Aug, Thu, 2023

Ultimate Guide to Computer Maintenance for Optimal Performance

Mastering Computer Maintenance: Ensuring Security and Performance

In this section, we’ll dive into the art of mastering computer maintenance, where the focus is on both security and performance. Just as you would with your car, neglecting maintenance can lead to issues. Let’s explore the essential steps you can take to keep your computer running smoothly.

Essential Steps for a Secure and Smooth-Running Compute

Getting started with computer maintenance is crucial. We’ll guide you through fundamental tasks that should be integrated into your regular maintenance routine. From software updates to registrations, these steps lay the foundation for a secure and high-performing computer.

Sign Up for Timely Software Updates

Stay informed by subscribing to software update notifications. Vital for your operating system (e.g., Microsoft Windows or Macintosh), antivirus software, and firewall, these updates bolster your defense against cyber threats.

Complete Software Registrations

Submit any pending registration forms for current software and remember to register new software promptly. Registration provides manufacturers with a channel to alert you about updates, fortifying your computer’s security.

Prioritize Immediate Software Updates

Act swiftly upon receiving update alerts. Download and install updates promptly to address vulnerabilities. Remember, downloading and installing updates are distinct actions.

Building Strong Computer Maintenance Habits for Long-Term Security

As you embark on your computer maintenance journey, it’s important to build habits that ensure long-term security. Learn about steps such as regular backups, antivirus scans, and password changes. These habits will contribute to the ongoing protection of your digital world.

An Ounce of Prevention

Safeguarding your files and ensuring a clean system involves a few simple yet critical steps.

Step 1: Keep Your Software Up to Date

Regularly update your software to plug potential security gaps.

Step 2: Safeguard Your Files with Backups

Create duplicate copies of your files to mitigate data loss risks.

Step 3: Fortify Your Computer with Updated Antivirus Software

Regularly scan for viruses and worms using updated antivirus tools.

Step 4: Strengthen Security with Password Changes

Regularly update passwords to reduce the risk of unauthorized access.

Creating Your Computer Maintenance Schedule: Safeguarding Your Digital World

Crafting a maintenance schedule is akin to creating an appointment with your computer. Just as you wouldn’t skip a doctor’s appointment, maintaining your computer should be a priority. By setting a consistent schedule, you’re taking proactive steps to safeguard your digital world, ensuring its security and longevity.

Establishing Ongoing Maintenance Practices

Having laid the foundation, delve into more comprehensive maintenance tasks. While these tasks can be tackled immediately, consider incorporating them into a routine for consistent computer security.

Back Up Your Files Regularly

Backing up ensures you’re prepared for unexpected data loss incidents.

Regular Antivirus Scans for Continuous Protection

Frequently scan your system for viruses and consider scheduling automated scans.

Elevate Security with Regular Password Changes

Change passwords routinely to maintain a strong line of defense.

Aug, Mon, 2023

computer troubleshooting

Schedule Windows to Automatically Empty Recycle Bin

Schedule Windows to Empty Recycle Bin Automatically

Are you tired of the clutter in your Recycle Bin? Is manual emptying becoming a repetitive chore? We have a solution for you! With the Windows Task Scheduler, you can automate the process of emptying your Recycle Bin, ensuring your computer stays organized without any effort from your side.

Follow these simple steps to schedule your Windows system to automatically empty the Recycle Bin:

1. Open Task Scheduler Press the Windows Key + R, and then type taskschd.msc to open the Task Scheduler.

2. Create a Basic Task Under the “Action” category, click on the option “Create Basic task.”

3. Set Task Name and Description In the Task Creation Wizard, provide a Name for the Task and an optional Description. Click the “Next” button to proceed.

4. Choose Time Interval Select the desired time interval for the Task from the given options. Click “Next.”

5. Configure Task Actions Continue setting up the task until you reach the screen where you’ll define the action.

6. Running the Empty Recycle Bin Script On the next screen, type cmd.exe in the Program/Script field. In the “Add Arguments” field, paste the following command: /c "echo Y|PowerShell.exe -NoProfile -Command Clear-RecycleBin"

7. Review and Finish Review all your settings and click the “Finish” button.

8. Test the Scheduled Task To check the Scheduled Task, select the task from the main window of Task Scheduler and then click “Run.” Watch as your Recycle Bin gets automatically emptied!

Step-by-Step Guide: Using Task Scheduler for Automated Recycle Bin Emptying

With just a few simple steps, you can free yourself from the task of manually emptying the Recycle Bin. Let your computer do the work for you with the Task Scheduler. Enjoy a cleaner and more organized digital space effortlessly.

Start now and experience the convenience of an automatically emptied Recycle Bin on your Windows system!

Aug, Mon, 2023

computer troubleshooting

How to Keep Your Router & WiFi Safe From Intruders: 10 Essential Tips

10 Essential Tips to Secure Your Router and WiFi Network

As we navigate through the digital age, it’s crucial to prioritize the security of our routers and WiFi networks. With cyber threats constantly on the rise, we must take proactive steps to protect our personal information. By following these 10 essential tips, you can strengthen the security of your network and keep unauthorized individuals at bay.

The first tip is to adjust your router’s settings. By changing the default admin username and password to something unique and complex, you create an additional layer of protection. Remember to use a combination of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters for a strong password.

Customize Your WiFi Name

Next, consider customizing your WiFi name. Hackers often target networks with generic names, so by giving your WiFi network a distinct and unique name, you make it harder for intruders to identify and gain access.

