1) Are you’re habits putting your computer at risk? Know what you are clicking on. While surfing web sites, be wary of clicking on any links, banners, popup boxes etc. They can be designed to trick you into downloading or installing malware. Use your best instincts and if in doubt, don’t.

2) We all like “free” but unless you’re certain that “free” is safe, avoid. Some of those free programs may also carry a package of Adware/spyware that gets installed along with the “freebee”. Peer-to-peer file sharing programs have benn known to carry adware/spyware payloads. Even some supposed “anti-spyware” programs actually contain adware and popups.

3) Email attachments. Make sure that your anti-virus program is scanning all your email. The best policy is to NEVER open an attachment from your email. Even if it’s from a friend. Instead, save the attachment to disk and scan it with your virus scanner BEFORE you open it. Verify emails sent to you by calling or emailing the sender for verification.

4) Check website security. Whenever inputting private financial information into a web form, make sure the site hosting the form is secure. The web address will usually contain https:// instead of just http://
In Internet Explorer and Firefox you should also notice the lock icon in the lower right of the browser frame. Double click on the icon to view the page security and to verify that the lock icon is not a fake icon!

5) Update Windows with latest service pack. Identify which version of Windows you’re running. Open Control Panel then Open the System icon. On the General tab under the System section note your Windows version; also note the Service Pack number (if no service pack is listed, note that too). Alternatively, right click on the My Computer icon and choose Properties from the popup menu. Enable Automatic Updates – open Control Panel/Automatic Updates, select Automatic (Recommended).

6) Make sure that you are using the latest version of your web browser, whether it’s Internet Explorer, Firefox, Chrome, Opera or another browser.

7) Install an anti-virus program and make sure that it is scheduled to receive updates automatically. Several years ago it was acceptable to update your anti-virus programs definitions once a week. In today’s virus ridden environment the best anti-virus programs update at least once a day.

8) Install an anti-spyware program. Again, there are many good free anti-spyware programs such as Spybot Search & Destroy, Spywareblaster and Malwarebyte’s Anti-Malware just to name a few. Be sure to update them regularly. Most of the free versions require manual updates so consider spending a few dollars for the paid version and get scheduled updates automatically.

9) Make sure that you are using a firewall program and it is active. Windows has a built-in firewall; just make sure it’s active. There are many solid free firewall programs. Just Google “free firewall” and include the quotes.

10) If you have a broadband Internet connection through a router you most likely have a firewall built-in to the router. Gather the make and model number of your router, go to the manufacturer’s website and find the installation and configuration manuals to ensure that the firewall is active and configured properly. Do not assume it is check and verify. This “hardware” firewall should be used in addition to the “software” firewall on your computer NOT as a substitute.

Visit http://www.brianalawayconsulting.com, for more tips on protecting your computer and avoiding unnecessary computer repair

About the Author:

Brian Alaway is the owner of Brian Alaway Consulting, your source for computer networking Tampa, Fl. Visit my Tampa Computers blog for tips on increasing computer security and productivity for you small business.

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com – Ten simple steps to avoid computer repair

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