Back Up Your Most Important Data

Backing up your data is something everyone should be doing but many do not. This week I had a customer who reminded me of the importance of backing up your data. There are infections out there that can disable your windows from working correctly and leaving you no alternatives except to do a Full Re-installation of your Operating System. (XP, Vista, Windows 7)

This particular infection targeted Executable files and Screen Saver files. The Worm/Virus spreads to any Executable or any Screen Saver. They are random and there is no set pattern as to what the infection will target. This could include legitimate windows system files and other non important files. The longer the infection resides the more files it infects. So it could infect your installation program for a new game or program. It could also infect vital Windows System files that your system needs to run. While some files may be of no consequence others becoming infected could be devastating.

The customer in this particular case thankfully was able to back up his data before the machine became inoperable. Though his machine still had to be rebuilt from scratch, he did not lose any data. No computer is perfect and computers do break down mechanically over time. They also can be disabled by infections and viruses. The safest bet is to get your self some back up software. You can also do back ups on your own. Even backing up your most important documents onto a Flash Drive once a week can save you from the unexpected nightmare that could happen. Most documents use up very little space so they can easily be placed on a flash drive. If you have Pictures or Videos you will need more storage space for back-ups. There is software designed for backing up your files out there that you can purchase or you could use an online back up service.

It pays to plan ahead for these issues should they arise. It is the difference between being a slight inconvenience to have to reload windows and install your programs again as opposed to a disaster where you have lost all of your data and still need to reinstall windows. Saving your data is always priority number 1. Computers can be rebuilt or components replaced but data is usually non-recoverable if disaster strikes. You can back up your entire hard drive which will take a lot of time and space or you can just back up selected files.

The most important thing to remember is to back up your data on a regular basis. Whether it is important Tax or business documents, Music or videos, pictures or programs, back up your data. The time and effort and cost it takes are well worth it as opposed to losing everything you have on your PC.

Thanks for reading and have a very Happy Holiday

Steve

www.zolexpc.com

What is WGA (Windows Genuine Advantage)?

Windows Genuine Advantage or WGA as it is more commonly known as is an anti-piracy feature devised by Microsoft to combat illegal versions or pirated versions of Windows from being used. WGA can prevent your machine from being able to download the latest updates from Microsoft if it deems your software as not being genuine.

These updates are used to protect your PC from security threats. Running an illegal or pirated version of Windows is a security risk. To check the Validity of your Windows just go here and follow the instructions. You can validate your OS (Operating System) XP, Vista, Windows 7 or even your MS Office suite.

http://www.microsoft.com/genuine/validate/ValidateNow.aspx?displaylang=en

If your machine passes then you have nothing to worry about with regards to the legitimacy of Windows. If your machine fails, do not panic. There are lots of reasons as to why your PC may fail. People that purchase their PC's through second hand or from their company are sometimes inadvertent victims of no longer having a legitimate version of Windows. These are sometimes known as VLK's Volume License Keys. These keys are used by companies when buying a large number of licenses to use for their business. Usually when the companies upgrade their PC's, they will sometimes sell some of them to employees at a large discount. What they neglect to tell you is that over time your License will expire from Microsoft. While you the USER has done nothing illegal or wrong, you are nonetheless stuck with an illegitimate version of Windows.

The solution is very simple to solve this problem. Unfortunately it costs money. The solution to this problem to make your Windows a legitimate version is to pay Microsoft $149.99 to make your copy legitimate which enables you to get updates. If you are using an illegitimate version of Windows, Microsoft will not hunt you down or prosecute you. You will not be able to get support from them if you need it in the form of updates or Tech Support. The process is quick and easy and you can be legit in a matter of minutes usually.

There a few viruses that can cause WGA to misinform you that your Software is not legitimate. Though very rare they are out there so if you are 100% sure your PC was bought from the store and you are getting this message, then it could be a sign your PC is infected. You should scan your PC with your Security Software to make sure. If everything comes up clean and you still are having an issue with WGA, you may want to contact Microsoft especially if you purchased the PC at a Bestbuy etc.

Most issues with WGA are usually related to Windows XP. Vista also has WGA but it is a bit different than XP. There are plenty copies of Windows XP, Vista, and Windows 7 that are available for downloading for free. These are pirated copies of the software that many people use. These product keys are posted on the Internet for people to use. Over time as Microsoft discovers these they deactivate the bad license keys so while it may be working fine for you at one time, in the future it could stop working. By using these bad keys you are taking a risk for the price of not having to pay for Windows.

There are even some Semi-Scammers out there who will claim to fix your PC, and install an illegal version of Windows while charging you for a legitimate version. They may have acquired the license keys through various means. Many times they will disable Automatic Updates and WGA itself so that you will never know your copy is bad unless you try to download some updates or Validate your Windows. Most problems with your PC should not require a reinstall of Windows so watch out for those.

Using a illegitimate version of Windows can result in odd quirks and other oddities on your PC. Some things may or may not work. Without being able to guarantee the integrity of your Windows, errors or problems can be much harder to track down. Illegal versions of Windows can have different files, etc so these may cause other problems as well. At ZolexPC we do not guarantee work on a PC with an illegitimate version of Windows. By having some system files compromised in one regard or another it takes away the true integrity of the file system.

Having a legitimate version of Windows is an important component to your PC's health. If you can not get the latest updates and protections from Microsoft, your PC is vulnerable to attack. You may not get a virus or an infection but there could be holes in your security net. Remember that viruses and infections are designed to exploit holes and vulnerabilities in Windows. Windows Updates is your defense against some of these. True Protection comes from an Updated Windows (Priority updates) , good Security Software(including AV, Antispyware) and vigilance on the User as well. Having a weakness in any one of these items can increase the change for your PC to contract an infection.

For many people who do have an illegitimate version out there, until you have a problem I would not worry about it too much. If you are running Windows XP, you are only going to have the PC for another year or two before you upgrade. I do not see the need to spend the money unless your PC was compromised or if you were working with sensitive data.

Remember that most of these issues related to WGA are usually from buying a PC second hand. Whether it is from a garage sale, Flea market, Black Market, place of employment, or other means, you are saving money but could be getting an illegitimate version of Windows either now or down the road.

Thanks for reading and have a great rest of the week.

Steve

www.zolexpc.com

The Importance of Windows Update and Keeping your Security Software Up to Date

Today I found two Blog articles that I wanted to share. They remind everyone to keep your PC updated to protect it against the latest threats. Whether it be Windows Updates or Your Security Software, it is a must to have these up to date. By not keeping these up to date, you increase your chances of infections or worse.

The first article is about Windows Updates. The second is about keeping your Security Software up to date.

http://blogs.zdnet.com/security/?p=5064&tag=content;col1

http://jimfurie.wordpress.com/2009/12/07/some-rule%E2%80%99s-should-not-be-broken/

The first article is in regards to new Windows Updates for this coming Tuesday. Windows Updates are important for keeping your system up to date and fixing exploits that have been discovered in Windows. These exploits could allow your system's security to be compromised. From hackers or viruses have the latest updates will help protect your system. The updates are automatically downloaded for you usually. Just install them when prompted and be prepared to reboot the PC when they are done.

