Serving Houston, Sugar Land, Katy, Richmond, Pearland, Missouri City, and Stafford

Call Us At
(281) 766-HELP

Better Systems Blog

Saving You Time And Money In The Long Run...

"How should I set my passwords?"

First, let's discuss what your passwords should not be. The word "password" itself should never be used. In the same vein, any words found in a dictionary should not be used. This would include foreign dictionaries as well! Password cracking programs can go through an entire dictionary in just a few minutes, maybe even seconds now with faster computer processors.

Second, don't use combinations of people's birthdays and names, as those can be determined rather quickly with just some information they can gather about you, like what is posted on your facebook page. That also would include not using your address - anything that is public record should just be off limits. That includes even your social security number.

Next, do not use double words like the word "doggydoggy". Do not use jargon like the word "widget". Do not use cuss words, insults, or anything offensive. You can figure those words out on your own. Even reversing words so that the word password is now "drowssap" or even "wordpass". Repeated letters like "zzzzzzz" is not good, just as a sequence are not good like "1234567". Adjacent letters on your keyboard are also not a good idea. Finally, common misspelled words and abbreviations are not good either. Just don't do these as these are easily hackable with software nowadays.

Now to get a good password, start with a sentence that you know. A famous sentence such as from a poem, a movie title, or a line from a play. "Water water everywhere and not a drop to drink." is a good example (note: nothing too famous, but something you know). So we start with the first letter of each word and get "wweanadtd". Then capitalize some of them that can you remember, like the last 5 letters. Then add some numbers that you know. Then add punctuation in a spot you can remember like a question mark. Finally, add some symbols like a pound sign. So your password can be the following: "?W1W2eAn9Adtd#". Now since you can remember how to regenerate it, you can easily use it as an excellent password.

Better Systems Tech Tips:

Now that you generated a great password and can regenerate it at will, use it. Then, every month, do this exercise again. This will ensure that you are well protected on your system, or on your online locations. If you find this too confusing, just start with using the first letter of the sentence. As you progress, then start adding one of the other items. Soon enough, you will be generating hack-proof passwords.

"What is Panda Cloud Anti-Virus?"

Panda Cloud Anti-Virus is a free anti-virus solution for home use, but with a twist! If you have internet connection up all the time, such as with a DSL or Cable Internet account, you can free up your own systems resources by putting most of it in the "cloud". What is the cloud? The cloud is essentially the internet. So, instead of using your own computer to store the virus definition files and then continually update it as your anti-virus has new definition files to download into your computer, Panda Cloud Anti-Virus stores these on their own servers so that you are updated at all times. This is a newer way to provide an anti-virus solution to you from Panda. The best part is that your system resources are minimized compared to a full blown anti-virus program that you would install on your own system.

Bloatware anti-virus programs are one of the major issues with some programs. That is, they use up a lot of system resources that slows down your systems significantly. When this happens, a lot of people just uninstall their anti-virus so that they can perform their day to day programs more efficiently.

Another major issue with anti-virus programs is that, since you have to have the updates of the latest virus definitions, you aren't protected from the latest malware until you do so. You may have to remember to update them or you are toast even when you scan your system. If a new virus gets on your system, it may be too late to be effective if you are not updated. With Panda Cloud Anti-Virus, you are always updated as soon as they update their servers.

Panda Cloud Anti-Virus, once installed, will offer two scan modes. A quick scan is offered to get you getting your most targeted files. A more customizable scan is also available where you can target whole drives, or a folder by folder option. The Graphical Interface is clean and is easy to use. Once you have installed it, it is configured to be a truley "set it and forget it" anti-virus program. If you ever just want to check on it, just click on the Panda Icon in your system tray and you will be greeted with your status screen. Hopefully, there is a big green "OK" to greet you saying your system is running as it should be.

The only issue I can think of that if you don't have an internet connection, it won't be as powerful as it could be. A lot of malware's first function is to stop all internet connections so that you can not download an anti-virus solution. Some malware will not allow you to go to the website that you want to go to except for the site they want you to go to buy the virus programmer's solution to fix the issue (also known as extortion money). However, Panda Could Anti-Virus still runs and scans.

Better Systems Tech Tips:

Download Panda Cloud Anti-Virus today and try it out. See if it is something you want as a your anti-virus solution. The link can be found below.

Panda Cloud Anti-Virus

"Do I need an iPad computer?"

It really depends on what you expect out of an iPad as the reasons are different for many owners and would-be owners.

If you are expecting a high productivity computer with lots of power and
applications, you expectations may be too high at this time. The reason I say "at this time" is that as the popularity and profitability of apps are added, more and more demand will create the need for more high production apps. Right now, there are only a few that do what you expect a desktop, or even a production laptop, to do.

