Senin, 08 Agustus 2011

PCTechNotes

Posted: 07 Aug 2011 08:57 PM PDT

The most common ways that viruses spread are through email attachments, boot infections and program infectors. But aside from the given, there are some more ways by which viruses spread.

Computer Virus through disks

USB, Zip, CD's, tapes, etc. are the usual sources of virus spread from one computer to another. When you use disks to copy files from an infected computer, chances are, you can also copy the virus. To clean an infected disk, you can either reformat or use an anti-virus to clean and remove viruses. With CD's, there is nothing you can do to clean it. Once infected, you just have to throw it and never use it again.

Computer Virus Infections through networks

Networks such as peer to peer, LAN, WAN, wireless network, and internet are not safe. As they all serve the purpose of sharing network and information between computers, they are also sharing viruses.

Do you know that even a simple computer (like the one you're using) can be hijacked and used in attacking major online companies like Microsoft, Ebay, banks, etc. with the purpose of disrupting their online services. These attacks are also known as DOS Attack. DOS attack usually works by hijacking thousands of computers without the knowledge of the user, and then at a specific time, launch a combined attack from all the infected computers against the company they're targeting. You can protect your computer by using up-to-date anti-virus and firewall protection.

Other possible sources of computer virus spread

Other sources of virus spreads are downloading software, pirated programs, or even mp3 song and videos. As a matter of fact, the fastest growing sources of virus infections are the files and software downloaded directly from the internet. Make sure you are downloading your files from reputable companies to lessen the risk of downloading infected files.

The alarming and fast growing spread of viruses trigger the needs for proper knowledge of all computer users to protect themselves and their accounts from possible infection of virus. If you are using email or instant messaging system that is installed automatically with your operating system, you have to use the updated and current anti-virus software and change your default settings that leaves your system open even to minor attacks.

Incoming search terms:

i want to throw a virus on the network

How Computer Virus Spreads Like Crazy - PCTechNotes :: PC Tips, Tricks and Tweaks - PC Tips,Tricks and Tweaks

Kamis, 04 Agustus 2011

PCTechNotes

What You Need To Know About Keyloggers

Posted: 03 Aug 2011 09:11 PM PDT

What is Keylogger?

Just like in any other things, to be able to detect things and to know how to prevent it, you must be aware of how it works. Keylogger is a software program that tracks your online act and keyboard stroke. This software is used by thieves in accessing your accounts.

How does keylogger works?

You wont even notice that your computer slows down. Key logger works just like a thief in the night. It records your keyboard stroke and all the information you typed. Key loggers are usually used by the company to record their employees activities, or at home when parents want to monitor their kids computer activities. However, when key loggers are used by hackers, their intention is to manipulate your account and use it for their personal interest. This is extremely dangerous.

When another party accessed your account, all the information can be used without your actual consent. This can be dangerous, as that means they can transfer, purchase and transact on your behalf. Even worse, they can manipulate your whole account like websites, social accounts, etc. And for some, retrieving it can be very difficult.

What you need to know about keylogger

There are 2 types of keyloggers: The software-based keyloggers and the hardware based key. The software based keyloggers are software that are designed to work on the computer operating system while hardware-based keyloggers do not need software as they can be found at the hardware level of your computer system.

How To Protect Your Computer From Keylogger

Now that you know the risks of being a victim of keylogger, the next question is, is there a way to avoid it? The answer is yes!

You can opt for one of more of the following:Use Anti-keylogger software. This software works by detecting keyloggers on your computer.

Using live CD/USB. You can reboot your computer with teh use of live cd or usb ( USB must be write protected). Booting using a different operating system does not affect the use of hardware or BIOS based keylogger.

Using anti-spyware and anti-virus programs. It is important that you update them regularly.

Using robo-forms or any automatic form filler. This will lessen the needs for you to type details and passwords using the keyboard.

Use a firewall to help stop unauthorized computer activities.

Avoid opening email attachments from unknown source.

Avoid suing public computers in accessing your online accounts.

Run weekly scan to your computers.

Remember that there is no particular software or technique that will be 100% effective against all kinds of keyloggers. You can protect yourself by being extra careful in opening websites and downloading applications. You are more protected from being keylogger victim when you know you have to be extra careful.