The second article explains what can happen when you or a member of your family fail to keep the Security Software updated on your PC. Keeping your Security Software updated is essential to helping keep your PC infection free. Without the updates your system is not fully protected against the latest threats. With new infections coming out daily it is extremely important to keep your Security Software updated. Most Anti-virus software updates automatically but some Antispyware programs do not. Be sure to update your Security software at least every two weeks. Most of the software is very easy to update. Simply open the program and look for a button that says update. If you use Spybot Search and Destroy be sure to also Immunize after you update. The Immunization feature blocks potentially harmful software from getting onto your PC.

One of the parts I thought was a great idea out of this article was the family has a plan in place for all users of the house and PC's to keep their Security Software up to date, and to do Regular Back-ups of their data. Keeping software updated whether it is Windows or your Security Software and doing regular back ups of your data is a good strategy to avoiding problems with your PC.

Thanks for reading and have a great rest of the week.

Steve

www.zolexpc.com

What are Toolbars and are They Good or Bad?

Toolbars are usually attached atop your browser (IE, Firefox etc). You see them when you open your browser. They come with a search box for easy searching and other links. There are legitimate toolbars and malicious toolbars.

The legitimate ones are designed to make your surfing experience easier and more pleasant. They have search boxes for searches, links to email or other shortcuts that you may want to use. Some include built in Pop-up Blockers. Many antivirus software makers all have them, McAfee, Norton, AVG.

As far as Security goes, the Toolbars will not overly enhance your security. Your Antivirus software and Antispyware programs do the job of protecting your system. Most browsers already come with Pop-up Blockers. If you use Verizon or Comcast and enjoy their toolbar, those are safe as well but don't install other toolbars then. There is no need to clutter up your browser with meaningless toolbars and there are plenty of them out there to do it. From Facebook apps toolbars to Weather toolbars, there is no shortage of them on the Internet.


There are also Virus/Infections that disguise themselves as helpful toolbars. Shopping Deal Toolbars are a common one. Remember once a virus gets into your system it can open up all sorts of other doors for more infections to come creeping into your PC wreaking havoc along he way. Hotbar is another common infection. Virus and Infection designers have taken advantage of legitimate toolbars just as they have done with legitimate Security software and made these infections appear as helpful or legitimate. If you don't' recognize the name don't install it. If it looks suspicious don't install it. If you are still not sure you can always Google it and see what other people think or have discovered about it.

If you need to remove or uninstall toolbars the process can be easy, provided it is not malicious software. Most toolbars can be uninstalled via Add/remove Programs (XP) Programs and Features (Vista & 7). Locate the toolbar in the program list and uninstall. They can also usually be disabled via Internet Explorer. Simply click on Tools, then Toolbars and you can un-check the ones you don't want to show on your page.

The only Toolbars you should be using are either Google Toolbar, Yahoo Toolbar, or other popular industry leaders. Again most of these toolbars are of a personal preference if you want to use them. I prefer the Internet to be lean and mean. If you do use Toolbars just be very careful about the ones you choose to install. Personally I don't find them overly helpful with the exception of the Google toolbar.

If you do use toolbars, just be sure that it is a legitimate toolbar. I do not recommend installing Toolbars other than the main ones I described above. (Google, Yahoo) Use others at your own risk. Having one toolbar or two is fine but anything over that is excessive and will only slow down your internet surfing.

Thanks for reading and have a great rest of the week

Steve
www.zolexpc.com

A Few Tips Before You Begin Online Shopping

As the holiday season approaches many people have resorted to doing their holiday shopping online. Forget the lines at stores, forget the crowded parking lots, forget all the traffic and chaos that ensues. Do your shopping online this holiday season and save your money and sanity. Online shopping is easier than ever. It is also more secure than ever. However before you do any online shopping it is a good idea to make sure your PC is infection free.

There are multiple infections on the Internet that will look to steal your credit card information, personal information, passwords etc. These programs come in all sorts of shapes and sizes. Some will mask themselves as legitimate Anti-virus programs that require payment to remove supposed infections. Others can be more stealthy and steal your information without you even realizing anything is wrong with the PC. Some may try to get personal information from you for a contest.

Is it safe to do your shopping online even with all of these potential infections out there? Yes it is. Online shopping has grown more secure as more and more companies have offered it over the last few years. Just about every company has an online website for shopping. The sites themselves are very secure and use the latest encryption technology available to keep your data safe.

With this being said, there are few steps you can take to ensure your online shopping experience goes smooth. First off is to make sure your PC is clean and infection free. Run your scans with your Security Software (Anti-virus and Anti-spyware protection) to make sure your PC is clean. Even if your PC is not showing any signs of infection, it will not hurt it to run the scans and give you assurances before you begin your online shopping extravaganza. If you regularly run your scans or have them automated you should be fine and need not run any scans. Again it will not harm your PC to run the scans so don't be afraid.

Some of the suspicious signs that your PC might be infected can found in a post from last week's blog.

http://zolexpc.blogspot.com/2009/11/what-are-some-of-sign-that-my-pc-might.html

If you suspect your PC is infected then get the infection taken care of before you begin doing any online shopping. It doesn't take long for an infection to grab your information but as long as you are clean to begin with you should have no problems or issues shopping online. You can usually get just as good deals online as you can from the store. Take advantage of this convenience today but make sure your PC is clean and ready for a safe holiday shopping season.

Thanks for reading and a Happy Thanksgiving to all.

Steve
www.zolexpc.com

What are some of the sign that my PC might be infected?

Signs that your PC may be infected can come in all sorts of different ways. Some are very easy to detect and others will not be as easily noticed. I will cover the most common symptoms today. Today's blog will be shorter than usual as it will be easier to list the symptoms.

• lots of pop-up windows when you open a browser session
• Random error messages
  
• Running an anti-virus scan, it says you have issues but doesn’t fix them
• Certain websites on your computer cannot be accessed or viewed
  
• The homepage keeps changing to something else
  
• Warnings about infections from unfamiliar sources
  
• Web pages change by themselves
• Windows Updates fails and will not work
• Lots of error messages on Start up
• Your existing Anti-virus software no longer updates automatically
  

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, there is a good chance your PC has contracted an infection. Viruses/Infections come in all sorts of shapes and sizes. Some are just nuisances, while others can be outright devastating. As soon as you become suspicious that your PC has been compromised, you should immediately utilize your Security Software to scan your PC for infections. Small infections can usually be taken care of by your Security Software. If not then you need to call in a professional.

The longer you wait to try to get rid of the infection the worse it usually gets. Once one virus/infection is in your machine it can and will open it up to other infections over time. What starts out as just an annoying pop up can lead to personal data being stolen or complete data loss on your PC. If you are suspicious take swift action. It can make all the difference for an easy fix as opposed to a long fix or even a problem that can't be fixed.

Thanks for reading and have a great rest of the week

Steve
www.zolexpc.com

Should I turn off my PC at the end of the day/night?

This is a debate that has been going on for quite some time. Mostly I would say it is a matter of personal preference as to whether or not you want to shut it down.

Most computers will shutdown on their own and go into Sleep or a Hibernate mode to conserve power if you don't use them for a while. This can be set to any time you wish, usually around 30 minutes or so is the default. You can also set it to never go to sleep or hibernate. I use this option as sometimes I may be away from the PC but I don't want it to shutdown as something I could be doing may not like being interrupted by Sleep mode.

