TLC Computer Servicing

Disaster Recovery

2011-02-10T03:45:00.000-08:00

Do you have a disaster recovery plan? For when your computer fails? And you think you've lost all your precious data files? If the answer is Yes, brilliant! If the answer is No, keep reading.

I am having a disaster! It started on Sunday when my computer told me that files in the Windows startup area were either missing or corrupted. I went all hot and cold! And then I put my Disaster Recovery plan (such as it is) into action. Now read on!

My data files had been backed up only the day before, and I'm usually careful about doing a regular backup. But I need a plan set in stone, never to be deviated from.

So, Learning Point 1: do backups on a particular day at a particular time.

But what to back up? My list has:

Internet Explorer/Firefox Favorites/Bookmarks
MozBackup for Firefox and Thunderbird backups
use the export function on my Diary and Address Book (I use Palm Desktop because I have a Palm Pilot that I sync with Palm Desktop)
use the Backup function in Outlook (which I use for my business emails)

All the above backups go to a separate internal hard drive, where I also store all my data files, both personal and business.

use SyncToy to backup my internal data hard rive to an external hard drive. (SyncToy is a free Microsoft program)

Learning Point 2: Regularly review what is backed up and where.

So, seems pretty organised, eh? Yes, but the panic still set in. There are hardware problems to sort out now. What happened next? Watch this space for updates on the process.

Key Programs to Keep Up-to-date

2010-11-16T08:39:00.000-08:00

The main reason software producers provide updates is to plug security holes in their software. That is especially true of those programs nearly all of us have in our systems. If I were a creator of malicious and destructive viruses, I'd want to go for maximum impact, so I'd choose a program or operating system that is most used. (That's the reason Apple Macs have not been attacked by viruses, not because their operating system is "better" than any other, it's just not used by a significant number of people to be of interest to the virus creators.)

For example, Adobe Reader (the free version) has been the subject of a number of security updates recently, simply because nearly all of us use it to access pdf files and the virus makers found a security hole in earlier versions.

So, which are the programs we should all regularly make sure are up-to-date? Here are some suggestions:

Adobe Reader (as mentioned above)
Adobe Flash Player - because we all use it for the moving image bits of websites
Java Runtime Environment - it sits there doing nothing most of the time, but occasionally other programs require it, and it is the only form of Java freely available
Apple iTunes (and other Apple software) - especially in households with teenagers, as it is the place for downloading, storing, and playing music
Any popular web browser other than Microsoft Internet Explorer, e.g., Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome
Any non-Microsoft program you use to send and receive emails, e.g., Mozilla Thunderbird

And of course: Windows!

As other programs spring to mind, I will be adding to this post. Suggestions also welcome.

"How do I make sure my software is up-to-date?" I hear you cry! The answer to that question will be the subject of a separate post. Watch this space!

Windows XP

2010-11-16T08:35:00.000-08:00

Windows XP has been the most successful operating system ever! But some good things have to come to an end. As of now, there will be no new sales of Windows XP. However, Microsoft will continue to provide updates till April 2014. Their argument is that will give us all enough time to plan the migration to Windows 7.

Internet Safety

2010-10-07T08:05:00.000-07:00

In the USA, it's National Cyber Security Awareness Month.

For a variety of checklists - depending on who you are - go to:

http://www.defeatingthehacker.com/securitysavvy/freestuff.html

Some of the finest safety advice you'll ever get!

Sound Advice for Backups

2010-09-27T08:52:00.000-07:00

This excellent advice comes with acknowledgments to Gizmo's Freeware at:

http://www.techsupportalert.com/

"If you're backing up to an external USB drive that's connected to your main PC, a disaster such as a fire, flood or theft could easily deprive you of both your main machine and the backup.

"When you're planning a backup regime, choice of software isn't as important as choice of storage location. Off-site, or at least a drive that you take away from your house (or small-business office) once the backup is complete, is always the way to go."

Free Security Software for Small Businesses

2010-09-25T01:57:00.000-07:00

Microsoft is making available free security software. And it's a good product.
Microsoft Security Essentials (MSE) is getting rave reviews, so if you have 10 or fewer work stations in your business, I would advise you to consider installing MSE next time you are nagged to pay to renew your existing software.

For the full story, go to:

http://tinyurl.com/2w2o57p

Microsoft Fix It Center

2010-04-21T07:13:00.000-07:00

Microsoft is offering us the chance to beta test an "automated troubleshooter for your PC."

It's free, and certainly worth a look:

http://fixitcenter.support.microsoft.com/Portal

If your problem is not shown, there is the "Microsoft Fix It Center Online" to consult.

