From time to time I have and will refer to my security baseline. My security baseline is merely a list of programs I use (all free) and recommend for anyone to use to keep their systems secure. This applies to YOU if you use Windows XP, Vista, or Windows 7.
Remember, all of these products are FREE, but will do as good a job as any fee products you may use. I make that statement based on many years of experience.
1. Microsoft Security Essentials - Version 2 now available
2. Windows Firewall
3. MVPS HOSTS File - download the January 2011 version
4. CCleaner - check for newer version than you may already have
5. Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware
6. SuperAntiSpyware Free Edition
7. Spybot Search & Destroy
Questions? Comment below or write me, pcdoc at brpcdoc dot com
Have a wonderful weekend!
Friday, January 21, 2011
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Worldstart.com
I'm not sure how I first stumbled upon this web site,WorldStart, but I have to say I have come to like it very much. I have been visiting it every day for a month or two. At first I wasn't too impressed, but then all of a sudden it seemed to change and offer what I view as smart, practical small tips that just might help you.
I usually just look at the 5 tips that are right there front and center on the home page. Many are quite simple, but I have found a few that really amazed me. I recommend a bookmark for this web site. Visit it occasionally or daily or more. You may just find a tip that can really help you. By the way, I have not bought anything form this web site, and I have not created an account, so don't feel you need to do those things. Also, their search window will search their archives for tips relevant to your search argument.
After looking at the tips, scroll down and take a gander at all of the links offered for other ideas. WorldStart.com is a neat, handy, and valuable bookmark to have on your system.
I usually just look at the 5 tips that are right there front and center on the home page. Many are quite simple, but I have found a few that really amazed me. I recommend a bookmark for this web site. Visit it occasionally or daily or more. You may just find a tip that can really help you. By the way, I have not bought anything form this web site, and I have not created an account, so don't feel you need to do those things. Also, their search window will search their archives for tips relevant to your search argument.
After looking at the tips, scroll down and take a gander at all of the links offered for other ideas. WorldStart.com is a neat, handy, and valuable bookmark to have on your system.
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Tablets, Compared
These devices can't be ignored, and they probably won't go away, so if you want to invest in one, and they are getting to be an investment (iPad from $500 to $800), you might want to know about your options. Be wary of add-ons you might need, like a carrying case for example.
This New York Times article does a nice job of comparing some of the available products, but nearly every day you can read about another new tablet "to be announced soon".
FYI, I do not own one (yet). If someone were to give me one, I'd be glad to use it, but at this point I am not ready to invest in one.
This New York Times article does a nice job of comparing some of the available products, but nearly every day you can read about another new tablet "to be announced soon".
FYI, I do not own one (yet). If someone were to give me one, I'd be glad to use it, but at this point I am not ready to invest in one.
Friday, January 14, 2011
Microsoft Security Essentials (MSE) Version 2.0
Microsoft Security Essentials or MSE Version 2.0 is now available. I have installed it on my everyday laptop. As my readers know, MSE is Microsoft's free anti-virus program. As my readers also know, I was an outspoken advocate for AVG for many years, but I have left AVG and migrated to MSE. I got tired of AVG's marketing ploys, constantly pushing their fee product and, in fact, they pushed so hard that some of my customers actually thought they had to upgrade and did so. Sad, but one more reason to check this blog once in a while!
I believe MSE to be a superior product all around when compared to other free anti-virus products. The principal reason I believe this is because Microsoft, more than anyone else, has the ability and knowledge to integrate their product with their own operating systems.
For those of you currently using MSE Version 1, Version 2 will be rolled out over time through Automatic Updates, but you don't have to wait for that and can download it and install it just as you did Version 1. And, you will NOT have to uninstall Version 1. Microsoft will take care of that for you as a part of the Version 2 installation procedure. You can get it, as I did, here: http://www.microsoft.com/security_essentials/.
I encourage you to do so, and if you do not already use MSE, I recommend it to you without reservation. If you have another anti-virus you will need to uninstall it first.
Enough from me, or perhaps too much, but I am excited about this new version. You can read a real pro's review of MSE Version 2.0 online. Fred Langa's Beefing up Microsoft Security Essentials
will lay out the technical details for you. Check it out.
