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On April 8^th, 2014 Microsoft will no longer offer support for Windows XP, their Operating System that was made available to the public in 2001, over 12 years ago. Despite its age, Windows XP still has users all over the world, a fact that will leave many susceptible to attacks over the course of the next couple months.

Once XP is no longer backed by Microsoft support systems that are still running it are more at risk every day that they don’t upgrade, and this is especially true for medical offices and their network systems. If your office is still using Windows XP by April 8^th, that is technically non-compliant with HIPAA, PCI and a number of other computer security standards. While that may be the case, HIPAA won’t tell you directly that you’re in violation of their practices – not until it’s too late and you’re stuck with a hefty fine. Better to be safe than sorry, especially when it involves a person’s medical and financial history.

Another threat will be that of dubious attack methods not previously seen that are sure to make headlines after April 8^th. Hackers know that a large number of PC users will miss the XP deadline and will take full advantage of that fact. Don’t fall victim and expect Microsoft to help – they won’t.

Even if you don’t get attacked or infected, it’s still a good idea to upgrade your system if it’s running Windows XP. Once Microsoft support ends, you can expect other companies to follow suit shortly after. New software and hardware used in the medical field won’t be XP compatible, and you’ll be stuck with a useless computer, waiting for an upgrade you could’ve gotten a few weeks prior.

In short the best thing you can do in this case is to upgrade the operating system on your computer, or the computer itself. Odds are if you’re still using XP, you could probably use a new computer. The latest Windows operating system, Windows 8.1, is the most up-to-date operating system in terms of all capabilities and industry benchmarks. If your office is still using windows XP, be sure and look into an upgrade before it’s too late.

The average American spends practically every waking hour on some kind of electronic device, whether it be the computer, television, smartphone or reading tablet, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation. And the study goes on to show that screen time is continually on the increase. With that much time spent on the electronic screen, and the eyes being a crucial part of the interaction, how does it affect eye health? Not too well, judging by reports from eye doctors. Too much screen time can generate a condition known as Computer Vision Syndrome.

What is Computer Vision Syndrome?

Too much time spends on the computer or any electronic screen may generate a cluster of vision-related problems that results from eyestrain. Focusing on a virtual screen with pixels instead of actual objects made the eyes work harder to focus, thereby straining eye muscles. Research reveals that 50% to 90% of computer users report at least some symptoms of vision problems.

What are the Symptoms?

Staring for long periods of time at a screen may result in headaches, blurred vision, dry eyes, neck and shoulder strain and eye discomfort. Although these symptoms are not life-threatening, continued prolonged computer use may generate other eye complications such as increased difficulty seeing and focusing. In addition, it may worsen existing eye conditions such as farsightedness, astigmatism and presbyopia.

Part 2 Coming Soon

New technologies have been developed and utilized for the events and participants of the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia.

Ironically, even though these are Winter Olympics, Sochi has a relatively subtropical climate, where there isn’t a lot of snow. Snow making industries had to step into a new gear in snow production. Instead of put it straight on to the slopes, however, the snow is stored and applied when needed. In fact, about sixteen million cubic feet was stored for these Olympics. Also, a process called salting was applied to courses in order to keep the conditions fair. Salting is a when a chemical is put on the top layer of snow, which first melts it, but then freezes it.

Also, new gear has been developed for the Olympic competitors. This including the all new March 39 suit, produced with the partnership of Under Armour and Lockheed Martin. Using the input of dimples onto the suit allows the racer to travel much faster due to decrease in air resistance. Also, skiers have the opportunity to wear jackets containing the lightest waterproof zipper ever made. Not only has new technology been applied to jackets, but also to socks. Socks for hockey players were designed for calve and Achilles protection thanks to the use of copper and Kevlar.

Although Sochi has had its malfunctions, these new technologies are only few of many developed for the 2014 Winter Olympics. These new developments have only driven our home team to greater success overseas during the Olympics! Congratulations! #TeamUSA

Any time that you connect your computer to the Internet you run the risk of being attacked by any number of viruses, Trojans, malware programs, or any one of many other attempts to hack into it. Whether you simply use your computer to surf the web or conduct most of your financial business on it, it is up to you to provide the right level of computer security to protect yourself and your personal information.

Know What You Are Trying to Do

The first step in computer security is to have a good idea of what you are trying to do. There is no real end to providing a secure environment for your computer and personal information. It is an ongoing task that must be kept up with on a regular basis as anything less will only result in your data being compromised. Part of this requires you to keep the software installed on your computer updated at all times. It also means keeping your operating system fully updated as many of the updates contain security patches intended to protect your computer.

Scanners, Security Programs and More

While keeping all of the software on your computer updated is a major step in keeping your database secure, there is more you must do. Adding a virus protection program to your computer or network is vital to ensuring its security. There are a number of free antivirus programs on the market, many of them automatically update their definitions on a daily basis.

These programs can be programmed to scan every file on your hard drives for viruses, Trojans, worms and many other forms of malware and then remove them. Most are also designed to help prevent malware from even accessing your computer in the first place. Installing this type of software needs to be your first line of defense in providing the highest possible level of security for your computer and all of the data and personal information you have stored on it.

(Click here for Part 1)

Tip # 3 – Never Let your Computer Overheat

Airflow is your computer’s best friend.  Never place your computer in a closed cabinet or block air from circulating.  If your computer overheats it will first throttle back performance in order to save the life of the processor before it will finally cease to work.  Make sure that your computer has proper airflow and never overheats to make sure your computer lasts as long as possible.

Tip #4 – Keep your Computer Clean

Keeping your computer clean will help extend the life of your computer.  Cover your computer only when not being used and regularly dust it with a dusting spray.  This will reduce the stress on key components and help make your computer last as long as possible.

By following these four tips you can make sure your computer lasts as long as possible and protect one of your most valuable purchases.

Do you think you could benefit from some of these services/ features? Call 248-616-3057 today and we’ll get you on track to a better performing workstation in no time.