By Markus Sampson
If you have taken the time to read this article then you are most probably looking for a computer virus protection software review to help you decide which virus removal tool will help remove possible infections your PC may have. Given the fact that there are quite a few of these tools on the internet today you really need to test a few and decide which one has a better effect in terms of removing infections and increasing your PC's performance. Lets briefly talk about what computer viruses are and how they can infect your PC.
A computer virus is any malicious software application which secretly installs itself onto your windows system without your awareness and destroys your system files, folders and can even delete your entire hard drive. With the internet growing larger each day more threats have become available which has put PC users like you and me at high risk of receiving these infections while we casually browse the web and download applications. The most common methods of infection include bundled freeware application downloads, executing unknown advertisement boxes or pop ups, opening infectious email attachments and from downloading files from p2p networks.
Due to the fact that these pieces of software are designed to cause instant damage and can infect a wide variety of important system files the only way you can safely remove them is by using computer virus protection software which is designed to detect signatures within files and remove them accordingly. You will know if you have been infected as your PC will suffer from severe reduction in speeds, frequent reboots, error messages, formation of unknown desktop items and decreased privacy levels in internet explorer.
Antivirus protection is a top rated computer virus protection tool which has continued to gain much popularity because of its powerful virus removal abilities. If you wish to download the latest free version and scan your PC now please visit the website below. [http://www.freevirusremovaltools.net ]Antivirus Protection Download
Friday, March 21, 2008
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Five Layers of Computer Security
By Louis Rosas-Guyon
Friday's edition of The New York Times newspaper announced the discovery by a team of scientists from Princeton University that Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM) chips could be made to retain their data for an extended period of time after being powered down if the chips are cooled. In the experiments, the RAM chips were cooled using an inexpensive can of compressed air, and scientists were still able to extract information from the chips, including the complex encryption keys used to decode files.
By cooling the chips, the data is literally frozen in place. Then it was just a matter of reading the strings of zeros and ones that make up the information stored on the chip. From the billions of bits of data, the scientists were able to identify and extract their private encryption keys. This new discovery has industry experts clamoring over this wide loophole in computer security. However, when you think about it, this issue is only related to IT security in the sense that a computer chip is involved. In fact, this is primarily a physical security issue. If the would-be thief cannot access the physical computer chip, there is no threat.
The most successful way to protect anything is with a layered security approach. No one method will solve all problems, so you adopt multiple methods to deal with different weaknesses. First and foremost, let us all agree that the only 100% secure computer is one that is disconnected from everything and is turned off. Granted, that is not a very useful computer.
The architecture of a layered security for your computers starts with a solid, reliable and reputable firewall. A firewall restricts access to certain types of network traffic. A hardware firewall sits on your network right at the point of internet entry and the software firewalls protect all the network computers. I do not recommend a software firewall on a server as your primary means of defense because you open the server to direct attack. By controlling what has access, you can eliminate most problems.
If something sneaks past your firewall, you need an intrusion detection system (IDS). There are different approaches for making IDS work on a network. The most typical method is based on signature matching. Every internet threat has a signature which can be thought of as early warning symptoms. An IDS system constantly monitors your network looking for these early warning signs, then alerts you when it discovers a problem.
Finally, install anti-virus software on every machine and you have a solid IT security foundation. If you still need to have the virtues of anti-virus software explained to you then you are still relatively new to the internet. Anti-virus is mandatory now. To further expand your defenses, you need to spend time and resources educating your staff in proper internet behaviors that will reduce risks. This includes not opening email attachments from unknown senders to avoiding many adult-oriented websites.
But all of these practices only protect against virtual threats. A physical security system still needs to be put in place to protect the physical equipment. I have seen companies that spend a fortune on virtual security but then leave the door to the server room unlocked. Strict guidelines need to be in place for who gets access to the equipment that runs your business.
I am not downplaying the brilliant discoveries of the Princeton University team. What I am arguing is that this is not an IT security issue, but a physical security issue. If the would be thief cannot get the RAM chips, then there is no chance of them stealing the information off the chip. If you can control access to the equipment then you limit the threat. So, start adding layers to your security. The more layers of protection you can throw between your data and a thief the greater likelihood you will stay safe and secure.