I believe MSE to be a superior product all around when compared to other free anti-virus products. The principal reason I believe this is because Microsoft, more than anyone else, has the ability and knowledge to integrate their product with their own operating systems.
For those of you currently using MSE Version 1, Version 2 will be rolled out over time through Automatic Updates, but you don't have to wait for that and can download it and install it just as you did Version 1. And, you will NOT have to uninstall Version 1. Microsoft will take care of that for you as a part of the Version 2 installation procedure. You can get it, as I did, here: http://www.microsoft.com/security_essentials/.
I encourage you to do so, and if you do not already use MSE, I recommend it to you without reservation. If you have another anti-virus you will need to uninstall it first.
Enough from me, or perhaps too much, but I am excited about this new version. You can read a real pro's review of MSE Version 2.0 online. Fred Langa's Beefing up Microsoft Security Essentials
will lay out the technical details for you. Check it out.
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Security Updates
I see the MVPS HOSTS file for January is available today. Also, the January MRT was one of this week's Microsoft Updates.
This is a good time to run a complete scan with MRT. Then update, immunize, and run Spybot. Finally, download and install the new HOSTS file.
I will cover this tomorrow, but there is also a new version, Version 2.0, of MSE, and this is very good news.
This is a good time to run a complete scan with MRT. Then update, immunize, and run Spybot. Finally, download and install the new HOSTS file.
I will cover this tomorrow, but there is also a new version, Version 2.0, of MSE, and this is very good news.
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
And now a word from our sponsor
Actually, I am the sponsor. One of my little ventures is called Boothbay Region For Rent By Owner or BRFRBO. I guess the name says it all, but let me add that the Boothbay Region of Maine has become a very special place for our family. We purchased a small summer cottage back in 1974 in an area known as Ocean Point , which is in East Boothbay which is in Boothbay. On this web site we have listed several rental properties including some year-round but mostly summer cottages. Boothbay, as you may know, is on the ocean. I honestly believe that if you go there once for a long weekend or a vacation, you will want to return. Please check it out. Click on the photo or link below the photo to see our web site.
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
How to Switch from a PC to a Mac
As reported here a little more than a year ago, I purchased a MacBook Pro 17" laptop. It sits around virtually unused. I have no calls from customers looking for support, either because they don't need any (can Macs be THAT good?) or because they wouldn't think to call a "PC Doctor" when they have issues with a Mac. Well, here's a confession: I need help with my Mac. No, as far as I know there is nothing wrong with my new Mac, it's a user issue.
To show that I am serious about using this machine, I recently purchased Microsoft's Office for Mac 2011. I had figured from the start that this was a necessary prerequisite for me to ever get serious about using a Mac as my primary computer. I also intend to buy, shortly, the new iLife product which includes a newer and enhanced version of iPhoto. I had heard so much about iPhoto and really wanted to use it to organize and edit my large library of photos. I began using a digital camera in 2001 (thanks to my 4 sons) and have accumulated nearly 40,000 photos, not one of which I would ever want to lose.
And now that my wife and I are about to move into our new home outside of Boston, I will have room to set up my MacBook in a place where it may well become my new "desktop" computer. Up to now, since moving from Vermont, we haven't had the space in our tiny rental home in Wayland. At least, that is my plan, and time will tell how well this will work out.
I will continue to use my Windows XP and Windows 7 laptops to make sure I stay current and can address any PC problems that may come up. I have yet to decide if I will resurrect my good old desktop machine, after we retrieve it and 99% of our home furnishings from a Waltham storage unit.
So this article from today's pcmag.com website is very timely indeed for me. If any of you has a desire to learn more about the world of Macs, I think you will find this a very helpful article, written for us PC users.
To show that I am serious about using this machine, I recently purchased Microsoft's Office for Mac 2011. I had figured from the start that this was a necessary prerequisite for me to ever get serious about using a Mac as my primary computer. I also intend to buy, shortly, the new iLife product which includes a newer and enhanced version of iPhoto. I had heard so much about iPhoto and really wanted to use it to organize and edit my large library of photos. I began using a digital camera in 2001 (thanks to my 4 sons) and have accumulated nearly 40,000 photos, not one of which I would ever want to lose.