When there is no activity for a determined amount of time the PC will simply go to sleep/hibernate. When you wiggle the mouse or press a key on the keyboard the PC will wake up and bring you back to where you last left off. This is convenient as it saves the time of having your PC boot up and go through it's motions. This can be up to 5 minutes on some machines. Newer machines start up pretty quick but as you add more and more stuff to your PC, the start up time can take longer and longer. It also saves on electricity by not having the PC run all the time. Monitors do this quite frequently to save energy, but it is different from your PC going to sleep or hibernate. Your monitor is just shutting off, while the PC actually will go through a process and save your data and open windows. This requires a minimal amount of electricity

There are sometimes issues when PC's go to sleep and don't want to wake up. You then have to usually hold in the power button to shut the machine off completely and then restart it. If this doesn't work then you should unplug the power to the PC and wait a few minutes. Try to plug it back in and use the Power button to see if that fixes the problem.

There are some positives to shutting down your PC every night. It gives your PC a chance to reset and reconfigure things. Similar to sleeping, when you wake up you are feeling refreshed and re-energized. A fresh reboot also ensures that any Windows Updates that require a restart will be applied or any other additional configurations (hardware related) can be correctly configured. When the computer restarts it goes through it's motions of checking everything and making sure things are working properly. It checks all devices, hardware, and then goes into Windows, loads up your start up programs and finally your icons.

For me personally, I shut down my PC at the end of the day/night. It is simply a personal preference. I was taught that PC's like to be rebooted and I stick by it. From time to time I have let my PC go into Sleep mode with no problems and have no issues with people who want to do it. Again it s just a matter of personal preference. In my opinion it is healthier for the PC to be shutdown at the end of the day or night, but if you miss a night, it is certainly nothing to worry about. If the computer needs a restart due to updates etc., it will usually continually prompt you until the machine is restarted.

If you are one of those people who does not shutdown their PC at the end of the day/night, you should at least Restart it once a week (a clean Reboot) just to refresh everything and apply any updates that require a restart. If you have recently cleaned any infections off of your PC, then you can rest assured that your machine will be prompted for a reboot by your Security Software to successfully flush out any remnants of the infection that could still be there. Shutting down your PC is a choice that each person has to make but if you do it or don't do it, your PC will most likely be fine. Technology has advanced enough that this topic is really no longer an issue.


Thanks for reading and have a great rest of the week.

Steve
www.zoelxpc.com

What is a Netbook computer and why would I want one?

A Netbook computer is a usually very small laptop computer with limited power and devices, that connects to the Internet and allows you surf the web. They are cheap price wise, ranging anywhere from $250 and up. They don't come with CD/DVD drives built in because they are designed for their size, price, and browsing the Web plain and simple.

With the advent of downloading things such as music, videos, pictures etc, all being able to be done on the Internet now, manufactures are finding that not everyone may need a CD drive or a DVD burner. Netbook computer reflect this by not having a CD/DVD drive on them. Again their purpose is for the Internet, and basic PC functions, storage of pics, music, video.


If you only use your computer, for downloading music, working with pictures, surfing the internet, using email, a Netbook computer may be just the thing for you. Just be aware that is has limitations as to what it can do. If you like to burn CD's or DVD's or play games or watch DVD's on your Laptop then you should NOT buy a Netbook Computer. Depending on what you use a computer for and want to use it for in the future will dictate what kind of PC you should buy.

Netbook computers are another example of bridging the gap between the PC and the phone. Iphone's are an excellent example of this on the Phone side. Both of these devices and their technological trends are heading towards each other and it should be exciting to see what happens in the next couple of years with this.

For me personally, I would not get a Netbook as I use my PC to watch DVD's, Burn CD's, and for work purposes I need a higher end machine with more storage and power. However for someone such as a grandparent who only uses the PC for email and pictures of the grand kids or to look for recipes, a Netbook is the perfect way to spend a few dollars and get a new PC that will exactly fit your specific needs.


Pro's and Con's starting with the Pro's

1. Price $$$
2. Size
3. Internet Access
4. Lightweight
5. Regular Operating System such as Windows 7 or Vista
6. Portable

And now the Con's

1. No CD/DVD drives (no watching DVD's or listening to CD's)
2. Underpowered as opposed to regular Laptops or Desktop PC's
3. No playing of games that require a CD/DVD drive or require a high end video card.
4. Possibility of having to upgrade some component of it in the future if the need arises.


Before considering whether or not to purchase a Netbook, always ask yourself this question. What do I want to use my PC for now, and what might I want to use it for in the future? By answering this question you can easily make the decision about whether or not a Netbook is the right purchase for you. Thanks for reading and have a great rest of the week.

Steve
www.zolexpc.com

What should I do when my computer will not connect to the Internet?

Figuring out why you lost your Internet connection is usually a process of elimination as to what is causing the problem. Before calling your Internet Service Provider or a technician, you can check a few things yourself first to try to solve the problem. Are you getting any specific error messages such as "Cannot Display the Web Page"? Do you see a Yellow Exclamation Point indicating Limited Activity to the left or your clock on the bottom of your screen? Did you accidentally tell your Firewall to block your regular connection?

Provided you have paid your bill and your service has not been shut off, you want to start by making sure that you have power to your modem/router. This is usually a box provided to you by your ISP. (Internet Service Provider) Are all the cables connected and securely in place? Check the wire from the PC to the Router/modem and make sure everything is connected. Don't be alarmed if there are open ports/spots. Just be sure that the wires that are there are connected. If the Wires/Cables were disconnected, reconnect them and try to connect to the Internet.

In Internet Explorer there is an option on the TOOLS Menu called Work Offline. If this has a check mark next to it, you will want to click on it so that it has a Red X through it. This should never have a check mark on it. Sometimes if the Router/Modem is failing, it may show you this check mark and prevent you from being able to connect to the Internet. Simply click on the check mark and try to connect back to the Internet again.

If all wires are connected and you still cannot connect then you can try to reset the Modem/Router. This is easily done on most models by simply pulling out the power wire on the Modem/Router. If you are not sure which wire to pull out (it is usually black), then you can safely remove all the wires to be sure. Wait about one minute and then reconnect the wires/cables. Give the Router/Modem another minute to reconfigure itself and then try to connect to the Internet. Be sure if using Internet Explorer to check the Work Offline button after resetting your Modem/Router. If this is still checked off it will still prevent you from connecting. Make sure that you always see the Red X on Work Offline under the Tools Menu. Remember this is only for Internet Explorer but can still affect other browsers such as Firefox.

If resetting the Modem/Router works for you, you will want to keep an eye on the Modem/Router. If it becomes a regular instance such as once a week or 3 times month etc., there is a good chance the Modem/Router needs to be replaced. Most Modems/Routers are rented through your ISP (Internet Service Provider) so you can get a new one for no extra charge. Call your ISP and explain that the Modem/Router has to be reset on a regular basis. They should be more than happy to swap it out for you. For example I had a modem for around 4 or 5 years and it slowly just stopped working over time. Like other devices these can breakdown with age and eventually stop working. I called my ISP and they sent out a new modem to swap it out. A technician may have to come to your house to set it up for you but there is no charge to do it.

Did you see any messages related to your Firewall? Resetting the firewall to it's default can solve this problem. If using the Windows Firewall, just go into Control Panel, go to Windows Firewall. Look for the Advanced Tab and click on Restore Defaults. Firewalls are an integral part of your security protection but can be also made to disable all Internet connections if you tell it too. This is one of things that makes Windows Firewall easy to use as it doesn't prompt you for every little item, such as connecting to the Internet.

