Two simple precautions can help keep your computer virus free - install and use software from reliable vendors and avoid opening unexpected e-mail attachments.
Almost all e-mail attachments are potential virus carriers. Some of the most famous viruses were distributed by accessing address books of infected computers and sending e-mail (with attachments) to everyone in the address book.
Even those from known senders should be regarded with suspicion - e-mail addresses can easily be faked to appear to be from someone you know.
The 'Melissa' virus that appeared in 1999, originally posted on an Internet newsgroup, was distributed in a Microsoft Word document. When downloaded and opened the virus accessed the user's address book and sent copies of the document (along with the virus) to the first 50 people in the user's address book.
Every computer that received the virus sent out an additional 50 copies, creating a worldwide slowdown in Internet networks. The effect took only a few hours.
Another widespread virus distributed by e-mail was the 'ILOVEYOU' virus of 2000. When double clicked it sent copies of itself to every e-mail address in the infected computers address book. But far from a problem of the past, viruses are still very much with us.
What to do?
ANTIVIRUS SOFTWARE
Antivirus software is available in both commercial and freeware versions with a variety of features and prices, usually from free to less than $50.
Most antivirus software works by examining files as they arrive at the computer and by scanning later at configurable pre-set times. The programs work by examining each e-mail attachment and downloaded file looking for virus 'signatures'.
If a virus is found the user will be alerted and infected programs and attachments can be cleansed of the virus or, if not possible, infected files can be deleted or placed into 'quarantine' where they can't be run.
UPDATES
Whare are signatures? All programs have instructions in a pattern. Computer viruses - like their biological counterparts - come in known, though evolving, patterns. The fact of evolution is the reason virus-checking files need to be regularly updated. Updated files contain lists and the characteristics of new signatures.
Most antivirus software can be configured to alert you when the virus checking files are out of date, and even to automatically refresh signature files with the latest versions.
USER PARTICIPATION
Users can become complacent after installing antivirus software, thinking they're totally protected and don't need to worry about becoming infected.
Apart from the fact that antivirus software is written by humans, who can make errors, vendors can only react to viruses after they're created. By that time, much damage can already have been done. An e-mail attachment or program may be infected with a new type of virus that your software cannot (yet) detect.
Some antivirus software can - to a limited extent - detect virus activity even without being able to identify a particular virus. This is an extra level of protection against the latest viruses, but still shouldn't allow users to become overconfident.
Always use trusted sources for downloading software and treat every e-mail attachment with caution.
OTHER INFECTION ROUTES
Lastly, a special note about CDs and DVDs. While they can't be written to (those that can are called CD-R's, DVD-R/W or some variation), they can still contain viruses. Users who burn their own CDs or DVDs - inexpensive and easy these days - can accidentally copy infected programs onto the disc. Since CDs can contain files that automatically act when the disc is inserted, it's possible - though rare - for viruses to be spread without additional user action.
Once again, the lesson is clear. Only accept material from those you know and trust, and who practice 'safe file sharing'.
Be safe out there, now.
Showing posts with label Computer Performance. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Computer Performance. Show all posts
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
What Is A Computer Virus, Anyway?
Combating infections and removing viruses is now big business. Lesson one is 'knowing the enemy'.
THE ENEMY - Crackers and Hackers
Geeks make a distinction between crackers, who break into systems to do damage, and hackers who enjoy taking programs apart just to see how they tick. We'll stick with the more common, though less accurate, term of hacker. (The term 'hacker' originally meant 'someone who makes furniture' with an axe. Crude, but effective - like most computer viruses.)
Viruses are actually a particular type of computer 'malware' - a general term covering all types of malicious software. The most common types are viruses, worms and Trojan horses.
VIRUSES
A virus is usually hidden inside another program such as an installation program delivered via e-mail attachment. (Biological viruses require a host organism to live and reproduce, hence the name.) When the 'host' program is run, the virus program also runs. Once it's in memory the virus is able to do its dirty work, which usually includes infecting other programs.
After the infection stage of the virus, there's a destructive stage. The virus waits for a pre-determined trigger (such as a specific date or a certain number of times the virus has replicated itself) before delivering its 'payload'. Payloads range from simple messages to file deletion commands to destruction of the core operating system.
When first developed, computer viruses were commonly distributed on floppy disks. With the growth of the Internet downloaded files and e-mail are the preferred delivery mechanisms. E-mail can contain attachments which can be any kind of computer file. Any executable file can be infected with a virus, and shouldn't be run unless you're confident they're virus free.
WORMS
Worms are similar to viruses in that they're self-replicating. They reproduce themselves across networks without human assistance, such as e-mail sending. A worm, though, doesn't need another executable program to be distributed.
Worms usually affect networks more than individual computers on the network. Their self-replicating behavior can overload network resources, causing slowdowns in data transmission by consuming massive bandwidth normally used to forward normal traffic. Network systems that route Internet traffic are just specialized computer hardware and software. They, too, can be affected by malware.