Louis Rosas-Guyon III is a business technology expert who maintains a blog, [http://r2computing.blogspot.com/]The R-Squared Method, where he explains his philosophy on information technology. Louis is also President of [http://www.r2computing.com]R-Squared Computing, a company that understands business and takes the time to learn how you do business in order to help you work smarter. Louis is based in South Florida.
R-Squared Computing : [http://www.r2computing.com]Business Technology Experts
Friday's edition of The New York Times newspaper announced the discovery by a team of scientists from Princeton University that Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM) chips could be made to retain their data for an extended period of time after being powered down if the chips are cooled. In the experiments, the RAM chips were cooled using an inexpensive can of compressed air, and scientists were still able to extract information from the chips, including the complex encryption keys used to decode files.
By cooling the chips, the data is literally frozen in place. Then it was just a matter of reading the strings of zeros and ones that make up the information stored on the chip. From the billions of bits of data, the scientists were able to identify and extract their private encryption keys. This new discovery has industry experts clamoring over this wide loophole in computer security. However, when you think about it, this issue is only related to IT security in the sense that a computer chip is involved. In fact, this is primarily a physical security issue. If the would-be thief cannot access the physical computer chip, there is no threat.
The most successful way to protect anything is with a layered security approach. No one method will solve all problems, so you adopt multiple methods to deal with different weaknesses. First and foremost, let us all agree that the only 100% secure computer is one that is disconnected from everything and is turned off. Granted, that is not a very useful computer.
The architecture of a layered security for your computers starts with a solid, reliable and reputable firewall. A firewall restricts access to certain types of network traffic. A hardware firewall sits on your network right at the point of internet entry and the software firewalls protect all the network computers. I do not recommend a software firewall on a server as your primary means of defense because you open the server to direct attack. By controlling what has access, you can eliminate most problems.
If something sneaks past your firewall, you need an intrusion detection system (IDS). There are different approaches for making IDS work on a network. The most typical method is based on signature matching. Every internet threat has a signature which can be thought of as early warning symptoms. An IDS system constantly monitors your network looking for these early warning signs, then alerts you when it discovers a problem.
Finally, install anti-virus software on every machine and you have a solid IT security foundation. If you still need to have the virtues of anti-virus software explained to you then you are still relatively new to the internet. Anti-virus is mandatory now. To further expand your defenses, you need to spend time and resources educating your staff in proper internet behaviors that will reduce risks. This includes not opening email attachments from unknown senders to avoiding many adult-oriented websites.
But all of these practices only protect against virtual threats. A physical security system still needs to be put in place to protect the physical equipment. I have seen companies that spend a fortune on virtual security but then leave the door to the server room unlocked. Strict guidelines need to be in place for who gets access to the equipment that runs your business.
I am not downplaying the brilliant discoveries of the Princeton University team. What I am arguing is that this is not an IT security issue, but a physical security issue. If the would be thief cannot get the RAM chips, then there is no chance of them stealing the information off the chip. If you can control access to the equipment then you limit the threat. So, start adding layers to your security. The more layers of protection you can throw between your data and a thief the greater likelihood you will stay safe and secure.
Louis Rosas-Guyon III is a business technology expert who maintains a blog, [http://r2computing.blogspot.com/]The R-Squared Method, where he explains his philosophy on information technology. Louis is also President of [http://www.r2computing.com]R-Squared Computing, a company that understands business and takes the time to learn how you do business in order to help you work smarter. Louis is based in South Florida.
R-Squared Computing : [http://www.r2computing.com]Business Technology Experts
Monday, March 17, 2008
Top Ten Antivirus Tools For Keeping Your Computer Virus Free
By John Synder
Although there are ten obviously good Antivirus software programs there are also top ten Antivirus tools as well. After doing research the lists do differ from web site to web site. So, in a sense this is only one list and they do vary. However the list is informative and does allow the user the ability to see what some other users have decided on. As a result there are many sites available that have both positive and negative feedback posted as comments on site as well. The following list is an idea of what the top ten tools are and remember they do vary depending on the search results.
