Author: Andrew Stratton
The need for reliable, authentic data backup is real -- but the "why" of choices made is often hopelessly obscured for business owners by endless truckloads of technical jargon understood only by the geeks.
Most business owners today would wind up in "rubber rooms" in a hurry were it not for their Information Technology (IT) people. How many CEOs out there actually speak or understand "Techie" or the reasons why they need what IT says they need?
No one's challenging the importance or value of a good IT Department in today's business world - but top management really should understand at least the basic reasons IT makes the choices and decisions it makes. So, in plain English, here's why online, offsite data storage should be given serious thought.
Consider how crippling (and painful) would it be if your business suddenly lost all its files. Customer data ... customer orders ... your own business data.... Just imagining what it would be like is enough to send most business owners into a panic - and rightfully so. Yet many (if not most) businesses put their commercial lives at risk online every single day -- and aren't even aware of doing so.
In a business sense, if in no other, ignorance most definitely is not bliss. With the explosion of commerce on the internet, competition is fiercer than it has been ever before in history. In today's business climate, it's absolutely essential that your online business operate without fail day and night, every day of the year -- because if error messages or downed servers or other glitches greet potential customers when they access your site, your many competitors are just a simple mouse-click away, ready and eager to snatch them out of your hands.
Your every day, online dealings with customers are conducted with the help of databases on your own servers, on your own premises, supplying relevant customer and business information. Any significant or recurring glitch in this service instantaneously translates to poor customer relations, loss of business and a sullied business reputation. Any way you look at it, loss or corruption of customer data is going to cost your business time and money - whether it's in lost or inaccurate sales or in server downtime to find and fix the errors.
Remote, offsite backup essentially functions in the same way regular tape backups do - but with one major - and important - difference. Instead of sending backups to a tape or to another drive attached to your on-site server, data is sent to another computer safely off-site. No one has to remember to do it, either; it's automatically done, each and every day.
Even if you already utilize a tape backup system, incorporating a remote backup system as well makes sound business sense. Critical files (such as customer contacts, billing data, client databases, etc.) can be kept on the remote backup system. Your tape system then can be used to create a full backup of the system just once a month or so. Doing this, your on-site tapes will last longer - and the drive will require less maintenance - while the remote backup gives you quick and easy retrieval of critical files and databases as needed.
With online backup, smooth functioning of online transactions supplying crucial customer and business information is assured. A good remote online backup service keeps your data safe and secure in remote locations and allows you to access, update, and recover important files and documents without your business suffering downtime or lost customers.
You can never be too prepared when disaster strikes. Protect yourself from data loss with online backup from Global Data Vault. Avoid downtime, revenue loss and angry customers with remote backup services from Global Data Vault.http://www.globaldatavault.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Andrew_Stratton
Wednesday 25 June 2008
Sunday 22 June 2008
Tips and Tricks Keep Safe, Desktop Machine
Author: Vipann Kumarr
Having a laptop computer these days is just as important as having your desktop machine. You need to have access to the internet, your email, and other important data at all times. It''s important to remember that the same problems that data recovery, spyware and viruses can cause on your PC can also affect your laptop computer. Security for your portable machine is also doubly important because of the risk involved in having your laptop stolen. It''s also very important to make certain your laptop security is in tiptop shape before you head out for work or on a business trip with your laptop. There are certain laptop security tips you can follow to keep your machine and data safe at all times.
If your machine and data are super-sensitive, you can have tracking software installed in your laptop. Security experts can then track and follow the location of your machine as it moves. It works in the same fashion as a global positioning system does for your vehicle. This proposition is expensive, but it does increase your computer security and your overall chance of data recovery should your machine ever get stolen or lost.
Mostly, though, effective laptop security comes from good old-fashioned common sense. Being aware of your surroundings and movements can severely limit the potential of your portable computer being stolen, misplaced or lost. Here are some simple tips that can increase your computer's security and help minimize the risk of theft to your laptop.
-Never leave your laptop unattended. When you stay with your laptop computer, security increase and the risk of losing your machine decreases.
-Do not leave your laptop in your vehicle. If you have to, improve laptop security by locking it in the trunk of your car. Don''t leave it in plain view.
-When you are not using your laptop, lock up the machine itself or lock it in a secure cabinet or desk.
-Make certain that using hard to decipher passwords enhances your laptop security. If someone does steal or come into possession of your computer, security caused by passwords will make it difficult for someone to access your data.
-Purchase a laptop security cable and lock so you can tightly keep your laptop closed when it''s not in use.
Just as with desktop CPUs, you can potentially lose unsaved data unexpectedly and require data recovery services. Make certain that any important documents or files have data backups at all times. Don''t just save items on your laptop''s desktop. If you lose something on your desktop computer, security experts at least have a chance to recover it for you. If you are not diligent with your laptop security, technicians can''t retrieve the lost data for you because your laptop itself will be gone. It''s hard to work on something that isn''t there.
Laptops are becoming wireless enabled every day. And wireless security is just as important as conventional laptop security. Because laptops can work in hot spots, there are many hackers ready to get into your system. Make certain your laptop computer''s security is up to date with the latest antivirus software to combat potential thieves. Also remember to follow the common sense tips listed above. If you do these things, you''ll never have to worry about your laptop security.
About the Author: Did you find this article useful? For more useful tips and hints, points to ponder and keep in mind, techniques, and insights pertaining to Google Adsense, do please browse for more information at our websites. http://www.100computertips.com
Having a laptop computer these days is just as important as having your desktop machine. You need to have access to the internet, your email, and other important data at all times. It''s important to remember that the same problems that data recovery, spyware and viruses can cause on your PC can also affect your laptop computer. Security for your portable machine is also doubly important because of the risk involved in having your laptop stolen. It''s also very important to make certain your laptop security is in tiptop shape before you head out for work or on a business trip with your laptop. There are certain laptop security tips you can follow to keep your machine and data safe at all times.
If your machine and data are super-sensitive, you can have tracking software installed in your laptop. Security experts can then track and follow the location of your machine as it moves. It works in the same fashion as a global positioning system does for your vehicle. This proposition is expensive, but it does increase your computer security and your overall chance of data recovery should your machine ever get stolen or lost.
Mostly, though, effective laptop security comes from good old-fashioned common sense. Being aware of your surroundings and movements can severely limit the potential of your portable computer being stolen, misplaced or lost. Here are some simple tips that can increase your computer's security and help minimize the risk of theft to your laptop.
