Keep Your PC Virus Free For Good!

admin — Thu, 19 Aug 2010 06:47:35 +0000

Viruses or malware are not just the most common, but also the most dangerous threat that your computer faces on a day to day basis. Nothing else in the world of computers can harm your system as seriously or as constantly as a virus attack. While most viruses slow down your system, cause hang ups and generally make your system misbehave, they have also been known to cause hard disk crashes while spy ware has been instrumental in almost all online fraud and money related scams.

Protecting your computer from viruses can not only save your data, it can also save you a lot of money…which could either be lost to fraudsters and identity thieves or as your computer technician’s fees. You can easily guard your computer against viruses simply by being a little prudent and cautious.
Some simple steps that you can follow to keep your computer virus free for a long long time are:
Be Current: Having your software updated, especially your operating system and anti virus program, goes a long way in keeping you safe from viruses. Since new malware is created and distributed every day, your anti virus program amounts to nothing if it is not updated daily.

Scan Your Hard Disk All The Time: Running a full scan of your computer is not possible every other day, since it takes a long time. However, you should try and run a full scan almost every week. This will generally clean out weak viruses that generally slow down your system. At times, you may also catch a big fish! If you suspect you are already infected, then quickly update your anti virus software and run a scan before you shut down your system. This is important because most well written viruses become immune to scans once you shut down and restart your operating system.

Scan Some More: With most of us using flash drives and external hard disk drives almost all the time, the chances of getting infected are very high. Every time you use someone else’s external drive on your computer, scan it with your antivirus. Make sure that every file you open or install is first checked by your anti virus program. As a corollary, scan your own external hard disks and flash drives after they have been plugged into someone else’s system.

Stay Walled In: All common operating systems ranging from Windows to Macintosh have built in firewalls that protect your computer from invasion. If you have an internet enabled computer, it is essential to keep your firewall turned on at all times to prevent being invaded within minutes. At the same time, it is a good idea to turn off the internet if you are not using it since many persistent viruses keep trying to break through your firewall and some eventually succeed.

Don’t Open Email Attachments: The last celebrity, well known and highly damaging virus, the I Love You worm, distributed itself through email. While all of us are tempted to open email attachments that say—“ Must Watch Angelina Jolie, Never Before Released Pics” or “Paris Hilton Sex Video”, the prudent course of action here is to delete the email from your inbox and then from your trash. Even if these emails are from a source you trust, remember that most viruses today send themselves through email automatically, so delete or at least scan before opening any attachment that comes with a .exe, .com or .vbt extension . Your source will not even know that he has sent you a virus through email. Other things to stay away from are Nigerians promising to share half of their fortune with you, Google and AOL promising to give you $20 for each email forward that you send and any other mails with “ too good to be true” text or attachments. While all of them may not be viruses, many of them are phishing scams you should stay away from.

Stop Using Freeware And Shareware: There are thousands of viruses disguised as good freeware programs that are making the rounds on the internet. Do not be surprised if a free anti virus program that you downloaded from just any site turns out to be a virus that crashes your hard disk. Similarly, downloading through peer to peer applications like Limewire, Bittorrent, Frostwire, Cabos and Kazaa is another way of welcoming viruses into your system. Similarly free music and movie downloads, free porn and free games may often turn out to be viruses, and should be avoided at all costs if you want to remain virus free.

Stop Clicking On Everything: Links on social networking sites often turn out to lead to viruses. Another way through which these malware programs enter your system is through SEO attacks. These programs change search engine result links in a way that redirects users to sites that are virus hubs. Clicking on pop up ads, links on questionable sites and on Facebook, Twitter and Orkut can often invite viruses into your system.
Switch From Windows: If you are using a version of Windows as your operating system, then you are most vulnerable to virus attacks, not because there is anything wrong with Windows as such, but being the most popular operating system in use makes it the most attractive target for virus creators. It is no fun laboring on a virus that can affect only a small number of users when you can create one that will wreak major havoc. Using a Linux or a Macintosh operating system greatly reduces your chances of getting infected to almost nil.

Remember, all these above tips are applicable only when you have a good quality, updated anti virus program already installed on your computer. If you cannot afford to buy one right now, then check out our list of the best free anti virus downloads on How To Make Your PC Virus Free For Free. By adhering to all the rules given above, you can ensure that your computer remains virus free forever.

