Webmaster’s Security Recommendations

 

It is an absolute MUST to have your PC protected.  The most common cause of PCs becoming unusable is from malware - viruses, spyware, Trojan Horses, Worms, Adware, Browser Hijackers, etc. Whenever you connect to the internet or read email, you are at risk.  Usually, the paid-for-programs are more convenient and stronger protection, but very good protection can be gotten from free programs.  Here is my recommendation for a excellent combination of protection:

Anti-virus:  AVG Anti-Virus

Anti-spyware: Spyware Terminator

Firewall:  Use a firewall!  There are several free ones.  See “security.htm”, under Firewalls for recommendations.

Check out “8 Easy Steps to Safely Use the Internet”.

 

Private Data Protection: Cypherix  (Find free version under “Download”)

 

Windows Updates: Turn on windows updates.  If you are on dial-up you probably want to set windows updates to “Notify”, otherwise set to “Automatic”.  Here’s how:

 

WinXP: Start, Control Panel, Security Center, Automatic Updates.  Click the option that works best for you.

Vista: Start, All Programs, Windows Update, Change Settings.  Select option that works best for you.

 

 

Tasks to do before installing these Programs

  1. Download the above programs and save them to your hard drive.
  2. Install CCleaner (if you don’t already have it),

3.     Print the “Computer Cleanup Notes”.  This is written for XP, but Vista will be similar.

  1. Disconnect from the internet.
  2. Using CCleaner and  the Computer Cleanup Notes, clean up your computer!
  3. If you have an old anti-virus program installed, use it to scan your computer, and then uninstall it.
  4. Install the Anti-Virus program.
  5. Run a complete scan using the Anti-Virus program.
  6. Install Anti-spyware and run a scan.
  7. Install or activate a firewall and run a scan.

 

After You Install the Programs

Directions for using and optimizing the programs are in each of the programs.  More information can be also found on each program’s web site.  Here are a few tips:

Firewall:
If you are lucky, you will have a clean PC. At first, the firewall may ask if it is safe to run a program.  If you know the program is safe, then select okay. After awhile, the firewall should calm down and you won't notice it is there.

Spyware Terminator:
Spyware Terminator can be very aggressive.  This can be a good thing, but very annoying at times.  If you want to install a program, you should shut if off while you are doing the installation.