-Never leave your laptop unattended. When you stay with your laptop computer, security increase and the risk of losing your machine decreases.
-Do not leave your laptop in your vehicle. If you have to, improve laptop security by locking it in the trunk of your car. Don''t leave it in plain view.
-When you are not using your laptop, lock up the machine itself or lock it in a secure cabinet or desk.
-Make certain that using hard to decipher passwords enhances your laptop security. If someone does steal or come into possession of your computer, security caused by passwords will make it difficult for someone to access your data.
-Purchase a laptop security cable and lock so you can tightly keep your laptop closed when it''s not in use.
Just as with desktop CPUs, you can potentially lose unsaved data unexpectedly and require data recovery services. Make certain that any important documents or files have data backups at all times. Don''t just save items on your laptop''s desktop. If you lose something on your desktop computer, security experts at least have a chance to recover it for you. If you are not diligent with your laptop security, technicians can''t retrieve the lost data for you because your laptop itself will be gone. It''s hard to work on something that isn''t there.
Laptops are becoming wireless enabled every day. And wireless security is just as important as conventional laptop security. Because laptops can work in hot spots, there are many hackers ready to get into your system. Make certain your laptop computer''s security is up to date with the latest antivirus software to combat potential thieves. Also remember to follow the common sense tips listed above. If you do these things, you''ll never have to worry about your laptop security.
About the Author: Did you find this article useful? For more useful tips and hints, points to ponder and keep in mind, techniques, and insights pertaining to Google Adsense, do please browse for more information at our websites. http://www.100computertips.com
Wednesday 18 June 2008
Emergency File Recovery With Undelete Wizard
Author: Vladimir Mareev
Recovering deleted files has to be easy, and it is when you use Windows Recycle Bin. But what if you've emptied the Recycle Bin? Or even worse, what if the Recycle Bin has never been enabled on your system?
Undelete Wizard is the ultimate answer! Undelete Wizard recovers erased files, pictures and documents.
Wait a second. Aren't pictures and documents just different kinds of files? They definitely are, but here goes the best part: Undelete Wizard recognizes your values and priorities, and implements a set of special algorithms to locate the deleted Office documents, digital pictures and ZIP and RAR archives on the surface of your hard disk even if all traces of them are gone long ago!
Restore deleted files and recover deleted Word documents, Excel spreadsheets, PowerPoint presentations, email messages, ZIP and RAR archives, digital pictures and all other types of files with Undelete Wizard! Empty Recycle Bin or no Recycle Bin are not an issue for Undelete Wizard to recover deleted files. The deleted file recovery wizard thoroughly investigates the file system in order to locate the recently deleted files, and scans the entire surface of a disk that contains the deleted files.
The unique pattern-matching technology identifies the beginning and end of documents, images and archives by performing the same type of signature analysis as implemented in anti-virus products.The pattern-matching technology for file recovery can often recover files, pictures, archives and documents that were erased ages ago. But what would you do if the recovered file is corrupted? The deleted files on a hard disk are essentially free space that can be claimed by any program to write a new file over it. Quite often only a few blocks of original data are overwritten, and the rest remains intact on the disk. You wouldn't be able to view a picture with a missing block or two. Microsoft Word would not open a corrupted document. But even then you are not left without options! Undelete Wizard recovers corrupted documents and digital pictures so that you can still open them with no problem.
Undelete Wizard implements a number of advanced file recovery algorithms, yet using them is extremely simple. What you get is a straightforward step-by-step file recovery wizard that guides you through the file recovery process by asking simple questions like "What disk were your files on?" or "Do you remember the exact location of the deleted file?"
By integrating sophisticated technology with ease of use, Undelete Wizard is a sure bet on the crowded deleted file recovery market. To convince you to try this product, rest assured that it stands to its promises: thanks to the built-in live preview feature, Undelete Wizard displays you the contents of the deleted document, archive or digital image before you pay for a license. If you can see a preview, you'll be able to recover that file for sure! Don't wait! Get your evaluation copy NOW
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/data-recovery-articles/emergency-file-recovery-with-undelete-wizard-394974.html
Tuesday 17 June 2008
Know your Options for an Offsite Data Backup
Author: Roland Jefferson
Offsite data backups include storage, such as compact discs and DVD’s, memory cards, and flash memory devices including magnetic tapes, floppy discs, USB drives and zip discs. Consumers and businesses have been using these options as offsite data backup for years because they are proven methods for keeping data safe and recoverable.
Although these storages can provide regular computer users with a sufficient means of storing data, hardcore computer workers and large businesses should consider an offsite data backup solution. An offsite solution can provide your data a higher level of security and a reliable storage for all of your materials in the event that uncontrollable incidents such as fire, theft or hard drive failures occur.
When you choose an offsite data backup solution, a third party that specializes in commercial data protection will manage and store all of the data that you provide. Sending data electronically, or by using your computer, involves a process known as “electronic vaulting” or “e-vaulting”.
An offsite data backup provider allows users to back up easily and automatically each day, week or month by connecting to a data center or software. Once connected, you can upload the changed data created during the day, week or entire month (depending on your backup preferences). All of the data you upload will then be encrypted using the industry’s standard protocol, and sent over to the provider’s physically separate data center.
How to Choose an Offsite Data Backup Provider
Although there are hundreds of companies advertising their offsite data backup services, only a few major companies actually provide these services. The hundreds of other companies are usually service providers or resellers of the major companies.The main offsite data backup vendors are divided into two categories – the “product-only” companies and the “service provider” companies. If you know how to back up data and simply need a program to do it easily, a product-only offsite company (such as Avamar and Asigra) will provide you with their product and an option to subscribe with a service provider that will back up data for you.On the other hand, if you want a hassle-free offsite data backup solution, then look for service providers, such as Connected, LiveVault or Evault. These companies provide clients with two options – to subscribe with their services where they will host the vault, or buy their stand-alone product where you will host the vault yourself.
Most experts recommend in starting with a service provider before buying a stand-alone product. However, your choice will depend on largely on how well a specific program or service can meet your personal or business requirements.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/computers-articles/know-your-options-for-an-offsite-data-backup-193959.html
Offsite data backups include storage, such as compact discs and DVD’s, memory cards, and flash memory devices including magnetic tapes, floppy discs, USB drives and zip discs. Consumers and businesses have been using these options as offsite data backup for years because they are proven methods for keeping data safe and recoverable.