Since the iPad uses small program applications, or apps, you have to see if there is an app that you need. The famous Apple commercial stating, "There is an app for that" made the iPod and iPhone a big hit. You can purchase these apps on your iTunes stores. Apple does hold tight reigns on just what apps are made available to purchasers and what are not. Rejected apps may compromise the system, some may be adult oriented, and some are direct competitors to Apple. Since they have the control, Apple gets to say what gets approved and what does not.

This is actually a good business model for the common consumer, though a lot of tech gurus will argue with that statement. Since Apple has the control, any vulnerabilities to malware will be greatly minimized. This will make the iPad experience more genuine to the purchaser as they can only run programs that are clear of this type of issues plagued by the main operating system, that is Windows which run most desktop, laptop, and netbook platforms. Another plus to the consumer is that system crashes is also almost non-existent. Who hasn't ever run a Windows computer that has locked up or had the dreaded Blue Screen of Death? This is not a problem with the iPad (knock on wood) since, again, only approved software is included in their iTunes stores.

Now, the drawbacks! Since Apple does control the apps, you may not have the exact one that you need, or one that you are used to. So, if you want a high end spreadsheet program, it is not available. If you want a high end word processing program, that is also not available. If you want a high end email program, again, not available. This may change in the near future, but not at this time.

Some of the higher end productivity software that we are familiar with, have the capability to add macros, that automate certain tasks, again are not authorized by Apple. This would make your productivity experience unequal to the desktop or laptop experience. Again, this may change in the future, but this one is likely not to be added anytime soon.

There is also an ongoing battle between Apple and Adobe on the use of Flash. Flash are found on websites where you see almost movie-like movement of images or actual movies. Some gaming platforms use Flash to make it easier to program online games. However, Apple will not allow it as they say it is a system resource hog as well as a security risk to their system. While Apple has points in both counts, there are many websites that use Flash. Even Houston Outsource uses Flash on almost every websites that we make because the customer wants it. This situation, and the popularity of the iPad, will have all website programmers scrambling for an alternate solution. Right now, there is no new standard that performs the same function as Flash, though there are a lot that want to be the
new standard.

The apps that are found on the iPad are various and fall in many categories. You can have mobile versions of your favorite websites such as PayPal, eBay, and YouTube. You can download a multitude of games. You can get a lot of educational apps that help out your children. You can also watch movies online using a handy Netflix app. You can listen to music, check your email, read a book, or even listen to one. You can check your local weather, watch a TV show, check your stocks, map a route to the nearest McDonald's, and even find the cheapest gas station nearby. As of January of 2010, there were 134,000 apps available on the iTunes store. Though they are not all productive, or even worthwhile, there is bound to be something there that you want to get.

Better Systems Tech Tips:

My wife Katelyn, who run Houston Outsource Tutoring Services, purchased an iPad that she uses to help elementary school aged children, as well as Pre-K children, learn in an unconventional way. She uses special teaching apps, books, and audiobooks, to get them to learn and comprehend concepts without them even knowing that they are learning. Most think they are on a break playing a game.

I suggested that she get the iPad as I don't ever want her to be teaching on a
netbook, and then have her computer or software crash on the student. The
experience of handing over an iPad knowing that it is going to work as advertised is key for her decision to buy one.

If you do buy one, get a protective case for it. Though I may go out of business servicing PCs if everyone buys an iPad, I will be more profitable replacing the glass screens if you crack one!

"Am I safe using my local coffee shop's Wi-Fi Hotspot?"

In short, the answer is no. Your local coffee house has a Wi-Fi Hotspot as a
value added service that they provide. They want you to have your coffee and hang around, surfing the internet, checking your email, and maybe open up a chat with your friend to get them to meet you there. While you are waiting for your friend to show up, you may check your bank account, check to see if your favorite item is on sale on eBay, and to do the things that you would normally do at home while you are on the internet. It is made to be convenient to you and is a great tool to have customers come in repeatedly.

However, what you may not know is that there could be a local coffee drinker
sitting there running a simple program that allows them to record your keystrokes.  So, while you are typing in the internet location of your bank, and then inputting your username and password, they are kicking back, sipping their coffee, knowing that the next one is on you.

So what should you look for when using this convenience while taking part in your morning espresso? First, look to see if you have to type in any code to access the Wi-Fi network. If not, then everything you type on your computer is open access, meaning that nothing is secure. Your keystrokes can be literally be collected like the scenario above. Even if you have your bank bookmarked and you click on it instead of typing in the internet address, the website that hosts your bank is still easily determined as it has it's own address that can be stored and collected by specialized software. When connecting to the internet and you notice that you are not asked for a security password, then stay away from any websites where you have any financial and personal information that you don't want compromised. You just never know who is watching your every move.