A word of warning: don't expect it to solve everything! Your PC has to be "working" to be able to use the facility, and preferably able to access the internet. So, there will still be a need for people like me. Phew!

In Praise of Chkdsk

2010-04-19T00:34:00.000-07:00

Sometimes, life can teach a salutary lesson. So, let me tell you a story.

I was testing some free disk imaging software (more on that later). The first attempt to run the software resulted in an error message from the software. Slightly grumpily, I put the error message details into Google. To my surprise, the message was telling me that there was some thing wrong with the hard disk.

After a moment's panic - well you would, wouldn't you! - I followed the advice offered, and ran Chkdsk.

Chkdsk is part of Windows XP, Vista, and 7. Basically, it scans the hard disk for errors, and tries to correct them. It has been the saviour of many a computer on my workbench.

I ran Chkdsk, and immediately it found some errors to correct. Affter the first run, I did it again, and this time it found nothing to correct.

The moral of the tale is: run Chkdsk regularly. I include it when I service customers' PCs, but had failed to do it on my trusty home machine.

The only problem with Chkdsk is that if Windows won't work, you can't get at it! But there are ways round that, and knowing how has also saved many a broken computer.

Where do I find and use Chkdsk, do I hear you cry? Well, it varies according to which version of Windows you're using. The best thing would be to Google "How to use Chkdsk in Windows x", replacing x with the version of Windows you've got (i.e., XP, Vista, 7). If that doesn't work, please get in touch and I'll try to advise you.

Good luck! It can take some time to do the scan, so be patient. But the knowledge of knowing that errors have been found and corrected is very reassuring, as I know only too well.

Keeping Children Safe on the Internet

2010-04-07T07:29:00.001-07:00

It's a common worry among parents: "How can I make sure that my children don't go to inappropriate sites?"

There are ways to restrict access to some websites; some ways of doing it are more selective than others. If you have a router attached to your modem, there are ways to restrict access to all users of your home or business network - please see my earlier piece on using OpenDNS for your Domain Name Server.

For individual computers, a program like NetNanny is a powerful way of controlling access for individual computers.

There is an other way, but it involves making some changes to the Hosts file. Basically, you enter the web address of the sites you want to block, and the Hosts file does the rest. It's a bit fiddly to do, and I won't go into details here, but I'm grateful to a piece in MicroMart magazine (Issue 1100, 1-7 April 2010: in the "Ask Jason" section) for the information.

If you'd like to know how to modify the Hosts file, get in touch and I'll send you the details.

Jason in the same article points out - wisely, in my opinion - that the best way to keep youngsters safe on the Internet is to educate them into safe ways, of surfing and communicating. Schools are beginning to do that, and parents and carers can help. After all, they're going to want to experiment (we all did in our various pre-internet ways!), so let's guide them into safe habits.

Sermon over!

Which Internet Browser Should I Use?

2010-04-02T09:18:00.000-07:00

At the moment, there is an embarrassment of riches where internet browsers are concerned. Are they all the same, or are there significant differences? Is there any point, for example, in having separate browsers for particular purposes?

This issue has come to the forefront recently because Microsoft has been forced by the EU to make us aware that there are browsers other than Internet Explorer. IE has suffered from the attention of hackers because it is everywhere present, because it is part of Windows, so some other browsers may be safer and less open to attack from hackers and viruses.

The main point is that we do have choices. Some recent reviews of the range of browsers have been helpful in pointing out some crucial differences. The current received wisdom seems to be:

1. Use Firefox for day-to-day Internet work on sites you know are safe, because it is a smaller target for malware attacks than is Internet Explorer.
2. Use Google's Chrome when surfing to sites you're unsure of, or when you want to feel extra safe. I use Chrome for internet banking, for example.

(By the way, when installing Chrome, just remember to uncheck the box that makes it your default browser.)

Have a go, see what you think. And perhaps get back to me with your comments.

What's your preferred browser? And why??

Child Safety Features for Internet Explorer 8

2010-02-19T04:38:00.000-08:00

My thanks are due to a MicroMart Magazine article (Issue 1094, 18-24 Feberuary 2010) entitled "The Panic Button".

Microsoft have created a panic button so that, when youngsters are on-line and feel they are getting harassed in any way, they can seek immediate advice and help.

The button has been introduced in conjunction with the Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre (CEOP), and further information and downloads are available from the CEOP website:

www.clickceop.net/ie8

It's another way of enabling youngsters to use the web safely, and for their parents/carers to feel they are doing their bit to protect and educate vulnerable web users.

Microsoft Support for Earlier Versions of Windows

2010-02-19T04:00:00.000-08:00

Microsoft will not support earlier versions of Windows for ever - it's a sad fact, but true.