If resetting the modem for you didn't work, the problem can get a little bit trickier and more technically involved for the average user. If you are the average user at this point you will want to call your ISP and have them check the modem/router for you. If you are a bit more technically savvy, then you can try a few of these additional steps.

If you suspect a Virus on your machine, you will need to have the infection removed by either your Security Software or have a professional do it for you. There are plenty of infections and viruses that will disable your Internet connection or not allow you to connect to certain sites, and other issues. A virus usually wants your PC to stay connected to the Internet to spread. If you have no Internet at all and know the machine is also heavily infected, you should consult a professional who makes house calls or bring the PC into a store etc., if you can't get connected to the Internet. Removing the Virus may or may not fix your Internet Connection issues. Sometimes you may need to remove the infection just to access some of the settings described above like Control Panel. Some Viruses will block out access to your Network Settings or Firewall Settings as well.

For those a bit more daring and technically savvy enough to do it, you need to check your Network Settings and be sure that your Network card is enabled. When you open Network Connections/Settings be sure that your Network connection does not have a Red X through which indicates either a cable is disconnected or the card is Disabled for some reason. If you see the Yellow Exclamation point indicated Limited Activity, then you can try a reset of your Modem/Router. You should also check to see if you are getting an IP address. If you are getting a valid IP, then you have an Internet connection but perhaps the DNS settings are skewed. Again these solutions here are for the more technically savvy and not the average home user.

If you have explored the easy options such as resetting the Modem/Router, and some of the other options listed here to no avail, you should call your ISP to have them check the modem on their end. They can perform a variety of tests to determine that it is operating correctly. If they tell you the modem is fine, then the problem is most likely related to your PC and it's Internet/Network settings. These can be the DNS settings mentioned above. If your ISP cannot help you to get connected or tells you the modem is working correctly, then you need to call in a professional to diagnose the problem. They may walk you through it over the phone for some of the more advanced steps. Some of the more advanced steps will take time over the phone so be patient when talking to the technician. Alas it may just be easier for you to have someone come out to your house and fix it as well. If you have the $$$ someone will fix it for you.

These days, everybody needs the Internet for Business, Pleasure, Family, School, Bill Paying etc., so when it goes down it is important to get it up and working again quickly. By trying these steps first you can save yourself some $$$ and time because your ISP is going to have you reset your Modem/Router anyway. Your problem could be as simple as a loose cable, or just a nice reset for your Router/Modem. It only takes 5 minutes at most to reset your modem and check the connections. Save yourself a few bucks and try to fix it yourself. If not you can always call in a Pro.

Thanks for reading and have a great rest of the week.

Steve
www.zolexpc.com

Is Online Shopping or Banking Safe to do?

With the holiday season fast approaching, this is a pretty common question. The answer to this question is yes. It is safe to do Online Banking and Shopping. The percentage of people who do their shopping and banking online increases every year as millions more take advantage of the convenience called the Internet. Online Shopping and Banking, saves time, gas, money and has plenty of other advantages. It is the wave of the future.

Of course there is a risk associated with it such as Identity Theft, Credit Card theft and more. There is always a chance that you could be a victim but the chances are very small. There is risk in anything that we do in life but this is an certainly an acceptable risk. With all the transactions done online these days, the percentage of misfortune is quite small. If you are the unfortunate victim of one of the above crimes, you are in for a lot of work to fix the situation. However the chances are very small that this will happen to you.

One thing before you begin is to make sure your PC is clean of infections before beginning online bill paying or shopping. An infected PC could contain malicious software targeting your personal information, credit card information etc. It could already be installed on your PC without your knowledge. Do a Virus scan and be sure the PC is infection free.

On the topic of Security for the businesses that conduct Online Shopping/Banking etc., just about every website that does E-commerce has Security Measures in place to encrypt your information and protect your data. This Security makes it very difficult to intercept the data and decipher it. The majority of information thefts, credit card thefts and issues with online banking or shopping are usually done by an employee of the company who steals the the information and then in turn sells this data to people conspiring in Illegal activities. This could be Identity Theft, Credit Card theft, personal information theft. It requires a person on the inside.

It is up to the user to be sure that they trust the site where they are entering their information into. Banks, Amazon.com, Best Buy.com are more well known examples. Itunes is another site that is safe. These are popular, well known and can be trusted. Even pornography websites have Encrypted security to protect your information and are just as secure as other sites. If the site appears fake to you or suspicious DO NOT ENTER in any information. If there are misspellings on the page, that can be a warning sign.

It is in the companies best interest to make their sites as secure as possible so people will conduct their business online. This saves the companies money which equals profit. They have an incentive to make their online activities as secure and safe as possible. Unless the company is a scam website such as a Fake Antivirus website, the legitimate companies will have adequate security for you. You should not worry about entering in your information on legitimate websites.


Some sites make online activities very easy, while some do not. Some charge you a fee, while others charge you nothing. Online shopping/banking is convenient for the companies as well as the consumer. Transactions take place in the same business day usually up until 5 p.m. or so. This allows you to pay your bills online right at the due date without the worry of mailing it or having it lost via the post office. You can avoid those late fees, save yourself the stamp, and the annoying writing out of the return address. I personally find it very convenient and pay most of my bills online if allowed. I also do online shopping and find to be quite a time saver. There are plenty of online coupons etc. as well so plenty of bargains are to be had.

Many companies have an Auto-deduct system or Auto-pay every month option for monthly bills. For those people that have the money in their accounts this is an added convenience. This can work to your disadvantage though if finances are tight which is common in the current economy. Business really enjoy this one as it gives them the right to take the money out of your account every month. Before agreeing to this be sure that you will always have the money in your account.

Online Shopping and Online Banking are growing at a stronger rate right every year and this is only going to get bigger. The Convenience and Savings far outweigh the risks. Be careful about who and what sites you are giving your information too. As long as the institution is legitimate and can be trusted you can be pretty sure you will be safe doing transactions via the Internet. Again, be sure to make sure your PC is clean and infection free before beginning Online Shopping/Banking etc.

If your PC is clean and ready then take the plunge and enjoy the convenience that online
shopping and online banking can give you. No need to worry about the post office delaying your bills or losing your mail. No more teller lines at the bank and even no more holiday shopping chaos can all be yours if you do it Online. The benefits far outweigh the risks so start doing some online banking and shopping today.

Thanks for reading and have a great rest of the week.

Steve
www.zolexpc.com

What is the differene or differences between Free Antivirus software and Antivirus software that must be paid for?

This is a pretty common question asked by lots of people. Each has their own advantages and disadvantages. Mostly it depends on you the user and how involved you want to be with your software and if you are comfortable handling some of the tasks like manually updating some of the software or running a scan once a month.

First off I would say that this article does not refer to Corporations or Companies. The free software described below is strictly for the Home User. Antivirus Security on the Corporate level is far different than the Residential level. Most companies use a Corporate Version of Antivirus software for which they pay licenses for. Their Security needs are far different from the average Home User. We are only focusing on the Home User/Residential PC owner. With that being said here is the advice for the Home User.

