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Performing Basic Computer Maintenance
Did you know that your computer requires "regular" maintenance in
order for it to operate properly? Even a brand new Windows XP
computer you just bought two months ago is in need of immediate
maintenance. That's because ever day computer hackers are finding
new ways to try to gain access to your computer, and old programs
and data files are bogging-down your PC.
Your
best defense is to regularly perform maintenance on all of your
PCs. In addition to using built-in tools like DISK CLEANUP and DISK
DEFRAGMENTER, you should also make sure you have the latest
critical updates and security patches for Microsoft Windows and
Office.
Microsoft Windows
Updates
Use the Windows Update home page to
update your system with the latest critical security updates,
service packs, device drivers, and the latest version of Windows
Media Player. Click here to visit
Microsoft's Windows Update site.
Microsoft Office
Updates
Use the Office tools on the Office
home page to view the latest information and downloads that are
available to enhance your Microsoft Office suite, including
templates, the graphic gallery, and Office eServices. Click
here to visit Microsoft's Office Updates site.
Disk Cleanup
Go to START --> PROGRAMS -->
ACCESSORIES --> SYSTEM TOOLS --> DISK CLEANUP
Disk
Defragmenter
Go to START --> PROGRAMS --> ACCESSORIES --> SYSTEM
TOOLS --> DISK DEFRAGMENTER
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How to Protect Yourself
Against Viruses, Worms and Malicious Code
To help protect yourself against viruses, worms and other malicious
script, install an antivirus product. Equally as important, be sure
to check for virus program UPDATES weekly as about 3 new viruses
are found every day! (Most programs can be configured to check for
updates automatically).
Virus Hoaxes
Before sending on that email you received about a new virus to
dozens of people in your address book, take a moment to "verify"
that the threat is real. There are so many hoaxes out there. Don't
be part of the problem! Click here to visit the DOE's
Hoaxes website.
How to Protect
Yourself Against Spyware, Malware and Adware
To help protect yourself against spyware, malware and adware,
install an anti-spyware product. There are several commercial
products available, however, we recommend:
We can
help you set this up in your office! For more information, also
visit Microsoft's
website to learn how to enhance your computer's
security.
Make Sure Your Software is
Legal
While you may know that copying and/or distributing copyrighted
software illegally is considered piracy, you may not be aware that
even possession of software that has been illegally copied is
piracy. There are actually many distinct types of software piracy,
and familiarity with them can protect you from any connection, even
if unintentional, to intellectual property theft. Visit Microsoft's
website for more information.
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