Worms can also be designed to carry a payload, using a 'backdoor' installation program. A backdoor is a hidden access point to a computer that bypasses the normal login procedure. They're commonly used by spammers to distribute junk e-mail, for example.
TROJAN HORSES
Trojan horses are the third common type of malware. A 'trojan' is a program that pretends to do one thing but actually does something different. (The term comes from the story of the Greeks who built a large wooden horse in which to hide. Their enemies, the Trojans persuaded they'd receive a gift, took the horse inside their compound giving the Greeks easy access to wreak havoc.) Unlike viruses or worms, a Trojan doesn't replicate itself.
Trojans may be hidden in otherwise useful software. Once started they can do almost anything including erasing data, corrupting files, installing backdoors and logging keystrokes so that hackers can steal information such as credit card numbers and passwords.
FIGHTING MALWARE
Elsewhere in the series, we'll discuss what is and can be done to combat the spread of malware. In the interim, just remember not to be passive and expect the problem to be solved by others. Fighting viruses requires active participation from vendors, webmasters AND users.
THE ENEMY - Crackers and Hackers
Geeks make a distinction between crackers, who break into systems to do damage, and hackers who enjoy taking programs apart just to see how they tick. We'll stick with the more common, though less accurate, term of hacker. (The term 'hacker' originally meant 'someone who makes furniture' with an axe. Crude, but effective - like most computer viruses.)
Viruses are actually a particular type of computer 'malware' - a general term covering all types of malicious software. The most common types are viruses, worms and Trojan horses.
VIRUSES
A virus is usually hidden inside another program such as an installation program delivered via e-mail attachment. (Biological viruses require a host organism to live and reproduce, hence the name.) When the 'host' program is run, the virus program also runs. Once it's in memory the virus is able to do its dirty work, which usually includes infecting other programs.
After the infection stage of the virus, there's a destructive stage. The virus waits for a pre-determined trigger (such as a specific date or a certain number of times the virus has replicated itself) before delivering its 'payload'. Payloads range from simple messages to file deletion commands to destruction of the core operating system.
When first developed, computer viruses were commonly distributed on floppy disks. With the growth of the Internet downloaded files and e-mail are the preferred delivery mechanisms. E-mail can contain attachments which can be any kind of computer file. Any executable file can be infected with a virus, and shouldn't be run unless you're confident they're virus free.
WORMS
Worms are similar to viruses in that they're self-replicating. They reproduce themselves across networks without human assistance, such as e-mail sending. A worm, though, doesn't need another executable program to be distributed.
Worms usually affect networks more than individual computers on the network. Their self-replicating behavior can overload network resources, causing slowdowns in data transmission by consuming massive bandwidth normally used to forward normal traffic. Network systems that route Internet traffic are just specialized computer hardware and software. They, too, can be affected by malware.
Worms can also be designed to carry a payload, using a 'backdoor' installation program. A backdoor is a hidden access point to a computer that bypasses the normal login procedure. They're commonly used by spammers to distribute junk e-mail, for example.
TROJAN HORSES
Trojan horses are the third common type of malware. A 'trojan' is a program that pretends to do one thing but actually does something different. (The term comes from the story of the Greeks who built a large wooden horse in which to hide. Their enemies, the Trojans persuaded they'd receive a gift, took the horse inside their compound giving the Greeks easy access to wreak havoc.) Unlike viruses or worms, a Trojan doesn't replicate itself.
Trojans may be hidden in otherwise useful software. Once started they can do almost anything including erasing data, corrupting files, installing backdoors and logging keystrokes so that hackers can steal information such as credit card numbers and passwords.
FIGHTING MALWARE
Elsewhere in the series, we'll discuss what is and can be done to combat the spread of malware. In the interim, just remember not to be passive and expect the problem to be solved by others. Fighting viruses requires active participation from vendors, webmasters AND users.
How To Block Pop-Up Ads In Your PC
Numerous online marketers and companies are aiming to maximize the use of the Internet. Because most consumers are getting online nowadays, various businesses are targeting catching the attention of prospective clients. Thus, as a sign of desperation, those marketers are launching pop-up advertisements.
Pop-up ads are very rampant and common. There are always pop-up ads appearing on your computer screen. Often, those unimportant and insignificant ads are annoying because they are hampering and blocking your computer usage. Here are some measures that will help you prevent or block pop-up ads.
- There are numerous pop-up ads blockers that can easily and conveniently be downloaded online. Basically, you should install any one of those blocking programs and run them so that on your next Internet log on, you will be spared form the hassles of pop-up ads. Most pop-up ads blockers are offered to the market for free from giant search engines like Google and Yahoo.
- If you are using Microsoft Corporation's popular Windows XP and Windows 2000, you can effectively block pop-up ads by installing on your personal computer Windows XP's Firewall or by updating into Windows XP SP2. Doing so will automatically block messenger service and messenger spam, which almost always constitutes pop-up ads.
