Computer Security: The Essential Components for A Safe Computer

These days, computers are almost as common in households as telephones. Computers themselves do not cause any threat to individual security. When connected with networks and the chaos that is the World Wide Web, computers have become the tools that identity thieves and hackers use to extrapolate this chaos. In order to establish computer security, software companies have created devices to ward off the hazards and hassles of viruses, spyware, pop-ups and spam.

The first of these creations is anti-virus software. There are two main companies that offer this software: McAfee and Norton. These programs work to scan the files on your computer and check them for attributes that are in viruses or are often linked with viruses. These traits or attributes are often called virus definitions and need to be downloaded on a relatively regular basis. In addition to the files on your computer, files on CDs, floppy discs and e-mails can and should be filed. There is no question on this one: anti-virus software is vital to computer security.

Next on the list is spyware scanning software. Spyware occurs when certain websites run programs in the back ground of your computer while gleaning information from it. The information can be as benign as tracking what type of websites you look at, to actually acquiring passwords. Regardless of the type of spyware, it can slow your computer to a crawl and needs to be removed from your computer. Two popular software options are Spy Sweeper and Ad-ware.

Last, but certainly not least are pop-up blockers and span filters. Not only are pop-ups and spam annoying, but these often contain the spyware scanning software explained above. In addition, they can slow your computer down incredibly. And when you are angry at your computer, your computer is not secure!

In addition to these software items, there are a few more tricks you can use to keep your computer and your information secure. Password secure everything you can, and when you create the passwords, don’t make them easy. Do not use your name, your birthday or your social security number. And, if you are on an unsecured wireless network, do not check your bank statements. These networks allow several people on them at one time. Remember, hackers are smart. You have to be smarter!

Two Dads: One Computer-maniac, the Other Computer-phobic

I have two Dads. That sounds strange doesn’t it? One is my genetic father, and the other is my geneticist father. The genetic Dad I’ve only ever lived with for one year when I was an infant, while the geneticist Dad is what you would call a step-father, but I’ve lived in close proximity with him for more than 20 years. I feel close to them both. I connect differently with each of them but on a pretty much equal level. The reason I’m sharing my personal information with you is because I’ve just had a realisation about my fathers in relation to the area that I work in: computers and the Internet. It’s really quite interesting.

One father is a computer maniac. Whenever a new technology, software, gadget, or website emerges he is one of the first to grab it up and evaluate it. My other father has an old piece-of-crap box that looks something like a computer, with a tediously slow dial-up connection to the World Wide Web. Compared to the wireless, broadband Mac personal computer and mobile-connected Mac laptop of the enthusiast, they couldn’t be from further parts of the galaxy.

Then there’s me. I could be construed as being a walking paradox, an enigma, or just plainly twisted when it comes to my relationship with the computer and Internet sphere of life. Nature/nurture, genetic/environmental…For whatever strange reason, I have turned out to be a combination of the two papas. I work as a creative writer for an Internet web-hosting company. I love the ideas and valuable functions and tools that the Internet has brought to humanity (or was it humanity that brought it to the Internet?). However, I have issues and challenges when it comes to using these awe-inspiring machines.

Currently I am away from home in a different city visiting my girlfriend. At home (I am currently living with my parents-Mother and geneticist, as I’m going to live overseas soon) all I have to do to get on the Internet is open up my laptop and I’m on-line. If I’m at work, I go to my PC and all of my settings are stored and ready for me to use. While in a new place, things haven’t been running as smoothly as I would’ve liked. The answers are probably simple and easy to do, but this is one of the kinds of challenges that cause me to stumble. Although I am deeply interested and have a true faith in this new technology, I am a real novice when it comes to getting things done on someone else’s computer.

I brought my laptop with me. My girlfriend only has a dial-up connection which she uses with her laptop. I could use hers’ but she’s Chinese so a lot of what comes up on the screen is illegible to me. I don’t know how to change her language configuration. I’m used to doing it quite easily on my Mac, but her computer is a PC and I’m not as practiced in this other format. That’s one of my problems. I only have so much patience when it comes to working these technological issues out; it could be a trait passed on by my ice-age father (No judgement is being laid here. He just doesn’t feel that he can work new technologies out. He’s had a digital telephone answering machine for two years which he still hasn’t set up. He feels bad about it but his manual one does the job, so he sticks with it.). I’m also a little afraid to hook my laptop up to her dial-up line as I know from experience that I’ll have to change some settings of which I am not confident about doing.