Support for Windows includes updates and security patches, the latter vital if you are to keep one step ahead of the malware-creaters.

The good news is that support for Windows XP will continue - so long as you have Service Pack 3 installed.

The bad news is that support for Windows 2000 (is anyone still using that version???) ends completely from 13 July 2010.

Vista users should also check that they have the latest Service Pack, as the earliest version of Vista (January 2007) will not be supported after 13 April 2010, unless at least Service Pack 1 is installed.

But above all else, keep your Microsoft products up-to-date. Remember, the second Tuesday/Wednesday every month is Microsoft Update Day.

Adobe Reader Update

2010-02-19T03:58:00.000-08:00

Please check your version of (free) Adobe Reader. The latest version is 9.3.1

It's important to keep Adobe Reader up to date, as there was a security "hole" in an earlier version.

Backing Up Your Emails

2010-02-16T04:55:00.000-08:00

Even when people back up their important files (business accounts and documents, pictures, music collection, etc), emails are often left out. That's a pity, as losing our stored emails would be quite a disaster, especially as many of us organise our saved emails into folders.

In those folders, we store all sorts of important information, including: access details (username, password) for some software or websites; email addresses; copies of documents sent to us as attachments to messages; other attachments, such as pictures; messages containing information we want to store.

Just looking at that list gives us some indication of how much important information could be lost if emails could not be retrieved in the event of the failure of, say, a hard disk.

Backing up emails is not hard, and there is free software to make the process painless. The choice of program to use depends to an extent on how you access your emails. Those of you who go to a website for your emails (so-called "webmail") need not fret, as your emails are stored and organised away from your hard disk. Webmail is possibly the safest way, and also allows you to send and receive emails wherever you can connect to the internet.

However, many of us choose to use a program that uses our computer's hard disk to collect, send, and store our messages.

I use Mozilla's Thunderbird as my email program, and there is a useful backup program called MozBackup that not only backs up my emails, but also backs up Mozilla's Firefox browser.

For those of you who use Microsoft's Outlook or Outlook Express there are some choices to be had; the best thing is to go to the best information on this topic, at:

http://www.techsupportalert.com/content/best-free-email-backup-utility.htm

So, I strongly recommend backing up your emails, and like all backups, store your backups somewhere away from your main hard disk - on a memory stick, or an external hard drive, for example.

Microsoft Office 2007

2009-12-04T03:38:00.000-08:00

Many of us have been struggling to get to grips with the new look of Office 2007. In addition, Microsoft seems to have forced us to convert to Office 2007, as Office 2003 is no longer officially available.

However, for those who crave the "old days", there is a program that lets you use the previous, familiar, much-loved menu format with Office 2007.

It's called Classic Menu for Office 2007, from AddinTools.

You can download it from download.CNET.com at:

http://download.cnet.com/Classic-Menu-for-Office-2007/3000-18483_4-10637184.html?tag=mncol

As CNET points out:

"The program isn't free, but we were unable to locate any kind of trial period. It may be there, but the program doesn't make a point of advertising it."

Enjoy!

Prevent ID Fraud

2009-10-15T05:32:00.000-07:00

It's National Identity Fraud Prevention Week, and there is a very useful site for businesses at:

www.stop-idfraud.co.uk

Safe Browsing for Your Youngsters

2009-10-06T01:42:00.000-07:00

Parents naturally worry about where their offspring go to on the Web. You want to give them the scope to explore and discover, while at the same time wanting to do the "protecting parent" role.

Here's a website with some free software that could set your mind at rest. OpenDNS gets a mention, and it has been featured with acclaim on this blog. Some of the other software items look useful too.

If you're interested, go to:

http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/5-free-parental-control-software-that-will-set-your-mind-at-ease-n/

Here's to keeping it safe on the Web for all of us.

Turning Off/Leaving On: The Great PC Debate

2009-09-30T05:44:00.000-07:00

Although it seems a no-brainer that turning off your computer saves energy, there has always been a counter-argument: namely, that the power needed to switch on a PC is more than the saving when it is switched off.

Microsoft has pitched into the debate with the very latest views based on the most recent evidence, and the article is well worth a look:

http://www.microsoft.com/windows/explore/turnoff-pc.aspx

If you own a business and you have PC work stations, what is your company's policy on what happens at the end of the working day? By reading the article, you may be able to save a good few pounds on your electricity bill.

Go Green - it's the new pink!!!

Security News

2009-08-27T00:30:00.000-07:00

I know I go on about security for your PCs, but I'm afraid we're still at the stage in the digital world where eternal vigilance is needed.