Quality wise, Free Anti-virus programs for the Home user, such as AVG Free or Avast are just as good as the Antivirus software you pay for. Most of the paid Antivirus software does usually come with additional Antispyware protection which is an important component. However there are also free Antispyware programs available as long as you don't mind doing a little updating or scanning yourself.

For example I use AVG Free anti-virus in conjunction with Spybot Search and Destroy and Spyware Blaster. All of these programs are free for the Residential user. As mentioned in an earlier blog, you do need more than just Antivirus software to properly protect your PC. The process for protecting my PC is pretty easy. The AVG updates automatically (daily) and will inform you of any infections it finds. The other Spyware programs are simply updated every two weeks to stay protected against the latest infections. Installation of these is pretty straight forward though there are few customizations i personally use.

Some people may prefer to have an all in one Security protection and not have to worry about multiple programs to deal with. If this is you then you are probably going to paying for Antivirus protection. Antivirus software that is not free usually costs around $50 dollars or so. It lasts you for a year and then prompts you to renew your subscription for usually another $50 dollars or maybe a little less. The most common paid Antivirus software manufactures are Norton and McAfee.

I find some of these programs prompt the user(ask for permission) a little too much. For example, Microsoft Windows updates should not need permission from the Firewall to connect to the Internet. McAfee and Norton are both infamous for this with their Firewalls and their software. It is a bit too overprotective in my opinion. One of things I really enjoy about the Security Software I use is it requires very little user interaction, so I do not have to constantly give approval to every thing I am doing. I don't have to waste time approving every decision I make when it comes to my PC.

Some ISP's (Internet Service Providers) such as Comcast give their customers McAfee for free so be sure to check with your ISP about what they offer before purchasing, you may be able to get it for free. Some people may not like the Security Software offered by their ISP or have a preference for something else. If you fall into this category then the free options that I have listed above are ideal for you. Be sure to uninstall your existing Antivirus before installing the new one.

Many new PC's come with Trial Version of Norton Security Software or perhaps other Antivirus software which is good for 60 days. Once your 60 days are up you have to pay to get the latest updates. Once the updates stop, you are NOT protected against the latest infections.
Be sure to do one of the following:

1. Get free Antivirus software and Free Antispyware protection
2. Renew the existing subscription for $
3. Purchase a different Antivirus software.

When switching out Antivirus software, it is best to remove the existing software first, reboot the machine (most AV software will prompt you to do this), and then install the new software.

In this economy money is a primary concern for a lot of people. Why should you pay for Antivirus software and Antispyware protection if you don't have too? Providing you can handle updating the Antispyware programs once a month, with no suffering in Quality or system performance the choice is Free Software. With the paid Antivirus software you are usually paying for convenience when it comes to updating but have the added aggravation of what I consider over protection and annoyances. For me the price of the maintenance is minimal and the savings well worth it $$$$ wise to go for the Free Software.

Thanks for reading and have a great rest of the week.

Steve
www.zolexpc.com

I am buying a new PC, what should I look for and how much should I spend?

This is a common question and really depends on the user/consumer themselves. You need to ask yourself the following question before deciding to what to get and how much to spend on a new PC.

What do I use my PC for now and want to do i want to use it for in the future? Examples may be something like: I only use my PC for email and family pictures and to surf the internet. I use my PC mostly for games and to watch movies. I use my PC for work and run a lot of programs. Depending on what your answer is to this question will make your decision a whole lot easier.

If you only use your PC for email and family pictures, then there is no need for you to get a high powered machine. These sorts of tasks (email and pics) do not require a lot of system resources. In this economy especially you want to spend only what you need to spend for what you need. If this is you, then you will not need to spend anything more than $600 (monitor not included).

If you use your PC for gaming and to watch movies or streaming video from the internet, then you are going to need a machine that is able to handle the latest games, and has plenty of power. You will need a very good video card, and decent processor as well. Of course these machines will cost a bit more money. For a decent not over the top gaming machine you should only need to spend around $1000. There are plenty of far more expensive machines but again it all depends on how much you want to spend.

If you use your PC for work and are busy doing multiple things, then you also fall into the higher-end PC's. You will not need a fantastic video card but you will need a decent processor and will want the more powerful PC. If this is you, you should expect to pay anywhere from $700-$1000 for a decent machine. Of course you can spend more if you wish.

For people that buy their PC's in stores like Best Buy etc, you will only have a limited number of models to choose from. Knowing what you need before you go there will prevent you from getting too much or adding things a salesman may try to push on you. Service contracts are a very common upsell. Whether they are worth it or not is up to the consumer and perhaps a future blog topic.

Regardless of your situation you should get at least 4 GB of RAM on your machine. At this point I would also recommending only getting a 64 bit Operating system as opposed to a 32 bit system. 64 bit is going to be the standard going forward. Even though it may cost you a little bit more, getting the extra RAM and a 64 bit system will keep your system active for longer. This means you shouldn't have to replace your PC for at least 4 or 5 years.

If you purchase your PC online then you will have more options to choose from, to find one specifically for your exact needs. Using the same advice from above will allow you to get exactly the correct amount of RAM for your PC, and choose a Video Card if necessary or upgrade certain components specifically tailored to your needs.

With all the information in hand, we are now ready to purchase our PC. Do you have a budget or a ceiling? If you are on a budget you may have to make sacrifices as to what you can get with your money. Based upon your needs as mentioned above, you should see a few models in differing price ranges. The average user should be able to get a decent PC that suits their needs for around (monitor not included) $500-$750.

No matter what you get be sure to get at least 4 GB of RAM as this will help you out the most if you are on a really tight budget. Keep your eye out for Sales especially in this economy as you may be able to get a more powerful PC for the same price or save some $$$ as well.

If you are purchasing a laptop PC, you can add $100.00 to the costs I listed above.

Thanks for reading and have a great rest of the week.

Steve
www.zolexpc.com

Why didn't my Antivirus software stop a virus from infecting my PC?

This is a fairly common question someone may ask after contracting an infection even with their Antivirus software active. The bottom line is no level of protection can 100% protect or guarantee that your PC will never contract an infection. Many reasons exist for this and I will cover a few here.

First off there are new viruses and infections coming out everyday. Though your Antivirus software may update daily, it cannot block or cure the virus until it knows it exists and then be fixed. This is why your Antiviurs software updates daily and in some cases every 4 hours. This turns things into a constant battle between Virus makers, and Virus Protectors. Similar to speeders who use Radar Detectors versus the police with their Radar Guns. The police come out with a new Radar Gun, and the Radar Detector manufactures come up with a new model (update) to detect the new Radar Gun so they can avoid getting a ticket. The Police then come up with a new way of catching the speeders, followed by a new model of Radar Detector again. This goes on and on. Virus makers and Antivirus Software are in the same kind of battle. This isn't going to change anytime soon.

Another reason why an infection may get through your defenses is if you click on the infection by accident or open it. If so then you have just opened the door to the infection while, letting it run wild on your PC. In layman's terms it is game over, you are infected and the virus is doing what it wants for the most part. Many viruses are made to weaken or hide from your Antivirus software. Once the Virus gets a chance to run, it can tell your Antivirus to leave it alone, take down your firewall, disable your Automatic Windows updates and wreak all sorts of havoc. You click on the infection and "You've got Trouble".

