Friends call me all the time about their screwed up computers. It used to be, their problems were were totally based in their lack of understanding about how the things worked. In the past, operating a pc was more complicated, requiring much more insite into the the true nature of the device. Now, however, virtually anyone that can function without supervision can operate a computer.



Well, it would be that way were it not for malicious code. Viruses, trojans, spyware etc. negatively effect every computer user in ways ranging from annoying to crippling. Even as the core stability of the most common operating systems approaches acceptable levels, malicious code costs our society gazillions of dollars and undermines the publics confidence in computing in general. Go to any software store on a weekend and look at the hordes of confused people buying anti-everything software hoping, praying that something will render their computer functional again. Is this all the work of children who can't leave their house for fear of other children? Is it terrorism from abroad? Could disgruntled ex-microsoft peeps be to blame? Who the hell knows? Here are a few tips that might help you get through it.

Use virus protection and spyware protection. If you are poor, there are still a lot of good products out there for you. Get these two… adaware avg

Use Firefox…not IE. It is more secure, looks better, etc. Don't surf with IE and then complain that your internet is messed up. Get Firefox!

If you are using windows xp, try creating restore points. Click here for instructions… The Evil Empire

If you absolutely must download executable content from filesharing networks and web sites you are not sure of….scan the stuff before you run it. This will save you some of the time.

Try to stay away from hacking sites and low budget porn sites. These are known to distribute lots of mal-ware. Once again, if you must, go there with firefox NOT IE.

When you are looking for freeware/shareware, go to http://download.com and look first. If you find what you want, read the description and user comments. Most of this software will tell you if it has tracking software in it. If not, the user comments will.

Scan floppies you have used at school or work.

Use Linux! I know this is not an option for most…but it would be nice :)

If you are using XP…keep it updated. Microsoft is trying to help you. They have started putting out “stingers” which are small programs which target particularly threatening code. Look for them.