So the next answer was to go to her university where she said people use their laptops wirelessly in the library. That sounded cool so I went in and tried it out. I even tried changing the settings to get it to work (It took courage.) but I couldn’t get it to work. I was weary about asking for help because I wasn’t really a student at that particular learning establishment. Instead, I’ve been using the library’s computers. This is OK, but since I can’t walk away with the files I create (I borrowed my girlfriend’s thumb-drive but an experience from the past of not being able to transfer information from PC to Mac deters me from using it-again, an irrational fear. I know it, and I will give it a try this week. I’ve resorted to saving my files in my email account as attachments. It’s not conventional, but it works.

Another issue I’ve had is getting onto my messenger service. The university computers don’t have it on their desktop, and when I tried to download an on-line version I was told that I didn’t have the authority to do so. I went to an Internet café, and I could do work there (I’m working on the road) but I feel kind of silly paying to get paid. It was cool there though as they had messenger with voice and video and I was able to have a conversation with my brother who is travelling around India. He could see my sister and me, but we couldn’t see him as he said the Indian computer devices (webcams, headsets) in that town were looking a little bit crappy in design and also looked worse for wear. It was heaps of fun making funny faces knowing that he would be seeing us. I think he’s getting lonely as he’s only 19 years old and has been away from home for over 7 months.

As you can see I’ve inherited beliefs about computer from both of my Dads. I find things more difficult than most, I believe, but I’m not going to give up doing my best to get the things done that I feel are necessary. Over time I hope to get over these little obstacles and hurdles and become proficient in all of the cool aspects of this new realm of human endeavour. I also have faith that the technicians and engineers are probably working hard to make things simple for the rest of us.

Whatever happens, I’m going to stick with it, and when I go to see my genetic father next I’m going to do my best to inspire him to buy a new computer with a Broadband connection. Then all I have to do is show him a few of the amazing things that this human created Internet tool can do. One of the aspects of the Web that affects me most profoundly is the simple fact that if you think of anything at all in the known Universe, you can then look it up on your search engine like Google and in the time it takes to blink your eye, immediately start to learn. It sure beats catching the train to the library, looking up a book in the card catalogue, searching for it, then finding out that someone else has borrowed it and is late bringing it back.

Computer TV Software - Good, Bad and the Ugly of Computer Softwares

1. What are Computer TV softwares?

Computer TV softwares are programs that you download on the internet to be able to view satellite TV on your computer. The softwares are developed in such a way, that they bring together many free world satellite TV channels through the internet.

While there are some good-value-for-money TV softwares for computers, there are also others that do not work. There are some softwares that will only give you international TV stations and a few local free to air TV networks in the USA.

2. How to tell the good and the bad computer TV softwares

One sure way of telling legitimate software from counterfeit ones is to compare the number of channels they offer. Some of the best computer TV softwares offer over 3,000 TV channels including over 1000 radio tuner channels. You also need to decide why you want to buy the software. In some cases people expect to view pay-per-view TV channels from these softwares.

Well, its hardly possible to be able to watch, for free of charge, TV channels that others are paying dearly for. Don’t fall for that pitch even if it were put in a website marketing the satellite TV software. It's very hard to ride a Mercedes Benz at the cost of a Bicycle.

3. Common USA TV channels in online Television

However there are those F.T.A (Free-To-Air) news channels like FOX, CNN, CBS; ESPN-USA sports, Euro Sports and others that can be watched from the computer. These are the most available from the internet TV. In addition, there are many old classic movies and comedies like the Jefferson’s that are available for free.

Other TV programming available through the free online TV channels on your computer; are geographic, educational, shopping and extreme sports TV channels.

4. Knowing Satellite TV channels to expect from Computer Softwares

Another sure way of telling a good PC TV software from the bad ones is by reading other peoples experience with a particular software. Some softwares are suited for people living away from home while others are liked due to the different TV languages they are able broadcast.

5. Local language satellite TV channels offered

One of the popular brands of computer and laptop TV software has TV channels in 70 different languages including French Online TV, German Internet TV, and Russian online TV, Spanish TV, Bulgaria TV, Swedish online TV, Hispanic Online TV and many others.

