-virus program. Try using the antivirus “on-demand” scanner to check your system. Be sure the program’s anti-virus database is updated before starting, and configure the software to not only detect but to remove malware. If the infection is a new strain, it might have slipped by the program prior to the virus signature being added to the database.
If you have a separate anti-spyware program installed, run its on-demand scanner next. If not, it’s a good time to download a program, install it, and allow it to do an in-depth scan of your system. Many malware programs are disguised as anti-spyware, so only use a program recommended and hosted by a well-established, reputable site such as PCWorld, MajorGeeks, ZDNet, TuCows, SourceForge, or the like.
How to remove malware.
As an adjunct to installed software, you can also use an online scanner hosted on a website. Caution is again warranted, as malware sites posing as anti-malware sites.will return false results, scaring the surfer into installing an “anti-malware” program that is actually malware itself. Luckily, there are several, free reputable online scanners, which include the ESET Online Scanner, Trend Micro’s HouseCall, Panda's ActiveScan, Computer Associates’ Threat Scanner, F-Secure’s Online Scanner, and more. Most free online scanners will only detect but not remove malware, though the ESET and Trend Micro online virus scanners do remove malware. An online scan requires ActiveX controls to be enabled and can take a considerable amount of time depending on the scanner and the amount of data to be scanned. In some cases it might be more convenient to let a scan run overnight.
Only one anti-virus program should be installed on a system at any given time, but several anti-spyware programs can be present, though having more than one running as a background process might slow the system or cause conflicts. When you suspect an infection, however, (or as a matter of monthly maintenance), you can open these programs, update their databases, and run the on-demand scanners consecutively to look for and remove malware. What one program misses, another might find. This is also the value in augmenting an installed A/V program with a periodic online A/V scan.
You can also use malware cleaner or malware removal tool.
I wish you a happy and success execution of these action points. CHEERSSSSSSSSS!!
How much of malware do you know?
Malware otherwise considered as a malicious software, is the scourge of the Internet designed to infiltrate a computer without the owner's consent. Malware includes computer viruses, worms, trojan horses most roocket kit, spyware, dishonest adware, crimeware and other malicious and unwanted software
What effect does it have on the system?
Malware can slow a computer to a crawl by running unauthorized background processes. It can consume bandwidth leading to a sluggish Internet connection, and cause annoying popup advertisements or redirects of your browser. Malware might also bypass security measures, steal sensitive information, and trigger system instability. Luckily, there are various ways to remove malware.
Most computers have at least some anti-malware software already installed, such as an anti-virus program. Try using the antivirus “on-demand” scanner to check your system. Be sure the program’s anti-virus database is updated before starting, and configure the software to not only detect but to remove malware. If the infection is a new strain, it might have slipped by the program prior to the virus signature being added to the database.
If you have a separate anti-spyware program installed, run its on-demand scanner next. If not, it’s a good time to download a program, install it, and allow it to do an in-depth scan of your system. Many malware programs are disguised as anti-spyware, so only use a program recommended and hosted by a well-established, reputable site such as PCWorld, MajorGeeks, ZDNet, TuCows, SourceForge, or the like.
How to remove malware.
As an adjunct to installed software, you can also use an online scanner hosted on a website. Caution is again warranted, as malware sites posing as anti-malware sites.will return false results, scaring the surfer into installing an “anti-malware” program that is actually malware itself. Luckily, there are several, free reputable online scanners, which include the ESET Online Scanner, Trend Micro’s HouseCall, Panda's ActiveScan, Computer Associates’ Threat Scanner, F-Secure’s Online Scanner, and more. Most free online scanners will only detect but not remove malware, though the ESET and Trend Micro online virus scanners do remove malware. An online scan requires ActiveX controls to be enabled and can take a considerable amount of time depending on the scanner and the amount of data to be scanned. In some cases it might be more convenient to let a scan run overnight.
Only one anti-virus program should be installed on a system at any given time, but several anti-spyware programs can be present, though having more than one running as a background process might slow the system or cause conflicts. When you suspect an infection, however, (or as a matter of monthly maintenance), you can open these programs, update their databases, and run the on-demand scanners consecutively to look for and remove malware. What one program misses, another might find. This is also the value in augmenting an installed A/V program with a periodic online A/V scan.
You can also use malware cleaner or malware removal tool.
I wish you a happy and success execution of these action points. CHEERSSSSSSSSS!!
August 25, 2009
computer repair business
Computer repair business is one of the most strategic business and therefore provides computer technical support for every form of success in internet-based business.However, many computer technicians and specialists have been viewed as unsuccessfull because of obvious reasons which I will bring to your notice.
Success is not an Accident!
Troubleshooting computers is not enough. Adopting computer diagnostics strategy is not enough for business success.
Here are a few tips to consider for success in this business.
1. Determine your market reserve.
This has to do with identifying how many person needs your service. You must quantify your target market. In the early 90’s, running a PC repair business centered around selling parts and products, with service on the side. Today, it’s about selling hours. “You’re making money by selling management services of computers, networks ,etc. To determine what your time is worth, investigate what your local competition is charging. When you must order new parts, such as modems or motherboards, for a job, you’ll need to make the purchase worth yours and your client’s time, especially if he/she has pre-paid you. So remember to factor in shipping, handling and insurance costs, as well as an “opportunity” cost for ordering parts from lower-priced national vendors vs. a local supplier.