Second, make sure that you have your Firewall activated. Though not 100%, it will make it harder for a potential hacker to get inside your computer. After all, when you are on a network, such as a open Wi-Fi network, you can see all the computers that are connected. All one would have to do is to open up the network program to see them. For any of the computers that do not have Firewall enabled, all you have to do is click on them to access their drive. They may not even notice that you are able to snoop in their computer and copy files over to your computer, or that you can send them a malware program by copying from your computer to theirs. If your firewall is not enabled, don't even go to a Wi-Fi hotspot as you are just asking for trouble.

Also, if you do surf the internet at these locations, pay close attention to the
websites that you are visiting, if you suddenly see misspellings, the Wi-Fi router may actually be routing the websites to another computer inside the coffee shop and is hosting websites to look like legitimate websites. Since the routers used in these places have security turned off, it would be easy to change the settings to point all web traffic to a local computer, or to a remote one that was set up just for phishing.

Finally, look for the h t t p s if you must log into your bank. This is located
right in front of your bank's URL. For example: https://www.mybank.com. This shows that you are connected securely to your bank through a secure and encrypted channel that would be nearly impossible to break. However, remember that if the Wi-Fi Hotspot does not ask you a security question, you will be transmitting your username and password in the clear!

Better Systems Tech Tips: Most importantly, use your brain. Look around your environment first to see if surfing the internet is really a smart thing to do at the time. If not, read a book, or better yet, go elsewhere. You'll be glad you did!

"Should I just reinstall my operating system when I have a virus?"

That is a good question.  There are several things to determine first to better answer your question.  First, are you paying a technician to do this or are you doing it on your own?  If you are doing it on your own, try the anti-malware programs that we suggested in other Better System Podcast Episodes and see how they work for you.  If you can't run them, the malware may be preventing you from running them (some malware are really advanced and won't allow the name brand, most popular software to run at all), you may have to reinstall the operating system.  However, there are still other tricks to try first.

Check your Restore Point and change to a different date - I would suggest a few days before you noticed the malware infestation.  Once your system reboots, go into Safe Mode and then run your anti-malware software from there.  You should experience some luck here.  If not, don't panic.  You can always call an experience technician to help you out.

When calling a Technician, you will need to know if they are charging you by the hour, or for a flat fee.  If it is a flat fee, ask what they will do to remove the malware.  At this time, you can tell them what you had done up to that point so that the technician will know you have done some things to resolve the issue.  If they then suggest running more anti-malware programs that they have, make sure it is part of the flat rate - you don't want to be paying per hour for someone to run up to 3 anti-malware programs as what you are waiting for is mostly wait time.  That is, run one - wait an hour.  Run the second - wait an hour.  Run the last -wait an hour.  You just paid for 3 hours work for only 15 minutes of actual Technician time.  Any technician worth their weight in gold will be honest and tell you this.  While your computer is running anti-malware programs, they are on another computer resolving the issues with that one.  We highly recommend that for anti-malware infections, to use a technician that offers a flat rate.

Another thing to ask the Technician is if all your viruses will be removed.  If they say that what they do in running their anti-malware software will remove all 100% of the viruses, please look elsewhere.  Back to the Technician worth their weight in gold - he will tell you that there is no software, or combination of software, that will remove all your malware and that there could still be traces left in your computer.  This does beg the question as to why even run the anti-malware programs and not just reinstall the operating system?  The answer is that although your system will not be 100% free from infection, their procedure should be good enough to 1) allow you to operate on a day to day basis, and 2) not allow any latent infestation to activate and cause more issues, and 3) not allow any malware program to continue running that will send personal information to some other computer.  This last part may cause fear and trembling in your part, then a reinstallation of the operating system is the only thing that will guarantee that the infestation will be gone.  This also means reformatting of the hard drive prior to reinstallation - otherwise known as "Nuke and Pave" or "Scorched Earth Reinstallation".  You get the picture.

If you do find a technician that will run the anti-malware programs for a flat fee, ask them if they charge for a reinstall if the anti-malware programs, or other techniques fail.  Most will charge for the reinstallation on top of the anti-malware removal.  However, there are some that will include it with their flat rate.  Hourly Technicians will charge per hour so if you ask them to reinstall, the clock just keeps ticking.  If you do decide to perform the reinstallation at any time, please also ask if they do a backup of your files, and then reinstall your files at the time of reinstallation.  Ask if they backup to media (CD or DVD) if you can have it in case you remember later that that the file is in a different location than your "My Documents" folder.  Again, this brings up another issue with reinstallation, do you have a backup yourself just in case this happens.  If so, this is not as much an issue as it could be.  For example, if you have a special program to document all your old Vinyl Records, and the file is located in the folder where the program is located, a simple backup of just your "My Documents" folder will cause the file to no longer exist!  "Bye Bye Miss American Pie"!  I suggest paying for a full backup if you have to pay.