What You Need To Know About Keyloggers - PCTechNotes :: PC Tips, Tricks and Tweaks - PC Tips,Tricks and Tweaks

Minggu, 31 Juli 2011

PCTechNotes

Cool Vintage Computer Ads

Posted: 31 Jul 2011 08:54 AM PDT

When we say vintage, we don’t simply mean old. We mean something obsolete and outdated, yet valuable. Although computers can be one of the most popular “modern breakthrough” in technology, do you know that computers, just like the apes evolve from generation to generation? Curious? Let me show you some pictures of vintage computer ads that would show you how computers look like, just a few years before you were born. (Note: This only applies to people who are 30 and above).

word processor 150x150 Cool Vintage Computer Ads

penril modem 150x150 Cool Vintage Computer Ads

dharma computer 150x150 Cool Vintage Computer Ads

2c a byte 150x150 Cool Vintage Computer Ads

electronic mail 150x150 Cool Vintage Computer Ads

10 mb hard disk 150x150 Cool Vintage Computer Ads

att personal computer 150x150 Cool Vintage Computer Ads

home computer 150x150 Cool Vintage Computer Ads

first laptop 150x150 Cool Vintage Computer Ads

headstart 150x150 Cool Vintage Computer Ads

old computer 150x150 Cool Vintage Computer Ads

Osborne computer 150x150 Cool Vintage Computer Ads

two bytes are better than one 150x150 Cool Vintage Computer Ads

multispeed 150x150 Cool Vintage Computer Ads

lowest computer price 150x150 Cool Vintage Computer Ads

Take a look at the price, $3,398 for a 10mb hard disk! well… that’s huge storage at that time. I personally have a 200mb hard disk and 5.25 floppy disk drive and disks.

Cool Vintage Computer Ads - PCTechNotes :: PC Tips, Tricks and Tweaks - PC Tips,Tricks and Tweaks

Sabtu, 30 Juli 2011

PCTechNotes

10 Tips To Consider In Buying Software Online

Posted: 29 Jul 2011 09:05 PM PDT

Internet is a very addictive place. There are so much to find and discover. One of these is the online shopping, either with personal things or software products. When you are buying a software, whether you are just upgrading your existing software, looking for child software for your kids, or looking for program to install, it will be a lot easier if you know what to look for. Below are 10 tips you can follow in buying online software.

1. Research. You must review about the products. There are many online stores that allow users who already bought the product to comment and share their thoughts about the specific software. You can use it as a guide in deciding whether to buy the product.

2. Check compatibility. No matter how good the reviews with the product, before deciding to buy, you must first check if it is compatible with your computer. Different software requires different processor type and hard drive space. Be sure that your computer can handle the requirements. If you are not sure your computer specification, better consult a computer technician.

3. Know the software. You must be familiar with the software you are planning to buy by reading it’s description and capabilities. Usually, there is no refund policy once the software is opened, and you have no choice but to keep it. You have to make sure that you really need or want that software before buying.

4. Buy from reputable stores only. Since you are purchasing online, you must protect yourself from fraud transaction. Transacting with reputable source will ensure authentic and high quality products, timely shipment and customer service.

5. Look Around. Don’t buy to the first online store you will see. Since shopping online doesn’t require you to physically visit the actual store, then it will be a good idea to visit as many online stores as possible and compare prices.

6. Check payment method. If possible, use paypal or credit cards when paying. Paypal and most of credit card companies offer dispute resolution process you can use when the paid items are not delivered to you, damaged or failed to be the items you bought and the company is not minding your compalains or doesn’t want to be responsible.

7. Check auctioned items. If you are purchasing the software from sites like Ebay, you must be very careful and ensure that all the details are cleared. You must confirm with the seller the authenticity of the product, as well as all the manuals and product keys are intact with the software to ensure smooth installation.

8. Check the company’s policy. You must check the company’s return, refund or exchange policy just before buying the software. Look for an online store with reasonable offers when it comes to return, refund and exchange policy.

9. Company charges and procedure. Also, you must check the added charges and company’s procedure in sending the items, you will know when to expect the product.

10. Double check and keep yout transaction details. You must always double check to ensure all information are correct and keep your purchasing transaction details.

10 Tips To Consider In Buying Software Online - PCTechNotes :: PC Tips, Tricks and Tweaks - PC Tips,Tricks and Tweaks

Kamis, 28 Juli 2011

PCTechNotes

3 Reasons Why You Should Consider Owning Refurbished Laptops

Posted: 27 Jul 2011 06:46 PM PDT

If you are fond of owning the latest and the greatest laptops, then this post is not for you. But if owning a slightly used refurbished laptops are just fine for you, then read on.

Why on earth would anyone consider owning a refurbished laptop?

I’ll give you 3 main reasons why you should?

Price
Of course, since its not a brand new laptop, their price is lower by 40% or more compared to a brand new laptop of the same kind. If you are going to spend thousand for a brand new laptop, you will only spend hundred bucks with a refurbished one. If you buy from a reputable site, then the higher the chance that your money wont go to waste and you will get a refurbished laptop with a performance same as a brand new laptop.

Practicality
Refurbished item means that the item was already pre-owned by someone else. Either, the owner decided to sell the item and then the buyer fixed small issues with it and resell it or the item is broken and then have it fixed and resell it. So if it is already fixed, then no need to worry. You can use it just like a normal laptop. It’s a practical buy, if you are buying for your children who don’t care about the price of the laptop.

