January 1, 2012

Happy New Year!  What better way to start the new year than to make a few resolutions.  Here's a short list of things you can do to make your computer experience more enjoyable.

1.   Be more diligent when doing your email.
      A.  Don't use the preview pane when using your email program.
           Having the preview pane on is the same as opening an
           email.
       B.  Don't open any attachments, particularly if they are from
            someone you know unless you are completely sure it is safe
            to do.  Most viruses will get into someone's address book
            and send an infected file to everyone on their list.

2.   Be extremely careful on any of the social networking sites.  Make
      sure to watch any files or web sites you are referred to.

3.   Be extremely careful as to what web sites you visit.  Clicking on
      some links can be risky, but some java scripts can cause real
      havoc with your computer.

4.   Don't depend on spam and virus programs to fully protect your
      system.  There is no substitute for common sense.

5.   Backup, backup, backup, don't take the chance of not having
      your files and system backed up.  Use an imaging program
      to backup your system and backup data files daily.

6.   If purchasing items on the Internet, make sure you are on a
      secure site when giving out credit card or personal information.

7.   Make sure you are using antivirus software and make sure the
      virus definitions are up to date.

8.   Backup, backup, backup (see number 5).

I hope everyone had a Merry Christmas and also that you have a happy, prosperous, and trouble free computing new year.