- Download an anti-virus software that will at the same time function to detect and block different forms of pop-up ads arising from Spyware and Ad-ware. Such anti-virus programs aren't just helpful in keeping you protected from software virus. They are also effective in blocking pop-up ads that are most likely coming up with embedded viruses.
- Refrain from connecting to the online media without first running your firewall and your reliable anti-virus software. If you have installed a pop-up blocker, it will automatically function upon logging in to the Internet.
- Don't frequent websites that are known to spread and disseminate unnecessary pop-up ads. Usually, porn sites facilitate wide circulation of such ads.
Overall, pop-up ads can be prevented by being vigilant and by being cautious when checking out different Websites. If you can help it, try to block and prevent such online ads from appearing on your PC screen. Pop-up ads not only disturb you from your online task; they also pose security and virus threats to your PC.
Pop-up ads are very rampant and common. There are always pop-up ads appearing on your computer screen. Often, those unimportant and insignificant ads are annoying because they are hampering and blocking your computer usage. Here are some measures that will help you prevent or block pop-up ads.
- There are numerous pop-up ads blockers that can easily and conveniently be downloaded online. Basically, you should install any one of those blocking programs and run them so that on your next Internet log on, you will be spared form the hassles of pop-up ads. Most pop-up ads blockers are offered to the market for free from giant search engines like Google and Yahoo.
- If you are using Microsoft Corporation's popular Windows XP and Windows 2000, you can effectively block pop-up ads by installing on your personal computer Windows XP's Firewall or by updating into Windows XP SP2. Doing so will automatically block messenger service and messenger spam, which almost always constitutes pop-up ads.
- Download an anti-virus software that will at the same time function to detect and block different forms of pop-up ads arising from Spyware and Ad-ware. Such anti-virus programs aren't just helpful in keeping you protected from software virus. They are also effective in blocking pop-up ads that are most likely coming up with embedded viruses.
- Refrain from connecting to the online media without first running your firewall and your reliable anti-virus software. If you have installed a pop-up blocker, it will automatically function upon logging in to the Internet.
- Don't frequent websites that are known to spread and disseminate unnecessary pop-up ads. Usually, porn sites facilitate wide circulation of such ads.
Overall, pop-up ads can be prevented by being vigilant and by being cautious when checking out different Websites. If you can help it, try to block and prevent such online ads from appearing on your PC screen. Pop-up ads not only disturb you from your online task; they also pose security and virus threats to your PC.
Computer Viruses And Guarding Against Them
In this modern Information Age, computers are necessities in life. Whether we use them for simple functions such as typing our homework and business reports, up to more important acts like online business meetings and transactions, one cannot deny that computers are a big part in our daily lives. Using a computer, particularly the Internet, is one task that even a ten year old can do at this particular period in time.
With the growing increase of popularity and reliance on computers, as well as the demand for it, security risks have also gone up, which is a reality that cannot be ignored. With the billions of information bits being spread across the World Wide Web, hackers and computer intruders (criminals) see the value in focusing their attention to computers and the Internet. The information they would retrieve here is (more often than not) more useful than when doing it the old-fashioned way.
As such, these intruders have devised some methods into getting information out of computer users, with or without these people knowing that they’ve been hacked into. As is the case in real life, there are some computer programs that are disguised to be innocent, but actually act as spies, providing information to the intruders. These malicious programs which are security threats are called computer viruses.
Computer viruses should not be taken lightly. They work in many different ways; one of them may be to provide data to the one who planted the virus. Other viruses can simply be annoying - slowing down your computer, building unwanted files, etc. – while some can be very disruptive, such as deleting your hard drive, compromising your operating system, etc.
As such, there are different types of viruses which normally differ in how they function and how they are spread. Examples of these include Trojan horses, worms, email viruses, and logic bombs. It would be important for you to know these kinds of viruses in order to better protect you from them, as well as to have the proper programs to get rid of them.
Trojan horses are simply computer program that cannot reproduce themselves, but can do damage anywhere from minimal to extremely dangerous. It usually disguises itself as a common file (maybe an .mp3 music file or a .jpeg picture file) but does the damage when the computer user opens it. This is why you should take extra care when opening a suspicious looking file – it could very well be a Trojan horse.
Worms are self reproducing programs that mainly use security holes in order to spread itself throughout the network. If your computer is infected with a worm and is able to replicate itself a number of times, this usually causes your computer to slow down noticeably since it uses your computer resources and memory to do so. They often use security flaws in operating systems (such as Windows) in order to self reproduce.
Email viruses are self explanatory – they spread via email. Once a user opens the infected email, what it usually does is send itself to other computer users via the email addresses found in the user’s address book. Because it uses email and a lot of people open emails without really checking or being careful, it spreads very quickly across the entire world and can cause chaos within just a few days.
