|
Computer Tips:
Don't be afraid to carefully open the side of your computer
case and vacuum it out (but make sure the power cord is
unplugged!). This can save you a lot of future problems that
could lead to expensive repairs.
Basic maintenance is
vital to keeping your system running well. Besides cleaning
out your computer you should run regular scans for spyware
with a program like Spybot (see the link below).
Defragmenting your hard drive is also very important to keep
everything running as efficiently as possible. In Windows
you can find a free defragmenter by clicking "Start," then
"Programs," "Accessories," "System Tools" and the "Disk
Defragmenter."
Never let your antivirus
program expire. For online security, a good antivirus
program is absolutely crucial. You can always buy programs
from Norton or McAfee but most people don't realize that
there are good FREE antivirus programs out there as well.
See our link below to AVG FREE Antivirus.
Set a regular time to
backup pictures & other important data each month. You can
backup to CD, DVD or even an inexpensive external hard
drive. You can never backup too often.
Having a wireless router
with wireless internet access at home is great but most
people do not realize that if you do not adjust the security
setting on the router then they are putting their security
at risk. Anyone within close proximity to your home can not
only use your web access but if someone knows what they are
doing, they can also access the computers in your home! Find
out how to encrypt your network or call us at Integrity
Computer. We can come out and secure your computers and
network.
A computer is an
investment. With this in mind, take the time to buy a good
SURGE PROTECTOR. A power strip does not necessarily protect
against surges. A good protector will run you at least $25
on the low end and as much as $150 on the higher end.
Maintaining a
Family-Friendly computer:
We always recommend that for children (especially small
children) computers not be kept in their rooms outside of
the view of the parents. Many times a good area can be found
in one of the family rooms.
If your child belongs to
a social networking site (MySpace, Facebook, Tagged, Xanga,
etc), look closely at what information they have posted in
their member profiles and blogs, including photos and
videos. Predators, bullies, profanity and threats often
occur in these types of sites.
Stay in touch with your
kid's online activities. Know who their online friends are
(and who is on their buddy list), just as you would their
other friends.
Talk to your children
frequently about their online experience and remind them:
Never to give out
personal information such as your name, home address, school
name, or telephone number online.
Never send a picture
of yourself to someone you chat with on the computer without
your parents permission.
Discuss what constitutes
an inappropriate use of the Internet (harassing others,
bullying, using profanity, looking at pornography, making
purchases without your permission, etc) and what the
consequences will be.
We recommend securing
your internet browser. Internet Explorer allows you to
specify web sites that can be visited. All other sites are
blocked. This way, if your child wants to visit a new site,
they have to ask your permission and you have to allow it.
Also consider switching to the Firefox browser (see the link
below). Not only is it considered more secure but on their
web site they have great parental "plug-ins" that can filter
your child’s browsing experience. |
