Vigilant

I’m amazed at the number of PCs that have been thoroughly trashed by viruses and spyware. I’m even more amazed of how many of those computers already had virus and spyware protection installed, but not updated. It seems that a lot of people choose to be “reminded later” rather than renew their antivirus subscriptions right away. Or with spyware removal, they install it, run it once, then never again. I run into situations all the time where Spybot Search & Destroy is installed, but no updates have been applied.

We absolutely have to be fanatical and vigilant when it comes to keeping the trash off of our Windows-based computers. The following method of protecting PC works best when you completely rebuild the hard drive, but it’s still better than nothing, especially when you have nothing.

1. Get a broadband (NAT) router even if only one computer is on the Internet.
1. It’s the best inbound firewall you can buy.
2. Install Windows XP SP2.
3. Install FireFox
4. Install the Google Toolbar for Internet Explorer.
1. Yes, there’ll be times when you have to use IE.
5. Apply all Windows Security Updates
6. Purchase and install a good antivirus program
1. Set the auto update to as frequently as possible
2. Schedule full scans once a week
3. IMMEDIATELY renew every year as prompted. Budget for it if you have to!
7. Install a spyware protection program and manually do the following:
1. Update definitions
2. Immunize your browser (if available)
3. Run the scan and remove the discovered threats.
8. Delete temporary files using Disk Cleanup
1. Start, All Programs, Accessories, System Tools
9. Verify steps 5, 6, 7 and 8 weekly!!!

I can’t stress enough how disciplined you need to be when it comes to keeping your PC clean. It’s like your lawn; you have to care for it weekly otherwise you’re stuck with tall grass and a ton of weeds. If you don’t, it gets harder and harder to push the mower.