Be Prepared, In the Event Computer Disaster
Strikes
Computers
Businesses and individuals alike have all grown to rely on
computers. The reliance is never more apparent than when
something happens to the horrid little box that makes our
lives easier.
We expect computers to react a certain way, in certain
situations. It nearly always comes as a surprise when the
beloved little box, know as a computer, refuses to boot up.
Probably even more shocking, is the dawning that we've
neglected to backup or prepare for the unforeseen disaster
that has just been thrust upon us.
Regardless of the number of times you have experienced the
dread of being unable to access the information trapped in
the god-awful computerized contraption, we are always
invariably unprepared.
The reality of it is that computers, not only contain moving
parts, but they like other machines, they are prone to
failure at some point in their lives. Not only can hardware
failures occur, but viruses can also corrupt data making it
impossible to retrieve. Regardless of the litany of words
used to bully the box into behaving, the truth is that the
only offence is a good defense.
So how do you prepare for a computer tragedy?
Prepare for the Worst!
In structuring an offense it's important to realize the
power of reinforcements: backups are invaluable and will
save countless hours of shameless degradation. Be sure that
you backup data and files on a regular basis, there are a
number of tools that will automate the process.
It is critical that you check the backup log to ensure that
a backup was completed properly. I cannot begin to describe
the devastation felt when it is realized that though there
was a backup process in place, the backup never actually
occurred.
Realizing this during a restore is likely to push any
computer lover over the edge. It is a good idea to store a
weekly back up off site. This is especially helpful, if an
unforeseen fire or a natural disaster strikes.
Protection is critical!
Build A Wall!
If the computer has Internet access, either a hardware or
software Firewall (or combination there of) must be used.
The Firewall creates a barrier between a computer and the
world.
Without a firewall, Internet worms are capable of
exploiting security holes and are able to create what are
referred to as 'back doors'. These back doors can then be
used to gain access to personal information stored on the
computer, including password files, and financial
information.
Trust No One!!!
If you're an avid Internet surfer or downloader be sure to
scan any downloads prior to opening or installing. Up to
date anti-virus software should be used to ensure, that
computers do not become infected with malicious viruses that
will ruin your life.
Scan any email attachments prior to opening regardless of
whom they are from. Files that end with .scr, .pif and .exe
can contain viruses that will wreak havoc with your data
and emotional well being.
Preparedness goes a long way, and a little foresight will
ensure that, while a computer might be an inconvenience, you
will not be defeated.
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Preparation Recommendations
and Sources:
(Click on the images for more information)
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Tame Your Personal Computer
There is a survival
guide for the masses. Simple, sensible and
safe to use. Get your questions answered
in a timely manner and move on to more
productive tasks.
All about your pc
hardware, The right ways to start and shut down
your pc, How to protect your password,
Converting images, Upgrading your browser, What
is defrag and how does it work, Zipping and
unzipping files
Internet searching,
Dangers of email attachments, Protecting against
viruses, Creating, saving and finding files, and
much more.
Conquer this beast once and
for all and you'll never again spend countless hours or
hard-earned dollars on information you can have at your
fingertips!
More Information Here. |
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Other Recommendations
http://www.military-software.com/anti-virus-software.htm
http://www.monitoring-software.net/intrusion-detection-software.htm
More information about viruses is being added here
very soon.
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