Classifying Different Kinds of RAM

admin — Sun, 15 Aug 2010 04:05:21 +0000

I bet you often hear the term “RAM” when talks about computers arise. Well, if you have not the slightest idea of what it is, RAM is the accelerator of your PC. The computer depends on the RAM on how fast and how strong your computer will perform in every process. It is the RAM that acquires all functions and carries it out. The way your media player’s visualization goes, the speed of the games you play, and the open/close of the windows you access all depend on the RAM’s performance. To make it short, RAM is vital.

RAM has different kinds. Here are the types of RAM in chronological order:

• SD RAM – This stands for single data RAM. This is the oldest type of RAM. Most of these have gone obsolete and/or broken. Since the appearance of DDRs (double data rate), these have fled from the scene. Now that these are talks of the past, this should never be your least of concerns.

• DDR2 RAM – This stands for Double Data Rate 2 RAM. This has better speed, better performance, and better everything compared to SD RAM. This is still out in the market. Some computers still run on this type of memory. If you are a bit short on budget, then this option may be viable. Although saving up for a DDR3 will be much better.

• DDR3 RAM – This stands for Double Data Rate 3 RAM. This is the latest development of RAM. This is the fastest and strongest hardware that can perform a lot of tasks. If you are to have your first computer in a few weeks or so, you should avail of this as your RAM. That way, you become up-to-date with technology and thus will not experience setbacks from different software’s minimum system requirements for quite some time.

How to Choose a Barcode Scanner

admin — Sat, 14 Aug 2010 14:03:44 +0000

In buying a barcode scanner, it is important to check first a few factors before buying the item right away. Here is a quick rundown of the characteristics you should check before purchasing a scanner:

• Scan Range – This is simply a choice between linear imagers or laser ones. Basically, it will be better to choose linear if the image’s distance is below 18 inches. If it goes the other way around, pick laser.

• Barcode Types – Most scanners have a general ability to scan certain types of barcodes. This is usually comprised of Codes 39 and 128 along with EAN/UPC. The latest linear image scanners have the best output in codes with higher densities in X-dimensions from 2 to 5 mil and between 10 to 20 mil up to 8 inches of barcode width.

• Environment – You should pick a scanner with a standard ABS plastic casing if you plan to use it only in retail application. But if you plan to use the scanner for warehouse applications, better get a harder casing which is more durable.

• Computer Screen Barcodes – Linear imagers are better options if you plan to scan more barcodes from the monitor rather than having these printed out.

• Performance – Of course the performance is the main factor for your judgment. This is the overall result of how the scanner functions. Here you judge the scanning zone, the range, and the neatness of the scanner’s job. Linear imagers are most suitable for flat surfaces, as these scan when the scanner’s nose detects the code. Some of these may scan within 2 inches, while some can go up to 18 inches.

These are the factors that one must check before making a purchase of barcode scanners. Be sure to consult this short list before making any purchases.

Choosing the Best CD-R

admin — Sat, 14 Aug 2010 08:02:24 +0000

CD-Rs are vital nowadays that technology has become more and more advanced. But many CDs fail to be excellent in performing its job. There are cases of errors during recording or opening the recorded files; but it is worse when you know not just the money you have wasted, but also the data, time, and effort you have put in it.

Most often, such errors are caused by poor quality of the CD-Rs you acquire. Substandard procedure of manufacturing and low-quality anti-scratch coating is usually the case. Some CDs are even imbalanced that damages not only the disc itself but also the player/recorder.

This is enough reason for you to think about the CD-R you would buy. By now, you should realize that getting substandard CDs have the risk to be potentially dangerous to your system, particularly to your CD/DVD-RW drive. For sure, a new disk drive is more expensive than buying quality CDs right? So make it a habit to invest in quality and reliable CD-R brands such as JVC, Memorex, Everest, MPO, Taiyo Yuden, etc.

Moreover, you should consider the burning speed of your drive. The speed of the drive should match the speed capability of the disk. Take this as an example; a disk drive that has the capability to do up to 52-x should have a disk that can withstand the same capability. It’s as simple as that.

The labeling method should also be checked. Buy CDs that have blank faces if you have direct-to-CD type. Additionally, there are CDs that are made for other types of printing like thermal printing. Consider this factor.

For storage, place CDs in individual cases if you need them individually and you have to access them more often. But if you have more general CDs such as CDs of mp3s and movies, then getting a spindle will save money and space.