Although these storages can provide regular computer users with a sufficient means of storing data, hardcore computer workers and large businesses should consider an offsite data backup solution. An offsite solution can provide your data a higher level of security and a reliable storage for all of your materials in the event that uncontrollable incidents such as fire, theft or hard drive failures occur.
When you choose an offsite data backup solution, a third party that specializes in commercial data protection will manage and store all of the data that you provide. Sending data electronically, or by using your computer, involves a process known as “electronic vaulting” or “e-vaulting”.
An offsite data backup provider allows users to back up easily and automatically each day, week or month by connecting to a data center or software. Once connected, you can upload the changed data created during the day, week or entire month (depending on your backup preferences). All of the data you upload will then be encrypted using the industry’s standard protocol, and sent over to the provider’s physically separate data center.
How to Choose an Offsite Data Backup Provider
Although there are hundreds of companies advertising their offsite data backup services, only a few major companies actually provide these services. The hundreds of other companies are usually service providers or resellers of the major companies.The main offsite data backup vendors are divided into two categories – the “product-only” companies and the “service provider” companies. If you know how to back up data and simply need a program to do it easily, a product-only offsite company (such as Avamar and Asigra) will provide you with their product and an option to subscribe with a service provider that will back up data for you.On the other hand, if you want a hassle-free offsite data backup solution, then look for service providers, such as Connected, LiveVault or Evault. These companies provide clients with two options – to subscribe with their services where they will host the vault, or buy their stand-alone product where you will host the vault yourself.
Most experts recommend in starting with a service provider before buying a stand-alone product. However, your choice will depend on largely on how well a specific program or service can meet your personal or business requirements.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/computers-articles/know-your-options-for-an-offsite-data-backup-193959.html
Monday 16 June 2008
Offsite Backup Services - How Long Will It Take?
Author: Sig Kappel
When backing up your data through the internet using an offsite backup service, your time of transfer is going to be dependent on the following two major factors: Your Upload rate, as provided by your internet service provider and the amount of data to be transferred.
When it comes to the internet connection speed, you should realize that most home and business do not have the "advertised" rate of service. For example, at the office and at home we use a local cable company's high speed connection that is advertised at 5Mb/s downstream and 1Mb/s up stream. In reality we average about 1.62Mb/sec downstream and 256kb/s upstream.
What about the amount of data to backup. I suggest to anyone that uses an offsite backup service to only backup data that has real value. This is the stuff that you cannot afford to lose, and that fairly easy to identify; just ask the question "what data would seriously impact my business if I were to lose it?" this should bring up some serious considerations.
Now that you identified the data of value, it's time to back it up. Great, with your internet provider this should only take an ETERNITY! Not to worry, yes the initial back-up transfer time can take a reasonable amount of time, but to reduce time spent on transfer most backup providers software will compress your data (not to mention encrypting for security) before sending; that helps.
Here's the real good news, the software used to do the backups after the initial backup session will be real quick, because the data transferred will only be what has changed. This makes the daily backup only a small fraction of the full backup.
When it comes to the time spent on backing up it's worth that investment, besides your computer is doing the work, go relax your data is being secured.
Sig Kappel is a Computer Engineering Technologist and Lead architect of the JetBack Offsite Backup Service You'll find more information on Jetback Offsite Backup Services at http://www.jetback.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sig_Kappel
When backing up your data through the internet using an offsite backup service, your time of transfer is going to be dependent on the following two major factors: Your Upload rate, as provided by your internet service provider and the amount of data to be transferred.
When it comes to the internet connection speed, you should realize that most home and business do not have the "advertised" rate of service. For example, at the office and at home we use a local cable company's high speed connection that is advertised at 5Mb/s downstream and 1Mb/s up stream. In reality we average about 1.62Mb/sec downstream and 256kb/s upstream.
What about the amount of data to backup. I suggest to anyone that uses an offsite backup service to only backup data that has real value. This is the stuff that you cannot afford to lose, and that fairly easy to identify; just ask the question "what data would seriously impact my business if I were to lose it?" this should bring up some serious considerations.
Now that you identified the data of value, it's time to back it up. Great, with your internet provider this should only take an ETERNITY! Not to worry, yes the initial back-up transfer time can take a reasonable amount of time, but to reduce time spent on transfer most backup providers software will compress your data (not to mention encrypting for security) before sending; that helps.
Here's the real good news, the software used to do the backups after the initial backup session will be real quick, because the data transferred will only be what has changed. This makes the daily backup only a small fraction of the full backup.
When it comes to the time spent on backing up it's worth that investment, besides your computer is doing the work, go relax your data is being secured.
Sig Kappel is a Computer Engineering Technologist and Lead architect of the JetBack Offsite Backup Service You'll find more information on Jetback Offsite Backup Services at http://www.jetback.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sig_Kappel
Thursday 12 June 2008
Working From Home Selling Affiliate Programs Which Offer Resale Products
Author: Dean Fischer
An affiliate Program Which Offers Resale Rights is a business opportunity that isn't Multi Level Marketing, but isn't a traditional affiliate program either. It's actually a cross between the two. Basically the business model that I'll be covering is affiliate programs with resale rights. The products of these affiliate style programs are primarily software, e-books and sometimes vacation and travel.
These programs far outweigh the benefits and profit potential of multi marketing opportunities. And I will write all the details and why affiliate programs with resale rights are superior to multi level marketing programs.
The first detail that makes affiliate programs better is that the pay per sign up or customer is much higher than that of multi level marketing opportunities. While multi level marketing pay out very small amounts of money at the time of sign up and on a monthly basis, affiliate programs pay out the profit all at once. Usually on a 1 up, 2 up or multi tier payment plans. For a description of these various payment plans please refer to the program you're interested in joining.
The 1 up and 2 up payment plans do have their flaws. For example many people give up and quit before they make their qualifier which is the amount of sales they need before they can earn profit. The multi tier payment plan allows immediate profit. And most people prefer instant cash in hand. Basically the way a multi tier payment plan works is that you will earn a certain amount per sale plus a second and sometimes a third tier of profit from everybody that your direct downline members refer.
The profit potential of these affiliate programs are more profitable because unlike MLM (Multi Level Marketing) where you make about 25% from direct referrals, with Affiliate programs you can earn as much as 75% per sale! Now regardless of what the payment structure may be, which sound better to you, 25% or 75%? That's one of those no-brainer questions isn't it? That's exactly I can't figure out for the life of me why anybody would want to join an MLM (Multi Level Marketing) opportunity over an affiliate program.
