Antivirus, firewall software – new ways to purchase anti virus.
Antivirus software has become a necessity for windows based operating system users. Due to the way windows is built and how it works makes it easy to write malicious software which gets into your personal computer without you knowing about it.
There are quite a few varieties of viruses, some make a backdoor channel into your computer and use its resources (Trojans), some only collect information about you (spyware), and some make certain advertisements popup onto your screen now and then (adware).
In order to keep your private information safe, you need a reliable, proven and effective antivirus program. Antivirus and firewall are a bit similar in purpose. A firewall is a specific program which only monitors the incoming traffic onto your computer and filters malicious data which could potentially harm your computer and yourself.
Most of the antivirus software available in the market today comes with a firewall of its own. It is automatically installed on your computer when you install the antivirus itself. Some of the corporate grade, or high end antivirus software does not come with a firewall in the default package, rather you either have to purchase the firewall separately or purchase a complete antivirus suite. Such suites can cost you as much as up to 40 to 60 USD (25 33 pounds).
While deciding about buying an antivirus you have to take a few factors in consideration. First and foremost, you don’t need to just go and buy the best looking software because some of the biggest names in the industry have been overshadowed by formerly less known vendors. Why? Due to the lack of support from the old and established antivirus companies and their failure to keep the users updated about upcoming threats.
Moreover, these companies usually charge you quite a bit of sum and you don’t need to spend your money on something which is all names and no real output. You also need to watch out for the opposite type of vendors, these vendors do not have any real piece of software to offer you, rather ironically the adware kind of viruses actually make you buy useless software and substandard antivirus and firewalls are also a part of this malicious software program.
You need to buy an antivirus or a firewall from a vendor who has recently gained ground in the industry; this can be a new company which has been making antivirus and firewalls for no more than three years.
Some people have even suggested that viruses we created only to give the antivirus companies a boost and are being created for the same purpose to date. It is logical not to rule out this idea because it has been the practice of the corporate world as long as humanity remembers to create a void for a product, prepare it before hand and release it at the very sweet moment. In short that is how marketing works.
Remember, you have to take the right decision and strike a balance between names a performance.
Rabu, 17 Maret 2010
Antivirus, Firewall Software – New Ways to Purchase Anti Virus.
Rabu, 10 Maret 2010
How to Hook a USB Up to an Old Head Unit
The most common way of transferring data or music files from a mobile or a mp3 to a personal computer is by using a USB cable. The cable is used to pass the data from one device to another; the data can be music files also. One of the ways is to connect using the radio's auxiliary port and the other way is by connecting the mp3 player to a cigar lighter. But in a old car which uses only CD player can be given with such option. So it is very necessary that everyone to know how to hook a USB up to an older car stereo.
Though USB is very common in the personal computer but it not very common in the radio present in the car. There are only a few radios which have these USB facilities. But it is possible to connect a mp3 player to such radios using adapter cables. The cable allows us to connect the mp3 player in either of two ports
There are a few tools needed to complete this task. The usage of these tools reduces the time consumed for the job. These include a CD player of car and USB cable. These tools can be purchased individually. The USB cable is a very important component as only with it, one can transfer data or music from mp3 to the stereo of the car.
The first thing to be done before doing this process is to turn on the power of the car so that one can play the radio in the car. CD player installation is a must. As this adapter can be fixed to a CD player only and not to an ordinary tape record.
The adapter is inserted inside CD changer. The adapter has a resemblance to a CD which has in its middle a running cable through it. A feet distance is covered by this cable after CD player before getting connected to the display which is generally digital. This digital display is considered to be an integrated one in the adapter and the wires are just for manipulation and for moving the location.
Now the MP3 player is connected to the USB port or any other kind of device. Then the MP 3 player is powered on. And then the adapter screen displays the tracked information on it. It will give the relevant data for the next step to be done.
The play option in the car CD player is switched on. Stereo systems have got controls for various options in it. But these controls won’t function in the same way as it would work with an player with a CD inserted in it. These kinds of attachment can ensure good music in your car. Though it is old you can make such modifications in it and enjoy good music for your ears. It does not cost you much also.
Thus if one must know how to hook a USB up to an older car stereo.
Using Windows Scripts to Backup Files to External Hard Disk
One of the more routine processes that can be performed with a Windows script is backing up files and folders. Often times you just want to copy files onto a backup USB type jump drive or other external hard drive that can be removed and stored safely in case of emergency and can also be easily moved from system to system.