Logic bombs are viruses that target specific computer applications, causing them to crash (for example, Windows). This can also be spread via email attachments or by innocently downloading it off the Internet. It can cause a great deal of harm (particularly if it infects Windows and the like), or just a small amount (small program).
Fortunately for computer users, there are anti-virus programs available anywhere, whether in the Internet or at the computer shop. These programs specifically target over thousands of viruses and wipe them clean from your system (if infected) or protect you from incoming attacks (if not yet infected).
Anti-virus programs are constantly updated (normally everyday) since there are always new virus definitions each day, and you can get infected by these new viruses. These software developers are always researching about the newest viruses to ensure you, the user, are protected from these viruses as much as possible. Your PC security and safety are always being considered.
With the growing increase of popularity and reliance on computers, as well as the demand for it, security risks have also gone up, which is a reality that cannot be ignored. With the billions of information bits being spread across the World Wide Web, hackers and computer intruders (criminals) see the value in focusing their attention to computers and the Internet. The information they would retrieve here is (more often than not) more useful than when doing it the old-fashioned way.
As such, these intruders have devised some methods into getting information out of computer users, with or without these people knowing that they’ve been hacked into. As is the case in real life, there are some computer programs that are disguised to be innocent, but actually act as spies, providing information to the intruders. These malicious programs which are security threats are called computer viruses.
Computer viruses should not be taken lightly. They work in many different ways; one of them may be to provide data to the one who planted the virus. Other viruses can simply be annoying - slowing down your computer, building unwanted files, etc. – while some can be very disruptive, such as deleting your hard drive, compromising your operating system, etc.
As such, there are different types of viruses which normally differ in how they function and how they are spread. Examples of these include Trojan horses, worms, email viruses, and logic bombs. It would be important for you to know these kinds of viruses in order to better protect you from them, as well as to have the proper programs to get rid of them.
Trojan horses are simply computer program that cannot reproduce themselves, but can do damage anywhere from minimal to extremely dangerous. It usually disguises itself as a common file (maybe an .mp3 music file or a .jpeg picture file) but does the damage when the computer user opens it. This is why you should take extra care when opening a suspicious looking file – it could very well be a Trojan horse.
Worms are self reproducing programs that mainly use security holes in order to spread itself throughout the network. If your computer is infected with a worm and is able to replicate itself a number of times, this usually causes your computer to slow down noticeably since it uses your computer resources and memory to do so. They often use security flaws in operating systems (such as Windows) in order to self reproduce.
Email viruses are self explanatory – they spread via email. Once a user opens the infected email, what it usually does is send itself to other computer users via the email addresses found in the user’s address book. Because it uses email and a lot of people open emails without really checking or being careful, it spreads very quickly across the entire world and can cause chaos within just a few days.
Logic bombs are viruses that target specific computer applications, causing them to crash (for example, Windows). This can also be spread via email attachments or by innocently downloading it off the Internet. It can cause a great deal of harm (particularly if it infects Windows and the like), or just a small amount (small program).
Fortunately for computer users, there are anti-virus programs available anywhere, whether in the Internet or at the computer shop. These programs specifically target over thousands of viruses and wipe them clean from your system (if infected) or protect you from incoming attacks (if not yet infected).
Anti-virus programs are constantly updated (normally everyday) since there are always new virus definitions each day, and you can get infected by these new viruses. These software developers are always researching about the newest viruses to ensure you, the user, are protected from these viruses as much as possible. Your PC security and safety are always being considered.
The Importance Of Defragmenting Your Hard Disk
Defragmenting your hard disk regularly is important in ensuring the efficiency of your computer. It's a way to allow your computer to clean up and re-organize itself for a system that runs better and faster.
How does defragmenting work and why is it important?
When your computer is working; using, opening, saving files, changing data in the files, it uses up areas on your hard disk. If you save a file for example, the hard disk will take that file and store it in sections on the computers hard drive that are adjacent to each other, depending on the size of the file. Smaller files are easier to store because they can be placed efficiently next to each other.
As you continue to use your computer, you will also be performing other tasks, such as editing, adding and deleting files. When you do, changes occur on the hard disk and some areas will become empty pockets. These areas are referred to as fragmentation.
Imagine your hard disk as a flat surface with small blocks where data is stored and there are fragmentations present. From above, you'll see that the files are scattered all over the surface, with some areas empty. Small files will usually fit a small area, but for bigger files, it's different.
On bigger files, it will be difficult to try to fit them in a limited space so your computer will instead break the file down into fragments and store these fragments in different locations on the hard disk. Although this helps keep the files in place, it tends to build up over time.
The randomness with which these files stored also clutters your hard drive and later, it will take a bit longer for your computer to locate things. This is when you'll notice that your system is getting slower. Because the hard disk becomes too fragmented, each time you try to open a file or use a program, it will take longer for the computer to locate and gather the necessary files.