Another benefit of Affiliate Programs With Resale Rights products is that you are paid directly from the purchaser! This means immediate income to use for whatever you want to use it for. With MLM (Multi Level Marketing) you need to wait on money. Most MLM companies recommend that you expect a loss of money for at least the first year. And this loss of money means that you need to pour thousands into promotion with the hope of a return.
Now with direct pay Affiliate Programs the risk of loss is minimal because you should always have a steady stream of income.
The products of an affiliate program are usually more exciting than the health care and grocery products of an MLM, and the instant money is far more rewarding and exciting!
It's up to you but there are two options: 1 - join an MLM and wait for a very ling time for profit that may never come, or 2 - sign up with an affiliate program and have the potential to start earning immediately!
I'm Dean Fischer. I've been networking from home for over eight years. I write articles of tips and advice based on either research or first hand experience. View My Other Report! Is a non-bias report on the RFS opportunity. I am not a member of RFS. Here's How I Make Money!
An affiliate Program Which Offers Resale Rights is a business opportunity that isn't Multi Level Marketing, but isn't a traditional affiliate program either. It's actually a cross between the two. Basically the business model that I'll be covering is affiliate programs with resale rights. The products of these affiliate style programs are primarily software, e-books and sometimes vacation and travel.
These programs far outweigh the benefits and profit potential of multi marketing opportunities. And I will write all the details and why affiliate programs with resale rights are superior to multi level marketing programs.
The first detail that makes affiliate programs better is that the pay per sign up or customer is much higher than that of multi level marketing opportunities. While multi level marketing pay out very small amounts of money at the time of sign up and on a monthly basis, affiliate programs pay out the profit all at once. Usually on a 1 up, 2 up or multi tier payment plans. For a description of these various payment plans please refer to the program you're interested in joining.
The 1 up and 2 up payment plans do have their flaws. For example many people give up and quit before they make their qualifier which is the amount of sales they need before they can earn profit. The multi tier payment plan allows immediate profit. And most people prefer instant cash in hand. Basically the way a multi tier payment plan works is that you will earn a certain amount per sale plus a second and sometimes a third tier of profit from everybody that your direct downline members refer.
The profit potential of these affiliate programs are more profitable because unlike MLM (Multi Level Marketing) where you make about 25% from direct referrals, with Affiliate programs you can earn as much as 75% per sale! Now regardless of what the payment structure may be, which sound better to you, 25% or 75%? That's one of those no-brainer questions isn't it? That's exactly I can't figure out for the life of me why anybody would want to join an MLM (Multi Level Marketing) opportunity over an affiliate program.
Another benefit of Affiliate Programs With Resale Rights products is that you are paid directly from the purchaser! This means immediate income to use for whatever you want to use it for. With MLM (Multi Level Marketing) you need to wait on money. Most MLM companies recommend that you expect a loss of money for at least the first year. And this loss of money means that you need to pour thousands into promotion with the hope of a return.
Now with direct pay Affiliate Programs the risk of loss is minimal because you should always have a steady stream of income.
The products of an affiliate program are usually more exciting than the health care and grocery products of an MLM, and the instant money is far more rewarding and exciting!
It's up to you but there are two options: 1 - join an MLM and wait for a very ling time for profit that may never come, or 2 - sign up with an affiliate program and have the potential to start earning immediately!
I'm Dean Fischer. I've been networking from home for over eight years. I write articles of tips and advice based on either research or first hand experience. View My Other Report! Is a non-bias report on the RFS opportunity. I am not a member of RFS. Here's How I Make Money!
Wednesday 11 June 2008
Simple Ways to Prevent Data Loss
Author: By Giorgos Kontopoulos
Sunday night, tomorrow you have an important presentation to deliver or assignment, then without any warning of any kind your screen freezes, you reboot the system after no response from the keyboard or mouse.
No problem the file will be auto saved, hang, what's this message hard disk drive (HDD) not detected ?! gulp, I'll try a reboot, same error!
This kind of scenario can make any IT battle hardened user fold on the spot, but it need not be this way.
The bad news
All hard drives have finite lives and MTBF (Mean Time Between Failure) as many other products, however HDD will fail when you least expect it or when it hurts most.
Magnetic storage media aka HDD are electro, mechanical devices which operate at the envelope of mechanical tolerances. What do we mean by this? Well modern hard drives spin platters at speeds from 4200 to 15K which are either metal or glass and covered by a process called spluttering a magnetic sensitive material, now the part which decodes and encodes data directly to the platters are part of the head stack assembly, now the tolerance bit, these heads have to repeat ably go to specific locations on the media quickly (less than 10MS), here is where issues can really happen. The heads "fly" above the platters and contrary to popular belief the disk enclosure is not a vacuum, or how could the heads "fly" above the surface?
Now, due to heat, vibration, shock or system malfunction the head stack assembly may place the heads directly on the surface in a inappropriate place and way, thus damaging the surface; you have what most people would call a head crash.
The heat is on
Ok, so heat really can cause issues for your hard drive and here is why. Excessive heat to the media can cause the thermal expansion to the head stack assembly, thus "shifting" the precise alignment. Magnetic properties also change with thermal variations, and finally the PCB (printed circuit board) can enter a thermal runaway scenario; The motor control chip gets warm, the ambient and working temperature of the drive increases, this affects the resistance to failure which is often the main failure type of PCB failure.
UPS, UPS and away
Finally power cycling of hard drive media can cause catastrophic failure along with excess power and brownouts. Typically this type of failure causes clicking or noisy media.
The good news
Most of the above issues can very easily be avoided with such items as hard drive cooling kits, these supply cool air directly to the hard drive enclosure and PCB.
UPS (Uninterruptible power supply) for power cycling can also be implemented to ensure smooth supply of electricity.
Logical issues to file systems can be rectified via a little house maintenance regularly implemented such as virus, spyware / malware, root kit updates and scans, and defragmentation if your file system or 3rd party software supports this.
Finally, not all hard drives are equal, research has shown that the reliability varies greatly from manufacturer to manufacturer choose your drives wisely.
Giorgos Kontopoulos is the web promoter of Xytron LTD, a leading provider of Data Recovery Services in UK. Xytron provides hard drive data recovery as well as services for server raid, desktop data, laptop data recovery, CD DVD data, Legacy and Smart Media. Visit for an overview of all the services Xytron offers.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Giorgos_Kontopoulos
Sunday night, tomorrow you have an important presentation to deliver or assignment, then without any warning of any kind your screen freezes, you reboot the system after no response from the keyboard or mouse.
