Complete Computer and Data Security in 6 Simple Steps

1. Use strong passwords. Choose passwords that are difficult or impossible to guess. Mix up letters and numbers in your passwords, and use a different one for each account. (In order to remember all the passwords and PIN’s that today’s world requires, many handheld computers offer password manager programs.)
   
   
2. Make regular data backups. Backups should be made at least once each day. Businesses should perform full backup weekly and incremental backups every day. Then, at least once a month, the backup media should be verified. Advanced Computer Solutions can help you get started with this or manage it all for you…worry-free.
   
   
3. Buy and use virus protection software. That means three things: having it on your computer, checking it daily for new virus signature updates and periodically scanning all the files on your computer. Most of the popular programs out now will automatically do these things for you…so make sure your anti-virus program is turned on. We recommend EZAntivirus: www.my-etrust.com
   
   
4. Use a firewall program as a gatekeeper between your computer and the Internet. Firewalls are usually software products. They are essential for those who keep their computers online through DSL and cable modem connections. We recommend using ServicePack2 on Windows XP…it comes as part of the system so it’s free.
   
   
5. Do not open e-mail attachments from strangers, regardless of how enticing the subject line or attachment might be. Be suspicious of any unexpected e-mail attachment from someone you know because it might have been sent without that person's knowledge from an infected machine. If you get an e-mail that warns about a virus, visit an antivirus company web site first to check whether it is a hoax. Do not forward virus hoax e-mails. Great places to check on scams and hoaxes: www.snopes.com, www.scambusters.org
   
   
6. Regularly download security patches and updates from your software vendors, especially from your operating system vendor, such as Microsoft.

Call Advanced Computer Solutions for help with any or all of the above. We are happy to advise you on security software programs and back-up media. We can also install a back-up system for you, such as a CD burner, update virus software on a regular basis, perform regular system cleanings and install a firewall.

If you suspect your computer may have a virus, call us…we can help! 360.352.4452