This causes the operating system to run more slowly, making your computer less efficient. Defragmenting (sometimes referred to as 'defrag' or 'defragging') will help re-arrange the files and keep them in order and easy to find. Once you have defragmented your hard disk, you will notice that your computer runs faster.
How often should I defrag my hard disk?
Don't ignore the importance of defragmenting your computer. Defragging once a month is a good practice, especially if you use your computer often and if you manage a lot of files.
How does defragmenting work and why is it important?
When your computer is working; using, opening, saving files, changing data in the files, it uses up areas on your hard disk. If you save a file for example, the hard disk will take that file and store it in sections on the computers hard drive that are adjacent to each other, depending on the size of the file. Smaller files are easier to store because they can be placed efficiently next to each other.
As you continue to use your computer, you will also be performing other tasks, such as editing, adding and deleting files. When you do, changes occur on the hard disk and some areas will become empty pockets. These areas are referred to as fragmentation.
Imagine your hard disk as a flat surface with small blocks where data is stored and there are fragmentations present. From above, you'll see that the files are scattered all over the surface, with some areas empty. Small files will usually fit a small area, but for bigger files, it's different.
On bigger files, it will be difficult to try to fit them in a limited space so your computer will instead break the file down into fragments and store these fragments in different locations on the hard disk. Although this helps keep the files in place, it tends to build up over time.
The randomness with which these files stored also clutters your hard drive and later, it will take a bit longer for your computer to locate things. This is when you'll notice that your system is getting slower. Because the hard disk becomes too fragmented, each time you try to open a file or use a program, it will take longer for the computer to locate and gather the necessary files.
This causes the operating system to run more slowly, making your computer less efficient. Defragmenting (sometimes referred to as 'defrag' or 'defragging') will help re-arrange the files and keep them in order and easy to find. Once you have defragmented your hard disk, you will notice that your computer runs faster.
How often should I defrag my hard disk?
Don't ignore the importance of defragmenting your computer. Defragging once a month is a good practice, especially if you use your computer often and if you manage a lot of files.
The Most Important Computer Tools Every Beginner User Should Know About
Your computer can do a lot of things to make your life a lot easier. It can help you communicate with people regardless of your geographical distance, access information, make computations, process and create images, listen to music, view videos, order and purchase things, etc. If you're a new computer user, here are some of the most important tools you should know about:
Word Processor
The word processor is a program that allows you to perform many tasks. Although it is commonly used to type texts to produce letters, memos, manuscripts and research papers, it can also handle simple text manipulation if you need to produce a basic brochure or newsletter.
The word processor can also be used for presentations. You can embed photographic images, photos and graphs and label them with the appropriate texts. If you like to keep a journal or a planning to come up with your own novel someday, the word processor is your tool.
Spreadsheet
The spreadsheet is another important tool for your computer. It accepts texts and figures and is also capable of performing basic and advanced computations. It is often used as a computing tool, although it can also handle text and graphics. Basically, it functions as a calculator so if you don't have one, use this tool.
The spreadsheet page looks like a blank page divided by rows (numerical) and columns (alphabetical), producing rectangular blocks called cells. Within each cell, which is expandable, you can perform certain tasks, such as inputting texts and/or numbers or create formulas. You can then use these formulas to allow the cells to interact and result to an effective mathematical or statistical computation.
Browser
The browser allows you to access the internet. It is a program that downloads data from the World Wide Web and translates them to produce a readable text or image. The browser is an important computer tool, providing you with the means with which to obtain information, view files online and communicate with other people through e-mails or instant messages, although the latter can be a separate tool.
Other Tools
Certain computer tools such as those designed for image editing and publishing and those that allow you to create presentations are also important. Desktop publishing just became easier thanks to these tools, which allow you to do design and layout.
Tools that help you maintain the health of your computer are also important, such as anti-virus software and anti-spyware. These ensure that your computer is safe and secure by protecting it from threats that damage your software and hardware and render your computer useless.
Word Processor
The word processor is a program that allows you to perform many tasks. Although it is commonly used to type texts to produce letters, memos, manuscripts and research papers, it can also handle simple text manipulation if you need to produce a basic brochure or newsletter.
The word processor can also be used for presentations. You can embed photographic images, photos and graphs and label them with the appropriate texts. If you like to keep a journal or a planning to come up with your own novel someday, the word processor is your tool.
Spreadsheet
The spreadsheet is another important tool for your computer. It accepts texts and figures and is also capable of performing basic and advanced computations. It is often used as a computing tool, although it can also handle text and graphics. Basically, it functions as a calculator so if you don't have one, use this tool.
The spreadsheet page looks like a blank page divided by rows (numerical) and columns (alphabetical), producing rectangular blocks called cells. Within each cell, which is expandable, you can perform certain tasks, such as inputting texts and/or numbers or create formulas. You can then use these formulas to allow the cells to interact and result to an effective mathematical or statistical computation.