Another thing to consider when doing a full reinstallation is if the technician will be reloading all your old software.  This means that you will have to have a list of all your old software as well as the disks or download locations to run them.  This can become very expensive to pay someone else to do when in all likely hood, you  can just do this yourself on your own time.  Most Technicians will charge you for this service hourly.

The last thing to think about with a full reinstallation is if you know what operating system you have and if you have the original disk, or at least the files are in the partition in your hard drive to create it from (for example this is how HP computers will give you the original operating system).  Also make sure that you have your Operating System Product Key either on a sticker attached to your computer case, or on an original disk.  Even though a Technician can get your operating system loaded without this, it would help tremendously in getting your system up and running faster.

"Better System Tech Tips":  If you can not bear the idea of the possibility of having any traces of malware in your computer, then please reinstall your operating system, but make sure you have your backups first.  You would hate to lose your precious pictures or needed files to be lost forever.  Remember, reinstallation is the only way to assure that you will be infection free.

However, if you are OK with the possibility of having the traces still in your computer, but won't affect your day to day operation or compromise your personal information, then run the anti-malware route.  You can always go back to the "Nuke and Pave" option later.  Finally, when hiring a Technician, make sure that you have all your costs noted up front so that you won't be surprised.  Your failure to do so, and getting a $400 bill when you expected a $100 bill, may cause more stress in your life than the initial malware infestation!

"How do I secure my wireless network?"

There are several things that you need to do to secure your wireless network (also known as WI-FI). First you need to make sure you can access your WI-FI setup. Check with your wireless manual as to how to do this.

First, look at your settings for wireless encryption. If your settings are for W E P, you need to change it to something more secure. W P A 2 is best. If you don't have that setting, then use W P A. Also, use the AES as the WPA algorithm where possible as it is the strongest over any other. WEP security is easy hackable with software and can allow people to access your network or internet access. Did you know that you are legally liable for what traffic is routed through your internet access? So, if someone can hack into your system, and then use it to perform illegal activity, then you are the one on the record books as allowing access - whether or not you approved it. So, this can be a serious matter.

The next item is to disable your S S I D Broadcast. While you would normally leave it on to find your internet wireless access point, leaving it on after you need it is inviting people to hack into your system. There are wardriver software available where unscrupulous people can drive around and just look for unsecure wireless networks, and then hack into the computers on that network, or use their internet connection for malicious activity. Though the more proficient person doing this can still access a system that has the SSID Broadcast disabled, they would have to work a lot harder.

Next, update your WI-FI firmware. Any vulnerabilities that are discovered can be fixed with the firmware upgrade provided by your hardware manufacturer and are normally automated and simple to do.

Next, your WI-FI settings should have security features build in. Make sure that they are turned on so that anonymous internet requests will be blocked. You would how may WI-FI systems come with the default for this setting to be turned Off!

Next, we suggest changing your password default. Yes, some people actually leave the password as what was set when they received it. Something like the word "Password" itself, or leaving the password blank, is just asking for trouble! Also, do not use a word found in a dictionary as a password as all a malicious person would have to do is run dictionary subroutine with their wardriver software to break into your system.

Finally, when connecting to your WI-FI setup, ensure that you have a secure connection using https. This means that your username and password are encrypted when trying to log in.

Better Systems Tech Tips:  If you have a wireless network and you do not have these six items changed to reflect a more secure system, please take the time to change them as soon as possible! If you do not know how to do this, please contact a trusted IT Professional like those at Houston Outsource, IT Solutions. You will be glad that you did!

"How do I prevent my kids from seeing things on the internet that I don't want them to see?"  There are several software solutions that are available to you as a parent to block unwanted internet sites.  You can do an internet search to see a list of these sites (make sure that you only click on the MYWOT approved sites as mentioned below). 

Some of these software will give you full control on the type of sites that will be blocked and some will also send you regular emails so you can see what sites your children have been visiting.  Some software will also let you whitelist sites that are blocked, but you deem OK to view.  Blacklisting sites is also an option for those sites that make it through their filter.  Some programs costs are on a per computer basis, while others are priced for more than one, but are limited to the actual amount, for example 3 computers.

Better System Tech Tips:  One site that we use actually changes the way your router works to perform this function.  It can be found at OpenDNS.  The free version has a way to do most, if not all, of the things I just mentioned.  You have control over what type of sites can be seen and what types can be blocked.  Instead of your computer going directly to your host ISP to look for the websites, you can change it to go to the OpenDNS site.  Since they monitor the sites, you can almost rest assured that what you configure to be blocked will stay that way for your child's protection.  The direct link is below:

OPENDNS

"What is an SSD Drive?"  SSD Drives actually stand for Solid State Hard Drives.  These have become more and more popular lately.  They made a big hit with Netbook Computers; however, they have been around for a while.