It was, therefore, interesting to read an article from Windows Secrets about what we all need to do to be safe on the internet. The piece is at:

http://windowssecrets.com/2009/08/27/02-Security-Baseline-provides-basic-PC-protection

Basically, we all need to:

use the hardware firewall in the router
have good firewall and anti-virus software "on guard"
make sure Windows is kept up-to-date
use an internet browser that is secure

That message has been consistent for a good few years now, so no real changes. But it is timely to reinforce the message so that we can avoid the nastier consequences of getting malware in our systems.

Be alert. Be safe.

Dust

2009-08-20T07:56:00.000-07:00

I know, it's not the most exciting of subjects, but it is an important one for computers. Remember, the PC is set up to draw air over a warm surface (the heatsink over the processor (CPU)), and then send the now warm air out of the computer case.

The air that comes in carries dust, and it is likely to deposit that dust on the heatsink. I have seen some very clogged heatsinks in my time, and for one customer it solved the problem of why his computer kept crashing. The dust clogging the heatsink was sending the temperature of the CPU way too high, so in a gesture of self-preservation, the PC kept switching itself off.

I have a standard item on my jobsheet - valet. You can do this for yourself, but some words of warning and advice. First, switch off the PC, and remove the power lead. Then, remove the side panel, so that you can access the inside. Now be gentle - don't just shove the hoover's extension tube in and waggle it about! Gentle blowing helps, and you can use a soft brush. Pay particular attention to the heatsink over the CPU. I use a artist's painting brush to clean the blades of the fan, and then to gently brush out the dust in the radiator-type area beneath it.

Working on customers' machines, I have found copious amounts of dog and cat hairs, as well as dead spiders. I haven't found any dead animals yet, but I have read reports of mice being found!

So, time to boldly go in search of dust! And then remove it - carefully. You could add years to the life of your beloved PC.

Free Software

2009-07-30T01:14:00.000-07:00

I sometimes get asked why I advocate using free software, expecially for anti-virus protection. Surey, people say, the paid-for product must be better, the underlying principle being you get what you pay for - and if you pay nothing, you get ...

This article successfully addresses the doubts some people have about free software products:

http://crave.cnet.co.uk/software/0,39029471,49303157,00.htm

It's doubly noteworthy because it comes from a very successful company that supplies quality products, whether free or paid-for.

There's a lesson in there for lots of businesses, I think, and it is very significant that the great Microsoft itself is proposing doing something similar to AVG and the many other companies that have provided good products for so many years.

Free Small Business Software

2009-07-28T06:29:00.000-07:00

Are you looking for free software to enhance the effectiveness of your small- or medium-sized business? To get information about some of the best free tools for SMEs, go to:

http://www.pcadvisor.co.uk/news/index.cfm?newsid=10424&ba=5

Open DNS

2009-07-09T03:18:00.001-07:00

This could get a bit technical, so apologies, but please stick with it - I'll do my best to make it understandable.

A DNS (Domain Name Server) is a computer that translates the website address you type into, say, Internet Explorer (e.g., www.google.co.uk), into numbers - the internet is happier with numbers than with words.

Most of us use the DNS of our Internet Service Provider(ISP) - you didn't know that, but you do! There's nothing to set up, it's all automatic.

But you have a choice, and you can use another DNS. The main one available is called OpenDNS, at www.opendns.com - and it's free!

They claim their service is faster - well, that may be true, but I like the idea of being able to make a choice, and not being totally dependent on my ISP.

If you go to the OpenDNS website, there are clear details there of what you have to do. You will need to change some settings on your router, and then all the computers that connect to that router will have access to OpenDNS.

There is another advantage, though. You have to open an account with OpenDNS, with the usual features: access ID plus password. Your account lets you use what they call the "Dashboard". There, you can choose the security settings for your router - and, therefore, for ALL the computers in your house/network. The advantage over software like NetNanny is that you don't have to install it on all relevant computers - and it's free!

That seems to me to be a real bonus, especially in a house where there are youngsters or just multiple users of the network. As the "controller", i.e., the one with the password, you know that you are keeping the users around you safe from straying into inappropriate areas.

Purely for research purposes, you understand, I tried changing my security setting. I'm happy with "Minimal", but we're just two adults on this network. I changed it to "Low" to see what would happen. It would not let me access Page 3 of the Sun newspaper's website - all in the name of research, you must understand!

Seriously, though, this is well worth considering, and I shall certainly be mentioning it to my customers.

Firefox 3.5

2009-07-03T02:04:00.000-07:00

The latest version of Firefox is ready to download. The reviews so far are very complimentary, saying it is stable and fast.

