I constantly get the question: "My computer is running slow - what could be wrong?"

I subscribe to a couple of really good security podcasts and blogs - the general consensus is that the battle has been lost.

This article explains how the most current set of viruses, spyware and rootkits are taking over peoples PC's. There is now a profit in it and organized crime is bellying up to the trough.
http://www.eweek.com/article2/0,1895,2029720,00.asp

Everyone who owns a computer should take the time to read and (at least on a basic level) understand the information contained in this article.


So what can YOU do?

1) Make sure that you are using Windows Update service. Once enabled - this will automatically download security patches for XP and install them for you.
2) Make sure you are running a good anti-virus program - and that it is set to automatically download updates. Check it from time to time to ensure this is happening.
3) Install a good spyware detection program. I use Windows Defender (free from Microsoft - just Google it).

Even the best spyware/malware/rootkit detection programs will only find 60-70% of the stuff that is out there - but it is a start.

4) Put your PC behind a firewall. This means setting up a Cable or DSL router (wireless of hardwired) to connect to your Cable or DSL modem - and then plug in your computer to that. This is critical !! It will also allow you to share your internet connection with other PC's in the house.

5) Avoid lyric sites, gambling sites and porn sites. Almost all of these will cause you problems. Stick to well known sites from vendors you can trust. Don't click on email links that take you off to user's or other websites unless you are sure you can trust the content.

Even with all these in place - it does not mean you will not get hit, but it will reduce your chances.

In the past year - I have completely lost the test server that I have directly on the internet 5 times due to malware infections. Usually not a big deal for me. I know how to clean it up get it back up and running. This last time (2 weeks ago) I was not so lucky. It completely trashed and I lost all data. Fortunately - I back it up so I had backups of all the data. That leads me to:

6) Buy a USB drive and back up all important files REGULARLY. These have become VERY cheap. You can pick one up for around $125 and I have seen them as low as $50. Aren't all of those digital pics, music files, Word docs worth at least that? This is not a foolproof backup strategy - but once again - it is a start.

Hopefully I have not been too preachy - but I have heard the message from the experts - and they are all saying that it is time to start passing it on.

Fritz