So, what is it really?  SSDs are a bank of Flash Memory like that used in your digital camera.  There are no moving parts which means that once you turn your computer on, it is almost instantaneous.  There are no motors to spin the platters, no actuator arms to move, nothing at all like in a normal hard drive.  However, don't go buying up SSDs to replace your normal hard drive just yet!  There are a couple of issues to  consider!

First, the cost.  For a typical comparison of conventional hard drive to an SSD with the same capacity, look at spending up to 4 times as much for the SSD.  Though the prices are falling, it will be some time yet when they will be comparable.

Second, there is an issue with Flash Memory that most people don't know about.  That is, when you put data on it, and write over it, and over it, and over it...at some point, it won't let you write data to that spot anymore!  There is no warning!  That spot is dead.  Sayonara.  Caput!  Fini!  Data loss occurs.  I'm sure that you get the picture.  Though there is no actual consensus as to when this will happen, they think that around 10,000 writes to a bit would do it.  How long that will actually take depends on how hard you run your drive in writing data to it.

Better System Tech Tip:  Since the Flash Memory will lose data at some point in the future, you do not want to do Disk Defragmenting on it!  This is important as Disk Defragmenting is not even necessary on SSDs due to the nature of the drive.  So, if you are using the MaintainIT Free program that we offer for free, make sure that the Defragment is turned off!  The same goes for the automated Microsoft Disk Defragment Program.

"Do I really need to update my virus definition tables regularly?"  Absolutely!  Believe it or not, there are malware programmers busy right now creating programs to do nasty things to your computer and to your identity.  If you are not careful, it is just a matter of time before you are affected by one if you haven't yet had the nightmare of one infecting your computer!

Anti-Malware programmers are working hard trying to update the information that they can gather on each individual malware.  However, it is a daunting task.  Once they get a fingerprint on the malware, they post them on an updated definition table.  What this does is allows your anti-malware program to check the definition table against the file it is scanning to see if the scanned file has the tell-tale signs of a malware program that it knows about.  We have given you 4 anti-malware programs prior that would help combat these attacks.  However, the definition tables have to be updated for them to work.

Better Systems Tech Tip:  Because it takes a few days for a new virus to be found, checked, and updated to a definition table, you still have to be careful when you are on the internet.  However, there is one anti-malware program that does not use definition files, but rather looks at the behavior of a program instead.  The program is called ThreatFire and uses very little system resources.  Also, it can work simultaneously with most anti-malware programs that use definition files to provide more armor for your systems protection.  Best of all, it is free to you!  The link for the site is below.

THREATFIRE

"Can dust inside my computer cause damage?"  Believe it or not, there is a situation where dust inside your computer can cause damage.  This situation is where a static charge can build up in the dust and then discharge into your computer system.

You have see static discharge when you rub your feet with socks on a rug and touch your friend with your finger.  The actual discharge can be seen at 20,000 volts.  You can feel a static discharge at 3000 volts.  Damage to your computer can happen at only 30 volts.  This is why a person should ground themselves before reaching inside a computer with the cover off.  You can do this by having one hand on the computer case at all times, or by using an grounding cable, also called an ESD cable, to yourself and a grounding point.

The loose dust that is inside your computer would act like a small capacitor that is capable of storing an electrical charge.  The amount of charge would depend on certain conditions such as temperature and humidity.  A cool place with low humidity has a better chance of causing a static discharge from dust than would a hot and humid place.  The charge builds up in the dust to a point that is above it's ability to hold it and then discharges, or the charge builds up and the dust is dislodged by movement and touches a contact point causing the electrical discharge.  Depending on the amount of discharge and the location of the discharge, damage to your computer components may occur.

Better Systems Tech Tip:  At minimum, clean out your computer once a year.  I would suggest that you do it outside.  Take your time with a can of compressed gas to do a through job.  Since you have the case open, look around for signs of electrical damage or of bug infestation (yes, I've seen bugs making a nice home for themselves inside a computer, and then one day cease to exist, unfortunately taking out the computer motherboard in the process).  If you do this, you can prevent any damage that may occur from a static discharge.

"How should I backup my computer?"  That really depends on how important your files are.  If you have files that you can recreate or files that have no meaning to you, then you have no reason to do backups.  However, if you have files that are irreplaceable, such as photos, then you should have some type of backup plan.

The best way to do backups is to follow the 3, 2, 1 rule.  The "3" means that you have three copies of your important files, the "2" means that you have two separate media types.  Lastly, the "1" means that you have one set of backups off site.  Now let's discuss these further.

You should have three copies of your important files.  This is one original and two backups.  Copying your original file to a network drive and then deleting the original does not constitute a backup.   This is very important as this is how some people picture a backup copy.  Very popular areas to make your backups are on a network drive, a USB attached drive, burned on to CD/DVDs and on an online service that automatically makes backups by uploading your files via the internet.  Any two of these, along with the original on your hard drive, would be a good choice to follow the "3" rule.