Browser
The browser allows you to access the internet. It is a program that downloads data from the World Wide Web and translates them to produce a readable text or image. The browser is an important computer tool, providing you with the means with which to obtain information, view files online and communicate with other people through e-mails or instant messages, although the latter can be a separate tool.
Other Tools
Certain computer tools such as those designed for image editing and publishing and those that allow you to create presentations are also important. Desktop publishing just became easier thanks to these tools, which allow you to do design and layout.
Tools that help you maintain the health of your computer are also important, such as anti-virus software and anti-spyware. These ensure that your computer is safe and secure by protecting it from threats that damage your software and hardware and render your computer useless.
Protecting Yourself From Your Mouse
The computer mouse is one of the essential elements of your entire computer using experience, however, contrary to what you think one would have to master the use of the mouse in order to assure the prevention of any musculoskeletal injury. Aside from constantly changing your posture when you are working with your mouse and in this same way you could curtail the risk of ergonomic related problems.
Be reminded that the finest ergonomic mouse should allow you to make diverse positions while using it.
Safety Tips While Using Your Mouse
There are several pieces of advice that the experts have provided for mouse users, in order for them to lessen the threats of suffering from mouse-using problems. The following tips are supposed to give the users the proper ways of using the computer mouse.
1. Gripping your mouse - there is really no need to hold the mouse too tightly because it won't run anywhere. Just hold the mouse mildly over the mouse pad.
2. Use your mouse from your elbow - it is important that you use your mouse from your elbow as your midpoint instead of flicking your wrists. Be sure that you keep your elbow straight at all times.
3. Ideal mouse position - in using your mouse, the best position that you can take is just to sit back in your chair and your arms should be relaxed as you are sliding your mouse on the mouse pad. Remember to pivot using your elbow and never ever use the mouse while extending on the desk or on the side of your keyboard.
4. Keep your wrist safe all the time - in anatomy, it should be free from any surface pressure interaction.
5. Keep away from limiting circulations - pressure on the wrist where our pulse is usually taken might just disrupt the proper blood circulation in our body which might eventually lead to further complications.
6. Avoid using wrist rest - research shows that the wrist rests only amplifies the risks inside our carpal tunnel.
7. Keep away from limiting arm movements - as you are using your wrist rests, chances are you'll rest you entire forearm on a fixed or locking position which in turn leads to the mouse flicking with the use of the wrist instead of the elbow.
Other than these tips, it is important that you educate yourself regarding the other ideal positions for some input devices which you are using, because you might not even know that you are less prone to complications in using your mouse but you are highly exposed for other complications with other devices.
Be reminded that the finest ergonomic mouse should allow you to make diverse positions while using it.
Safety Tips While Using Your Mouse
There are several pieces of advice that the experts have provided for mouse users, in order for them to lessen the threats of suffering from mouse-using problems. The following tips are supposed to give the users the proper ways of using the computer mouse.
1. Gripping your mouse - there is really no need to hold the mouse too tightly because it won't run anywhere. Just hold the mouse mildly over the mouse pad.
2. Use your mouse from your elbow - it is important that you use your mouse from your elbow as your midpoint instead of flicking your wrists. Be sure that you keep your elbow straight at all times.
3. Ideal mouse position - in using your mouse, the best position that you can take is just to sit back in your chair and your arms should be relaxed as you are sliding your mouse on the mouse pad. Remember to pivot using your elbow and never ever use the mouse while extending on the desk or on the side of your keyboard.
4. Keep your wrist safe all the time - in anatomy, it should be free from any surface pressure interaction.
5. Keep away from limiting circulations - pressure on the wrist where our pulse is usually taken might just disrupt the proper blood circulation in our body which might eventually lead to further complications.
6. Avoid using wrist rest - research shows that the wrist rests only amplifies the risks inside our carpal tunnel.
7. Keep away from limiting arm movements - as you are using your wrist rests, chances are you'll rest you entire forearm on a fixed or locking position which in turn leads to the mouse flicking with the use of the wrist instead of the elbow.
Other than these tips, it is important that you educate yourself regarding the other ideal positions for some input devices which you are using, because you might not even know that you are less prone to complications in using your mouse but you are highly exposed for other complications with other devices.
How To Keep Your PC Healthy By Avoiding Viruses
The toughest to fight in any computer is a virus that has already gotten into your system, snooped into your files and multiplied to the point that it hogs your hard disk space and slowly eats at your system. Let's admit it, we're scared of these viruses and we want to get rid of them. Here are very useful tips for protecting your PC:
Making Use Of The Firewall
Windows operating system has the firewall for a reason. For those who are connected to the Internet 24/7, the firewall is the basic way to protect your PC. Check if your firewall is on by going to the control panel of your Windows PC. Firewalls keeps your computer away from malicious software (malware), worms, and Trojan viruses. Also, it prevents other people from snooping in your files and applications.
You can also download firewall software off the net if you want more protection for your system, but the basic firewalls work.
