Information for computer users

When downloading software off the Internet, here are some simple guidelines to help you surf safely.

Obviously you need to be informed and aware when downloading software off the Internet, so here are some simple guidelines to help you surf safely.

Downloading Software
 
Whilst many applications offered for download online are completely legitimate, some free downloads might contain spyware, or even malicious code designed to hijack your browser, or infect your PC with a virus. But that is not to say you should panic and never download from the web. The inclusion of spyware is quite common, as it allows the software providers to make an income by selling the data it collects from its users. Should you wish to remove spyware, using an up-to-date spyware scanner usually proves effective - though occasionally the application you've originally downloaded may not run if it detects the embedded spyware has been removed.

You would have to be very unlucky to hit a download that contains malicious code, and taking a few basic precautions should help protect you. Before commencing a download, always check the validity of the software. Are then any reviews on reputable websites? Find out what other people are saying about it. Open up one of the popular search engine, type the download file name, the program name, and the word 'spyware' into the search box. If others have had problems you'll find plenty of results shouting about it. You can also install AntiSpyware on your computer for protect from Spyware. 

Always scan a download for viruses before you double click to execute it - as once you do, there's no turning back. And finally, it's also a good idea to back up your data regularly, so if it does all go wrong you can at least restore your system.

Registering Online
 
Many websites require you to register to reach certain sections. Giving personal details online is always a risk and you can find yourself awash with a flood of unwanted spam if you're not careful. The golden rule here is read the privacy policy - especially if you're being asked to give more than just an email address and screen name. Every website collecting personal details from its users is required to include a privacy policy section, and the link is usually to be found somewhere at the bottom of the registration page.

It's also worth noting that many websites will have an 'opt out' tick box for receiving data from third party advertisers. Make sure you read all of the registration fields and make that adjustment before hitting the OK button.

As opening an email account is free, it may be worth considering using an account purely for the purposes of registering with websites. That way you won't inundate your regular email address with unwanted emails - and in the process have a one-stop-shop for any information pertaining to the websites which you've registered with.

Q: Can you give me any tips on creating secure passwords?

This question comes up repeatedly. All I can do is offering some general tips; you need to find a method that works for you. I recommend the following:

• Don't use passwords that are based on personal information that can be easily accessed or guessed.

• Don't use words that can be found in any dictionary of any language.

• Develop a mnemonic for remembering complex passwords.

• Use both lowercase and capital letters.

• Use a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters.

• Use different passwords on different systems.

One example given is instead of the password "hoops," use "IlTpbb" for "[I] [l]ike [T]o [p]lay [b]asket[b]all."
 

Q: What's the difference between a laser and an optical mouse? Which one is better?

A: The difference between a regular optical mouse and a laser mouse is the light used to track movement. A regular optical mouse uses an LED light in the optical engine, while a laser mouse uses a laser to track movement. The more dots per inch (dpi) a mouse can track, the more sensitive and accurate it is. A typical optical mouse tracks between 400dpi and 800dpi, while laser mice track more than 2,000dpi.

Neither is really better; it all depends on your needs and preferences. Unless you're a gamer or a graphic artist with a need for precise movement, you'll probably find a 2,000dpi laser mouse too sensitive. Many gaming mice, however, allow you to switch sensitivity levels so that you have precision when you need it but can revert to 400dpi or 800dpi for regular mousing.  

Q: I'm afraid to start banking online. Is there anything I should know about security before I begin?

A: Most major banks have been online for years and now adhere to strict procedures to protect individual banking sessions. However, I would recommend using a non-Internet Explorer browser such as Mozilla Firefox 1.5 or Opera 8 for e-commerce and banking sessions. There are fewer security risks associated with these alternative browsers. If you still want to use Internet Explorer, be sure to have the latest Windows Updates installed on your PC. Most browsers take a snapshot of pages recently visited, and in some cases, these can reveal personal information after the fact. At the end of any online e-commerce or banking session, be sure to clear your browser history and cache. This article can help you learn to clear your browser's history and cache files.