And now that my wife and I are about to move into our new home outside of Boston, I will have room to set up my MacBook in a place where it may well become my new "desktop" computer. Up to now, since moving from Vermont, we haven't had the space in our tiny rental home in Wayland. At least, that is my plan, and time will tell how well this will work out.
I will continue to use my Windows XP and Windows 7 laptops to make sure I stay current and can address any PC problems that may come up. I have yet to decide if I will resurrect my good old desktop machine, after we retrieve it and 99% of our home furnishings from a Waltham storage unit.
So this article from today's pcmag.com website is very timely indeed for me. If any of you has a desire to learn more about the world of Macs, I think you will find this a very helpful article, written for us PC users.
Friday, January 7, 2011
In 4G Race, Verizon Pulls Ahead With Pricey Speed
I still haven't made the leap, mostly because I am cheap, to the world of Blackberry, iPhone, or any of the other very pricey offerings out there, but I sure have been tempted. And now that Verizon is getting into the 4G game, the temptation will be even greater. Verizon, as my cell phone provider, seems to cover all of the areas I travel with decent signal strength.
This is Walt Mossberg's take on the Verizon move to offer 4G. I usually avoid such articles, not wanting to be tempted any more, but not this one.
This is Walt Mossberg's take on the Verizon move to offer 4G. I usually avoid such articles, not wanting to be tempted any more, but not this one.
In 4G Race, Verizon Pulls Ahead With Pricey Speed
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Microsoft Baseline Security Analyzer (MBSA)
Here is another free handy dandy tool I stumbled upon today. It is from Microsoft and is called the Microsoft Baseline Security Analyzer (MBSA). It can be downloaded here: http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/security/cc184923
Go to that link and click on the blue text just under Download Now in the upper right corner of the window. On the next window click on Download to the right of the version you want. There are two English versions, one for 64 bit operating systems and the other, labeled as for X86, is for 32 bit systems.
This tool is really meant for organizations and their tech support people, but I found it was very much worthwhile for me. After the download run the program to install MBSA and after the install run it. I just took all of the defaults on the first screen and did not change a thing.
Two issues were found on my XP laptop. One, they have finally gotten me to leave good old IE6 behind and upgrade to IE8. I have been very stubborn and have resisted this change for a long time now, but there are security issues with the older version that really I should not be risking, so I installed IE8. The second issue found was that the GUEST account was enabled on my machine. This is viewed as a security exposure, and I have never even thought about it before. Also, I never knew that the GUEST account could be disabled, but it can, and I have done just that following the instructions given.
After making these 2 changes and on the third try, MBSA gave me a clean bill of health as shown here.
Security assessment:
Strong Security (The selected checks were passed.)
Computer name: HOME\ACERTRAVELMATE
Security report name: HOME - ACERTRAVELMATE (1-6-2011 9-57 AM)
Scan date: 1/6/2011 9:57 AM
Go to that link and click on the blue text just under Download Now in the upper right corner of the window. On the next window click on Download to the right of the version you want. There are two English versions, one for 64 bit operating systems and the other, labeled as for X86, is for 32 bit systems.
This tool is really meant for organizations and their tech support people, but I found it was very much worthwhile for me. After the download run the program to install MBSA and after the install run it. I just took all of the defaults on the first screen and did not change a thing.
Two issues were found on my XP laptop. One, they have finally gotten me to leave good old IE6 behind and upgrade to IE8. I have been very stubborn and have resisted this change for a long time now, but there are security issues with the older version that really I should not be risking, so I installed IE8. The second issue found was that the GUEST account was enabled on my machine. This is viewed as a security exposure, and I have never even thought about it before. Also, I never knew that the GUEST account could be disabled, but it can, and I have done just that following the instructions given.
After making these 2 changes and on the third try, MBSA gave me a clean bill of health as shown here.
Security assessment:
Strong Security (The selected checks were passed.)
Computer name: HOME\ACERTRAVELMATE
Security report name: HOME - ACERTRAVELMATE (1-6-2011 9-57 AM)
Scan date: 1/6/2011 9:57 AM
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
What’s In Store for Technology in 2011
This is an article by Walt Mossberg in the Wall Street Journal.
"It has been a big year in personal technology, from the debut and early success of Apple’s iPad, to the rise and continuous improvement of Google’s Android smart phone platform, to the continued surge in social services led by Facebook and Twitter.