Download A Trusty Antivirus Software
These days, when you have no antivirus software, your PC is vulnerable to virus attacks, especially when inserting your friends flash disks in your USB ports. There are already a variety of viruses sticking themselves to flash disks then automatically transferring it to the PC.
It would be really helpful to have an antivirus which is regularly updated off the internet. It's also good to always have it active all the time to detect virus in real time.
Check If Your Windows Operating System Is Getting Updates
Never ignore the Windows update bubble popping out of the lower right part of your screen. Your Windows operating system will be fully protected by downloading updates. These updates often include anti-malware updates or improvement for different Windows utilities to avoid vulnerabilities in the system.
Though most of the time, Windows automatically downloads updates and let you install them manually or automatically when you shut down your system.
Being Wary Of Suspicious E-Mails And Various Zipped Files
Don't open everything in your inbox. This is almost common knowledge, however, sometimes; curiosity gets the better of us. Inspect the sender and the subject before opening an e-mail and downloading anything off the attachments. Some of the most deadly virus hides in e-mails.
Lastly, if you download files from limewire, for example, be very careful on downloading zipped files. Check if the file is described in the right size and it looks trustworthy enough before downloading it.
The Bottom Line
Being careful and doing the right things will help your PC avoid getting viruses. In the end, it's not up to the PC to do the work, but it's up to the user to configure and protect the PC himself; which is the best way.
Making Use Of The Firewall
Windows operating system has the firewall for a reason. For those who are connected to the Internet 24/7, the firewall is the basic way to protect your PC. Check if your firewall is on by going to the control panel of your Windows PC. Firewalls keeps your computer away from malicious software (malware), worms, and Trojan viruses. Also, it prevents other people from snooping in your files and applications.
You can also download firewall software off the net if you want more protection for your system, but the basic firewalls work.
Download A Trusty Antivirus Software
These days, when you have no antivirus software, your PC is vulnerable to virus attacks, especially when inserting your friends flash disks in your USB ports. There are already a variety of viruses sticking themselves to flash disks then automatically transferring it to the PC.
It would be really helpful to have an antivirus which is regularly updated off the internet. It's also good to always have it active all the time to detect virus in real time.
Check If Your Windows Operating System Is Getting Updates
Never ignore the Windows update bubble popping out of the lower right part of your screen. Your Windows operating system will be fully protected by downloading updates. These updates often include anti-malware updates or improvement for different Windows utilities to avoid vulnerabilities in the system.
Though most of the time, Windows automatically downloads updates and let you install them manually or automatically when you shut down your system.
Being Wary Of Suspicious E-Mails And Various Zipped Files
Don't open everything in your inbox. This is almost common knowledge, however, sometimes; curiosity gets the better of us. Inspect the sender and the subject before opening an e-mail and downloading anything off the attachments. Some of the most deadly virus hides in e-mails.
Lastly, if you download files from limewire, for example, be very careful on downloading zipped files. Check if the file is described in the right size and it looks trustworthy enough before downloading it.
The Bottom Line
Being careful and doing the right things will help your PC avoid getting viruses. In the end, it's not up to the PC to do the work, but it's up to the user to configure and protect the PC himself; which is the best way.
How To Know The Specs Of Your Computer For Easy Computer Problem Diagnosis
Quite a few people who own a computer know exactly what kind of a computer they have and its specifications. There is also a significant number of people who don't know that in order for computer technicians to know how to fix a problem with their computers, they need to know all about the unit and its specifications.
Use Software For Finding Out
The easiest possible way for you to determine your specs is to use your Windows System Information Utility. All computers that run on Windows Operating Systems have their users use this utility to help them determine what their computer is made of. Aside from the built in system for Windows, you can also utilize software like Fresh Diagnose, Aida 32 and the SiSoft Sandra. All these diagnostic software show you what your computer is made of can be obtained free of charge through a simple web search and download.
How To Use Your Windows System Information Utility
To use your Windows System Information Utility is actually very simple. Here are the steps for you to follow to check on your computer's specifications:
1. Go the start button and click on it.
2. Drag your cursor over to the word programs then over the word accessories.
3. In the accessories selection, you can then drag your arrow over to the phrase system tools then choose and click on the system Information selection.
4. You will then get a pop-up page from your computer that shows you the Systems summary of your unit. On this system summary, you will see your computer's OS Name and version, the OS and System manufacturers, system name and a whole lot more.
5. For a more detailed look at the information about your computer, click on the plus sign beside each category under the System Summary and click on the sub-categories you may want to view.
6. The categories you can find under your system summary list includes the hardware list or hardware resources, the Components which includes the Multimedia components of the computer, Input, Network, Ports and Storage. There is also a list of subcategories under the headings Software Environment and Internet Settings.
These simple steps will help you find out what your computer's specifications are and will eventually help you when you need to answer the questions your computer repairman or troubleshooter will ask you should your unit need servicing.