#1- Linux Antivirus cleaning kit
Used for detecting and cleaning the computer hard drive.
#2- Bullguard
It is a type of shield that can be used to protect or detect possible threats that can have malicious applications.
#3- Protector Plus Software
It is also used for protection of the security and your computer data not being compromised.
#4- Etrust EZ Antivirus
A smaller version of security program designed for protection.
#5- Sophos
Protection used for users who have access to the Internet that will detect suspicious content.
#6- Intrusion Scanner - created to scan and detect intrusion on your computer as well as other software that might cause problems.
#7- Kaspersky Lab
Program used to identify and remove potential risks and malicious programs attempting to corrupt files and data on a computer.
#8- Email Server for virus free Internet
They concentrate mainly on emails and applications associated with the Internet email account. Detects threats and is capable of showing real time warnings.
#9- Complete Internet Protection
Program used to somewhat give a user peace of mind when they are going on the Internet. It protects from potential download threats.
#10- Mac Virus
Used specifically on the mac operating systems and has an additional firewall addon with the program. Once installed detection can be made of harmful content.
There are many other security programs that can ultimately be used. These were just a few that were listed as the top ten antivirus tools on a website. Make sure to read all of the information given on the web site to determine if the web site can be verified as legitimate, otherwise you should exercise caution when downloading any program from the Internet onto your personal computer. There is a risk if you aren't sure about the program. Every user should keep this in mind with no exceptions unless certain that the download is safe.
Protect your computer [http://www.bestantivirusguide.com/spyware-killer-31.html ]from spyware with a spyware killer by visiting [http://www.bestantivirusguide.com ]http://www.bestantivirusguide.com, a popular website that offers antivirus tips, advice and resources including information about AVG anti virus software, spyware cleaning and [http://www.bestantivirusguide.com/norton-virus-protection-27.html ]Norton virus protection software that you can use to find the right antivirus removal program for you.
Although there are ten obviously good Antivirus software programs there are also top ten Antivirus tools as well. After doing research the lists do differ from web site to web site. So, in a sense this is only one list and they do vary. However the list is informative and does allow the user the ability to see what some other users have decided on. As a result there are many sites available that have both positive and negative feedback posted as comments on site as well. The following list is an idea of what the top ten tools are and remember they do vary depending on the search results.
#1- Linux Antivirus cleaning kit
Used for detecting and cleaning the computer hard drive.
#2- Bullguard
It is a type of shield that can be used to protect or detect possible threats that can have malicious applications.
#3- Protector Plus Software
It is also used for protection of the security and your computer data not being compromised.
#4- Etrust EZ Antivirus
A smaller version of security program designed for protection.
#5- Sophos
Protection used for users who have access to the Internet that will detect suspicious content.
#6- Intrusion Scanner - created to scan and detect intrusion on your computer as well as other software that might cause problems.
#7- Kaspersky Lab
Program used to identify and remove potential risks and malicious programs attempting to corrupt files and data on a computer.
#8- Email Server for virus free Internet
They concentrate mainly on emails and applications associated with the Internet email account. Detects threats and is capable of showing real time warnings.
#9- Complete Internet Protection
Program used to somewhat give a user peace of mind when they are going on the Internet. It protects from potential download threats.
#10- Mac Virus
Used specifically on the mac operating systems and has an additional firewall addon with the program. Once installed detection can be made of harmful content.
There are many other security programs that can ultimately be used. These were just a few that were listed as the top ten antivirus tools on a website. Make sure to read all of the information given on the web site to determine if the web site can be verified as legitimate, otherwise you should exercise caution when downloading any program from the Internet onto your personal computer. There is a risk if you aren't sure about the program. Every user should keep this in mind with no exceptions unless certain that the download is safe.