Now for the good news. Even with everything listed above your chances of getting infected with an existing and up to date Antivirus software and Antispyware protection are greatly reduced. By keeping your system's security software up to date and Windows as well, you are leaving yourself only exposed to the newest infections that are out there. Since the Security Software updates frequently you are only vulnerable to a smaller number of infections for a shorter period of time. (until the next update is released) If you never updated or had no software installed then you would be vulnerable to an enormous number of infections in search of unprotected PC's.

Look for the signs that you may be infected. For example if while surfing the internet a program tells you that you are infected and it isn't your Security Software(AVG, Norton etc), you can be pretty sure it is a virus trying to penetrate your defenses. In this example it is best to close your internet browser and run some scans with your existing Antivirus software or Antispyware protection. If you discover that your machine is infected and your Security Software can't remove it, then you will need to call in the professional Virus removers (ZolexPC).

If you stay vigilant and keep your security software up to date, while being very careful where your surf and what you click on, you should be relatively safe in your internet travels. Thanks for reading and have a great rest of the week.

Steve
www.zolexpc.com

Do I need to upgrade my current PC to Windows 7 when it is released in October?

The answer to this question is usually no. Windows 7 is the successor to Windows Vista, which was the successor to Windows X, which was the successor to Windows 2000P and so on down the line. Windows 7 is scheduled to be released Oct 22, 2009. There are multiple reasons why you should not upgrade your current PC to Windows 7.

First off if you are currently running Windows XP, you do not have an option of a direct upgrade as just inserting a CD in your PC and clicking next. For the average home user this disqualifies most from still going forward from XP to Windows 7. If you still decide to do it the procedure is this:

You'll need to back up your current files and settings to another PC, device, (flash drive CD, DVD etc). Next perform a clean installation of Windows 7. Then reinstall your backed up files, settings, and programs to Windows 7. Even with that users still running Windows XP may find that the age of their PC and the hardware that is on it cannot run Windows 7.

Microsoft even recommends that those customers running Windows XP purchase a new PC with Windows 7 as opposed to trying to upgrade from the process described above. Bottom line is if you have XP, save your data and buy a new PC if you want want Windows 7. The good news for XP that choose not to upgrade is that Microsoft is supporting Windows XP until April 8 2014 so you can keep it if you would like too for the next 4 years.

For those of you who are running Windows Vista, the decision isn't as clear cut. Vista can be easily upgraded to Windows 7 via CD and lots of clicking on Next with all data saved and programs transferred over. That is certainly a plus to upgrading your Vista PC to Windows 7.

However as with any new Operating System or product there are usually bugs to fix and discover. There will be patches, fixes and updates. This is just as true with New designs of cars/models. If a new model/design of a car comes out. By the second or third year, improvements have been made as they have had some time/data/feedback to address issues that were reported to them. Maybe a bit more horsepower, or a slight product defect in 1 st year models that was corrected for later models. Windows operating systems should be viewed in the same regard. Give Microsoft time to put out Service Pack 1 for Windows 7 before considering before upgrading to it from Vista. Let them fix the as yet to be discovered faults and exploits.

The Average Home User doesn't need to have the latest technological advancements. They want their computer to work with as minimal problems as possible. To be easy to use and comfortable while using it. Jumping up to Windows 7 if you are happy with Vista is not worth it.
Unless you are one of those people that must have the newest toy on the market, I would advise against upgrading your Vista machine to Windows 7 at this time. Six months from now once Windows 7 has been through plenty of testing from consumers etc, we may reach a different conclusion.

If you want to upgrade to Windows 7 and you have Windows XP, time to buy a new PC. If you want to upgrade to Windows 7 and you have Windows Vista, you may do so but it is not advised at this time. Sit back and let others experience the issues/problems that will happen with a new operating system. Why experience the Growing Pains if you don't have too? Save your money for now.

Thanks for reading and have a great rest of the week.

Steve
www.zolexpc.com

Can I get Viruses, through programs such as Facebook, or Instant Messaging? (AIM)

The simple answer to the question is yes you can get viruses, infections, trojans, malware etc. from these programs. However you will only get infected from these if you authorize the infection, usually accidentally from a Facebook application. Since Facebook has become extremely popular and now has a worldwide reach it has become a good source to spread infections. Virus makers have specifically targeted Facebook and are constantly probing it for weaknesses and exploits.

These infections though all require the user to click on something be it an application or some Quiz etc. The Koobface Worm is a prime example. It comes from a message from one of your friends with a link to a YouTube video. The YouTube video is really a nasty worm. Read this short story here for more details : ( http://dailycontributor.com/koobface-worm-hits-facebook/2035/)

Similar to infections or viruses transmitted via email, they always require the user to start the process via a click to launch the infection. Once the infection has been launched, your PC is now open and exposed to multiple threats. In essence it is liking ringing the dinner bell. Once your PC's defenses have been penetrated from one infection you expose yourself to multiple infections such as viruses, trojans etc, which can lower your guard and disable your Antivirus software entirely. Many of these are made to spread via Facebook to your Friends etc. causing even more chaos. It therefore becomes extremely important to make sure your PC isn't infected, that you are very careful when using Facebook Apps and clicking on Facebook email links.

The safest way to still enjoy Facebook is to Google some of the Apps you may wish to download or see just how long they have been around for. For example one of the more popular apps is Yoville, which has been around for quite some time. As their are millions of users, it is a safe app. New Apps come out almost daily for Facebook so use your best judgment
when downloading them or allowing them access to your account. These nasty infections can grab all of your Facebook friends info etc. and send out fake mailings to them trying to get $$$ or personal information from people. You may have read a few of these articles in the news. A story about a friend who was stranded in London with no $$$$ etc. This message would come in your Facebook email from someone you know, maybe a good friend who you trust. You may be tempted to believe and provide the requested information or even $$$$ to help them out of trouble etc.

As for getting infections through Chat programs such as AIM, MSN Messenger etc. the only way you can get infected is to first accept the file being transferred to you and second to open/click on it once you have it on your PC. The simple solution is know who is sending you the file. With chat things become a bit easier as most likely the person who you are chatting with would not directly send you a virus and has probably run the same file on their machine. This is all predicated on the fact that the person you are chatting with is a friend and not a stranger. If you are chatting with somebody new or someone who you don't know, be extremely careful about accepting files from strangers. You don't know who is really on the other end and the results could be disastrous for you and your PC.

Bottom line is Facebook is great but use it wisely and carefully. Ask others before installign an app if you are not sure. Google it. I myself use many Apps on Facebook and have no problems at all. Facebook is fantastic for a lot of things, but because of it's increasing popularity and usage, it becomes a source and target for viruses due to it's success. Chat clients and programs are excellent tools and a great way to stay in touch with people but they can also be used for malicious purposes. Use your common sense and best judgment.


One of the keys to keeping your PC healthy and safe is to remain vigilant and be careful about what you are clicking on, who is the source?, Is it trusted, What is the title of the file/app/pic etc. If you do ever get infected and can't solve the problem yourself you can always call in the Professionals. Thanks for reading and have a great rest of the week.

Steve
www.zolexpc.com

Drivers, Drivers, and Drivers

What is a driver? and what do they do? are questions that are pretty common for the average user. Drivers (software driver device driver, virtual driver) are the means by which a device (Printer, Scanner, Digital Camera, CD ROM Drive, External Hard drives), communicates with the main brain of the Computer so everybody can work together and be on the same page. Drivers allow hardware, software and even virtual devices and drives to all communicate with each other. Drivers are the middle men or interpreters for devices to all work together with the CPU.