The first step in building this script is you need to assess what exactly needs to be backed up. Is it just a hand full of files or are there complete directory structures and folders that need to be saved in case of a disaster. If you are just copying files straight across to a backup drive you can use the copy command and some wild cards in place of file names along the lines of "copy *.*" which will copy all files from a source to a destination regardless of name or file extension.
There are additional switches you want to be aware of for use with the copy command. The V switch will verify all of the files copied with the original and can come in handy if you are copying files to a floppy disk using a questionable or flaky disk drive. If you want to create a script that can run in the background without user intervention then you will make use of the Y switch. The Y switch suppresses prompting when the copy command overwrites files in to the destination. For example if every day you backed up the same set of files to a backup drive you would want the copy to overwrite the files instead of prompting you to confirm each one.
Now if you want to keep a directory structure along with folders and sub-folders intact or copy them over verbatim, you will need to use the xcopy command. Xcopy is like the copy command only on steroids with many more features including the ability to copy whole folders and sub folders containing files. Executing this command would look like "xcopy source destination" with the E switch which will copy all files and folders. Just like copy the xcopy command supports the Y switch to suppress overwrite prompts.
When it comes to the xcopy command I could cover many more features which can be quite powerful when building Windows backup scripts for your workstations and servers. With this cool command you have the ability to copy over ownership and security information, file system attributes, and so much more. With either the xcopy or copy commands you also have the ability to pipe the detailed job log information into an output file using the > character followed by the file name. You can then go back and review the detailed log files to make sure all of the backups are running smoothly.
Once you have a backup script created you can take it a bit further by looking at ways we can schedule it to run automatically and then freeing up your time to do more important things. Automating a script like this can be easily accomplished using the task scheduler that comes pre-installed with Windows. You simply specify what days and time you want the script to run and your off to the races.
A Quick Guide on it Security
We have all used the excuse of a PC crash and virus attack, perhaps even more than its fair share to avoid working, giving in projects on time and missing deadlines. Many a times it is really just an excuse, but for many, it has posed actual problems causing loss of important and often irreplaceable data. How many times have you wanted to kick yourself for not bothering to get a good anti-virus, anti-spyware and firewall because thanks to it you ended up re-doing presentations. And doesn’t the loss of all your favourite videos, the pictures of your last holiday, and your best songs stored on your PC, make you wish that you had been more careful, and at least made back-ups? And if all this sounds familiar to you, and brings back unpleasant memories of computer crashes or irritating pop-ups or worse, your email and Facebook accounts being hacked, then it is time to sit up and pay attention.
The world of IT security has many dedicated professionals who work on developing new and safer anti-virus, anti-spyware, pop-up blockers and other software to protect your PC from hacking, virus attacks and in the worst case scenario - crashes. The importance of IT security has been acknowledged by one and all today. If you believe that only government or top-secret websites, or those who use net-banking and online purchase facilities need good IT security software, then it is time for a reality check. Don’t we all get spam mail all the time, and often, even if advertently end up clicking on some random link, or visiting potentially damaging sites and put our PCs to risk? It is not only people who give out personal information like credit card numbers, or bank account numbers online who need IT security, but anybody and everybody who has access to a PC with Internet. Spyware, malware and viruses are all risks that plague every PC, and often without even us knowing about them.
Many of us avoid buying original and authentic anti-virus and spyware programs, and try and make do with the free, easy to download versions online. However, what we forget is that these are generally trial versions that offer to scan your PC and alert you about potential threats but do not in any way get rid of them. Though buying an anti-virus CD will make you shell out a few bucks, but it is definitely worth the effort. The surety that you will not face computer crashes that are almost a matter of life and death for many, and have your personal emails hacked is worth each and every penny. With so many anti-virus and anti-spywares available today, there is really no excuse if you still end up having IT security issues.
Investing in a good and safe anti-virus would be the first step if you want to make your PC safe and secure against potential IT security issues. Anti-Spyware and malware lodge themselves in your PC and monitor your online activities and give away important personal information to hackers. In fact, not bothering about IT security is tantamount to throwing the field open for hackers to hack your emails and accounts. Pop-ups, are again something we all agree are irritating beyond a shred of doubt, but more than just that they are links to potentially damaging sites and spyware and an open invitation to security problems. A good pop-up blocker, available online (most of them are free of cost) would also be a wise decision.
The world of IT security offers solutions to all your PC safety and security problems, and to think that you could be least bothered by it is the worst thing you could do to your PC and your online activities.
