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Virus Protection and Security |
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Written by Darren Coles
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A subject very dear to my heart has been raised by a few people, and I thought it would be a great help to all the people out there that use the Microsoft Windows operating system.
“PC security and Virus Protection”
With the increase in people using the internet and email, so has there been an increase in the number of people in the world that think it is great fun to break into someone’s computer, via a direct attack (Security) or send a nasty program through email or invoke an automatic download from a web site visit (Virus) to destroy information, or even gain personal information from your Personal Computer (PC).
PC security is extremely important, and you should make sure that you take action to help protect your computer, especially if you spend time using the Internet.
My first suggestion is to use a Firewall; this is a piece of software that creates a virtual barrier between your computer and the malicious hackers, which look to cause you grief. If you are using Windows XP and have all the updates from Microsoft including the infamous “Service Pack 2” then you have a firewall ready to use.
To make sure the Firewall is fully operational follow these steps:
CLICK: (Start -> Run) in the box that appears type the following “Firewall.cpl” and CLICK: (OK).
A new window will appear, with the following 3 tabs that you can click on (General – Exceptions – Advanced) CLICK: (General Tab) then select the option that reads “On (recommended)” CLICK: (OK).
If however you have an older version of Windows XP without all the updates then you have what Microsoft call an Internet Connection Firewall built in.
To enable it and check to see if it is working is a bit more difficult, follow these steps carefully:
CLICK: (Start -> Run) in the box that appears type the following
“control.exe netconnections”
and CLICK: (OK).
RIGHT BUTTON MOUSE CLICK: on the connection you use for the Internet and want to protect, which can be either a modem or network connection.
A drop down menu is then presented on screen CLICK: (Properties).
A new window will appear CLICK: (Advanced Tab) then select the option that reads “Protect my computer or network” CLICK: (OK).
If however you use a different operating system or an older version of windows, then you will have to purchase a Firewall software package; The following Internet links will take you to the most reputable and established companies that can supply a Firewall Package.
http://www.symantec.com
http://www.mcafee.com
Alternatively your local computer shop should be able to help, if all else fails give me a call and I will do my best to help you.
Secondly, make sure you keep your PC up to date, this can be accomplished by a visit to the Microsoft website http://update.microsoft.com/microsoftupdate once in a while, and download the new updates for your PC. This will make sure that you have the very best and secure software on you computer.
Thirdly, make sure you purchase and install some antivirus software, this will detect and remove any viruses, which have already found there way onto your PC, or block any that try to gain access. Viruses can gain entry to your computer in a variety of ways, with the most common being attached to an email.
By installing anti virus software and keeping it up to date, not only will it help make sure you PC runs smoothly and free from destructive viruses, it will also insure that you do not pass them on to your friends and family that you communicate with via the internet.
The two companies I suggested for Firewall software also supply Anti Virus software, and both do a free 90 days trial period, which means you can try the software out and make sure your happy before putting your hand in your pocket.
If you need any additional help with any computer problem please send an email to
This email address is being protected from spam bots, you need Javascript enabled to view it
or telephone 660565738 / 965482238 and ask for Darren.
Also if you need any Web Site designing or network problems sorted out feel free to call
CACOON STUDIO
http://www.cacoon.es
P.S Keep them queries coming and I will try to help you over the coming months.
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Technology 