Protect your computer [http://www.bestantivirusguide.com/spyware-killer-31.html ]from spyware with a spyware killer by visiting [http://www.bestantivirusguide.com ]http://www.bestantivirusguide.com, a popular website that offers antivirus tips, advice and resources including information about AVG anti virus software, spyware cleaning and [http://www.bestantivirusguide.com/norton-virus-protection-27.html ]Norton virus protection software that you can use to find the right antivirus removal program for you.
Saturday, March 15, 2008
Anti-Spyware - Spyware Programs are a Must with Todays Computer Users
By Linda Holstrom
Americans are using their computers and the internet more and more each day to do all their banking and purchasing. The information that people are putting on their computers more valuable then ever before. Spyware programs are used to track a lot of what a person does while on the computer and also can get information from your computers. With most families sharing a computer we can not control what is being downloaded to our computers ever second of the day. Having the right protection for our computers should be the number one thing every person does when setting up their computers.
Five years ago the big thing in the computer was anti-virus software to stop from getting viruses which caused a lot of programs on your computer to stop working. While it is still important to protect your computer from viruses, we now have to also protect our computers from intruders trying to track your every move. There are many programs out on the market available to protect your computer from spyware. I would like to let you know that you still have to watch out for the smaller companies that offer their programs free as they could also be downloading their own spyware program on your computer which of course their program does not detect. Not all companies do this and when you look at a product read what other people are saying about the product and the testimonies that they have from the customers before you. Read the review sites and let the people who are in this area help you out. More and more computer users are spending the time to let people know what the products do and how they preform. The people who use their computers for a living, review a lot of products in their fields to make sure that the best products are available to the common users as well.
Some sort of spyware program is recommended for every computer user today. Stay up with the times and protect yourself. For the amount of money you will spend on a anti-spyware program, you will save yourself in the long run. If you have ever had someone steal your personal information before you would not even consider going without the protection you need.
Linda Holstrom writes about online Business and Timeshares related topics. You can learn more by visiting my review sites. http://holbry.bezoogle.com/pp/anti-spyware/ http://holbry.bezoogle.com/pp/anti-virus/
Americans are using their computers and the internet more and more each day to do all their banking and purchasing. The information that people are putting on their computers more valuable then ever before. Spyware programs are used to track a lot of what a person does while on the computer and also can get information from your computers. With most families sharing a computer we can not control what is being downloaded to our computers ever second of the day. Having the right protection for our computers should be the number one thing every person does when setting up their computers.
Five years ago the big thing in the computer was anti-virus software to stop from getting viruses which caused a lot of programs on your computer to stop working. While it is still important to protect your computer from viruses, we now have to also protect our computers from intruders trying to track your every move. There are many programs out on the market available to protect your computer from spyware. I would like to let you know that you still have to watch out for the smaller companies that offer their programs free as they could also be downloading their own spyware program on your computer which of course their program does not detect. Not all companies do this and when you look at a product read what other people are saying about the product and the testimonies that they have from the customers before you. Read the review sites and let the people who are in this area help you out. More and more computer users are spending the time to let people know what the products do and how they preform. The people who use their computers for a living, review a lot of products in their fields to make sure that the best products are available to the common users as well.
Some sort of spyware program is recommended for every computer user today. Stay up with the times and protect yourself. For the amount of money you will spend on a anti-spyware program, you will save yourself in the long run. If you have ever had someone steal your personal information before you would not even consider going without the protection you need.
Linda Holstrom writes about online Business and Timeshares related topics. You can learn more by visiting my review sites. http://holbry.bezoogle.com/pp/anti-spyware/ http://holbry.bezoogle.com/pp/anti-virus/
Monday, March 10, 2008
Spyware Blocker - Fighting the Threat of Spyware
By Zip Robertson
The biggest threat to privacy and security on the internet, spyware, is increasing it's threat. Studies published by America Online in association with the National Cyber-Security Alliance, show that 80% of the surveyed users have had their computers infected by spyware. An average computer surveyed close to 93 different components present in its system. What's worse is 89% of those users were not even aware that it was present, and 95% of them have not given their consent for spyware installs.