Disable Network Name Broadcasting

Another important step is disabling network name broadcasting. By default, routers broadcast their network names, making it easier for devices to connect. However, this also makes it easier for hackers to identify and potentially target your network. By disabling network name broadcasting, you hide your WiFi network from unauthorized individuals and increase its security.

Enable Network Encryption

Enabling network encryption is crucial for protecting the data transmitted between your devices and the router. Choose the most advanced encryption protocol available, such as WPA2 or WPA3, to add an extra layer of security to your network.

Enable Network Encryption

If you frequently have guests requiring WiFi access, setting up a guest network is a smart move. By doing so, you keep your guests separated from your main network, preventing them from accessing sensitive files or devices.

Check Your Router’s Firewall

Check your router’s firewall to ensure it is enabled and properly configured. A firewall acts as a barrier between your network and potential threats, providing an additional layer of security. Consult your router’s user manual or contact your service provider for guidance on setting up your firewall.

Use Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)

Consider using Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) for enhanced security. VPNs encrypt your internet traffic and create a secure connection between your device and the internet, making it difficult for hackers to intercept your data. Use a reputable VPN service, especially when accessing sensitive information or connecting to public WiFi networks.

Regularly Update Your Router and Devices

Regularly check for software updates for your router and apply them promptly. Software updates often include important security patches that fix vulnerabilities and improve overall performance. Additionally, keep your devices and computers updated to enhance network security.

Consider Turning Off Your Router When Offline

If you’re going to be offline for an extended period, consider turning off your router. This simple step adds an extra layer of protection by keeping everyone out of your network. However, be mindful of the needs of others in your home who may require constant internet access.

Invest in a New Router

Finally, consider investing in a new router if your current one is outdated or no longer receives firmware updates. Newer models often come equipped with advanced security features and better network performance, reducing the risk of unauthorized access.

Conclusion: Enhance Your Network’s Security Today

In conclusion, securing your router and WiFi network should be a top priority in today’s digital landscape. By following these 10 essential tips, you can significantly enhance the security of your network and protect your personal information. Take action now to safeguard your router and WiFi from potential threats. Remember: prevention is always better than a security breach. Stay safe online!

Jan, Tue, 2023

computer troubleshooting

Protect your computer and laptop

How to protect your computer and laptop?

Always lock your computer when you’re walking away from it ( hold down the Windows key and hit L).
Don’t write down your passwords on sticky notes and tape them to your screen.
If you have Bluetooth paired with a device, enable dynamic lock which allows Windows to know when you’ve walked away from your computer to lock it.
Lock Screen Personalization to lock it automatically. you’ll need to put a password to get back into the computer.
For laptop security: you can geta cable lock to keep your laptop in place.
Consider using a good password management software on your device.
Adjust Windows privacy settings to control what apps can use your microphone, camera, or location.

Password Security Best Practices

Multifactor Authentication (MFA).
Passphrase greater than 10 characters in length.
Passphrase with Uppercase, Lowercase, Symbols, and numbers.
Use a password management software.

Password Management Software examples: LastPass, Dashlane , 1Password.

How to protect your computer and laptop 1

Mar, Fri, 2022

computer troubleshooting

Malware Types Explained: Examples and Prevention Tips

examples of malware

What are the most frequent types of malware?

Trojan: software that user installs, it looks like a gift but in the backdoor, it’s doing something else.
Virus: software that the user has interact with it to propagate to other hosts or other programs within a system.
Worm: self-propagating viruses. if it’s on your PC, it looks for more vulnerabilities and expand on its own without user interaction. consumes resources (memory and processing)
Polymorphic: (Poli -> Many) it appears different every time it activates, needs anti-malware/virus software that looking for a specific signature or pattern, if it’s changing every single time it executes, that’s hard to catch.
Armored. built in with structure that it’s hard to reverse engineer to check how it was created.
Bot: little agent that runs on a computer. which can take instructions and do those things
Spyware: kind of malware that’s essentially looking at everything you’re doing, or can identify where you’re going and sends to a collection site. Spyware will open a connection, and collect information such as my browsing habits, and other data, and then send it to a collection site.
Crypto-Malware: pop up message that says “congratulations”. All your data is encrypted and you don’t have the key to decrypt it. Asking for money.
Rootkit: give you limited access to your systems, so hard to detect unless you have specific software that’s looking for that underlying rootkit.
Botnet: Bot installed on a ton of computers then a hacker with a command communicates with them and run them to activate something malicious.
Ransomware: malware that holds your system and/or data hostage. Data is held hostage until you pay the ransom. spreads via phishing attacks

Useful links

Download Anti Malware Test file.
Scan it.
Check the total amount of malware and potentially unwanted applications over time.

How do Viruses Spread?

Removable media (Flash Drive).
Email attachments.
Files and Apps from the internet.

Viruses Best Practices

use updated anti-malware protected
think twice before click or opening attachments/links
stay away from dangerous websites

Spyware Best Practices

Upgrade to the latest OS version.
Update your browser.
Use antimalware with spyware protection.

What Ransomware can do?

Block access to the system
Encrypt files so you can’t use them.
stop apps from working such as a browser or database from running
Destroy all files on the system.
Check the Map of worldwide ransomware attacks.

Spyware Best Practices

Think before you click a link.
Use spam filters.
Use antimalware protection
Back-up your sensitive data and files.