+ pc tips and techniques +

You may find some of these DIY tips useful. Follow the provided directions to make your computer work for you.

This resource will be updated periodically. (8/18/04)

• keep your Windows operating system up to date (Windows)

Don't ignore those update balloons! Keeping your Windows updates current will also help keep the hackers out. Hackers exploit weaknesses in the Windows operating system to place undesirable files in your computer or to take control of your system. Microsoft adds features to prevent these breaches of security and makes them available for easy download and installation. Click here to see if you are up to date.

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• set a basic internet connection firewall (WinXP)

If you are working on cleaning your system and do not have a hardware or software firewall yet you can set Win XP to provide some basic protection.

Open your control panel and double click Network Settings. Right click the icon for your connection to the internet (Local Area Connection or Wireless Connection) and select Properties. Click the Advanced tab and click the box to enable the Internet Connection Firewall (see image of window). Repeat this process to turn it off.

NOTE: If part of a home network this setting may disrupt file and printer sharing, as well as internet connection of the remote computers.

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• use an antivirus and firewall software and keep the virus definitions up to date (all)

Preventing attacks and cleaning up after attacks occur have become as commonplace as computing itself. Use a reputable antivirus and firewall program with subscription service (Norton, McAfee, PC-Cillin, to name a few) to be sure your computer is free of digital filth and stays that way. Some AV programs even block adware and syware as well as viruses.

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• smooth your fonts (WinXP)

This is a great tip for LCD monitor users. From your desktop, right click and select Properties. From that window click the Appearance tab and then click the Effects button. Check the box that says, "Use the following method to smooth edges of screen fonts". LCD panel users should try "ClearType". If you don't like it you can always change it back.

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* kirkor consulting + design assumes no responsibility for any adverse affects these features may cause your computer. Best practices dictates the backing up of all important data before applying changes to your computer.

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