Windows XP is currently the most popular operating system in the world with over 400 million copies in use. It serves everything from simple home computers to media centers and offices of every size. However, despite this popularity, the operating system is not perfect. It requires knowledge and effort on the part of you, the user, to maintain and protect it.
The security and integrity of our computer systems has become a vital part of how we work and live. While Windows XP provides a great platform for performing all the tasks our businesses and home lives require, there are a number of specific items that require further attention and investment to avoid inconvenience and possibly even disaster.
Top Ten Necessities for Protecting My Windows XP System:
1. A Backup Solution
The data stored on your computer is the single most valuable element in most systems. Usually, much of this data is difficult, if not impossible, to replace. This data can include everything from pictures and home movies to customer databases and financial information. The loss of such vital information can be devastating.
To protect yourself from data loss, which can happen at any time for a wide variety of reasons, it is imperative that you institute a backup solution. This solution should automatically backup your important data to another location such as an external hard drive or a separate computer. Depending on the value of the data, one should also consider a solution capable of moving the data to an entirely different location, or off-site.
2. Virus Protection
Due, in part, to the popularity of Windows XP, viruses attacking the system are fairly common. Software that detects and quarantines these potential threats is an important addition to any XP users software library. Since viruses change and adapt on a day to day basis, it is important to choose a solution with the ability to update itself frequently to meet the threats posed by these malignant bits of software. However, one should also try to find a solution that is not intrusive or difficult to manage.
Here are some helpful links concerning Anti-Virus software:
http://www.evolve-online.com/articles/20050128_why-do-i-need-anti-virus.asp
AVG Anti-Virus -
http://free.grisoft.com
3. Spyware/Malware Remover
Similar to the dangers posed by viruses are those from Spyware or Malware. These are programs designed to either gather information about you and your computer usage (spyware) or to maliciously damage the operating system (malware). Again the popularity of XP serves as a weakness since the majority of such software is developed to exploit the Windows XP system.
Users of XP should find a piece of software capable of identifying spyware and malware and removing it from the system. This will protect sensitive information, prevent annoying spam and keep your system running at optimal speeds.
http://www.securitysoftwarezone.com/why-do-you-need-spyware-removal-review143-3.html
Ad-Aware -
http://www.lavasoftusa.com
4. Firewall
Your computer has 65,535 ports that it can use to communicate. Think of these as doors to your computer. If you have do not have a firewall, you basically have 65,535 unlocked doors allowing intruders access to your computer. A firewall locks these doors and allows access only at the times and locations you specify. This simple addition to your computer system accounts for an exponential increase in security.
5. Internet Browsing Security Settings
Every browser that might be used in conjunction with Windows XP should come with options for security settings. These settings can help identify web sites that host potential dangers, restrict downloads and identify malicious attacks through the browser. Every user should take the time to set the preferences on these security settings before surfing the Internet.
6. Heat
There are several environmental causes of computer failure that can occur regardless of operating system. One of the most often overlooked is the problem of heat. Computers tend to produce a great deal of heat on their own and the cooling system is a vital part of a computers hardware. However, this cooling system is not designed to keep up with abnormally high exterior temperatures. All computer users should be aware of the temperature of the room in which their computer is operating, particularly those who live in warmer climates. A failure to keep your computer cool could result in data loss or complete computer failure.
7. Dust
Another often overlooked environmental computer killer is dust. Prevalent in nearly every home and office, dust can suffocate your computer and bring it crashing down. Computers should be kept in an area as free of dust as possible. Cleaning with canned air or some equivalent product can also lessen the risks from this quiet computer assassin.
http://www.computerdust.com
8. RAM
Most often complaints about slow performance or computer freezing can be traced to RAM. The amount of RAM your computer is equipped with is most responsible for the speed and reliability with which your system operates. This problem is often overlooked when attempting to diagnose computer issues, but sufficient RAM should be one of the first considerations.
How To Check Your Computer's RAM
9. Microsoft Updates
Windows XP needs constant attention to ensure that it's safe and secure. XP receives occasional updates from Microsoft, many of which address security concerns. These should be applied as soon as possible to keep your system and critical data as secure as possible. Most users should set up their system to download and install these updates automatically to avoid missing a crucial security fix.
Go to http://www.update.microsoft.com to ensure XP is up to date.
10. A Trusted Resource
Everyone needs a technical resource. At some point everyone needs a professional. Many of us might feel able to fix a leaky faucet or the running toilet, but we bring a plumber when our shower is shooting water into the bedroom. The same idea applies to our computers. While minor problems might be able to be addressed by an experienced user, larger problems require the attention of a trained professional IT provider. Businesses are especially in need of reliable professional help as their computer systems and data become an increasingly important part of their day to day operation.
Network Assessment -
http://www.universepoint.com/checkup
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