Microsoft and TLC Agree

Here is the concluding part of the latest Microsoft Security Blog (17 May 2012). In it, Tim Rains, Director, Trustworthy Computing, issues a Call to Action:

• If you are still running systems with Windows XP SP2 or Windows Vista SP1 in your environment, you need to install the latest service pack on these systems immediately as they are no longer automatically receiving security updates from Microsoft.

As part of a TLC Full Service, we check that the latest Microsoft Updates are installed.

• Enforce a strong password policy in your environment.  … Conficker is using a hardcoded list of ridiculously simple passwords, that hasn’t changed in years, to attack enterprise systems and continues to be successful using this tactic.  If an old automated threat like Conficker can do this, determined adversaries targeting your organization can do this too without using any “advanced” techniques.

TLC Computer Servicing has been advising people to use Strong Passwords for some time now. (A Strong Password is a combination of upper- and lower-case letters, numbers, and symbols.)

• Deploy security updates for all software you have in your environment in a timely manner; this includes all software from all vendors, not just Windows operating systems.

A key part of a TLC Full Service is a software security update check. Popular software that has been targeted by viruses is updated. A full software update check is an optional extra.

• Use anti-malware software from a reputable vendor and keep it up to date.

A TLC Full Service includes making sure your security software is up-to-date.

• Use newer versions of software and newer service packs where possible to get the security benefits of the latest development practices, tools and security mitigations.

A TLC Full Service focuses on making sure you can use your computer securely and safely. Additional advice on using the internet safely is available.

We constantly update our knowledge and understanding of threats, and we implement best practice in the computer service industry - TLC with iron determination!

Preparing for a New Computer

Introduction
Getting a replacement computer is an exciting time, especially if you are looking forward to the new features of the latest operating system.

I regularly help people migrate  to a new one. But it is not always as pleasant an experience as it ought to be - for me as well as for the customer. So I’m sharing some thoughts this month on how to make the process as hassle-free as possible.

Background
A lot of people are now making the decision to move to Windows 7. Microsoft has said that after April 2014 there will be no more support for Windows XP. That means there will be no more updates, which means that XP will increasingly become a security risk.

A little known fact is that Microsoft has already withdrawn support for Vista Service Pack 1, so the pressure is on to keep up-to-date (Vista Service Pack 2 has been around for a while), and to consider the move to Windows 7.

Upgrade Advisor

Microsoft helpfully provides an Upgrade Advisor. It checks whether your existing hardware and software can cope with Windows 7.

Some components inside your PC and some hardware that you attach to it may not be compatible with Windows 7. That is where the Upgrade Advisor can help. In addition, if you have bought a branded PC (e.g., Dell, Packard Bell), the company website may have guidance on the possibility (or otherwise) of an upgrade for your model.

Some printers, for example, are not supported by Windows 7, so a trip to buy a new one may be required. It is worth checking to see if all your peripherals are compatible. Company websites ought to be helpful.

Moving to Windows 7 with your Existing PC

Vista to Windows 7 is the easiest move, as it is officially an upgrade, so that all your files and programs remain on your PC for the move to Windows 7 (although a full backup of your data files is advisable – just in case).

XP to Windows 7 requires a full reinstall, which means that all your files and programs will be wiped as part of the process. You have been warned!

Getting a New Windows 7 Computer

If you have decided to get a new Windows 7 PC, there are some preparations you should make.

First, it is strongly advised that all data files (e.g., documents, pictures, music) are safely backed up to a source external to the current PC (e.g., USB memory stick, external hard drive).

Second, find the disks for the important programs you want reinstalling. Many programs come with a product key that has to be entered when the software is installed. The product key is almost more important than the disk with the program on it.

This is where it can become difficult, as I have had many confessions that “a friend put that program on for me, as a favour, you know.” Well, it may have been a kindly act, but without ownership of the product key, you have an illegal copy.

Third, email: people who use Outlook Express (OE) on Windows XP are going to have to get used to a different program, as OE no longer exists. It is possible to move OE files to a new program, but there are known problems, and it is not always a smooth transition.

Before making the transition to a new PC, it is worth considering the merits of using webmail, instead of a dedicated program such as OE, or Microsoft Outlook, or Mozilla Thunderbird.

Webmail means going to a website to get you emails – such as provided by  Hotmail or Yahoo, or your Internet Service Provider (e.g., Virgin Media, BT, Sky). Webmail means that your emails and contacts are stored on someone else’s computer, which is likely to have better security and maintenance than yours (no disrespect, but let’s get real here!).

If you can get used to webmail before you make the transition, life will be a lot simpler for all concerned.

However, one word of caution – do you know your email password? You will need it to set up a new account with your preferred email program, or to log on to your webmail. Without it, no email! If you totally fail to remember or find it, your internet service or email service provider should be able to help.

Transferring Precious Files and Settings

Microsoft helpfully provides software that makes the transfer of data files and other settings relatively painless. However, it can be time-consuming, depending on how much you keep stored on your PC.

Final Thoughts

All in all, there is plenty to think about and to plan for in getting a new PC. A good service engineer will gather all the necessary information (including passwords!) and do the transfer for you. He/She should set up the new machine and should help you familiarise yourself with the new operating system and any new software items. Well, that’s what I do anyway – it seems only right.

A new PC should be a joy, so it is well worth the time to prepare for the arrival – with help from your friendly local PC service engineer.