6. The ugly side of PC TV computer softwares

The ugly and scam computer TV softwares tend to outdo themselves with their sales letter. You should always be able to stop and read between the lines. Most importantly, compare between different online TV on PC software websites before you buy.

Looking to Buy a Computer? Read Desktop Computer Buying Tips

Purchasing a home or business computer can be a big and sometimes costly decision. Whether you are buying a computer for personal or business use, choosing the right components can be a difficult task. So how do you ensure that you get exactly what you need?

This computer buying tips aims to help you make the right decisions when buying your next desktop computer or when upgrading your computer. To help you find the right mix, we've outlined some common user types, and what emphasis needs to be placed on the components in each situation.

Gaming PC

Computer games drive the computer hardware performance race. Nothing pushes a computer harder than a modern computer game, so if computer gaming is the main purpose of your PC, you will need high performance gear throughout. Specifically, you will need a fast CPU and motherboard combination, a fast video card and a large amount of system memory (RAM).

Office Use PC

Office type applications such as Microsoft Word, Excel and Internet Browsers are only moderate demanding, in fact, you can still use a 2 year old PC to do most of these tasks adequately. CPU and system memory are the focal point of an office PC. The CPU keeps thing ticking along nicely, and the system memory will allow you to have as many embedded images, and as many applications running simultaneously as you like.

Video Editing PC

Anyone with a digital video camera can use their PC as a semi professional editing studio. Video editing systems require a fast CPU, lots of system memory, decent video card, and as big and as fast a hard drive as you can afford.

Sound and Music PC

Maybe you just want to listen to music files from you favorite band. Then again, maybe you would like to create your own music, record and sequence your own tracks. The audio studio PC requires a similar focus on the video editing PC (CPU and system memory), but additional care will need to be taken when choosing the audio card. There are a whole range of professional level sound cards and these cards are significantly more advanced than common consumer level cards, however, they have a price to match. For amateur though, you don't need to be too concerned, you still have a great deal of fun using basic sound gear.

3D Graphic and Animation PC

These workstations cost a fortune, but produce amazing results that is with the right software. 3D graphic applications are normally scalable, meaning the faster the PC the faster the application will work, so a super CPU is a must. In addition to a fast CPU you will want a high end graphics card and lots of system memory.

International Computer Driving Licence (ICDL) - A Measure of Competence in Computer Skills

International Computer Driving Licence (ICDL) is a worldwide qualification which is used as a measure of competence in computer skills. It has become the standard qualification used for non-European countries. ICDL is open to anyone regardless of age, gender, education, experience or background and is designed to help people both at work and at home.

The ECDL Foundation is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to helping to raise the general level of computer skills in society and providing access for all to the Information Society. Over 5 million people in over 140 countries are ICDL candidates and 15 million tests have been administered to date.

In the United States, ICDL is used by schools and academic institutions, corporations, Workforce Investment Boards, and government economic development programs to help prepare individuals for success in a world where proficient use of information and communication technology is critically important.

ICDL has enabled significant organisations across many sectors to drive sustainable revenue growth and enhance differentiation and competitive advantage. ICDL provides evidence to clients of an organisation ability to deliver effectively and helps to reduce IT support costs.

ICDL is a highly effective and innovative model for education and training which helps to motivate staff and complements an organisation’s investment in people. ICDL helps provide proof of competency in the computer skills of potential employees.

The ICDL certification program focuses on a candidate’s knowledge of basic computer skills in seven key areas that are necessary for success in today's digital world: Basic Concepts of IT, File Management, Word Processing, Spreadsheets, Databases, Presentations, Communication and Information. Candidates who pass all seven module tests receive an ICDL Certification card, to be shown to prospective employers as an achievement of fundamental knowledge in all seven computer skill areas.

Testing can only be conducted at an Authorised Test Centre so if you would like to achieve the International Computer Driving Licence certification, all you need to do is look for an Approved ICDL Training Centre or an Approved ICDL Test Centre nearest to you.

Basic Computer Skills 101

What is the one thing, literally, standing in the way between you and online success? Your Computer!