So I thought I’d take a look at the challenges and opportunities facing some major players in consumer tech in 2011. As with all my columns, this one is focused only on products and services provided directly to consumers, rather than to businesses. Also, as usual, this column isn’t meant to offer investment advice or to evaluate the management skills or financial condition of companies. It is a look at the products and competitive positions of the key contenders as they enter the new year."
"It has been a big year in personal technology, from the debut and early success of Apple’s iPad, to the rise and continuous improvement of Google’s Android smart phone platform, to the continued surge in social services led by Facebook and Twitter.
So I thought I’d take a look at the challenges and opportunities facing some major players in consumer tech in 2011. As with all my columns, this one is focused only on products and services provided directly to consumers, rather than to businesses. Also, as usual, this column isn’t meant to offer investment advice or to evaluate the management skills or financial condition of companies. It is a look at the products and competitive positions of the key contenders as they enter the new year."
Sunday, January 2, 2011
How to choose strong passwords
This is not a recommendation, but rather just some food for thought. Be sure you have strong passwords.
Saturday, January 1, 2011
Friday, December 31, 2010
Top 10 Privacy Tips of 2010
Happy New Year everyone! Time for my last post of the year, but...
Looks like this is the time of year for Top 10 lists! Kim Komando posts a very good one at the link below.I suspect we can all learn SOMETHING from it.
Looks like this is the time of year for Top 10 lists! Kim Komando posts a very good one at the link below.I suspect we can all learn SOMETHING from it.
Top 10 Privacy Tips of 2010
Thursday, December 30, 2010
10 Ways to Get the Most Out of Technology
This is very interesting. It sure made me think about changes I can make, and I may do some of them. Not all apply, at least not to me, but maybe you can get one or 2 good ideas and try them out. Also, I don't necessarily agree with all of them. Followers know that my free antivirus program of choice is Microsoft Security Essentials (MSE), but I also confess I know nothing of Avast and have nothing against it.
This is from the New York Times and was written by SAM GROBART. Good food for thought.
This is from the New York Times and was written by SAM GROBART. Good food for thought.
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
PC Repair Rip-Offs: Don't Get Gouged by Fix-It Services
A worthwhile article to read from pcworld.com.
"Computers don't always work as they should. Components fail, and operating systems fill up with crap that hinders performance and occasionally brings the whole machine to a halt. Savvy users know that they can fix most PC problems themselves, and use sites like PCWorld.com to find solutions to their tech problems. Those who lack confidence in their tech skills, however, often fall prey to the rapacious tactics of online and local repair shops."
"Computers don't always work as they should. Components fail, and operating systems fill up with crap that hinders performance and occasionally brings the whole machine to a halt. Savvy users know that they can fix most PC problems themselves, and use sites like PCWorld.com to find solutions to their tech problems. Those who lack confidence in their tech skills, however, often fall prey to the rapacious tactics of online and local repair shops."
Friday, December 24, 2010
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Kim Komando's Top 10 Cool Web Sites of 2010
These are the top 10 cool web sites of 2010 per Kim Komando as posted on her web site today, 12/21/2010.
"There are literally billions of Websites. That can make it difficult to find the ones that will really help you or entertain you. Every day I bring you the best the Internet has to offer. It could be a game or a helpful service.
Here's a look back at this year's most popular Cool Sites:
1. Quotes to inspire you
Sometimes it is hard to get inspired. That's when reaching for a favorite inspirational quote can help. This site has you covered.
2. Fun online jigsaw puzzles
Jigsaw puzzles are fun, but they take up a lot of room. Do hundreds of jigsaw puzzles online instead.
3. How much is your home really worth?
It's been a rough couple years for real estate. Is the value of your home finally recovering? Find out now!
4. Get free birthday treats
Presents are a Birthday staple. But why stop there? There are tons of places that will give you stuff for free.
5. Match current geography with the Bible
Geography knowledge can help us understand historic events. Get geographic information for Biblical locations.
6. Digging up dirt online
What do you really know about the people around you? Learn more about them for free.
7. Play old video games online
Miss the good old days of 16-color graphics and 8-bit sound? Thanks to the Internet, you can still play the games of yesteryear.
8. Great cleaning tips
Cleaning is a fact of life. But what do you do when cleaning isn't working? Visit this free Website to get the solution.
