Preventing Viral Infections
One of the things we get asked often is how to prevent infections on Windows machines. Consider this as a basic primer on how to keep your machine just a little bit safer. I'll also type up the advanced version of this where you can effectively virus proof your machine. If you get an infection, the first thing you need to realize is that it's your fault. Sure, you can blame the guy that wrote it, but the truth is you could have avoided it by doing some of the following:
1) Stop using old software!
Windows XP is being called out here. If you're in XP you're just asking for an infection. That version of Windows just doesn't have the strength to protect you from the newer viruses. Truthfully, it never really did. Anti-Virus companies exist today because of the weakness of the 2000/XP architecture, and one other reason we'll cover in the next section. There are pretty much nothing you can do that will make XP safe enough to get a nod from us.
2) Stop using Administrative accounts!
Since Windows 2000 you've had the option to be a lesser user. Almost nobody uses this incredibly effective way of keeping yourself safe from infections. You don’t (or shouldn't) leave the doors unlocked at your house because it’s inconvenient to unlock the doors when you need in. That’s what you’re doing when you use an Admin account on your computer. The one thing that Macs are touted for is have less occurrences of infection, because you’re not allowed to be a root (admin) user. Any time something tries to make changes to the system the user is prompted to put in a password, not just click “Sure, go for it!”. You can make your PC behave in a similar fashion. Create a new Admin user on your system and login as that user. Make sure you set a password on the Admin account. Then make your primary account a limited account, take away any administrative rights from the user you use every day. This way, when you stumble across an infected website (Reference: FBI Virus) you’ll not get the infection. The user you’re logged in as will not have access to execute the infection and take over the computer.
3) More isn't always better!
Having multiple Anti-Virus programs on your computer has the exact opposite effect of what you may think. Let’s, for simplicity, say that Anti-Virus programs are territorial. They don’t like anything being in their home. This includes other Anti-Virus programs. They will actively try to kill one another, and render each other useless. You should have only one.
4) Change your habits!
If you get infections often, it’s likely that you’re going to places that have infections. Stay away from sites that are less than reputable. Stop using P2P (Peer-to-Peer) sharing programs, and uninstall any toolbars or BHO (Browser Helper Objects) from your computer. Also stop using Internet Explorer, and install AdBlock for either Chrome (my personal favorite) or FireFox.
If you follow these steps, your chances of getting a virus are dramatically reduced. And as always, if you need help or would like us to do this stuff for you, you’re always welcome to call, or stop in.
Protecting Your Privacy on Facebook
With so many people on Facebook, it can make you feel out of the loop if you don't have an account. It is a great way to keep in touch with old friends or to network for your business. You can show off pictures of your latest trip or give updates about where you will be tailgating before the wildcats game. However, it is very easy to give out too much personal information that, since Facebook is a public site, anyone can see. We will guide you through a few ways to make sure the only people that can see your information are the people you want to show.
The Main Differences Between Console and PC Gaming
There has always been a rather large dividing line between those who game on PCs, and those who game on traditional consoles like the XBOX or PS3. While it is true that as technology improves, the gap between the two platforms is shrinking, there are still some very distinct differences between the two. Now, it is impossible to make a blanket statement about which is the better platform, since there are many factors that mean more or less depending on the player's specific set of circumstances. However, we're going to explore the differences and similarities between the two here, so that we can better understand what makes each platform unique.
2012 Holiday Season Tablet Comparison
This holiday season there are many deals on mini and full size tablets. We'll give you the specs of each and our recommendation on which to buy.
2013 Guide to Cutting the Cable Cord
With cable companies constantly raising their prices, now is a great time to get rid of your bloated cable bill. It may seem like a daunting task, but with all of the new technology options available it has become cheaper and easier than ever.
10 Best Apps for Rooted Devices
Rooting your Android device allows you to take advantage of all of the features that your mobile device has to offer (many of which the mobile carriers don't allow you to access). It also lets you remove the bloatware that comes on pretty much every phone now. While it may not be for beginners, rooting can be a rewarding experience for people who want to learn more about their phone and the features it has to offer.
5 Alternatives to Netflix Instant Streaming
Netflix has quickly become a household brand for many people. It was just one of those ideas that seems so obvious; so essential, that it could go nowhere but straight to the top. There are, however complaints about the service. While Netflix is extremely robust – and growing by the hour – there are plenty of people who won't find a wide enough selection of the video streaming giant. Luckily for these people, there are alternatives. I, however, find it best to use these choices to supplement your arsenal in the ever-waging war against the cable box. Read on to get a run-down of the five best Netflix alternatives.