Having your files in two different formats is the "2" rule.  Some people make a backup copy on the very same drive they have their original files.  This is a bad idea because if your hard drive fails, you lost both your original and your backup.  You can use a CD or DVD media to do this with and that would fulfill your "2" rule.  At a minimum, although not technically not a different media, you can use a USB or firewire connected drive to backup your files as well.  This allows you to be able to grab your drive and leave if there is an emergency.

This brings is the the "1" rule.  You must have an offsite copy of your backup.  Find a friend and swap CD or DVD backups with them once a week.  Put a copy in your safe deposit box.  Use an online service to do a remote backup.  When doing these backups, you will need to understand the reason why.  If you have a fire, your offsite backup is OK as it is at a separate place.  However, if you have hurricane, tornado, or flood that may not be good enough.  Think about this before making your final choice.

Better Systems Tech Tip:  For Houston Outsource, we backup to a USB connected drive on our main server computer to backup all of our important files.  We use SYNCBACK to automate our backup process from our networked computers to this USB connected drive (just the important files are backed up).  We suggest using the freeware version.  We also make an image of all our individual computer hard drives onto DVD disks.  For the image we use MACRIUM REFLECT, which has a free option as well, and is fairly easy to use.  Finally, we use BACKBLAZE for our online backup that will also backup our USB connected drive - other online services do not do this.  Our backup plan covers all aspects of the 3, 2, 1 Rule.  Does yours?

 (Truth In Advertising Disclaimer:  We asked to partner with BackBlaze and are part of their affiliate program and will soon be part of their reseller program - so, when you click on our BackBlaze links, we get a little back from them to help with our Blogging and Podcasting sites). 

"Do I need Windows 7?"  The answer to that is...."depends".  What I mean is that it depends on several factors.  What Operating System do you currently run?  If you are using Windows XP, then it may be possible depending on your hardware.  If you are running Vista (or your computer came with Vista and then you went back to XP), then your chances are better based in your hardware.  Windows 7 is more stable and more reliable than Windows Vista.

If you are just using your computer to surf the net and check email, then don't bother.  You will be frustrated in learning a new operating system.  It would be best for you to just continue using your computer "as is" until you "have to" buy a new computer.  Then, get one with Windows 7 preinstalled.  You will save a lot of headaches.

If you are currently running Vista, change to Windows 7!  Consider Windows 7 as an upgrade to Vista and uses less computer resources.  This makes your computer run a bit faster.  If you moved back from Vista to XP, you may want to move to Windows 7.  However, you may need to also upgrade your software that you are running on XP.  Check with your software manufacturer to make sure.  If your system came native with Windows XP, moving to Windows 7 may be a headache just because of the various driver issues.  Driver issues are the number one reason people don't like Windows 7.  You may just want to get a new computer with Windows 7 installed.

Better Systems Tech Tip:  Microsoft has a download that can check your system to see if moving to Windows 7 will work.  "It scans your hardware, devices, and installed programs for known compatibility issues, gives you guidance on how to resolve potential issues found, and recommends what to do before you upgrade"  Try it first.  Then check to see if the software you can't live without will be affected by checking with the software manufacturer.  Good luck!

WINDOWS 7 UPGRADE CHECK

"So how do I prevent a virus from getting to my computer?"  This is the $100,000 question, or should that be $1 Million now with inflation?  If you don't have internet access, you battle is almost over.  However, who doesn't have any kind of internet access now a days?  We can even get internet on our phones, and soon in our cars!  However, if you are still one of the few who don't have internet access (or know of someone in that situation as you are obviously reading this on the internet), then just don't install software from a "friend" who downloaded it from the internet, unless you know they have had it on their computer for some time.

Now for the rest of us.  Actually, the same helpful hint goes for us.  This time, include any internet program that a "friend" recommends you to download.  Never download software from a "disreputable" source - meaning some place you don't know.  To help you can use the "Web Of Trust" link below - yes it is as reputable as I am!  This is helpful as others before you can help give you feedback about websites.

Secondly, if you get emails with attachments, don't open the attachments!  If it is someone you know, check with them first.  Millions of people ended up with viruses from Facebook when a virus ended up on their servers and sent emails to everyone in their contact files to propagate the virus.  Propagating onwards, it looked up all your contacts in your email program and continued the virus by sending the emails to them.  So, only open the attachments from "friends" only when you are expecting them.  Emails from someone you don't know with attachments, do not open them!  If you have to open attachments in your email, then please make sure you have an automated email attachment scanner loaded, or a resident anti-malware software running.

