Technology

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.

Your PC is a valuable tool and you have invested a lot of money in getting the best one you can afford.  You want to make sure this valuable tool lasts as long as possible.  It is important to know how to make sure your computer lasts as long as possible and with the following tips you will.

Tip #1 – Set a Sleep Timer

One of the biggest drains on computer longevity is long periods of inactivity.  If you leave your computer and forget to come back and put it in sleep mode setting the sleep timer will suspend activities and reduce the wear on your computer.

Tip # 2 – Do not turn the computer on and off

There is no need to shut off your computer every time you are done using it.  Power cycling can actually drain computer life.  Instead of shutting off the computer just put it in sleep mode.  This suspends activity and will mean the computer is ready to go when you sit down again.

Part 2 coming soon

There are ways to avoid being pulled into a scammer scheme:

1) As an online shopper, you must pay attention the URL. A website usually has http in the beginning of the web address. If you see https instead of http, this means that the website has security for transferring personal information.

2) If you go to a website and you get a pop-up with an offer that’s too good to be true, close it immediately. If excepted, it can infect your computer either immediately or take you to a website containing a virus.

3) Keep security software on your computer updated, and do scans every once in a while to make sure there are no hidden viruses on your device.

4) It is safer to type the website you are looking for into the actual URL bar than following links to get to where you want to be. The links you following can redirect you to infectious pages.

5) When it comes to malicious emails, don’t click on any links you aren’t familiar with, or on any links sent from random companies. Basically, if you weren’t expecting it, don’t open it.

6) If you receive any offers for donating to charities, look up the charity, and confirm the legitimacy of the cause and its website.

7) If you are online shopping, check your credit card statements and make sure there aren’t any illegal charges.

8) If a website or company contacts you with a plea that you enter personal information, don’t.
Holiday shopping is a time of great deals, and is a great time to buy gifts for others. I myself ,a programmer, have seen people get scammed, and by following these guidelines and being aware, you can easily prevent this from happening to you.

OMA Comp can help in any and all of these situations. If you think you’ve fallen victim to a identity theft or online-shopping scam, call OMA Comp today and we’ll help you stay safer for the next time.