It's definitely worth updating to Firefox 3.5 - enjoy!

IT Security Procedures

2009-06-17T07:45:00.000-07:00

Recently, internet and IT security company Sophos reported that "... 90% of work computers fail on basic security..."

That's really worrying, and led me to this thought:

What sort of policies and practices do you have in your workplace to make sure that your computers and networks are safe and secure?

There's plenty of advice "out there", I'm sure, possibly including model policies and procedures. But how much of a priority is it for those of us who are sole traders, or maybe employ 2 or 3 people?

I suspect it is an aspect of business practice that deserves much greater consideration. If anyone out there knows of companies or businesses in the UK that have good practices in this area, please respond and let me know. After all, we could all learn something really important.

Memory Sticks

2009-06-11T04:25:00.000-07:00

Aren't they brilliant! And so useful. You can store and transport masses of data so easily. (I knew a school in Manchester, UK, that issued all teachers with a memory stick, and departments used them to store their schemes of work, units of study, lesson plans, worksheets, and other resources - so teachers had instant access to vital materials.)

But these USB devices are fast becoming the latest way that viruses and other unpleasantnesses are spread. It's always good practice to scan a memory stick that isn't yours before downloading any files from it. And get into the habit of scanning your own sticks regularly.

It used to be floppy disks (remember them?) that spread infections; now it's USB memory sticks. Be careful out there!

Security Vulnerability in Adobe Reader

2009-06-11T04:23:00.001-07:00

Most of us have a copy of the free Adobe Reader on our computers - for reading pdf files. Please make sure your copy is the very latest, i.e., 9.1.2

There is an update option from the Help menu, so please check, as there is evidence that the out-of-date version poses a security threat.

Storage of Business Data

2009-06-08T09:10:00.000-07:00

It worries me that too many business owners are not careful with their precious data. Too many of them do not have plans to backup that data regularly and safely. So I was interested in an article on the PC Advisor website on this very topic:

http://www.pcadvisor.co.uk/news/index.cfm?newsid=10428&ba

The hardware needed is very favourably priced at the moment, and the technology is there to make the process as painless as possible. All that is needed is to design the process to make sure backups are made regularly and safely.

The article also mentions having THREE separately stored versions of the data. The article is definitely worth a read - especially if you have a business that is not currently backing up!

Dealing with Threats

2009-04-24T03:40:00.000-07:00

There was an interesting piece in Thursday's Guardian (23 April 2009) by Bruce Shneier about computer threats and risks:

http://www.guardian.co.uk/technology/2009/apr/23/conficker-panic

It makes some thought-provoking points on the wider issue of perceived threats, and concludes by reminding us to do the straightforward things to protect our computers - like turning on Microsoft Automatic Updates. None of us is immune to malicious attacks - trust me, I've had my fair share, and I'm supposed to be "on the ball" on this matter!

And that's my cue to remind my readers: keep Microsoft and anti-virus up-to-date, because that's your first line of defence. The next thing to do is to make sure all your other software is current, as some viruses exploit "holes" in out-of-date software. One of the main reasons software is updated by programmers is to plug vulnerabilities.

There'll be a further posting on how to keep software up-to-date, so please watch this blog!

Conficker Alert

2009-04-11T01:26:00.001-07:00

There's a very good piece at CNET about Conficker, and how it could be adding some false security software to your computer:

http://news.cnet.com/8301-1009_3-10217386-83.html

The article also has links to a website that can check for Conficker, as well as a link to CNET's page on how to remove Conficker, should you be infected.

But the best advice is to make sure your Microsoft and security software are all up-to-date.

Software Trials

2009-02-19T07:21:00.000-08:00

I just thought I'd share with you that I'm trying a couple of free software items that may be of interest.

The first one is RamBooster. No, it's not a hormone supplement for male sheep! (Could be though!!) It claims to keep your computer's RAM working efficiently. RAM is the PC's working memory, and it can get clogged. I'll let you know whether I think it makes a difference.

The second item I'm trialling is a free security suite from Comodo. The advantage of buying security software from, say, Norton is that you get three pieces of software (antivirus, firewall, antispyware) in one, handy package. The Comodo offering is the first free integrated suite I've come across.

Watch this space for reports.

Unwanted and Unpleasant Downloads

2009-02-19T07:09:00.000-08:00

I'm grateful to Jack Schofield at the Guardian newspaper for his recent thoughts on unwanted downloads. Sometimes in our hurry to download legitimate stuff we end up saying yes to additional downloads - toolbars and the like. Mostly they are unnecessary, even if they are safe. Some are downright nasty and to be avoided at all costs.