Finally, there are many sites that offer free products such as music, movies, pictures (legal?).  Before clicking, hover your mouse over the link and look in the bottom left of your Internet Explorer (or somewhere in the bottom of other internet browsers).  You will see where the link is going to.  If you see something ending in ".exe", stay away!  Clicking that link will download an executable software and will run on your computer.  That is not a picture, a music file, or a video.

Better Systems Tech Tip:  Have a reputable anti-malware software program.  I list 3 below in another session.  You may ask why I suggest none of the major anti-malware software like Norton or McAfee.  Well, besides being packed with "bloatware" that will slow your system, people programming malware will make sure that these programs will not stop their malware.  Another program that I have been using recently is VipreRescue.  This seems to be extremely powerful, but will take a bit longer to run.  It has caught some viruses that the other 3 did not catch.  The link for the site is below.

VIPRERESCUE

After having a Tech Call today, I thought that I would add it to this Better Systems Blog as there were a few choice items that can be communicated to you.  It looked to be a simple power supply swap from what the client was describing over the phone (loud noises from the power supply) on an eMachine T6534.   After replacing the power supply, everything was plugged back in at the clients computer cubby and powered on.  Nothing!  Took it to a table top and checked the connections, reseated each plug, and plugged everything back in at the client's computer cubby.  Still nothing!  The specs for the power supply matched those of the original computer.  The computer, when on the table, looked pretty clean, and so did the original power supply.  If there was a dust issue with the fans, it wasn't apparent.  The computer was 3 years old.  The client mentioned that it was functioning the day before and that he changed the CPU fan. 

I plugged the old power supply back in to see if there was any difference, but this time I plugged the computer in on a shelf near the client's computer cubby (the inside of the computer was not visible when in the cubby).  The computer still wouldn't power up!  I was able to see the CPU fan power up and then shut down.  I pointed that out to the client and he said the fan in the computer, as well as the other fan was working yesterday.  I swapped to the other CPU fan with the same result.  He asked me what were the odds that both fans were faulty, and I said it wasn't likely.  I suspected either a fried motherboard issue because of the fan, possibly a fried CPU issue if the fan was inoperable, or both.  I then noticed that the power supply fan facing the outside of the computer was not spinning.  I  plugged the CPU fan to another power source on the motherboard (where his computer case fan was plugged in), and the fan fired up right away and stayed on!  However, the computer still wasn't running.  I swapped out the power supply again to double check, and had the same result.  Nothing except for the CPU fan.  Motherboard issue is what was diagnosed.  He opted to get a new computer.

However, the best part of this Tech Call was afterwards when he said he was going to take a sledgehammer to this computer like he did with his last one.  His other computer is pictured below!  See the black arrow for the result of the sledgehammer.  The blue arrow shows a nice touch where cables were cut as well.  I had to take a picture of it to share.  It would be cheaper to get a new computer than to fix this one!

Better Systems Tech Tip:  Though the client's computer showed care and cleaning maintenance, fans can fail due to several reasons.  Noticing that "something" is different  with your computer and calling a tech can save costly repairs or even the purchase of a new computer.  A simple fan failure on a power supply, or even the fan CPU failure has been the cause of more than one computer failure.  So, take the time to "hear" your computer and open the box to clean out the dust on a regular schedule to make your computer last longer.

"Anti-Spyware, Anti-Malware, Anti-Virus.  What are these programs really and what do they do?"

Spyware:  A secret program that spies on your computer usage and collects information.  Some examples are "keyloggers" that collects your key strokes, "privacy-invasive" software that collects passwords and other personal information, and "redirectors" that take you to another website altogether.  Spyware is one type of Malware.  Anti-Spyware programs targets these specific types of files and can delete them or quarantine them for checking later on.

Virus:  A secret program that can copy itself (infect) onto a computer from another computer.  Typically it is attached to some software.  This program is also one type of Malware.  Anti-Virus programs are usually specialized software that focus only on virus software. 

Malware:  A secret program that is malicious by nature.  Two types are mentioned above.  A "trojan horse" is software disguised as one type of software that you want, but is in fact another.  This type cannot replicate itself.  Another type of Malware is a "worm" that can replicate itself, like a virus, but doesn't need to be attached to a program.  One very malicious type is a "root kit" that disguises itself with several programs that disguise the offending programs.  These may pass Anti-Virus and Anti-Spyware programs.  An Anti-Malware program is best for general malware prevention.

Better Systems Tech Tip:  Download Anti-Malware software for your system to help protect you.  We suggest loading three (3) free ones - yes three because one will catch what the other ones will not (though still not 100% - please be careful with what you download or what websites you go to!).  Combined, you will be able to battle and put some armor on your computer

MALWAREBYTES

SUPER ANTI-SPYWARE

MICROSOFT SECURITY ESSENTIALS

Phishing (pronounced "fishing) is where a site sends you an email pretending to look like another company such as eBay, PayPal, or a legitimate bank.  Watch out!  If you click on the link and sign in, you may have just given your login information to someone that has bad intentions! 