Making Printer Cartridges Eco-Friendly

admin — Sat, 14 Aug 2010 04:02:00 +0000

Amidst these days of climate change, people have been brought to a state of awareness that the environment should be taken care of. It is about time that we move to a period of where we are environmentally aware of the consequences of our actions. This is why that even in the computer industry, manufacturers have started to become eco-friendly.
Printers fail to execute printing jobs when the toner level is lower than the operating level. The cartridge, however, will contain residues that may not be toxic, but is still considered to be a pollutant.

As there is still quite a huge number of computer users and owners who utilize printer cartridges, organizations and groups have risen and took on the liberty of providing people ways on how the printer cartridges can help preserve the environment. These groups are very helpful not only in saving mother earth but also in helping you save a lot of money.

You can make your printer cartridge eco-friendly too. One way of doing so is by purchasing compatible or recycled printer cartridges. This is very affordable if you will compare it to branded cartridges. You can buy such cartridges via the internet. However, if you wish, you may opt to buy from your manufacturers. Branded cartridges are of assured quality and printing will definitely be a lot better. Examples of brands that supply cartridges are HP, Dell, Lexmark, Epson, Brother, Canon, and other brands in the market.

If you are worrying about the safety of your printer with regards to recycled cartridges, then worry no more. Regardless of your manufacturer’s warning of reusing cartridges, your printer is actually safe even with recycled cartridges. That is, if the cartridge you got is perfectly compatible to your printer model. That way, you are guaranteed that the printer is safe.

The Key to Avoiding Data Loss

admin — Fri, 13 Aug 2010 03:51:19 +0000

Data loss can be a very drastic experience for computer users. Sometimes, the data is just too vital to let go. Sometimes, the data is something you need at the moment. But since those data are gone, you have no option but to start all over again.

Preventing this is always possible. The key to avoiding data loss is creating backups. If you have a lot of data, especially essential data, back it up. Creating backups avoid the grave consequences you can get from data loss.

There is a lot of ways that you can backup your files:

• Hardware Backup

This is the usual option for people in backing up data. Get a data storage device, be it an external drive, a USB, a reserve hard disk drive, a compact disk, a DVD, or whatever. All of this can help you in avoiding data loss. Connect the data storage device to your system. After doing so, select all the data you think you need. Emphasis on the word ‘need’ there. In backing up your data, it is important that you prioritize vital files over what you want to save. Once you have copied these files into your storage device, a USB for example, remove the device properly. Again, emphasis on the word ‘properly’. Learn that removing the device improperly may corrupt the data and even your device. Store your device away in a safe place. If ever you have new files to backup, access the device again and repeat the process.

• Online Backup

This is a new trend in getting backup data. One ingenious way of doing online backup is by using emails. You can attach files to your email, right? You can do the same. Attach files and save as a draft. Come the event that you need the file, simply download it.

Options in Boosting Computer Performance

admin — Thu, 12 Aug 2010 12:48:55 +0000

The longer you use your computer, the more data you put inside it. This in turn will have its setback of slowing down your system’s processes. A computer can be compared to a hiker. When the hiker has its normal load, he climbs the mountain in his optimal speed. But if you load up the hiker’s gear again and again, he will slow down eventually. Same way with the computer which is why cleaning it up is a must.

Now there are two possible options in boosting the computer’s performance. One is maintenance, the other is upgrading.

Maintenance can be done either by manually checking the registry and cleaning it or by using software to do the job for you. Getting software for the job is pretty much self-explanatory so I will dwell to the manual method. Open Start Menu, click Run, and then type in ‘regedit’. This will open up a window that is called the Registry Editor. This is where all data connected to your operating system is stored. If the data here are deleted, the affected software will malfunction and won’t function anymore. This is a very vital part of Windows. In the event that you delete important files from your system, you may have to reformat your PC. If you are inexperienced with this type of action, use software instead.

Upgrading is replacing some parts of your computer to make it perform faster. You can upgrade some parts of your unit but not your hard drive. Your hard disk drive contains all data, even your operating system. So, replacing it means starting all over from scratch. Replace your RAM, your processor, your motherboard, and video card. That shall do the trick.

Boosting your computer’s performance is easy. It is all but a matter of your decision whether to upgrade or to maintain. The best way though is by intertwining both methods.

Dealing with Lost Files: Ext-2 Linux Systems

admin — Thu, 12 Aug 2010 03:47:07 +0000

For people with Linux systems, some files disappear after a power outage. If you are experiencing this, then there are many possible reasons for it. Here is a list of possible causes for such problems:

• A virus has infected your system and caused the loss of data.
• The logical drives may have been deleted unintentionally.
• The operating system’s current version may have bugs.
• The partition became corrupted and/or damaged.

