How to Protect your Computer from Viruses

With computers in almost every home and business, there is now an increased risk of acquiring computer viruses. A computer virus is a program that makes duplicates of itself and infects a users computer files. These viruses can spread from computer to computer infecting files and programs. Computer viruses are such a hazard because they can erase stored information and permanently damage files.

The following is a list of the many methods a user can implement to protect their computer from harmful viruses:

Make back-up copies of important documents and files and store them on a separate disk or external hard drive. By doing this, you will still have a copy of your files if your information is erased or the computer suffers other damage.

Use a quality anti-virus program that will scan files, programs, and software. Make sure you keep the anti-virus software up-to-date and scan your computer often. You can download anti-virus software from the web or purchase it from a store.

Do not share commercial software with anyone. It is an easy way to spread viruses. Make sure the software comes from a well-known and established source.

When you download files from the internet, make sure you scan them for viruses before opening and running them.

Watch out for spyware and hackers. Spyware programs are usually entwined with a download and will install itself onto a computer. The programs will monitor your search patters and relay the information back to the person who sent it. They can even acquire any stored financial information. Make sure you have a trusted firewall. A firewall is a program or hardware device that filters information coming through the Internet connection into your computer system. If incoming information is flagged by the filters, it will not be allowed through to your computer. It is also recommended that you expand your anti-virus protection to include anti-spyware, anti-hacker-tools (prevents hijackers from accessing your computer,) anti-key-loggers (protects your passwords,) and anti-worms. A worm is a small piece of software that uses computer networks and security holes to replicate itself and cause damage.

Block porn and spam using a spam filter program. These programs identify any suspicious emails and delete them before you open it. Some programs will even send an email back to the spammer saying your address is invalid.

Most viruses are triggered by opening an attachment. Don’t open any attachments in an email unless you know the sender or the attachment has been scanned. If you are not sure about the attachment, delete it. A file with an extension like EXE, COM or VBS, is an executable program file. Once opened, it can run and do all sorts of damage to your computer. The best protection is to never open these executables that arrive in your e-mail.

If your computer is infected with a virus, use an anti-virus program to remove the virus and quickly get rid of all copies of the virus. If you need help, turn your computer off and take it to a professional who knows how to remove viruses.

It is important to remember that most viruses can be removed without permanently damaging your computer system. As well, most virus infections can be prevented. With proper anti virus protocols, you can protect you computer from harmful viruses.

Reasons To Buy Refurbished Laptops

If you are thinking about getting a desktop computer or a laptop but don’t want to spend too much, you might consider buying a refurbished one. The word refurbished has a negative image to it but it can often mean that there was some small insignificant problem with the unit. Laptops and computers can be returned to the manufacturer for a variety of reasons and many times it is something small like a button not working properly or a connection loose somewhere. Once the unit comes back, the store has to sell it as refurbished and often times it is practically new.

If you are looking for a laptop for a teenager or your younger child, a refurbished unit can be a great choice. It is clear why you might not want to pay full price for a laptop as your teen will probably not take care of it as they should and it might get banged up a bit. Buying one that is refurbished or used will mean that if they do drop it or break it, you will not be out the full amount. Even buying a used older model could work out great and even the older models now should come with enough memory and RAM for any student.

Where is a good place to find refurbished laptops for sale? If you go to your local Best Buy or other such outlet they will have some available but probably not the selection you desire. Their selection is from the ones returned by their customers so there probably isnt that many. If you want a larger selection, the best place to go is Ebay online. You will find tons and tons of models that are all refurbished and probably nowhere else will you find that many in one place. Of course, if you don’t like buying things online then you shouldn’t do it but these days it has become pretty safe.

Whenever you buy anything that is refurbished you should always make sure to get the manufacturers warranty. This is just a smart thing to do and especially so with a unit where you already know something went wrong. Although buying refurbished laptops is pretty safe, you must be aware that there could be a problem with it again. That warranty will protect you from that possibility and make your purchase worry free.

Many parents, when faced with their first computer purchase for their young teen, choose to by used or refurbished units. This is because there is no need to go out and pay full price for the newest machine when a cheaper unit will do just fine. Add to that the chances are great that food or drink will be spilled on it at some time and you have a great reason to buy refurbished.

Destress by Taking the Laptop When Traveling

Going on a business trip and sitting in the airport and motel with nothing to do can be so slow and boring. The mind starts to wander as traveling business people think of all the unanswered emails, the reports that are coming due, the calendar that is in need of updating.

And why is this? Careful vacation planners use a laptop – and plan trips step by step. When packing the night before with all the essentials the laptop is included. It is always best to take with carry on baggage. This way travelers are able to work on plans, perhaps find some nice restaurants or simply surf the net. In the event of flight delays perhaps some online books or movies would be viewed.

Back to the office the rat race is at full speed. The boss wants to know the status of reports. There are over 100 more emails and an important meeting was missed because there wasn’t time to update the calendar.

This is easily resolved by searching online for other options. Menus can often be viewed and reservations made and even ordering could be done online. Directions can be looked up and all in the comfort of the cafe.

Once travelers are back in the motel there are more choices of things to do. Sports games can be watched, movies and TV shows viewed, Internet surfing for more attractions can be done and games can be found. All these can be done at the convenience of a laptop. Most motels have Internet access ports for travelers as it has been realized that more and more depend on this wonderful asset. If not, the battery can keep a charge for a very long time. Just recharge at night for the next day.

Students often use laptops for the convenience of research, ability to send instant messages, take an online class, write papers and so much more. To be able to take the laptop with them is better to help with group projects or share with a friend. Access to books, movies, games and other entertainment can keep a restless traveler focused and occupied.

One never knows when there will be a traffic jam and now it won’t matter. With wireless technology there are no concerns. One can check the status of the traffic and even find alternate routing. All because of the laptop life became so much easier. In the meantime alternate plans may be made.

Up to date coupons and deals as well as restaurant menus and contact information is all readily at hand. That is true stress reduction when you have no real worries and great convenience.