How can you find out if you are going to a valid company and not a fake one - the fakes ones have the look and feel of the real site?  There are several services that can help you out.  Even newer Microsoft Internet Explorer will show the ultimate location in bolded letters while graying out the rest.  So, www.paypal.com will have the "paypal.com" highlighted.  Looking at that will help determine that you are at the right place.

You can also just log in to the website directly and not use the link in the email that looks legitimate.  This is the safest and surest way to go.

What about when you are browsing and doing internet searches?  We suggest trying the Web of Trust.  This will place a visual cue right next to the website link showing a green, yellow, or a red cue.  The colors should be self-explanatory.

Better Systems Tech Tip:  Phishing is a real problem and should be taken seriously.  Protect yourself or you may be paying the price later.  Download Web Of Trust to help you determine real websites from phishing sites.

WEBOFTRUST

"Are running System Maintenance programs really necessary?"  Absolutely!  Let's discuss each of the highly recommended basic maintenance programs that is recommended by Microsoft.

Disk Clean:  Looks for files that can be safely removed from your hard drive.  Things such as temporary files during software setup, trash can files, and the myriads of internet files, clog up your hard drive with files that you no longer need.  Disk Clean removes these files (you have the option to delete only the files that you want deleted) and helps in the optimization of your hard drive.  This only take a minute at most to run.  You also have the option to run a compression on older files, if you choose to, but this will make the program run much longer.  This should be run daily.

Disk Defragment:  Let's face it.  Files get fragmented and one file can be stored in several areas on your hard drive.  Disk Defragment will rearrange the files so they are closer together and allows your hard drive not to work so hard in finding each part of the file.  This makes your hard drive work faster.  The first time you run this program, it will take a very long time.  I've seen systems run for days!  However, subsequent running of this program will be less and less.  How often should this be run?  That depends on how often you are creating files (such as new software installs, new document files, etc.) and deleting files.  Minimum is probably once a week for best optimization for most systems.

Disk Indexing:  This program checks your physical hard drive for errors and repairs them.  On some newer operating systems, this is an automatic function that is on all the time.  However, you will notice a significant slow down of your system for awhile on start up.  The better way is to turn this off and run it when you want to (preferably as part of an automated maintenance routine).  This should be done daily as well.

Each of these three programs are suggested by Microsoft for an optimal system.  If you have your system on these programs, preferably automated, you will find that your computer runs as fast as when you first purchased it, or the same right after a "clean" install. 

Better Systems Tech Tip:  MaintainIT Free is now available to you so that you can run the most common maintenance routines just mentioned on your own computer all at once, back to back.  This means no more waiting to run one, then the other, then the last.  This is completely free to you!  Just go to the link and download.

DOWNLOAD NOW!

"Should you shut down your computers when you leave?"  This is an ongoing argument that has seemed to go on for years.   Here are the pros and cons.

Leaving your computer on does use electricity, even in sleep and hibernate mode.  However, with more modern computers, the amount is small (comparable to a 100 W light bulb or even less in the power saving mode).  If you have a lot of computers (20+), you will definitely see this on your electricity bill.

Powering up and shutting down your computer daily also has its effects.  The "wear and tear" on various components (power switches, motors, and other mechanical devices) is a real issue.  Also the heads of your hard drive may be affected as well.  However, with more modern computers, this is also minimized.

Another argument is that the electrical systems may cause undue stress from a "cold" start.  Electrical systems operate best at an optimum temperature.  This does explain why IT rooms are so cold and fans are used inside computers to cool them off - due to the high temperature output of computer systems, the fans and the cold room helps to minimize the systems from overheating, and allow them to operate at an optimum temperature.  Overheating will definitely harm your systems.  A cold start in such an environment can hinder your system's performance and cause possible damage.

There are obvious advantages to having your computers on overnight.  If you are running your daily maintenance, virus scans, and backups for example, you don't want to waste an hour, or more, of production time during business hours while you are waiting for your system to optimize.  You can do these tasks overnight.

There are also other "settings" that can be used such as sleep mode and hibernate mode that will help, but make sure you test your system if you expect your overnight routines to "wake up" when you want them to run.  At the minimum, make sure that your monitor shuts off - monitors are notorious for using a lot of energy, so this would be a smart move.

Better Systems Tech Tip:  If you don't expect to run any maintenance or virus overnight, the decision to shut down, or leave on, your computer overnight may not be foremost on your mind.  However, you can be more productive with an optimized system during your working hours.  The benefits offset any additional power usage.  Finally, compared to the downtime that can result with a non-optimized system, or one that fails, there is no comparison.