9. Get crime reports for your area
Even safe neighborhoods have crime. Get crime reports for your area. It will help you keep your family safe.
10. Find real car prices before you buy
Buying a new car can be stressful. How do you know you're getting the best price? This site can help you find out."
"There are literally billions of Websites. That can make it difficult to find the ones that will really help you or entertain you. Every day I bring you the best the Internet has to offer. It could be a game or a helpful service.
Here's a look back at this year's most popular Cool Sites:
1. Quotes to inspire you
Sometimes it is hard to get inspired. That's when reaching for a favorite inspirational quote can help. This site has you covered.
2. Fun online jigsaw puzzles
Jigsaw puzzles are fun, but they take up a lot of room. Do hundreds of jigsaw puzzles online instead.
3. How much is your home really worth?
It's been a rough couple years for real estate. Is the value of your home finally recovering? Find out now!
4. Get free birthday treats
Presents are a Birthday staple. But why stop there? There are tons of places that will give you stuff for free.
5. Match current geography with the Bible
Geography knowledge can help us understand historic events. Get geographic information for Biblical locations.
6. Digging up dirt online
What do you really know about the people around you? Learn more about them for free.
7. Play old video games online
Miss the good old days of 16-color graphics and 8-bit sound? Thanks to the Internet, you can still play the games of yesteryear.
8. Great cleaning tips
Cleaning is a fact of life. But what do you do when cleaning isn't working? Visit this free Website to get the solution.
9. Get crime reports for your area
Even safe neighborhoods have crime. Get crime reports for your area. It will help you keep your family safe.
10. Find real car prices before you buy
Buying a new car can be stressful. How do you know you're getting the best price? This site can help you find out."
Friday, December 17, 2010
Bloatware
When you buy a new computer you will likely find many programs installed that you did not want. Many of these will be for trial periods of fee-based programs. In this case I am talking specifically about McAfee antivirus. It will have been installed and running just fine, but after some trial period like 30 or 60 days they will require you to PAY to keep their product working.
I will limit my comments about bloatware here, but I have to say it infuriates me.
In this case, a customer wrote: "I'm hoping you can help with a problem on my new computer. I'm trying to download AVG on my new computer now that the free 30 day McAfee has expired and the installation message is that it requires the internet and to list my server and port. Any suggestions? Super Anti Spyware installed with no problem. Thanks much!"
This is my reply:
"I do not recommend AVG anymore. Instead, I strongly recommend Microsoft Security Essentials. It too is free and has less overhead than AVG, has no marketing gimmicks or pressure on you, updates automatically, and, as far as I can see does an equal or better job of protecting you.
I will limit my comments about bloatware here, but I have to say it infuriates me.
In this case, a customer wrote: "I'm hoping you can help with a problem on my new computer. I'm trying to download AVG on my new computer now that the free 30 day McAfee has expired and the installation message is that it requires the internet and to list my server and port. Any suggestions? Super Anti Spyware installed with no problem. Thanks much!"
This is my reply:
"I do not recommend AVG anymore. Instead, I strongly recommend Microsoft Security Essentials. It too is free and has less overhead than AVG, has no marketing gimmicks or pressure on you, updates automatically, and, as far as I can see does an equal or better job of protecting you.
You will need to uninstall McAfee before installing any other antivirus program.
The first thing you should do is download Microsoft Security Essentials (MSE). You can do that here:
When downloading MSE you will need to specify whether you have a 32 bit system or a 64 bit system. I assume you have Windows 7? The stickers on your keyboard should indicate which you have.
See my blog entry here for my recommended security baseline suite:
Before installing MSE you need to uninstall McAfee. If you like doing this stuff on your own, follow the instructions here:
Be sure to reboot after a successful removal of McAfee.
Now install MSE.
If you don't want to do this yourself, I can do it for you online with a remote control session. Or, if this is a laptop you can take it back to Best Buy (or wherever you bought it) and tell them to remove the McAfee. They should do that at no charge."
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Windows Updates
14 updates today for my XP system. One of them, as usual, was the Malicious Software Removal Tool (MSRT). I just started a full scan as a part of this monthly activity. If you do this too, be sure that the program is the December version. START/RUN/MRT/OK.
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