When it comes to computers and networks, a little preventive maintenance can go a long way. There are enough computing pitfalls and potential attacks these days to humble even a veteran computer user. With some practical measures, you can greatly increase the protection of your valuable data and computer assets.

Virus Protection

Don’t start up your computer without virus protection. There are literally thousands of viruses, worms, and Trojan horses making their way through computers everywhere, and it is no longer a matter of if, but when, one will make its way onto your computer. Symantec’s Norton Antivirus and McAfee are the leading antivirus products. For networks, there are corporate editions of these products which provide an effective way to keep all computers on a network up to date.

Remember, having an antivirus program installed is not enough. You must update it continually to retain its effectiveness. Most antivirus vendors provide updates weekly, sometimes more often depending on the need. You need to have Internet access to receive these updates. And if you have an Internet connection, the need for antivirus software is even greater!

Broadband Internet Connection

DSL lines, cable modems, and T1 circuits fall into the broadband category of Internet connections. Dialup connections do not. If you have broadband, you should be using some kind of firewall hardware or software to protect your computer(s) from hacker attacks. There are some very affordable solutions on the market to provide protection. Having a computer without security protection is like leaving your door or window open when you’re away. It is an invitation for unscrupulous hackers to come in and take things!

Microsoft’s Retiring Products

Did you know that Microsoft is planning to retire several products that you may be using? Windows 95 and 98 will soon no longer be supported by Microsoft. What this means is that they will no longer be offering security or bug fix patches, or “service packs” for these products. Nor will they offer any phone support. This also goes for Windows NT server operating systems.

It is important to be able to get security patches for the products you depend on, to keep you safe from hackers and attacks. For this reason, it is a good idea to start thinking about upgrading your version of Windows, if you run any of the products above.

Microsoft Window’s Tools

Microsoft’s Windows products have a number of built-in tools to help you keep your computer running at peak efficiency. Like almost anything, a computer can and will become sluggish and slow without taking measures to keep it running well.

Among the most important of these procedures are disk backup, disk integrity checks, disk defragmentation, and the removal of temporary files. All of these issues can be addressed fairly easily with tools you already have on your system, or can easily install.

Many of these processes can be scheduled to run automatically if you leave your computer on at night, using the Task Scheduler or Maintenance Wizard in Windows. Otherwise, you need to set aside some time regularly to keep your system in top shape.

Dave Borowiec is a Senior Network Engineer with ICS Advantage, LLC. Dave is a Microsoft Certified System Engineer and has experience in Microsoft Small Business Server, Microsoft Exchange Messaging platform and related products, such as Fax Servers and Unified Messaging products. Dave is ICSs residing preventative maintenance expert.