A few years back Drivers were usually found on CD's that came with your Printer, Scanner, Digital Camera etc. You would simply insert the CD and follow the on screen instructions. This is still used today but now the operating system may have the drivers for some devices or hardware already pre-loaded in Windows itself, and if not is always available via the Internet, so you may not even need the CD. The Internet is the best place to go for the latest drivers (updated). All manufacturers will have their latest drivers posted usually in their Download/Drivers section on the website. As mentioned in last week's blog (for those of you who read it.) do not download your hardware drivers from Windows update as they usually aren't the latest and most up to date drivers.

Current drivers are usually very important when it comes to video cards for gaming purposes. Many of the newest games require high end video cards. The drivers for these video cards are constantly being updated and released. With Video Cards and new drivers can give you increased performance, more reliability. This is also true with Drivers for other devices etc., but can be noticeable with the Video card ones.


Most driver installs can be done by the average home user and many come still with the CD so it is easy as put the CD in and follow the instructions. This works fine for video cards, sound cards, and other devices. When it comes to Routers for your Wireless Network, installing the device and Configuring the Device are two different things. For example setting up a Wireless Network and securing it may involve getting the drivers for your Router, which should be easy to install but configuring it to work within your network could be more complicated. In instances such as these have someone who knows what they are doing take care of it for you. Most of us can build a doghouse for Rover to live in, but most us can't build a house for our Family to live in.

Be careful when downloading drivers, not to install Beta Drivers as these are drivers that are still being tested and could have bugs or cause your system some harm. You should install the latest officially released driver.

So to sum up, the average Home user can and should install most drivers for devices they purchase such as a digital camera, printer etc. However some devices can still be installed may need to be configured by someone with a bit more experience. Try it and if you get stuck call in the pros. Thanks again for reading and have a great rest of the week.


Steve
www.zolexpc.com

Do I need Windows Updates for my PC? Which ones do i need? What do they do?

This is a question that is easily answered for the Home User. YES. Yes you need them and by not getting them you leave your PC vulnerable to viruses, trojans, worms, and anything else you can imagine that is bad for your PC.

Windows Updates are from Microsoft (the makers of Windows) so they are not malicious and are safe to download. Depending on your Operating System, Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, these updates can come in a variety of categories. Home Users should be the most concerned about Priority Updates. These updates are released by Microsoft because a vulnerability has usually been reported that could expose your system to an intruder or infection. Hackers are constantly trying to find exploits and weaknesses in Windows that they can use to hack into other machines etc. These Fixes are extremely important for you to have on your PC.

When you see the Yellow shield it means you have updates that are ready to be downloaded/installed. Simply click on the shield to begin the process. The instructions are very easy to follow and usually just require Next, Yes, or Install etc. Many updates will require a restart of your PC to take effect.

Though this can be a bit bothersome, it is still well worth it to have the latest updates and patches etc. Just like your Anti-virus software protecting you against the latest threats, keeping your Windows up to date also protects you against threats. By keeping your Anti-virus Software, Anti-Spyware Software and keeping your Windows Operating System (XP, Vista, 7) up to date, it gives the Home User maximum protection. This protection against Viruses, Malware, Trojans, Worms and all the others while not guaranteed to keep you from getting infected, certainly will reduce your chances of getting infected. The more up to date your software is, the better chance your system has to protect itself from infection.

There are also Optional Updates that can be installed. These updates are at the User's Discretion. Any Security Update would be listed as a Priority Update, so if you don't install an Optional Update it will not compromise your security. You can also read a description of what each update does. Some are only for specific machines or devices. Depending on the age of your machine, you may see Windows MEdia Player in your Optional Updates. Usually it is not a Priority update as it not a Security related concern, but is something most people would probably want the latest version of. Others are bit more obscure.

Another category of updates is Hardware. This category is one where the idea and theory behind it was pretty good but in the real world doesn't work very well. The idea was to have Windows Update manage the latest Updates to Hardware no matter the Manufacturer etc. The problem with it was that Windows was usually far behind on the latest drivers. Sometimes by more than 2 or 3 versions. Very rarely should you ever download a Hardware update via Windows update. Hardware is controlled by Drivers (Next Week's Topic) so we won't cover it here. The Bottom line is stay away from Hardware updates via Windows Update.

Priority Updates should always be download and installed for the latest security updates. When you see the shield, you should install and apply the updates etc. Optional updates can be installed at your own discretion but are not needed for Security purposes. Hardware updates, stay away from them as they are most likely old and out dated. At Zolex PC, we always keep your Windows up to date. Though it can take a little extra time, the benefit is well worth it. By keeping your Security Software and your Windows updated, you are reducing it's chances of getting infected. Thanks for reading.

Steve
www.zolexpc.com

Next Weeks Topic: Drivers, Drivers and more Drivers.

What are Temporary Internet Files and what do they do?

Temporary Internet Files are files that are stored on your computer so that certain Internet Pages that you frequent will load faster. This is done so if you go to www.foxsports.com everyday the page will load faster as only changes that have been made to the page need to be downloaded via the Internet. Anything that hasn't changed would be stored on your PC thereby allowing the web page to load faster. They can be pieces of pages (header or buttons) or an image even. These files while harmless in most regards can eventually take up an enormous amount of space on your hard drive if you don't periodically clean them. Sometimes this can even run into the Gigabyte range.

This can cause your machine to run slower while surfing the Internet and even while not surfing. The more files and data that are on your PC, the more your processor has to search through to find what it is looking for. Your Processor may have to scan through thousands and thousands of Temporary Internet Files just to open up a Document or folder. While this time may not seem like much, be it a few seconds, it increases the amount that the PC has to work. This could mean longer scans for your Anti virus software as it would have to scan each item.

Thankfully there is a pretty easy solution to this problem. You simply can delete your Temporary Internet Files through Internet Explorer or Firefox.

Depending on which version of Internet Explorer you have the process may be different. For Internet Explorer 7 and Internet Explorer 8, while you have the browser open, click on Tools, Options/Internet Options. Once in here make sure you are on the General Tab of Internet Options and click Delete under Browsing History. If you don't want to delete your cookies or your history be sure to remove the check mark. Click Delete button. Close the window and you are done.

If you use Firefox, the process is similar depending on what version you are using. The latest version Firefox 3.5 is quite easy. While the browser is open, click on Tools, Clear Recent History. Again be sure to remove any check marks from anything you don't wish to be deleted. Older version of Firefox are Tools, Clear Private Data, place check marks what you wish to delete and then click Clear Private Data Now. Congratulations you have just deleted temporary internet files from your PC!!

There are some programs available on the Internet that are more thorough than these two here but they may require some technical savvy. At Zolex PC we use a few of them but they are not recommended for the average user. By deleting your Temporary Internet files you can surf the Net just a bit faster and help your PC stay healthy. You should clean your Temporary Internet Files around once a month or so. Thanks for taking the time to read today's blog.

Steve
www.zolexpc.com

Is my Wireless Network Secure? and why do I need a Secure Wireless Network?

This is a topic/question that many people are not even aware of that their Wireless Network may not be secure. Depending on how you or whomever set up your Wireless Network it may or may not be Secure. Depending on the manufacturer or your modem/router this can usually be checked by logging into the device and checking the Wireless settings. If you are not sure it is best to consult online the manufacturers website to determine how to enter the Router. For example Linksys routers all use the same IP address by default and an easy to use default password.