No problem the file will be auto saved, hang, what's this message hard disk drive (HDD) not detected ?! gulp, I'll try a reboot, same error!
This kind of scenario can make any IT battle hardened user fold on the spot, but it need not be this way.
The bad news
All hard drives have finite lives and MTBF (Mean Time Between Failure) as many other products, however HDD will fail when you least expect it or when it hurts most.
Magnetic storage media aka HDD are electro, mechanical devices which operate at the envelope of mechanical tolerances. What do we mean by this? Well modern hard drives spin platters at speeds from 4200 to 15K which are either metal or glass and covered by a process called spluttering a magnetic sensitive material, now the part which decodes and encodes data directly to the platters are part of the head stack assembly, now the tolerance bit, these heads have to repeat ably go to specific locations on the media quickly (less than 10MS), here is where issues can really happen. The heads "fly" above the platters and contrary to popular belief the disk enclosure is not a vacuum, or how could the heads "fly" above the surface?
Now, due to heat, vibration, shock or system malfunction the head stack assembly may place the heads directly on the surface in a inappropriate place and way, thus damaging the surface; you have what most people would call a head crash.
The heat is on
Ok, so heat really can cause issues for your hard drive and here is why. Excessive heat to the media can cause the thermal expansion to the head stack assembly, thus "shifting" the precise alignment. Magnetic properties also change with thermal variations, and finally the PCB (printed circuit board) can enter a thermal runaway scenario; The motor control chip gets warm, the ambient and working temperature of the drive increases, this affects the resistance to failure which is often the main failure type of PCB failure.
UPS, UPS and away
Finally power cycling of hard drive media can cause catastrophic failure along with excess power and brownouts. Typically this type of failure causes clicking or noisy media.
The good news
Most of the above issues can very easily be avoided with such items as hard drive cooling kits, these supply cool air directly to the hard drive enclosure and PCB.
UPS (Uninterruptible power supply) for power cycling can also be implemented to ensure smooth supply of electricity.
Logical issues to file systems can be rectified via a little house maintenance regularly implemented such as virus, spyware / malware, root kit updates and scans, and defragmentation if your file system or 3rd party software supports this.
Finally, not all hard drives are equal, research has shown that the reliability varies greatly from manufacturer to manufacturer choose your drives wisely.
Giorgos Kontopoulos is the web promoter of Xytron LTD, a leading provider of Data Recovery Services in UK. Xytron provides hard drive data recovery as well as services for server raid, desktop data, laptop data recovery, CD DVD data, Legacy and Smart Media. Visit for an overview of all the services Xytron offers.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Giorgos_Kontopoulos
Tuesday 10 June 2008
Causes of Data Loss and Storage Devices Damage
Author: Dalvin Rumsey
There are a lot of storage devices used to store data but the most common used ones are the CDs, DVDs, memory cards, memory sticks and undoubtedly the hard drives. All these storage devices have on major flaw in common, they are not infallible and this means that the data stored on them can be lost or damaged through a number of unforeseen failures. Fortunately, there are companies that employ data recovery specialists that can recover your data by using special techniques, software and tools. Data recovery can sometimes be performed by the user of the damaged device by using software but there is a high risk of failure that can result in permanently erased data or damaged storage devices.
There are a number of conditions that can cause a storage device failure and they include heat, water, impacts and power interruptions. Other causes can be viruses.
Heat damage will usually be caused by fire but in the case of electronic devices and storage media, overheated equipment is the cause in most cases. For instance, in room with an ambient temperature that is too high, the air cushion thickness will be reduced by the air pressure. The hard drive heads might touch the recording plate and data will be damaged or lost.
In the case of hard drives, this kind of damage can also be caused by physical shocks or high vibration levels.
Most drives, but not all, have a seal that goes around the sides of the drive. If the seal is broken, the drive if prone to environmental contamination. The air is not very clean and with a damaged seal, particles from the air can grind the recording plate generating corruption or lost data.
If a hard drive is wet, water damage can occur even if it is turned off. Water is corrosive and will damage the metals found inside the hard drive generating microscopic pitting.
Data recovery specialists have both the required skills and the resources to perform a successful data recovery operation. This ensures a good chance that if you experience any data loss you can recover the data, be it sentimental data or business related information. The best advice is to keep a backup of the data that is important to you, this way you can avoid the expense of data recovery. If a backup is not available, expert services provided by data recovery specialists is a must.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/hardware-articles/causes-of-data-loss-and-storage-devices-damage-189207.html
There are a lot of storage devices used to store data but the most common used ones are the CDs, DVDs, memory cards, memory sticks and undoubtedly the hard drives. All these storage devices have on major flaw in common, they are not infallible and this means that the data stored on them can be lost or damaged through a number of unforeseen failures. Fortunately, there are companies that employ data recovery specialists that can recover your data by using special techniques, software and tools. Data recovery can sometimes be performed by the user of the damaged device by using software but there is a high risk of failure that can result in permanently erased data or damaged storage devices.
There are a number of conditions that can cause a storage device failure and they include heat, water, impacts and power interruptions. Other causes can be viruses.
Heat damage will usually be caused by fire but in the case of electronic devices and storage media, overheated equipment is the cause in most cases. For instance, in room with an ambient temperature that is too high, the air cushion thickness will be reduced by the air pressure. The hard drive heads might touch the recording plate and data will be damaged or lost.
In the case of hard drives, this kind of damage can also be caused by physical shocks or high vibration levels.
Most drives, but not all, have a seal that goes around the sides of the drive. If the seal is broken, the drive if prone to environmental contamination. The air is not very clean and with a damaged seal, particles from the air can grind the recording plate generating corruption or lost data.
If a hard drive is wet, water damage can occur even if it is turned off. Water is corrosive and will damage the metals found inside the hard drive generating microscopic pitting.
Data recovery specialists have both the required skills and the resources to perform a successful data recovery operation. This ensures a good chance that if you experience any data loss you can recover the data, be it sentimental data or business related information. The best advice is to keep a backup of the data that is important to you, this way you can avoid the expense of data recovery. If a backup is not available, expert services provided by data recovery specialists is a must.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/hardware-articles/causes-of-data-loss-and-storage-devices-damage-189207.html
Monday 9 June 2008
The Importance of Time and Synchronisation in Computing
Author: Richard N Williams
Computers are now part and parcel of our daily lives and we often take them for granted. Whether we are starting our car, loading the washing machine or taking cash out of the bank, a computer is behind it.