As Jack says: "Be suspicious of downloads - especially codecs, free music and screensaver downloads - as they often come packaged with malware or unwanted software."

Customers often ask me: "How did the viruses get in? I've got good antivirus and firewall protection." It's a hard one to answer. Most viruses get in from email attachments, dodgy websites, vulnerabilities in out-of-date software, or downloaded files. Usually, I just say: "Well, these modern viruses are very clever, you know!"

But I also advise them (and anyone who'll listen) to save and scan any items they download or that are offered to them on memory sticks, etc. before opening or viewing or playing the file. I save files to the Desktop, and right-click to get a menu where I can choose to scan the file with my antivirus software or any other virus-scanning software I have installed.

Best to play safe - even with files from "trusted" websites.

You all take care, now.

Learning Lessons

2009-02-19T06:47:00.000-08:00

Someone once said that one of the best ways to cope with the trials and tribulations of life is to regard each experience as a learning opportunity. So I'm going to have a go, and turn my recent email problem into a lesson for us all.

I use Outlook Express for my business email, and it worked fine until I could no longer send emails. Receiving was fine, but sending was a total no-no.

My hosting company checked at their end (the email address is linked to my website), but no problem. My ISP said that there were no problems with their systems. So the cause must be in my computer and/or network set-up.

I checked my router (and updated the firmware), but all seemed OK there.

I then removed my firewall, but no joy, then removed my antivirus software, and still no joy.

At this stage, I decided to see if I could get my emails from another computer in the house - and joy of joys, I could!

So back to the main PC, and after numerous scans for nasties (nothing found), I'm still unable to send messages. By the way, I forgot to tell you that I had searched Google for help on the error message that appeared in Outlook Express, but nothing of any substance was found.

My next plan was to download a copy of Internet Explorer 7, delete IE7, and re-load it. Why? Well, somewhere in the recesses of my memory was the thought that Outlook Express integrates with Internet Explorer. Perhaps the problem was with IE7 - and I remembered the problems my wife had with trying to log into her bank with IE7, and getting her to use Firefox instead.

Whe you delete IE7, you are left with IE6. And, joy of joys, I could send and receive emails with Outlook Express! If you've ever had a persistent computer problem, and found a solution to it, you will know my feelings at that moment!

And the lesson to be learnt here? There is value in approaching such problems in a logical problem-solving way, and what seemed to work for me was working from Hosting Company and ISP backwards to software in the computer. Next time, though, I'll be more suspicious of what's happening closer to home first.

When my joy had subsided, I thought I'd experiment with Internet Explorer 8, which is available in a pre-release download from Microsoft.

Outlook Express still seemed happy, and so was I!

But today is another day - and now Outlook Express will neither send or receive! Damn!! Back to square one. And writing this will help me remember what I did successfully last time. Here's hoping!

USB Memory Stick Threat

2009-01-29T13:53:00.000-08:00

We all love memory sticks - they're so convenient. They are useful ways of moving files from place to place, from computer to computer. In addition, some people use them as a backup for important or precious files (e.g., photos, music, etc).

But those ever-creative virus makers have found a way of using these USB devices to spread viruses. So we need to be on the alert for yet another intrusion.

To avoid being infected, do the following:

make sure your anti-virus software is up-to-date
always scan a USB memory device that is not yours (insert into your computer, right-click over the device's icon before you open any of its contents, and use your up-to-date anti-virus software to scan the contents)
scan all your own memory sticks - just in case something unpleasant is lurking

Vigilance is the price we pay for computer fun! You have been informed.

New Year Recession Thoughts

2009-01-13T05:31:00.000-08:00

1. In times of economic recession, crime rates rise. Fact. We should all expect, therefore, that computer-related crime will increase. We need to be prepared for a variety of scams, and they will become increasingly sophisticated and plausible. (Already you can get a virus-induced message that looks as though it is a Windows Security warning, but don't click it!) Make sure all your on-guard security software is up to date: anti-virus, anti-spyware, and firewall. It's also important to use a stand-alone security scanner periodically, as no one product at the moment is guaranteed to find and remove all nasties.

2. Don't use unlicenced software! Some companies, for example, have been caught using unlicenced copies, and have been heavily fined. If you are in business, it is important that all the software you use is licenced appropriately. For example, some free software can be used in business contexts, but other software items are specifically prohibited from commercial use. I know those End Use Licence Agreements (EULA) are a pain to read, but business people, please check them out.

