Computer Maintenance: Antivirus/Firewall
Ok so now we can get a bit more technical. This step is not the easiest to become accustom to so I will try to keep it short and simple. If you are running Windows then odds are you already have a firewall (and a pretty good one) turned on. You just need to do a few things to make sure it’s running at it’s best.
First we need to make sure it’s on.
• Go to Start >> Control Panel
• Click Windows Firewall
• It will open up this screen for you. (This is the XP firewall, Vista or others may differ)
• The primary concern is that it is turned “On”. The rest is technical and no need to dive in there unless you know what you’re doing.
Next we need to make sure it’s up to date.
• Run Windows Update: Start >> Windows Update
• Run the recommended updates as often as possible to keep your system as fresh as it can be.
• **I recommend always having automatic updates turned on **
Now that the firewall is taken care of let’s talk about antivirus software. Antivirus software comes in all shapes in sizes. If you are serious about it, do your homework; find what works best for you. However, if you just need something simple I would recommend McAfee, AVG (free), or Norton. These seem to be the most popular and each offer a variety of services. I personally use the free AVG and it keeps me safe (as long as I am safe).
Word of advice… If you have someone that uses the PC to surf less reputable locations on the internet a very good antivirus software may be necessary. Too many locations out there put your PC at risk, so if you can avoid them please do, if not I understand, but be ready to pay the consequences. Some things to remember on the subject: Adult sites are dangerous for your PC, Social networking applications are dangerous for your PC, and random link clicking can get you in over your head with pop-up ads.
Being said, we may cover pop-up protection later (or if you want me to write me), but these days most browsers do that for you.
As always if you have any questions, comments, or need some help with a project like this please feel free to contact me any time.
Until next time!
~Geoff