Acer Laptops and Series
Acer is out to conquer the world of computing. These aren’t the most solidly built machines available on the market, but consumers are snapping them up quick: Acer sold a lot more units in 2009 than any other pc producer apart from Dell. That’s quite a feat, and they’re aggressively pursuing the top spot in 2010. They have been proactive within the netbook wave as well since the effort to create transportable computers more power effective. The Aspire One netbook is among the best, with an anticipated Ten hours of battery power life. Acer’s Timeline pc series can also be impressive, promising as much as 8 hours of battery power life, the most effective of any well known notebook. They’ve also announced tentative plans to leap into the emerging tablet category sometime in summer 2010. Even if their computers aren’t our preferred, we like their motives.
Travelmate Series: For All Those Truly On The Move
For those who travels consider them to locations over and above the neighborhood coffee shop, the Acer Travelmate series is a wise option for a number of causes. This machine have been developed specifically for the traveling businessperson with great on-the-go functions for example fingerprint recognition security, long lasting components and 7-hour-plus battery power existence Models using the Timeline tag (see above) have an 8-hour battery power existence. Travelmates are also fairly light for their size; the TravelMate 8571 Timeline, for instance, functions a 15-inch screen and weighs just Five.One pounds. If you need freedom and mobility and your computer may have to take a handful of knocks, this device ıs really a wise expense. At just over $1000, that TravelMate 8571 Timeline design offers a 1.4GHz Intel Dual Core Processor, 320 MB hard generate, Four GB RAM, built-in 5-in-1 card reader, built-in Superdrive, WiFi, Bluetooth, plus a webcam.
Aspire Timeline Collection: Keeps Heading And Heading
Acer statements that the Aspire Timeline collection has the longest battery life of any well known pc available on the market. For users who need to work for an extended time period away from an outlet, these energy-efficient machines can final up to 8 several hours over a single charge — that is sufficient to last for an entire trans-Atlantic flight and a few hours at the hotel whilst you struggle to discover the correct voltage adapter. Acer has chosen components that consume 40 percent less energy than traditional laptops, such as ultra-low-voltage processors and LED-backlit LCD panels (which also occur to become super-thin). Even without considering the long-lasting battery power, this really is a excellent select for someone who wants something just a bit lighter (although significantly less powerful) than related well known versions. Travelers and mobile-office users, consider note. Attempt the Acer Aspire 4810, weighing in at just Four.2 pounds, with an 8-hour battery power life, Intel Pentium ULV Mobile One.Three GHz processor, Three GB RAM, 14-inch Led-backlit screen, and 320 GB tough generate for $599.
Aspire Collection: All Of Your Home Computing Requirements
The Acer Aspire collection may be the broad catch-all tag for any of their ındividual use (as opposed to business-use) laptops. As you’ll see below, this line contains netbooks, well known notebooks, and desktop replacement equipment. Some of our favorite Aspire versions recently are already the 15.6-inch Aspire AS5740 and also the 17.3-inch Aspire AS7740, two i3/i5 processor powered machines beginning at under $800. They are excellent for users who require to accomplish everyday tasks (Microsoft Office, web browsing, downloading music and viewing movies too) as well as duties that need additional energy, like gentle gaming or photo editing.
Aspire One Netbooks: Sleek, Light and Effective
Like any netbooks, Acer’s netbook series is great for on-the-go consumers who need a little, light, ultra-portable computer and can settle for less computing energy and a significantly smaller screen than a mainstream laptop offers. Netbooks are nearly exactly the same from producer to producer aside ın the designs and perhaps one or two standout features. The Aspire One’s marquis feature is its beefy 10-hour battery power life. The rest of the Acer Aspire netbook lineup runs the gamut from underpowered but super-portable sub-$300 equipment with 9-inch screens to larger, quicker models with screens as large as 11.4 inches (right on the edge of the netbook/notebook divide, if you consult us). Our preferred in the series may be the Ten.1-inch Aspire One 532h, which functions the new-ish One.6GHz Intel Atom Pine Trail N450 processor for netbooks, built-in WiFi, plus a high-definition screen. The 10-hour battery power existence we mentioned ıs really a good touch for certain, and also the whopping 250GB tough drive is considerably larger than most netbooks within the Aspire One’s cost range. As with any netbook, no built-in disk-drive right here, but at $299, this value is hard to beat.
Senin, 08 Maret 2010
Explain What Slows Down a Computer - 4 Causes
Things aren't what they used to be! When you first bought your Windows-based computer (PC), it was the latest generation of its computer lineage - the newest, the best, the fastest. Remember how fast it was? Your computer booted up within 1-2 minutes. You could find and open files with agility and grace. And the darn thing never froze up.
Nowadays, you are lucky to see it boot up in 4 or 5 minutes - that is, if it doesn't completely freeze up in the process. Sometimes, it can get so bad that if you type too fast, there is an actual delay before the words show up on the screen. And Internet access - what a joke! Web sites seem to take forever and a day to open. Very frustrating.