3. One of the possible areas for saving in the world of business is on IT. Replacing hardware can look like an avoidable expense. But there is also scope to revitalize existing machines, with a good service and some additional working memory (RAM). I would say that, of course, because I'm in that line of business, but I know that what I suggest can have a beneficial effect on productivity and user satisfaction. I can get you the testimonials if you wish! It won't cost you as much as a new system, it will prolong the life of current hardware, and the users will notice the difference. Think about it - and get in touch if you think I can help.

Something for Nothing?

2009-01-08T02:20:00.000-08:00

It looks too good to be true, but free software and online services are long-established features of the computer world.

This article makes the point very well:

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/7811481.stm

The world of IT is not just Microsoft - and even that giant gives stuff away on occasions. But every time you ponder the purchase of some new software, think "free alternative" before you buy. In most cases, I bet there will already exist a free program that does what you want.

There are many websites and discussion boards dedicated to seeking out good free software, spreading the word, saving us money, and linking us to quality programs and web-based services. So, go hunting! If you want help, please get in touch.

Hard Disk Destruction

2009-01-08T02:02:00.000-08:00

It really is worth returning to the topic of what to do with that HDD you've replaced.

Your hard disk contains sensitive data, and it can be tricky to ensure that all such data has been successfully wiped (although some specialist software can do a good job).

This article makes some very sensible points:

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/technology/7816446.stm

If you're reading this in the South Manchester, UK, area, I'd be happy to destroy it for you! For a small fee, of course!!

Saving Money

2009-01-07T03:28:00.001-08:00

At this time of economic turmoil, I guess most of us are looking for ways to reduce what we spend. Martin Lewis's website has consistently addressed that issue - and many others - for some time now.

His website is well worth a visit:

http://www.moneysavingexpert.com/

While you're there, you can sign up for his email newsletter, a useful and regular digest of the latest issues and offers. Try it - I know you won't be disappointed!

Reason to try Firefox

2008-12-16T04:13:00.000-08:00

Hot news, about Microsoft's Internet Explorer 7!

Surprise, surprise, another security alert:

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/technology/7784908.stm

If you've not tried Firefox yet, now is the perfect time. You'll like it - trust me, I'm an IT professional!

You can have a try with any of the other web browsers mentioned, but for me Firefox is the best of the bunch.

Go on, give it a go!

Fake Scares

2008-12-15T02:49:00.001-08:00

I'm afraid some people have a warped sense of humour, and seem to delight in scaring people. There are various hoaxes going the rounds, specifically associated with Christmas. They usually involve a warning about opening an email attachment (good - always safe to be cautious about unexpected messages and attachments), and dire predictions of the consequences, sometimes involving completely trashing your hard drive.

Technically, it's virtually impossible to do what the message predicts, but that doesn't stop the email looking scary and sending a shiver down the spine.

Before forwarding the message to your entire addressbook (which is what the perpetrators want you to do!), check it out via Google. And if you discover any hoaxes at this festive season, please contribute to this blog, so that we can all benefit - and sleep easier in our beds!

2008-12-10T06:56:00.000-08:00

Social network users are alerted to Koobface worm

Facebook, MySpace and Bebo users are being warned about the resurgence of a virus-like worm called Koobface that will try to infect their PCs and seek credit card details. Koobface spreads by sending messages to users of social networking sites such as "Are you sure this is your first acting experience?", "is it u there?", "impressive. i'm sure it's you on this video" and offering a web link. When users click on the link it says they need to download new software to see the video and clicking on this downloads the worm. Apple and Linux systems are unaffected.
Charles Arthur, in the Guardian, 10 December 2008

Email Scams (Again!)

2008-12-09T00:47:00.000-08:00

Courtesy of Sophos, here is one of the latest ways to download a virus to your computer:

Email malware flying high
----
Regardless of whether you are planning to go anywhere special this holiday season, cybercriminals are ramping up a new malicious email campaign, posing as an airline ticket from one of several well-known airlines. Would you open the attachment when they tell you that they have already charged your credit card?
http://www.sophos.com/blogs/gc/g/2008/12/04/email-malware-flying-high

Be careful out there!

Windows 7

2008-10-29T06:21:00.000-07:00

Here's a link to a preview of Microsoft Windows 7:

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/sci/tech/7696648.stm

It makes the point that Windows 7 is going to be "...what Vista should have been like ...".

That prompts the thought that those of us persisting with XP should continue with it, and wait for the official arrival of Windows 7 (rather than migrate to Vista now).

Any new version of Windows causes controversy - and not just because of the money we shall have to shell out! We can only hope that Microsoft has learnt from the relative debacle of Vista as it prepares to present us with Windows 7.

Microsoft Emergency Update

2008-10-24T01:28:00.000-07:00

Microsoft has issued a security update as a matter of urgency.