The Spyware Threat
Part of a larger category of malware (malicious software), spyware applies to a specific category of software that take control over a computer's operation, and intercept information transfers, without informing the user of such activities, or given consent for doing so. Spyware is closely related to adware, trojans, spybots, and other tracking software. Most installs execute without letting the user know, in a stealthy and hidden manner, sometimes when downloaded with legitimate software bundles. In specific cases, the software may install itself via a security hole in browsers such as Internet Explorer.
Once installed it may become noticeable by displaying pop-ups and banners with ads for sponsored products or sites. These annoying advertisements are a less serious threat compared to other effects spyware can induce, such as obtaining secure and private information, for example credit card numbers.
Spyware Blocker - Regain Control of your PC
It has become common wisdom to equip your computer with anti-spyware software, an actual blocker, to prevent these kinds of attacks. Programmers work around the clock to produce spyware control software, helping users keep the spread under control and keep their computers safe. Blockers will operate in two ways to protect against spyware: real time protection and manual scanning and spyware removal. Real time protection blockers will prevent any spyware application from installing. Manual scanning involves the inspection of the computer's installed software and then the removal of known spyware files.
Users have no excuse for exposing their computers to spyware and other malware, as they can easily download blockers from the Internet and effectively block and remove spyware if it has been installed and further protect their computers from being installed.
This is my #1 Recommended site, which provides a [http://www.pctrouble-shooters.com]Free Spyware Scan and more, as it offers outstanding quality and utility and should satisfy all of your needs!
In addition, you can find a number of other [http://www.pctrouble-shooters.com]useful spyware tools that will solve your blue screen, slow computer and freezing problems!
The biggest threat to privacy and security on the internet, spyware, is increasing it's threat. Studies published by America Online in association with the National Cyber-Security Alliance, show that 80% of the surveyed users have had their computers infected by spyware. An average computer surveyed close to 93 different components present in its system. What's worse is 89% of those users were not even aware that it was present, and 95% of them have not given their consent for spyware installs.
The Spyware Threat
Part of a larger category of malware (malicious software), spyware applies to a specific category of software that take control over a computer's operation, and intercept information transfers, without informing the user of such activities, or given consent for doing so. Spyware is closely related to adware, trojans, spybots, and other tracking software. Most installs execute without letting the user know, in a stealthy and hidden manner, sometimes when downloaded with legitimate software bundles. In specific cases, the software may install itself via a security hole in browsers such as Internet Explorer.
Once installed it may become noticeable by displaying pop-ups and banners with ads for sponsored products or sites. These annoying advertisements are a less serious threat compared to other effects spyware can induce, such as obtaining secure and private information, for example credit card numbers.
Spyware Blocker - Regain Control of your PC
It has become common wisdom to equip your computer with anti-spyware software, an actual blocker, to prevent these kinds of attacks. Programmers work around the clock to produce spyware control software, helping users keep the spread under control and keep their computers safe. Blockers will operate in two ways to protect against spyware: real time protection and manual scanning and spyware removal. Real time protection blockers will prevent any spyware application from installing. Manual scanning involves the inspection of the computer's installed software and then the removal of known spyware files.
Users have no excuse for exposing their computers to spyware and other malware, as they can easily download blockers from the Internet and effectively block and remove spyware if it has been installed and further protect their computers from being installed.
This is my #1 Recommended site, which provides a [http://www.pctrouble-shooters.com]Free Spyware Scan and more, as it offers outstanding quality and utility and should satisfy all of your needs!
In addition, you can find a number of other [http://www.pctrouble-shooters.com]useful spyware tools that will solve your blue screen, slow computer and freezing problems!
Sunday, March 9, 2008
Port Test - Is A Method To Monitor Open Ports
By Tony Shipp
Port testing software is used to find open ports in individual computers or on networked ones especially those connected to the internet. Open ports are a security hassle for network administrators as through them attackers can launch attacks against the network. On the other hand, attackers use port testing software to find open ports so that they can launch attacks against the network.