A far easier solution than logging into the Router is simply check your signal strength. Usually an Unsecured network will have a low signal strength, sometimes even if in close to range to device. If you are letting Windows manage your Wireless Networks, you will see the Wireless icon to the left of the clock near the task bar. Hovering your mouse over this will give you the current status and signal strength.

Two main advantages to a Secure Wireless Network are first and foremost, the security of your data being transmitted between the wireless devices. Second the strength of that connection which makes for smoother Internet surfing and faster. With an Unsecured connection someone or some program could conceivably intercept the data that is being sent. So if you were paying your bills online, someone could conceivably get your password, pin number, credit card info etc. Having a Secure Wireless network also keeps neighbors and anyone else in range of using up your valuable bandwith and making your internet slower. On top of not paying you for it, it can be very dangerous.

Once the network is Secure, you can simply give out the Key to anyone who wants to connect to it when they are at your home. Some routers can automatically create a Secure Wireless Network for you or it can be done manually. There are multiple protocols for Wireless Network Security. Some of the most common protocols for Wireless Network Security are WEP, WPA,WPA2. Any of them will be better than an Unsecured Wireless Network. Each one has advantages. For most Residential users, WEP works best. This can be done as either 64 bit or 128 bit encryption. The higher the better and I would recommend 128 encryption.

The answer to the above question then is you absolutly need to have your Wireless Network Secured. If you are not sure if it is secure then try the steps I listed above. At ZolexPC we do Wireless Setups and they usually only take about 30 minutes to do. With a Secure Wireless Network you will increase your chances of staying protected while surfing the Internet. Though it can't guarantee you won't have issues with your PC, it is an additional layer of protection for your PC. Thanks for reading and keep surfing safely.

Steve
www.zolexpc.com

What is a Root Kit ?

A Root kit is one of the nastiest infections you can have and u don't want one. If your PC is vulnerable or the USER clicks on something they shouldn't have, Root kits can enter your system the same way any regular virus, or malware can. Once they get in you are in for a host of trouble.

One of the things that makes a Root kit different from a normal virus is where it resides on the infected PC and how it hides itself from detection by Windows. After the Root kit is installed it will start up with the hardware drivers when you start up your PC. These drivers etc. all load before Windows itself loads so that once you get into Windows the Root kit and all of its friends are already up and running on your system. The infection usually has to be killed while Windows isn't running. Usually this is done during a reboot of the system.

These infections can be extremely dangerous to your PC as the Root kit can also damage important Windows System Files possibly forcing a Repair or Re-install of Windows on your PC and potential Data Loss. Root kits can create all sorts of havoc on your system, taking control of it and restricting your Access to your own files even. The infection can create files, hide files, delete files, and just about anything else that is unpleasant for your PC.

Only skilled Technicians should be removing Root kits. Though there are some tools out there to remove them, the tools are very dangerous and if used improperly can permanently damage your system. If you are the lucky recipient of a Root kit, back up your important data and have your machine serviced by a professional. I recommend www.zolexpc.com if you get one.

Thanks again and happy surfing. :)
Steve

, What is Spyware?, What is Adware? What is Malware?

This is a common question as most people think they are all just viruses. In general terms these can just all be called infections and not all viruses. Let's start with the easiest of them to describe which is Spyware.
Spyware is software that can secretly monitor where you surf, what sites, you go to. They will grab other types of personal information, like what sites you frequent. Spyware will also interfere with your browser (Internet Explorer or Firefox), by redirecting your searches to other pages or even hijacking your browser and home page. Spyware can also install programs on your PC to further infect it. These can lead you to not being able to connect to the Internet even in a worst case scenario.
Next on our list is Adware. Adware is usually the least dangerous and more just plain out annoying. They will send you Advertisements and pop ups for everything from Viagra,Prescription Pills from Canada, Free Government loans, Male enlargements and anything else. These can slow your PC down and if you click on some of the Ads could get you an infection or virus in the process.
Last and certainly not least is Malware. Malware can be classified as Viruses, Spyware, Adware or Trojans, worms etc. Malware means Malicious Software and it is dangerous without a doubt. Malware can infect your system beyond repair. It will install itself without your consent. It does this by attempting to trick you into clicking on something. Sometimes it can be an email, or a pop up ad. It can cause any of the above mention items above such as installing additional infections, spyware, or adware.
The best way to protect yourself against these predators and evil programs is with a good combination of a good Antivirus software and usually at least 2 Antispyware programs.
At Zolex PC we use AVG Antivirus for your Antivirus protection, Spybot Search and Destroy to Immunize you against Spyware, and Spyware Blaster as a Force field to keep these infections from getting onto your system. The protection is good as long as you keep it updated and stay vigilant. Because new infections come out everyday it is important to be careful where you are surfing and what you are clicking on. Thanks for reading today's Blog. Happy Surfing and stay protected.
Steve www.zolexpc.com

P.S. Next weeks topic: What is a Rootkit?

What do i do if my Security Software can not remove a virus?

There are times when your Anti-virus software will detect and try to remove an infection but cannot. Here are some reasons why this can happen. 1. the infected file is in use and running and cannot be deleted. 2. The file is tied or is related to a Windows system file that is in use or has been corrupted. 3. The infection has other associated files that recreate the file if it is deleted.

Your options at this point for the Average Home User, are to bring in a specialist to remove the infection. Though there are lots of tools on the Internet, in the wrong hands they can be very dangerous. Only people trained or familiar with these tools should be using them. For the Home User it is best to have a professional handle it. At Zolex PC www.zolexpc.com we use Remote Connection Software so you don't have to bring your PC anywhere. We come to you via the Internet and remove the tough infections.
So if your Security Software cannot remove the infection, get a qualified technician to remove the Virus. Don't leave it alone as it can and will only get worse. All Security Software is good, but not perfect. Leave the tough jobs to the experts.
Thanks again for reading.

Steve

Next Weeks Topic: What is Malware?, What is Spyware?, What is Adware?

Do I need more than just Antivirus on my PC?

The usual answer to this question is yes you do need additional protection outside of a just a straight up Anti-virus software. The reason being is there are many so-called "baddies" out there on the internet that Anti-virus software will not catch. Spyware or Adware may slip through undetected. These in turn can disable your Antivirus software or even tell it to stand down altogether. There are many great free anti-spyware programs you can use in conjunction with your Anti-virus. At Zolex PC we use Spybot Search and Destroy and Spyware Blaster. These programs all work together with your Anti-Virus to give you maximum protection with as little user interaction as possible. Some other Anti-spyware programs and Anti-virus software prompts you for every little change that is being made to the system. The average user usually doesn't understand these requests or can't be bothered with them.
Spybot (configured correctly) and Spyware Blaster make this very easy. AVG anti-virus is also similar. Though it may require User interaction when it detects a threat, its' options and logic are easily presented to the user. Heal or Move To Vault.

So the answer to the question is without a doubt you need more than just an Anti-virus software on your PC. Though many are out there, some are more interactive than others, so be careful what you get. Final Analysis is Anti-virus software + Antispyware software=one happy non-infected PC and a happy PC operator. Surf Safely and Stay Protected.
Steve

Next weeks topic: What do i do if I get an infection and my Security Software can't remove it?