Computer Deep Freeze - Ten Tips to Keep your PC Up and Running

The last thing you need is a frozen computer, which will happen if your computer is not properly protected against viruses, worms and Trojan horses. Deep freezes can cost you precious time and a lot of money that you won’t have to spend if you follow these ten tips to keep your PC up and running.

1. Anti-virus software is a must have for all computer users. If you don’t have any anti-virus software on your computer right now, then stop reading and go get one right away. Not only do you have to install the software, you need to keep up with the updates. Everyday, new viruses, worms and other threats emerge and seek out those unsuspecting vulnerable computers. The two most popular anti-virus software packages are McAfee Virus Scan and Norton Anti-Virus. These packages can range from $35 to $60, but they are well worth it. There will also be smaller annual fees for ongoing subscriptions to these services.

2. Watch for suspicious emails. You may think you’re getting an email from a friend, maybe the email has a tempting file attached, so you click on it. Then before you know it, you’ve just infested your computer and any machines attached to it with a severe virus. You can loose files and even affect everyone in your address book. This is not a good way to make friends and this will most certainly ruin your day.

3. Avoid any websites that require you to download any software in order to be able to view a page. Unless it’s software like Acrobat Reader or Flash Plug In, or some other well known software. You may be downloading a Trojan horse or some other virus. Never install any software unless you are confident it’s coming from a reliable source.

4. Spyware can secretly install itself into your computer without you knowing about it. This can happen when you are downloading software. Pop-ups can follow close behind these spyware programs. You can install a tool such as Ad-aware or StopZilla to help prevent spyware from being downloaded into your computer and to block all those nasty pop-ups.

5. Smite the spam! These unsolicited emails are annoying and such a nuisance. Spam is also a prime source of virus infections and other threats to your computer. Spam catching programs can be obtained from McAfee Spam Killer 5, Norton Anti-Spam and I Hate Spam. These can be purchased from $20 to $50.

6. Security patches. Holes do occur in security software from time to time. That’s where the security patch comes in, to patch it up and make it safe again. Always update your security program on a regular basis and install any security patches as they become available.

7. Use your discs. It’s always a good safety measure to have all your valuable information backed up on disc. Bad things happen to good people, and if your computer contracts a virus, you are at risk of losing everything you have. And unless you only use your computer to play video games on, you really need to save your data onto disc. I can not emphasize this enough!

8. Beware of hoaxes and fraudulent emails. Never believe everything you read. There are too many people out there trying to scam you out of your money. Once they have all your personal information, they can take you for all you’re worth. Never freely give out your personal information and most definitely not any of your financial information to those who ask. Unless it’s a website that you are familiar with or have had transactions with in the past, buyer beware.

9. Install a firewall. A firewall is almost impossible for hackers to figure out, therefore keeping you safe in all your internet endeavors. You can find these firewalls for free or you can purchase them. However you choose to acquire one, just get one, because you do need it.

10. Back up your files on a regular basis. Whether you fall victim to a hacker, worm, Trojan horse or some other virus, you will want to create a means of escape with minor damage. If you don’t back up your files, well, you must be a glutton for punishment.