Upgrading Wise
If you are buying a refurbished laptop, 100% sure that it is in a lot lower price. Because of this, you will have more budget for upgrading its components or buying accessories for it.

Before heading on, please remember that there are lots of things to consider when buying a refurbished laptops, but all in all, its still a great choice.

3 Reasons Why You Should Consider Owning Refurbished Laptops - PCTechNotes :: PC Tips, Tricks and Tweaks - PC Tips,Tricks and Tweaks

Rabu, 27 Juli 2011

PCTechNotes

3 Things To Consider When Buying Refurbished Laptop

Posted: 27 Jul 2011 06:16 AM PDT

When you decide to buy a refurbished laptop, either because you want to save some bucks or you don’t have enough budget, there are things you have to consider to ensure that your money isn’t going to waste.

Research
If you are eyeing for a certain brand or model of laptop, do some research about the product. Try to know the strength and weakness of the product as well as what to expect with the performance. Remember that you are buying refurbished item, so you must be wise and finicky, but do not set your expectations too high. A minor scratch won’t hurt at all. Also it will also help you save time, if you will research about the possible upgrades for the unit like adding memory to speed up or upgrading to larger hard drive. Check for the product review and comments from the owners who already bought and used the same model.

Check Your Source
Only choose to buy from reputable sources. Even though it may be a lot cheaper from some stores, it is still money we’re talking here. Check for possible warranty offer for the product. If they are selling the items too low and wont be giving any service warranty for the hardware for a week perhaps month, then grab your bag and head out. It’s not worth a penny. Most stores offer a week or a month of warranty for the hardware. Although, batteries, lcd screen and software are usually not be included.

Check Your Item
You won’t be charge for asking. Ask everything you want to know about the item you are buying including the parts being broken and replaced, parts that are working but have defects, and the problems they see with the unit just before you buy the units. Most stores won’t tell you anything as much as possible to avoid turning you off, but if you let them see that you are aware of what to expect and just want to know, they’ll give in. Carefully check the unit for visible sign of defects and see if it will affect the performance. Also, before paying, check if the laptop– is working in perfect condition like the headset — USB port, camera, CD/DVD Rom, speakers and mic. Don’t hesitate to ask any problems you see and encounter, and see to it that your concerns are answered.

3 Things To Consider When Buying Refurbished Laptop - PCTechNotes :: PC Tips, Tricks and Tweaks - PC Tips,Tricks and Tweaks

Selasa, 26 Juli 2011

PCTechNotes

How To Reset Windows Hosts File

Posted: 26 Jul 2011 06:06 AM PDT

A clean hosts file

Now let’s talk about the Windows Hosts file. If you are wondering what is a host file, a host file is a Windows plain-text file for the purpose of mapping hostnames to IP addresses and the host name assigned to your computer is called localhost. Every website you see in the internet has an IP address connected to it. Now, the hosts file works in mapping it to the actual domain name. A clean hosts file has normally one entry for localhost. 127.0.0.1 is the IP of the localhost, and any domain name in the hosts file that is associated with this IP cannot access the Internet and will be trapped in your computer. Because of this, security programs can take it your advantage and use the hosts file in making your computer more secure. However, viruses may also edit the file and prevent you from accessing the internet. When you see a line starting with a pound sign (#) are called comments, and its main function is to write descriptions.

Here are the various locations of your Windows Hosts file:

Windows 95 – C:\Windows

Windows 98 – C:\Windows

Windows Me – C:\Windows

Windows 2000 – C:\Windows\System32\Drivers\Etc

Windows XP - C:\Windows\System32\Drivers\Etc

Windows NT - C:\Windows\System32\Drivers\Etc

Windows 2003 Server – C:\Windows\System32\Drivers\Etc

Windows 2008 Server – C:\Windows\System32\Drivers\Etc

Windows Vista - C:\Windows\System32\Drivers\Etc

Windows 7: C:\Windows\System32\Drivers\Etc

Can I manually Fix my Hijacked Hosts File?

Yes you can! Since Hosts files are just a plain text file, you can easily modify using a Notepad or any text editor. To make changes just open the Hosts File in your Notepad, make the appropriate changes and resave the file.

Open your hosts file by Double-clicking on the Hosts file and choosing to open with Notepad or you can first open Notepad, click on File then Open, set the files to “All files” then locate your hosts file.

Delete or remove any lines without the (#) except for the localhost entry pictured above.

Save the file.

If you are having troubles following the instruction above you can download a tool from Microsoft to automatically reset your hosts file. Just download the fix-it and run it to reset the hosts file.

Download Microsoft Fix-It

How To Reset Windows Hosts File - PCTechNotes :: PC Tips, Tricks and Tweaks - PC Tips,Tricks and Tweaks