The internet today offers fantastic opportunities for the average person but very often folks have a problem with one key aspect… their computer! They have limited knowledge of basic computer skills. They see the opportunity, but they don't know how to make things happen.

How do you copy and paste? How do you create a website? What is a downloadable file? What does upload mean? What is drag and drop? How can I install CGI Script? There are so many questions about computer operations that you really need to know!

Trying to start an online business without having a solid grasp of computer fundamentals is like trying to start a car with no gasoline. You're not going to get very far! It is absolutely imperative that you understand the basic knowledge about your computer!


So, where can you find this basic knowledge? There are numerous resources for folks who need to learn more about computers. The best one I've found is a Newbie Club that trains new computer users.

Of course, you can always ask me about the basics by sending me an email or chatting online. Please don't be shy if you don't know about computers! I have team members who ask me all kinds of Newbie questions, like, "Anne, I have a domain name, why do I need hosting?" (The answer is that a domain name needs to "sit" somewhere online and the hosting company supplies the chair or the place for it to sit).

But, please keep in mind, the objective of the Mentoring Program is to teach you how to be successful at Network Marketing. The more time you spend learning about computers, the more time I can devote to teaching you the advanced techniques that will help you grow your business that much quicker!

Your computer is the gateway to wealth and prosperity. If you take time to learn the skills and fundamental techniques needed, you won't have to struggle so hard with your business. With the right foundation, the skills you'll learn from me can be easily implemented, and you will find success in Network Marketing!

Secure Your Home PC from Invaders

How do I secure my Microsoft Windows home computer? By implementing the following guideline you will be increasing your computers security integrity making it harder for intruders to break in:

1. Anti-Virus. After installing your operating system or purchasing a new computer the first priority is to immediately install an anti-virus package to protect you when you first connect to the internet. You should choose a package that will automatically update itself on a daily basis or make sure you configure your chosen package to update its virus definitions at a specific time when it is connected to the internet.

2. Patch The Operating System. Once you have your anti-virus installed you can connect to the internet and click on your Update Windows icon which will take you through the process of downloading and installing the latest system patches. Also, make sure that the downloading and installing of important updates is set to automatic.

3. Firewall Defence. Microsoft Windows has a built in basic Firewall but it is always advisable to install a third party Firewall as this will prevent any unrecognised outbound connections or buy a router which has a built in Firewall for the ultimate first line of defence protection.

4. Spyware Protection. Make sure that you have a memory resident Spyware application which monitors any changes that are being made to the registry or Internet Explorer. These tend not to be included in the free Spyware programs available and some of the freeware programs actually contain Spyware. By purchasing a brand named Spyware package you will get a more advanced software package which include the memory resident program and does not contain any Spyware. Configure the Spyware program to automatically download any new updates and allow it to scan your hard drive at least once a week to pick up any malicious code for you to remove.

5. Email Spam. Be sure to set up an email spam filter on your email account. This is a fairly simple process and there will usually be a help icon which will guide you through the process. Basically you will be blocking all email coming into your inbox until you apply a rule that allows only emails that you define as being safe of from know contacts, anything else is sent to the junkbox. You will have to be careful as if you are awaiting an email from a new contact, the email will be sent to your junkbox. You will have to find that email and add it to your safe contacts list and in the future it will arrive in your inbox. DO NOT OPEN ANY SPAMMED EMAILS OR ATTACHMENTS AS THIS WILL INDICATE THAT YOUR EMAIL ADDRES IS VALID AND / OR IT CAN CONTAIN A VIRUS.

6. Wireless Security. If you have a wireless home network then make sure you have wireless encryption enabled preventing any unauthorised connections to your network or internet.

7. Downloading Software or Music. If you download software applications using a Peer to Peer networking program like Limewire or Kazaa then be careful as some of the files can contain viruses or spyware.

8. Backup, Backup, Backup! Purchase an external hard drive as this can be used to backup all your music, video and picture files, just in case your PC becomes infected with a virus and crashes the operating system and you need to re-install Windows. You can the view all of you files without loosing them.

9. Encryption. If you keep sensitive data on your PC then applying encryption to these files makes it hard for someone to view the contents.

10. Passwords. Try to use a password which is not a commonly used name but one that is unique, either by adding uppercase characters and numbers to the word, which strengthens the passwords encryption.