2. Determine who your ideal customer is.
If you’re looking to sell and service computers within your local community and remain a one-person operation, residential clients may suit you best. They’re generally more responsive to advertising and marketing than small-business owners are, according to Reaves. Plus, residential work is less demanding and the market is huge, although the competition is fierce--think Best Buy’s “Geek Squad” and Circuit City’s Firedog services, both of which make house calls to perform installations and upgrades and to troubleshoot. Another downside to residential customers is that your clients will tend to be more budget-conscious than if you target the business owner.
If you decide to target the non-residential market, think small. “Niching is one way to go,” says Reaves. “Look at your existing contacts. Perhaps you know the principal at a school, a banker or the owner of a real estate firm. These folks may lead you in to an area of specialization since the software systems tend to be similar.”
3. You must understand that success in this business is not overnight, but takes time
It is imperative thatyou must understand the fact that it will take you some time to arrive. Be patient. It’s tough to juggle a day job with a side gig, especially if you’re honing in on small-business clients. But if you’re not running your business full time, you run the risk of losing clients, especially if you’re targeting the business market. You’ll need to build up a financial cushion--six to nine months salary is advisable--for when you ultimately do turn in your pink slip and become fully self-employed. “People make better decisions when they’re not worried about their money running out,” Reaves says. “And while it’s hard to relinquish the safety net of a paycheck and downgrade your lifestyle, you have to reach the point where you treat it like a business instead of a hobby.”
4. Know your strengths and weaknesses.
If your background is strictly technical and you aren’t very business savvy, hire bookkeeping or accounting experts to handle the busywork and keep you at your most productive so you can steadily increase your billable hours. You can also invest in software products to handle administrative tasks. Adoptthe services of few of the top software sellers, which can help you manage people, projects and processes more efficiently.
Moreso, if you are the type that lacks a bargaining power, employ the services of a professional marketer to assist you while you focus on providing excellent service delivery.
5. Market your business every day.
While you don’t have to walk around wearing a sandwich board when you’re out on the street, the phone on your desk isn’t going to ring until people know you exist. And you can’t rest on your past successes either. Whether you choose direct mail, pamphlet drops, telemarketing or web marketing, you need to come up with a marketing mix that works for you. For instance, advertising in your local community coupon book may prove to be a waste of money, while networking at business trade organizations and chamber of commerce meetings may pay off big.
You have to get your face out there, go door to door if you have to, to let people know you exist. If you’re bashful--not comfortable putting yourself out there or handling rejection--you might find this business isn’t for you.”
I wish you the best in your career.
Success is not an Accident!
Troubleshooting computers is not enough. Adopting computer diagnostics strategy is not enough for business success.
Here are a few tips to consider for success in this business.
1. Determine your market reserve.
This has to do with identifying how many person needs your service. You must quantify your target market. In the early 90’s, running a PC repair business centered around selling parts and products, with service on the side. Today, it’s about selling hours. “You’re making money by selling management services of computers, networks ,etc. To determine what your time is worth, investigate what your local competition is charging. When you must order new parts, such as modems or motherboards, for a job, you’ll need to make the purchase worth yours and your client’s time, especially if he/she has pre-paid you. So remember to factor in shipping, handling and insurance costs, as well as an “opportunity” cost for ordering parts from lower-priced national vendors vs. a local supplier.
2. Determine who your ideal customer is.
If you’re looking to sell and service computers within your local community and remain a one-person operation, residential clients may suit you best. They’re generally more responsive to advertising and marketing than small-business owners are, according to Reaves. Plus, residential work is less demanding and the market is huge, although the competition is fierce--think Best Buy’s “Geek Squad” and Circuit City’s Firedog services, both of which make house calls to perform installations and upgrades and to troubleshoot. Another downside to residential customers is that your clients will tend to be more budget-conscious than if you target the business owner.
If you decide to target the non-residential market, think small. “Niching is one way to go,” says Reaves. “Look at your existing contacts. Perhaps you know the principal at a school, a banker or the owner of a real estate firm. These folks may lead you in to an area of specialization since the software systems tend to be similar.”
3. You must understand that success in this business is not overnight, but takes time
It is imperative thatyou must understand the fact that it will take you some time to arrive. Be patient. It’s tough to juggle a day job with a side gig, especially if you’re honing in on small-business clients. But if you’re not running your business full time, you run the risk of losing clients, especially if you’re targeting the business market. You’ll need to build up a financial cushion--six to nine months salary is advisable--for when you ultimately do turn in your pink slip and become fully self-employed. “People make better decisions when they’re not worried about their money running out,” Reaves says. “And while it’s hard to relinquish the safety net of a paycheck and downgrade your lifestyle, you have to reach the point where you treat it like a business instead of a hobby.”
4. Know your strengths and weaknesses.
If your background is strictly technical and you aren’t very business savvy, hire bookkeeping or accounting experts to handle the busywork and keep you at your most productive so you can steadily increase your billable hours. You can also invest in software products to handle administrative tasks. Adoptthe services of few of the top software sellers, which can help you manage people, projects and processes more efficiently.
Moreso, if you are the type that lacks a bargaining power, employ the services of a professional marketer to assist you while you focus on providing excellent service delivery.
5. Market your business every day.
While you don’t have to walk around wearing a sandwich board when you’re out on the street, the phone on your desk isn’t going to ring until people know you exist. And you can’t rest on your past successes either. Whether you choose direct mail, pamphlet drops, telemarketing or web marketing, you need to come up with a marketing mix that works for you. For instance, advertising in your local community coupon book may prove to be a waste of money, while networking at business trade organizations and chamber of commerce meetings may pay off big.
You have to get your face out there, go door to door if you have to, to let people know you exist. If you’re bashful--not comfortable putting yourself out there or handling rejection--you might find this business isn’t for you.”
I wish you the best in your career.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