Use Software For Finding Out
The easiest possible way for you to determine your specs is to use your Windows System Information Utility. All computers that run on Windows Operating Systems have their users use this utility to help them determine what their computer is made of. Aside from the built in system for Windows, you can also utilize software like Fresh Diagnose, Aida 32 and the SiSoft Sandra. All these diagnostic software show you what your computer is made of can be obtained free of charge through a simple web search and download.
How To Use Your Windows System Information Utility
To use your Windows System Information Utility is actually very simple. Here are the steps for you to follow to check on your computer's specifications:
1. Go the start button and click on it.
2. Drag your cursor over to the word programs then over the word accessories.
3. In the accessories selection, you can then drag your arrow over to the phrase system tools then choose and click on the system Information selection.
4. You will then get a pop-up page from your computer that shows you the Systems summary of your unit. On this system summary, you will see your computer's OS Name and version, the OS and System manufacturers, system name and a whole lot more.
5. For a more detailed look at the information about your computer, click on the plus sign beside each category under the System Summary and click on the sub-categories you may want to view.
6. The categories you can find under your system summary list includes the hardware list or hardware resources, the Components which includes the Multimedia components of the computer, Input, Network, Ports and Storage. There is also a list of subcategories under the headings Software Environment and Internet Settings.
These simple steps will help you find out what your computer's specifications are and will eventually help you when you need to answer the questions your computer repairman or troubleshooter will ask you should your unit need servicing.
10 Simple Ways To Increase Speed Of Your Computer
Most of us who use computers maximally get frustrated when our computers have slowed down. Naturally, we look for someone to help us so we can increase the speed of our computers. This can sometimes be a further waste of time as we try to look for someone when actually, we can do the jobs ourselves. Here's how:
1. Get rid of those unnecessary wallpapers. Simply go for the basic built-in designs to improve the speed a great deal. If you can't help it, don't stretch the wallpaper because dragging can slow down the functions. Also, remove animations that aren't needed by your programs.
2. If you have drivers installed on your computer, make sure you do frequent updates because updating can improve the speed of your programs.
3. Sometimes we can't help but open several programs at the same time because we need to do multi-tasking. If we have to do this, we need to minimize those programs we aren't currently using.
4. Remove the message that says you are starting Windows 95/98 because this can slow down booting. To remove this, just go to c:\ and look for the file Msdos.sys. Then remove the Read-only option. Open this in Notepad then go to options and change by adding BootDelay=0.
5. To restart Windows, simply hold down the Shift key to restart Windows instead of restarting the whole system which can take longer.
6. You may also try working on a lower resolution so that you can move faster with your PC.
7. Regularly defragment your computer so that files can be consolidated into single files. This will surely speed up the functions of your computer.
8. For faster ejection of CDs, simply right-click on the CD drive letter in My Computer and choose Eject. Icons will be removed as well which could somehow slow down the process.
9. Get rid of fonts that you don't usually use. Just go to fonts under c:\windows and remove those fonts that you no longer need.
10. Get rid of unnecessary files by constantly emptying your Recycle Bin and removing temporary Internet files. These take up space and of course, needs to be read by your CPU every time you boot. Even your email inbox should be regularly cleaned up to enhance the speed of your usage.
Now that you know it isn't hard to speed up your very own computer, simply follow the said steps and you are on your way to having a reliable and faster computer.
1. Get rid of those unnecessary wallpapers. Simply go for the basic built-in designs to improve the speed a great deal. If you can't help it, don't stretch the wallpaper because dragging can slow down the functions. Also, remove animations that aren't needed by your programs.
2. If you have drivers installed on your computer, make sure you do frequent updates because updating can improve the speed of your programs.
3. Sometimes we can't help but open several programs at the same time because we need to do multi-tasking. If we have to do this, we need to minimize those programs we aren't currently using.
4. Remove the message that says you are starting Windows 95/98 because this can slow down booting. To remove this, just go to c:\ and look for the file Msdos.sys. Then remove the Read-only option. Open this in Notepad then go to options and change by adding BootDelay=0.
5. To restart Windows, simply hold down the Shift key to restart Windows instead of restarting the whole system which can take longer.
6. You may also try working on a lower resolution so that you can move faster with your PC.
7. Regularly defragment your computer so that files can be consolidated into single files. This will surely speed up the functions of your computer.
8. For faster ejection of CDs, simply right-click on the CD drive letter in My Computer and choose Eject. Icons will be removed as well which could somehow slow down the process.
9. Get rid of fonts that you don't usually use. Just go to fonts under c:\windows and remove those fonts that you no longer need.
10. Get rid of unnecessary files by constantly emptying your Recycle Bin and removing temporary Internet files. These take up space and of course, needs to be read by your CPU every time you boot. Even your email inbox should be regularly cleaned up to enhance the speed of your usage.
Now that you know it isn't hard to speed up your very own computer, simply follow the said steps and you are on your way to having a reliable and faster computer.
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