Computer Security

This section of our site gives some basic explanation of how to keep your computer safe and how to fix it if things go wrong. It by no means, covers everything you need to know or should do.

Safety check list

Have you installed and configured a firewall?
Have you run Windows Update?
Have you installed anti-virus software?
Are your anti-virus signatures up-to-date?
Have you installed anti-spyware software?
Have you done everything to prevent the installation of malware?

Slow Computers

Slow computers can be caused by a variety of problems:

You have too many programs starting when the computer starts.
Your anti-virus or anti-spyware software is running a scan.
Badly fragmented hard disk.
The computer is infected with viruses and spyware.

What to do if you're having problems

Whilst carrying out the following, make a note of all messages you receive and of any changes you make.

Make sure your firewall is working.
Update your antivirus signatures.
Update your anti spyware programs. If there is a newer version available, download that.
Re-start your computer in Safe Mode (Press either escape or F8 when you get the message "Windows is starting') and do the following:
- Run an antivirus scan.
- Run a spyware removal tool.
Make a note of all problems reported. Follow the instructions given by the program. If there is anything you're not sure about, quarantine it rather than delete it.
If you still have problems, check the programs you have installed by opening the Control Panel and Add/Remove programs. Check the list for anything that should not be there.
Check which programs being started when you switch on your computer.

Mac Users

Apologies. I'm not a Mac user so most of the info here is for Windows users, but you can get more info on security at http://www.securemac.com/macosxnetbarrier.php

Disclaimer

The information in the security section of this web site is believed to be accurate at the time of publishing based on currently available information. (February 2007) There are no warranties with regard to this information. We do not accept any liability for any direct, indirect, or consequential loss or damage arising from use of, or reliance on, this information. All registered and unregistered trademarks represented in these documents are the sole property of their respective companies/owners.

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Safety check list | Slow Computers | Computer Problems | Mac Users | Disclaimer