Computer Hygiene 101

1. Update, Update, Update!
Always keep your operating system and programs current.

Windows Update
http://v4.windowsupdate.microsoft.com/en/default.asp
- Turn on automatic updates if you have Windows XP
  Click the [Start] button;
  Right click [My Computer]
  Click [Properties] The System Properties Property Sheet will open.
  Click the [Automatic Updates] tab and
  Choose "Download updates automatically and notify me when they are ready to be installed."
  Click OK
  Then the next time you are notified tell the system to go ahead and install the updates.
Microsoft Office Update - Word, Access, Excel, Outlook, FrontPage, etc.
http://office.microsoft.com/OfficeUpdate/default.aspx
Run DCOMbobulator to disable a common exploit in Windows 2000 & XP
http://grc.com/dcom/

2. Run an up to date AntiVirus
The following are excellent and free for home use:

Avast! Antivirus http://www.avast.com/i_idt_153.html
Great at automatic updates
AVG Antivirus http://www.grisoft.com/us/us_dwnl_free.php
Only use one antivirus program and keep it up to date!

3. Run a hardware &/or software Firewall to keep hackers out.

Most consumer routers at least have a Network Address Translation (NAT) firewall built in but make sure it's turned on. Check your manual.
Windows XP has a firewall which is not turned on by default. Here's Microsoft's directions to turn it on.
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/pro/using/howto/networking/icf.asp
A better free firewall for home use is ZoneAlarm
http://www.zonelabs.com/store/content/company/products/znalm/freeDownload.jsp
Check your vulnerability with ShieldsUp! from Gibson Research
http://grc.com/default.htm

4. Prevent or remove SpyWare

SpywareBlaster - prevents installation of many spyware programs in the first place
http://www.javacoolsoftware.com/spywareblaster.html
Spybot Search & Destroy - eliminate spyware
http://www.safer-networking.org/index.php?page=download
AdAware - eliminate more spyware
http://www.lavasoftusa.com/software/adaware/
Don't click on anything that offers to modify your system or install a handy tool for you. It may or may not do what it says but it will probably do a lot more that it doesn't tell you about.

5. Avoid opening email attachments unless you are absolutely sure you were expecting it, even if it's from your closest friend.

6. Use a Popup blocker.

7. Backup your data!

7. Encrypt & password protect sensitive data

8. Contact me when you get into trouble.
-- Michael Anderson, certified CompTIA A⁺ & Network⁺ computer technician
[email protected]

Computer destroyed

Updated: 05/07/2004