Assuming that you are running on a system with an ext-2 file system, a power outage occurred and some files were lost afterwards. What do you do now? Here’s what to do:

1. Use the debugfs tool. This is one useful process in Linux to recover lost data. Type /sbin/debugfs device. The word ‘device’ should be your file system.
2. Enter lsdel in the prompt of debugfs. A list will appear stating all the deleted files in your system.
3. Select the files you wish to be recovered.
4. Write the file in a new file name by entering the command ‘dump filename’. The ‘filename’ is the name of the deleted file.
5. Repeat process until you are satisfied and/or all files you want have been recovered.
6. To exit the debugfs prompt, type ‘q’ then enter.

Another tool you can use is the e2undel method. This has a better looking interface and contains more options during data recovery. In order to utilize this, you will have to key in the following command:
e2undel -d device -s path [-a] [-t]

In the event that these tools fail to do the trick, then you will need to use third party ext2 recovery software. These tools will be of great help in recovering deleted files. You may also opt to seek the help of a professional programmer or technician to help you with your dilemma.

5 Best Free Anti Spyware Programs To Keep Your Computer Safe

admin — Tue, 10 Aug 2010 13:00:30 +0000

Apart from viruses as we know them, another major threat to all computer users today are spyware programs. Not only do spyware programs keep spying on you and your computer usage, sending back information about your internet usage without your information, but these programs have also been instrumental in many internet scams. By invading your online privacy and sending information about you to their creator, spyware programs make you vulnerable to not just more malware and irritating pop ups on your computer, but also to serious dangers like financial losses and scams.

If you are already using a heavy duty antivirus program like Norton, AVG or McAfee
( Mind you, the paid versions), then in all probability, you and your computer are suitably covered. On the other hand, in spite of having these programs in place, it is never a bad idea to have an updated anti spyware program on your system. If you are on the lookout for a light and free antispyware program, then some of the best ones available for free download on the internet are listed below. The best part about these programs is that they are light on your computer and easy to use for the technologically challenged.

Spybot Search and Destroy: If running and using complicated software programs is not your specialty, then Spybot Search and Destroy is the anti-spyware for you. Simple and easy to use and light on memory, this is perfect for those who have a basic home based system.

MalwareBytes: One of the most popular free anti spyware downloads, MalwareBytes specializes in scanning for and cleaning up the latest spyware programs on the internet. However, since a lot of people say that it is not the best cookie tracker, you might want to use it along with another free anti spyware like Spybot or SpywareBlaster etcetera.

Damage Cleanup Engine: This download is recommended because it is good at removing spyware and tracking cookies that have already invaded your disk space and memory. Damage Cleanup Engine removes spyware from your hard disk drives and also cleans up your registry and system files as well.

SpywareBlaster: Spyware blaster runs on Windows and provides browser protection to prevent the installation of unwanted software programs like ActiveX-based adware, spyware, browser hijackers and dialers. It also blocks tracking cookies in both IE and Mozilla Firefox.

SuperAntiSpyware: Another free anti-spyware that is simple to use let lethal to malware. The program has built its credibility on its ability to scan and remove even major threats quickly and easily. Its fans swear by the fact that it often catches infections that other programs miss.

Make sure that you download your free anti spyware only from the source or the website of the creator in order to avoid viruses posing as antivirus/malware/spyware programs. Stay Safe!

Fast Forward To Faster Internet Speeds

admin — Tue, 10 Aug 2010 06:01:48 +0000

If you are plagued with a slow bandwidth connection, and if you have a Windows operating system, then there is a simple method by which you increase your internet speed by 20%. This is because almost all newer versions of Windows hold back 20% of the available bandwidth on a computer for updating Windows programs and checking for spyware etcetera. What this means is that you get to use only 80% of your available bandwidth, which turns out to be a major pain if you are already working on a low bandwidth internet connection.

However, if you want to increase the speed of your internet connection by 20%, you can do so by following these steps:

Click on Start, go to Run and Type gpedit.msc, click on OK
Click on Administrative Templates folder in left partition of the dialog box that opens
Click on Network folder in the right pane of the dialog box
Open Qos Packet Scheduler
Select Limit Reservable Bandwidth
Enable the option and set 0% as Bandwidth Limit
Click on Apply to close dialog box
Restart your computer

Once you free up the bandwidth that was earlier reserved by your Windows operating system, you will be able to see a remarkable change in the speed of your internet connection. And why shouldn’t it be, after all you now have 20% more bandwidth available for your work.

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