We are also used to computers talking to each other, necessary when we are booking online tickets or drawing cash from the bank. Computers communicate by the way of timestamps, most computer transactions from sending and receiving emails to saving documents are reliant on a time stamp. Timestamps are merely the time the process commenced, next time you receive an email, check the time it was sent, it is quite possible the email was sent after you had received it, this is because the time on each machine is not synchronised.
For some transactions it is necessary for computers to be perfectly synchronised, even a few seconds difference between machines can have serious effects, such as finding an airline ticket you had booked had been sold moments later to another customer or you could draw your savings out of a cash machine and when your account is empty you could quickly going to another machine and withdraw it all again.
If machines were not synchronised then many time sensitive transactions could not happen so it is important that computers tell the same time. However, what time is best to synchronise to and how to all machines know the correct time?
Clocks and watches are everywhere but if you check the time on more than one device, chances are they are telling time differently. It may be a matter of seconds but as we have seen, seconds can make all the difference.
Fortunately there is an international standard time called UTC (Universal Coordinated Time), and the exact UTC time is broadcast by special radio transmissions or by the GPS network as a time code.
Computers can receive this time code by using a time server. Normally these servers use NTP (Network Time Protocol) which converts the time to a language the computer understands.NTP servers allow computers to synchronise to the exact same time no matter where they are in the world.
Without NTP time servers, computers would be unable to carry out task that we now take for granted such as online shopping, trading on the stock exchange or even drawing money from a cash machine.
About the Author: Richard N Williams is a technical author and a specialist in the telecommunications and network time synchronisation industry helping to develop dedicated time server products. Please visit us for more information about a GPS time server or other NTP server products.
Computers are now part and parcel of our daily lives and we often take them for granted. Whether we are starting our car, loading the washing machine or taking cash out of the bank, a computer is behind it.
We are also used to computers talking to each other, necessary when we are booking online tickets or drawing cash from the bank. Computers communicate by the way of timestamps, most computer transactions from sending and receiving emails to saving documents are reliant on a time stamp. Timestamps are merely the time the process commenced, next time you receive an email, check the time it was sent, it is quite possible the email was sent after you had received it, this is because the time on each machine is not synchronised.
For some transactions it is necessary for computers to be perfectly synchronised, even a few seconds difference between machines can have serious effects, such as finding an airline ticket you had booked had been sold moments later to another customer or you could draw your savings out of a cash machine and when your account is empty you could quickly going to another machine and withdraw it all again.
If machines were not synchronised then many time sensitive transactions could not happen so it is important that computers tell the same time. However, what time is best to synchronise to and how to all machines know the correct time?
Clocks and watches are everywhere but if you check the time on more than one device, chances are they are telling time differently. It may be a matter of seconds but as we have seen, seconds can make all the difference.
Fortunately there is an international standard time called UTC (Universal Coordinated Time), and the exact UTC time is broadcast by special radio transmissions or by the GPS network as a time code.
Computers can receive this time code by using a time server. Normally these servers use NTP (Network Time Protocol) which converts the time to a language the computer understands.NTP servers allow computers to synchronise to the exact same time no matter where they are in the world.
Without NTP time servers, computers would be unable to carry out task that we now take for granted such as online shopping, trading on the stock exchange or even drawing money from a cash machine.
About the Author: Richard N Williams is a technical author and a specialist in the telecommunications and network time synchronisation industry helping to develop dedicated time server products. Please visit us for more information about a GPS time server or other NTP server products.
Saturday 7 June 2008
Offsite Backup Software
Author: Eddie Tobey
With increasing risks that the data on the computers face, backing up data is not just an option, but also a necessity which should be given utmost priority. Earlier it was considered adequate if data was backed up and stored at a safe place at the same location close to the original data. This was known as onsite backup. Though this took care of most issues relating to loss of data, there were still a few things to contend with. In an increasingly volatile world, what if the data that is kept on site, gets damaged somehow? It was from these thoughts that offsite backing up of data emerged.
There are mainly two ways of offsite backing up of data. First is the conventional means, where the data is written either every day or every week, and physically carried to the offsite storage location, and preserved there. The software used for such backup depends on the method of backup. CD or DVD drives come with their own backup software that is installed on the computer to allow it to burn CDs and DVDs. The setup for tape drives includes the software as well.
However of late, there is a new type of offsite backup system that is gaining prominence, because it does away with a lot of the discrepancy of the traditional backup system. For example, by keeping a tape or a CD/DVD offsite, the data stored is not current. It's either a week old or a day old, depending upon the data storage cycle. Thus in case of loss of data, the data that is retrieved, is a week or a day old.
There are many companies today who will keep data backed up and securely stored in a data center away from the office. The backup offsite software programs are installed into the computer network of the company. Thus whenever a user saves any file, these programs make a file which is then sent to a secure, and predetermined, offsite backup location. Being fully automatic, such software causes minimum interference to the work.
Backup Software provides detailed information on Backup Software, CD ROM Backup Software, Free Backup Software, Computer Backup Software and more. Backup Software is affiliated with Network Status Monitoring Software.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Eddie_Tobey
With increasing risks that the data on the computers face, backing up data is not just an option, but also a necessity which should be given utmost priority. Earlier it was considered adequate if data was backed up and stored at a safe place at the same location close to the original data. This was known as onsite backup. Though this took care of most issues relating to loss of data, there were still a few things to contend with. In an increasingly volatile world, what if the data that is kept on site, gets damaged somehow? It was from these thoughts that offsite backing up of data emerged.
There are mainly two ways of offsite backing up of data. First is the conventional means, where the data is written either every day or every week, and physically carried to the offsite storage location, and preserved there. The software used for such backup depends on the method of backup. CD or DVD drives come with their own backup software that is installed on the computer to allow it to burn CDs and DVDs. The setup for tape drives includes the software as well.
However of late, there is a new type of offsite backup system that is gaining prominence, because it does away with a lot of the discrepancy of the traditional backup system. For example, by keeping a tape or a CD/DVD offsite, the data stored is not current. It's either a week old or a day old, depending upon the data storage cycle. Thus in case of loss of data, the data that is retrieved, is a week or a day old.
There are many companies today who will keep data backed up and securely stored in a data center away from the office. The backup offsite software programs are installed into the computer network of the company. Thus whenever a user saves any file, these programs make a file which is then sent to a secure, and predetermined, offsite backup location. Being fully automatic, such software causes minimum interference to the work.