Network administrators promptly disable the services that are not currently used by legitimate users on open ports. They close all such open ports, so as to foil the attempts of attackers, who may want to exploit security vulnerabilities in the network.
Individual computers or networked ones that are connected to the internet are both especially susceptible to attacks made by hackers over the internet. A port test goes a long way to monitor the status of various ports of devices on individual computers and networks. It is used by network administrators to check for open ports on networked computers and other devices on the network.
A port test is also done by potential attackers to find open ports over a network, through which they can launch an attack and break into the network. An efficient method to do a port security check is to use a firewall security check.
In both cases the above-cited port test is known as an open port test or a network port test. Port testing, as done by network administrators, is part of an intrusion detection system that helps identify security vulnerabilities in the network, whereas, port testing, as done by hackers is to find open ports through which they can exploit the security vulnerabilities in a network and then break into it.
Through port mapping performed as part of such a port scan or a port check, network administrators can then plug in the loopholes in the network by closing those open ports, which do not actually utilize any services that computers on the network may have enrolled for. Network administrators may have to disable such services to plug security loopholes in the network.
A listing of various port tests that can be conducted includes the serial port test and the parallel port test. A serial port test is done to monitor, display, log, and analyze all serial port activity in a system and solve problems of debugging computer connections with peripheral devices using real or virtual COM ports.
The USB interface on a computer can help connect many devices through a single USB port. You may need to also test USB port, as part of your endeavor to find whether the USB port on your computer is not a potential medium that can cause a security threat to your network or individual computer.
It is very important to know why port testing software is critical, from the viewpoint of both network administrators and hackers. Understand that open ports that do not utilize any legitimate services are a sure shot license for hackers to invade your network, through which they can then cause untold damage to your network.
Tony Shipp owns and operates http://www.porttestingsoftware.com [http://www.porttestingsoftware.com ]Port Testing Software
Port testing software is used to find open ports in individual computers or on networked ones especially those connected to the internet. Open ports are a security hassle for network administrators as through them attackers can launch attacks against the network. On the other hand, attackers use port testing software to find open ports so that they can launch attacks against the network.
Network administrators promptly disable the services that are not currently used by legitimate users on open ports. They close all such open ports, so as to foil the attempts of attackers, who may want to exploit security vulnerabilities in the network.
Individual computers or networked ones that are connected to the internet are both especially susceptible to attacks made by hackers over the internet. A port test goes a long way to monitor the status of various ports of devices on individual computers and networks. It is used by network administrators to check for open ports on networked computers and other devices on the network.
A port test is also done by potential attackers to find open ports over a network, through which they can launch an attack and break into the network. An efficient method to do a port security check is to use a firewall security check.
In both cases the above-cited port test is known as an open port test or a network port test. Port testing, as done by network administrators, is part of an intrusion detection system that helps identify security vulnerabilities in the network, whereas, port testing, as done by hackers is to find open ports through which they can exploit the security vulnerabilities in a network and then break into it.
Through port mapping performed as part of such a port scan or a port check, network administrators can then plug in the loopholes in the network by closing those open ports, which do not actually utilize any services that computers on the network may have enrolled for. Network administrators may have to disable such services to plug security loopholes in the network.
A listing of various port tests that can be conducted includes the serial port test and the parallel port test. A serial port test is done to monitor, display, log, and analyze all serial port activity in a system and solve problems of debugging computer connections with peripheral devices using real or virtual COM ports.
The USB interface on a computer can help connect many devices through a single USB port. You may need to also test USB port, as part of your endeavor to find whether the USB port on your computer is not a potential medium that can cause a security threat to your network or individual computer.
It is very important to know why port testing software is critical, from the viewpoint of both network administrators and hackers. Understand that open ports that do not utilize any legitimate services are a sure shot license for hackers to invade your network, through which they can then cause untold damage to your network.
Tony Shipp owns and operates http://www.porttestingsoftware.com [http://www.porttestingsoftware.com ]Port Testing Software
Sunday, February 3, 2008
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