It is my goal to make sure that your computer continues to run at it’s peak. It should be a tool to help you rather than a headache due to poor performance. To accomplish that goal you must pay attention to certain rules that will greatly diminish the chances of a problem arising in the future.
Rule #1: You are only as good as your last successful backup from which you can recover!
Realize that your computer is a complex machine that uses complex code to make things easy for you. Sometimes problems can occur even if you do everything right.
Use Firefox! Firefox is far safer than Internet Explorer since it is not deeply tied to the operating system. Only surf through Internet Explorer if you have a particular website that requires its use – and you trust the website fully.
Never open any email attachments that you do not absolutely trust. Just because the sender appears to be a friend does not mean the email is safe. Think about spoofed emails!
Never install software that you do not absolutely trust – if in doubt at all CALL ME or EMAIL ME! Just because a friend or co-worker says something is safe does not mean it is.
Security and safe-computing are layered much like your home security (locks, alarm, guns, neighborhood watch, etc).
You are behind a NAT router. Running over-bloated software such as Norton Internet Securities is asking for trouble actually. A software firewall (behind a NAT router) only helps you after you are exploited – when its too late.
You should run AVG for anti-virus and keep it updated – but you can still get a virus if you “ask for it.”
You are running OpenDNS through your router and network settings to help avoid malicious websites and make your internet connection slightly faster.
Common sense is the key – if you are in doubt then ask me.
Your computer should continue to run just as fast next year as it does today. However, if you install a lot of software than runs processes at start-up, it will slow down somewhat.
If you will follow this basic list, your computing experience will be much more fun and productive!