Backup Software provides detailed information on Backup Software, CD ROM Backup Software, Free Backup Software, Computer Backup Software and more. Backup Software is affiliated with Network Status Monitoring Software.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Eddie_Tobey
Friday 6 June 2008
Keeping Your Computer Healthy – Computer Repair Battersea!
Author: Clint Jhonson
The Internet is today the number one source for finding specialized companies in IT support. Experienced specialists in the field provide computer repair services at competitive prices, knowing how to adapt to the current demands of the market and customer’s needs. Computer repair Battersea experts present their services online as well, offering both local and remote technical support.
If you are having problems with your computer, then you definitely need the help of computer repair Wandsworth specialists. They have years of experience in the field of information technology, knowing how to deal with basic troubleshooting issues but also with more complex computer-related problems. No matter if you use ADSL (asymmetric digital subscriber line – advanced data communication technology), wireless or cable Internet connection, they have the necessary training and knowledge in order to solve any existing problems. The same experience is implemented when it comes to cleaning your computer from nasty viruses or malicious spyware.
The reason why many people resort to computer repair Battersea companies is because they are tired of their computer working poorly. Whether they lack the time to take care of existing problems on their own or they do not have the necessary knowledge, going to computer repair Wandsworth experts seems like a good idea. They use the Internet to find out additional information on services provided, often choosing such companies just because they need help with buying a new computer. These specialists are ready to provide assistance whenever needed, including with printers, scanners or other similar devices.
Why spend important amounts of time trying to solve the problems with your computer on your own? You can simplify all the hassle by calling the right people. Go online and find yourself specialized professionals in computer repair Battersea. You can appeal to the services for any problems related to your PC or Mac, camera or CD burner. When it comes to IT, these guys are the best. You can request a free estimate at any moment, in order to get a better understanding of the services provided. Professional engineers will come to the location indicated by you, taking care of your IT needs. You can also take full advantage of the drop in service, leaving your PC to be fixed while you are at work. At the end of the day, you can pick it yourself or request for it to be delivered. It’s that simple. And yes, you will be informed constantly on the progress of the work.
Once you request the service of computer repair Wandsworth experts, you should be prepared to receive them in a short period of time. They provide top-quality local service and customers are more than satisfied with the assistance rendered. Upon demand, a trained engineer will arrive at your residence and inspect the problems you have with your computer. If possible, the problems will be resolved right there and the engineers will also provide useful information on how to take better care of your computer. There is also the possibility to have your PC fixed at the ‘headquarters’. Just leave your PC at the company and return when fixed.
Those who are interested in drop off services do not have urgent problems with their computers and they also lack the time for other options. This is why specialists in computer repair Battersea are more than prepared to fix the computer at the central base. Apart from being cost-effective, it is important to understand that certain problems cannot be fixed at home. It also saves you important time, the specialists keeping you informed at all times. For your own convenience, you will set a price limit for the beginning. As you can see these experts know how to care of your IT needs. They even provide remote IT support!
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/hardware-articles/keeping-your-computer-healthy-computer-repair-battersea-439459.html
The Internet is today the number one source for finding specialized companies in IT support. Experienced specialists in the field provide computer repair services at competitive prices, knowing how to adapt to the current demands of the market and customer’s needs. Computer repair Battersea experts present their services online as well, offering both local and remote technical support.
If you are having problems with your computer, then you definitely need the help of computer repair Wandsworth specialists. They have years of experience in the field of information technology, knowing how to deal with basic troubleshooting issues but also with more complex computer-related problems. No matter if you use ADSL (asymmetric digital subscriber line – advanced data communication technology), wireless or cable Internet connection, they have the necessary training and knowledge in order to solve any existing problems. The same experience is implemented when it comes to cleaning your computer from nasty viruses or malicious spyware.
The reason why many people resort to computer repair Battersea companies is because they are tired of their computer working poorly. Whether they lack the time to take care of existing problems on their own or they do not have the necessary knowledge, going to computer repair Wandsworth experts seems like a good idea. They use the Internet to find out additional information on services provided, often choosing such companies just because they need help with buying a new computer. These specialists are ready to provide assistance whenever needed, including with printers, scanners or other similar devices.
Why spend important amounts of time trying to solve the problems with your computer on your own? You can simplify all the hassle by calling the right people. Go online and find yourself specialized professionals in computer repair Battersea. You can appeal to the services for any problems related to your PC or Mac, camera or CD burner. When it comes to IT, these guys are the best. You can request a free estimate at any moment, in order to get a better understanding of the services provided. Professional engineers will come to the location indicated by you, taking care of your IT needs. You can also take full advantage of the drop in service, leaving your PC to be fixed while you are at work. At the end of the day, you can pick it yourself or request for it to be delivered. It’s that simple. And yes, you will be informed constantly on the progress of the work.
Once you request the service of computer repair Wandsworth experts, you should be prepared to receive them in a short period of time. They provide top-quality local service and customers are more than satisfied with the assistance rendered. Upon demand, a trained engineer will arrive at your residence and inspect the problems you have with your computer. If possible, the problems will be resolved right there and the engineers will also provide useful information on how to take better care of your computer. There is also the possibility to have your PC fixed at the ‘headquarters’. Just leave your PC at the company and return when fixed.
Those who are interested in drop off services do not have urgent problems with their computers and they also lack the time for other options. This is why specialists in computer repair Battersea are more than prepared to fix the computer at the central base. Apart from being cost-effective, it is important to understand that certain problems cannot be fixed at home. It also saves you important time, the specialists keeping you informed at all times. For your own convenience, you will set a price limit for the beginning. As you can see these experts know how to care of your IT needs. They even provide remote IT support!
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/hardware-articles/keeping-your-computer-healthy-computer-repair-battersea-439459.html
Thursday 5 June 2008
Buying a New Computer - What's the Big Deal!
Author: Nick Roche
Buying a New Computer - What's the big Deal?
Asking for the price of a new computer is like asking the price of a car. Although all cars have four wheels, a roof and an engine, the similarities stop there. With computers, as well as different brand names available, there are many combinations of different component specifications (e.g. processor speed, amount of memory). Professionals can help you translate the technical jargon, but there is a large non-computing side of the equation to ensure that you are getting the best value for your money. So how do you know if the money you are spending on technology is a wise investment? We look at some of the questions that drive the IT recommendations that as experts make to our customers.
The current picture
We start by getting an understanding of the way your business currently runs. This includes factors like how many staff you have and what percentage of them rely heavily on a computer to perform their daily tasks. How many locations you have and how transient are your staff between locations or вЂ˜on the road’? How is information currently stored and shared between people, considering both internal staff and the interaction between your customers and your business? Do your business processes rely on faxes or duplicate forms? How are your supply-chain relationships managed?