What's going on here? Did your computer's manufacturer secretly install a "planned obsolescence chip" that started slowing things down once the computer got to a certain age? Or, maybe gremlins really do exist and have taken over your machine, intent upon seeing to it that it meets an demise? Unlikely!
More likely, you face a problem with your computer that almost all other computer owners face sooner later: getting a bit senile with age.
Of course, computer's don't really have brains and therefore cannot actually get senile. However, there are a number of factors that lead to diminished computer performance.
Listen carefully as I explain what slows down a computer:
Problem 1 - Your hard drive has gotten disorganized: Over time, your hard drive has been responsible for saving, opening, closing and moving thousands of files. As this happens, the hard drive becomes cluttered and disorganized. There are two ways this can happen: the accumulation of unneeded files and the inefficient use of space.
Unneeded files: Over time, your hard drive has collected temp files and other files that your computer no longer needs but that are taking up space.
Inefficient use of space: Just like a poorly-organized book shelf, your hard drive does not store files close together in an efficient manner. Rather, there are big gaps and holes between the files. This not only renders much of the space unusable, it also results in your hard drive taking longer to retrieve files it needs.
Solution: Run these two handy (and free) utilities, which you can find in your Windows control panel: Disk Defragmenter and Disk Cleanup.
Problem 2 - Your system is running spyware: Spyware is a type of virus which sits on your computer and sends information about your activities to other computers on the Internet. Not only is this an invasion of your privacy, it also slows down your computer by using the processor for its own devious needs.
Solution: Install and launch a good anti-spyware software program. There are both free and fee-based versions available online.
Problem 3 - Your memory and processor have not kept up with your software: As memory and fast processors have gotten cheaper, software developers have continued to make heavier and heavier applications requiring higher-capacity hardware.
Solution: If you have not upgraded your memory or processor since you purchased your computer, doing so will almost surely give you a big boost in performance.
Problem 4 - Your Windows registry is full of errors: Your computer operates on many levels at once. One important operational level works just below the level of your operating system: the Windows registry. The registry is like the control center for your computer's software applications, hardware and user settings. Over time, errors in registry "keys" (bits of information or files) crop up and accumulate. Most aging computers have thousands of these registry errors.
Solution: Run a free registry scan to find out how many registry errors you have. Run the registry fix if the scan unearths a large number of errors.
If you follow most or all of these solutions for your older PC, you will undoubtedly end up with much faster computer performance. This will restore things back to the way they were in the good-old-days, but without having to buy an expensive new computer.
Online Backup Service
Online users these days can relish the advantage of a remote or managed backup service to backup and store data files on the internet. This service is known as online backup service. And those who provide this kind of service are known as online backup providers.
A special kind of software program runs the online backup systems by following a certain routine which is usually done on a daily basis. The programs functions include collection, compression, encryption and transferring of data to the online backup servers.
These days with computers becoming an integral part of our lives we need a certain method which can help us save more and more information in such a way that it never gets lost. Our reliance on the internet for most of our work has been on the rise continuously. And so, online backup services are the most convenient option for us today.
There are some conventional backup options for us like saving documents in external hard drives or portable memory sticks, but the problem with these methods is that they are not accessible everywhere. On the other hand, on the internet you can access any file or website anywhere and that too at a very fast rate.
Now, let’s talk about some important features of online backup services. Opened file backups are such services where you can backup files like outlook files or SQL database files which are left open all the time. This simplifies the jobs for IT administrators to do their backup work at any time. This service is very useful to enterprises as their backup products support this service natively.
Next up are the multi-platform backup services which can run backups on many platforms at a time. This means that backup can be performed on Windows, Macs or Linux or even UNIX systems simultaneously. Backup services for networks are known as Network backups. They can perform backups between all computer systems located on a LAN from one computer or device.
Some backup services have the feature of backing up the data from different locations pretty easily and at the same time. These services are known as multi-site backup services. The last of the features is the Continuous backup or the CDP. This service can backup data continuously or at a specified time.
These features prove that online backup services are the ultimate choice for internet users today. Not only are these online services efficient, but also very economical. There is no need for any external equipment and there is no fear of any damage or theft either. Your USB or hard drive can be broken or stolen but nothing can happen to data that is safely stored on the internet.
Moreover, your data when stored on the internet can be retrieved at almost any moment. All you need is a computer with an internet connection. Computers after all are machines and anything can go wrong with machines. So we must take necessary measures in advance to protect our vital information from being lost forever. And with online backup services are sure to make file sharing and storing 100% safe and secure.