If you have set Automatic Updates correctly, you should have seen the "yellow shield" by now.

Full details about the emergency update are at:

http://windowssecrets.com/comp/081024

(This website's email newsletter is well worth subscribing to.)

Happy days!

The Credit Crunch and Your PC

2008-10-09T06:34:00.000-07:00

As I write, governments around the world are fighting to preserve their financial systems, on which rest the success (or otherwise) of their economies.

So now isn't a good time to be thinking about spending money! As the recession bites (and it will), all of us will have to cut back on our spending. Which is tough, especially as Christmas is approaching.

It's also part of the nature of IT and PCs, that changes and developments happen faster than we can save up to get them! The latest whatever is almost immediately out-of-date, such is the speed of change these days. That new PC seems even more remote.

But there are ways to get that "nearly as good as new" feel about your existing PC, without actually getting a new one. And it could be a whole lot cheaper. So now is the time to think about two things for your PC: a good service from a qualified engineer, and some well-chosen upgrades.

Service:
If you're reading this in the South Manchester area (UK), then you can give TLC Computer Servicing a call (details form the website: www.tlc-computing.co.uk) for a very reasonable price for an exceptionally thorough service (full report included);

Upgrades
1. Possibly the best way to improve the performance of your PC is to add extra RAM, the "working memory" part of the system. And prices are very reasonable at the moment.

2. To provide extra storage (for photos, music, important documents, etc), you could invest in an External Hard Disk. It could also provide you with a handy way of backing up those precious files, an excellent habit to cultivate. Again prices are very good at the moment - for example, about £60.00 can buy you 160GB of extra storage.

3. If you still have a bulky TV-type monitor on your desk, why not treat yourself to (or ask Father Christmas to bring it for you!) a flat-screen monitor? Again, prices at the present are very reasonable.

4. What about a wireless mouse and keyboard? Another Christmas present idea?

5. Or a USB hub - saves you having to poke around at the back of your PC (I've got one with lovely coloured lights - makes my desk like the Starship Enterprise!).

So, don't despair! A modest outlay could add some quality to your PC, extend its life, and give you time to save up ready for the return of the good times. And TLC Computer Servicing can help, by supplying items for yourself or as presents for others. Here's hoping!

Happy computing!

Fake Antivirus Software Offer

2008-09-04T01:01:00.000-07:00

There's a very nasty scam going around in the guise of an offer to rid your computer of a virus. You get a pop-up message warning you of an infection, and recommending you download one of two programs to remove it: "Antivirus XP 2008" or "XP Antivirus 2009".

Please do not be tempted, as the result is a nasty case of malware that can seriously mess up your PC. And it costs you good money to get infected. I know - I've dealt with two cases recently.

Please never act on messages that suddenly appear on screen. That in itself is a sign that something is lurking in your computer that ought not to be there.

If you do get a "warning", check your computer with a known reputable virus scanner; you should use the scan facility on your current antivirus software, or go to an online scanner like BitDefender. For the home user, a free program like MalwareBytes' Anti-Malware is worth installing, as it is very successful at finding and removing malware.

If you suspect you are being targeted for such a scam, consult your friendly local computer service engineer before downloading and paying for a very unpleasant dose of virus infection.

Be careful out there!

Love Your Hard Drive

2008-08-28T02:52:00.000-07:00

Perhaps above any other part of the PC, we all rely on the hard disk. It runs our programs, and it stores our precious data - pictures, music, accounts, letters, etc - until it fails. And that's the scary bit.

As well as doing regular backups of important files (hint, hint!), we really ought to look after it. There are ways of checking the health of your HDD, and one of them, a program called ChkDsk, is part of Windows.

Then there are free programs that do a little more, by accessing the data that the HDD stores about itself, the so-called SMART data. HD Tune is a recommended free program.

And then each company that manufactures HDDs provides a free Drive Fitness Test program, to download and run.

I know, it's a bit fiddly, so that's why it's good that there are people like me around, to do the job for you! For a consideration, of course.

If you're in the south Manchester, UK, area, get in touch: 0161 870 2563, for a full HDD health check, with detailed report.

News of Nasties

2008-08-25T03:02:00.000-07:00

So glad you've found my blog. This is my way of keeping in touch with helpful information and advice. Well, that's my plan!

So here goes:

Warning #01
There's a nasty email going the rounds. It announces an update to Internet Explorer 7, and provides a link to a website where you can download the update.

Do not go there! Your computer is likely to get infected. The only safe place for IE7 updates is the Microsoft website.

By the way, you do get automatic notice of MS updates? Second Tuesday/Wednesday in the month is MS Update Day.

In the meantime, happy computing!