Any challenges
What frustrates your staff the most about their work? What do you feel is the biggest challenge holding your company back? It’s important to get a clear picture of any issues so we can determine if a technology solution can help, or if it’s really an underlying business process problem. New technology won’t necessarily help if it’s not supported by a strong business driver, processes and staff education.
Your future plans
What is on the horizon for the next 12 months? 2 years? 5 years? Are you looking to significantly expand or decrease your operations? Are you thinking of selling your products on the Internet? Are there any major changes in your industry that you need to take into account (such as the impact of digital technology on businesses like camera film processing and traditional printing presses)? At home - A similar process can be undertaken if you are looking at technology for your home. What do you use your computer for now? Would you be happy with email and word processing, or do you have a teenager who would like to play the latest computer games?
This is a very brief overview of some of the puzzle pieces that we take into account when we make a technology recommendation. Once we have a clear picture of your needs, we can sift through the many options available and confidently recommend a solution that will fit your unique situation. Think about the questions we have raised and if you can't find the answers talk to an expert it may save you time and money.
About the Author: Nick Roche is the National Director of Computer Troubleshooters Australia part of the World's Largest IT Service Franchise with over 470 locations across 25 Countries. For Australia visit http://www.computertroubleshooters.com.au or for your local country visit http://www.comptroub.com
Buying a New Computer - What's the big Deal?
Asking for the price of a new computer is like asking the price of a car. Although all cars have four wheels, a roof and an engine, the similarities stop there. With computers, as well as different brand names available, there are many combinations of different component specifications (e.g. processor speed, amount of memory). Professionals can help you translate the technical jargon, but there is a large non-computing side of the equation to ensure that you are getting the best value for your money. So how do you know if the money you are spending on technology is a wise investment? We look at some of the questions that drive the IT recommendations that as experts make to our customers.
The current picture
We start by getting an understanding of the way your business currently runs. This includes factors like how many staff you have and what percentage of them rely heavily on a computer to perform their daily tasks. How many locations you have and how transient are your staff between locations or вЂ˜on the road’? How is information currently stored and shared between people, considering both internal staff and the interaction between your customers and your business? Do your business processes rely on faxes or duplicate forms? How are your supply-chain relationships managed?
Any challenges
What frustrates your staff the most about their work? What do you feel is the biggest challenge holding your company back? It’s important to get a clear picture of any issues so we can determine if a technology solution can help, or if it’s really an underlying business process problem. New technology won’t necessarily help if it’s not supported by a strong business driver, processes and staff education.
Your future plans
What is on the horizon for the next 12 months? 2 years? 5 years? Are you looking to significantly expand or decrease your operations? Are you thinking of selling your products on the Internet? Are there any major changes in your industry that you need to take into account (such as the impact of digital technology on businesses like camera film processing and traditional printing presses)? At home - A similar process can be undertaken if you are looking at technology for your home. What do you use your computer for now? Would you be happy with email and word processing, or do you have a teenager who would like to play the latest computer games?
This is a very brief overview of some of the puzzle pieces that we take into account when we make a technology recommendation. Once we have a clear picture of your needs, we can sift through the many options available and confidently recommend a solution that will fit your unique situation. Think about the questions we have raised and if you can't find the answers talk to an expert it may save you time and money.
About the Author: Nick Roche is the National Director of Computer Troubleshooters Australia part of the World's Largest IT Service Franchise with over 470 locations across 25 Countries. For Australia visit http://www.computertroubleshooters.com.au or for your local country visit http://www.comptroub.com
Wednesday 4 June 2008
Computer Problems Tips - The 3 Levels of Spyware - Do You Still Control Your Computer?
By Chancer Reese
"The only difference between the fool, and the criminal who attacks a system is that the fool attacks unpredictably and on a broader front." (Tom Gilb)
It doesn't matter if your computer is compromised by professional villains or just by the geeky kid across the street, once your sensitive files have been broken into your life may never be the same. Spyware is one of the most unrated forms of "espionage" occurring in the world today.
Most computer users think of this kind of program as a being just as an annoying or embarrassing kind of prank. But criminal-minded programmers know better.
In the past, spyware and its close cousin adware were simply wicked bits of "paid advertisements" for shady website publishers to attract customers. But soon, more malicious coders determined to use these programs to really "spy" on innocent people and dig out as many of their victim's secrets to use or sell on the black market as possible.
These new programs are being crafted by "professional" development teams just like a "real" software company. The programs are sophisticated and slick.
At its most innocent level, these spy packages just track your browsing habits (where you go and what you do on the web). Your email addresses are also raided. This information is then sold to websites for advertising.
At an intermediate level, a "keystroke" logger (a program that observes and records what you type on your keyboard) can be used in combination with web-tracking software to dig out the keywords, passwords and usernames you use when visiting sites such as eBay, PayPal and your bank.
The final level is in which spyware has completely overwhelmed your computer and all your sensitive information is laid-bare to any prying eyes that want to view it. Your ID/SSN numbers, your home address, personal photographs, your banking or other financial information is dug out and sold to the highest bidder.
This is then used to create everything from fake driver's licenses for teenagers, terrorists, and illegals to making dupe credit cards used to run up charges under your name. Your "identity" has been stolen and compromised for years to come.
Your computer can be turned into a "zombie" and thousands and thousands of fake emails could be sent through your connection to the Internet. This will result in your ISP (Internet Service Provider) taking action and limiting or shutting down your account. And with unpaid charges bouncing about your credit card report will soon be in a shambles as well.
What you should do now to lock down your PC...
Download from the Net or buy a good anti-spyware software package. For free try Ad-Aware or SpyBot's S&D. Or use SpySweeper if you need an industrial strength cleaner.
Scan your hard drive and follow any instructions on removing items.
Install a good personal firewall program to slow down pop-ups and other nastiness.
Password protect any personal folders where sensitive documents, photos, etc are stored.
Download and install a password storage program like "Password Safe" to securely store your usernames and passcodes.
Use strong passwords.
Change passwords every 6 months for your bank, eBay, PayPal and other financial institutions.
For more free tips see http://www.fixcomputerproblemsguide.com Hard Drive Crashed? Repair or Rescue Any Hard Drive... visit http://www.fixcomputerproblemsguide.com/Hard-Drive-Crashed.html From Chancer Reese, your Small Office Tech Diva.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chancer_Reese
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