Laptop Service - Online Security Tips Best Practices

Keeping your laptop safe from online threats requires some preventative and active controls. Follow these general tips to keep your laptop and the valuable data safe and secure.

1. Install Anti-virus Software

Anti-virus software is designed to identify, neutralize and eradicate viruses that can harm your laptop, destroy your data, or exploit vulnerabilities that give spammers and fraudsters access to your accounts and personal data. Choose a good quality, anti-virus program such (Norton Security, Karspersky Security, or Webroot Security. Be careful when you download a program and make sure it is from a reputable site that you trust or go to the manufacturer's website. To be effective, update the anti-virus software regularly to get the latest virus definitions (best practice is to set it up for automatic updates-this way you will not forget and always will be protected). Most commercial anti-virus programs have the automatic update feature and we recommend that you use it. For your convenience, schedule scans to run when you are not using the laptop, because the resources it takes to run a scan can slow you down your system.

2. Step: Turn on the Firewall

A firewall protects your notebook from Internet traffic entering in or information leaking out. You can use two firewalls (Hardware) and stack them up to increase the security level. Also the level of traffic allowed should be set to "recommended" or HIGH if you so please. There are software firewalls that can be also used such ZoneAlarm and Webroot Firewall, but while anti-virus software scans emails and files, a firewall acts as a guard dog, keeping your system safe from unauthorized entry. It also blocks communications to and from your laptop. To ensure the highest protection, it's best to use both a firewall and anti-virus/spyware software.

3. Install Anti-spyware Software

Spyware and adware can cause a variety of things like annoying pop-ups and browser crashes, the installation of unexpected toolbars or icons, redirects to inappropriate sites, keys that don't function, random error messages, browser freezing and sluggish performance. These types of malware are installed on your computer without your consent, and can monitor and in some cases control your laptop. To lower the risk of infection, use anti-spyware and adware software such Norton Security, Karspersky Security or Webroot Security Essentials. We recommend using at least two different programs for broader security and coverage.

Tips for safer surfing the WWW:


•Use a firewall, anti-virus and anti-spyware software and keep it up-to-date
•Keep your operating system, browser and other software up-to-date and patched
•Don’t open email attachments or click on an email link from unknown senders ("Use Common Sense")
•Scan all email attachments and downloads with anti-virus software
•Don’t download and install programs of unknown origin or innapropriate sites
•Disable Java, JavaScript, and ActiveX if possible
•Scan and Backup critical data often to CD/DVD or External Hard Drive (USB-SATA)
•Perform regular maintenance on your computer like disk cleanup, defragmentation, and system scans
•Create a boot disk in case your computer is damaged or compromised
•Protect your PC-Host file with security essential software or by editing policies correctly.

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Concise of Lake Orion has Computer Trouble Shooting Skills that Includes Fixing the Client as Well

by Concise Computer

As the computer repair center for Oakland, Wayne and Macomb Counties, Concise maintains a client list that resembles the “who’s who” in the Michigan small business community. They are good, and they are growing out of their digs in Bloomfield Hills.

One of the reasons that Concise is so well respected in their industry is because they take the time to explain and teach at the same time. Let’s face it, the information highway has its own language today. Computer techies have always had a vernacular that tended to exclude the rest of the non-techie world. Making things worse for us non-techies today, is the next layer of computer- speak: abbreviations of all the words that we had no clue about from the beginning.

The staff at Concise will now lead the pc tech support field by offering a series of articles with those definitions of words from the computer tech support world. This is the first offering in what Concise hopes will be a long series of definitions from the computer tech speaker.

HONEYPOT

Wikipedia defines a HONEYPOT in computer speak, as a trap set to detect, deflect, or in some manner counteract unauthorized attempts to obtain use of information systems.

A HONEYPOT consists of a computer, data, or a network site that appears to be part of a network. But, the Honeypot is actually an isolated and unprotected deadend which appears to a hacker as valuable information.

Simply put, a HONEYPOT is a seductive decoy. It lures the attacker into a harmless area of your system where it could be isolated, detected, and hopefully discovered by cyber police.

Another use of the Honeypot is to isolate spam. Spammers abuse vulnerable resources such as open mail relays. Some system administrators have created honeypot programs that masquerade as these decoy resources to discover spammer activity. There are several capabilities that honeypots provide to the administrators and the existence of such seductive bait systems makes abuse more difficult or risky for the spammer. Honeypots can be a powerful countermeasure to abuse from those who rely on very high volume abuse (e.g., spammers). These honeypots can reveal the apparent IP address of the abuse and provide bulk spam capture (which enables operators to determine spammer's URLs and response mechanisms).

HONEYNETS

Two or more honeypots on a network form a HONEYNET. Typically, a HONEYNET is used for monitoring a larger and/or more diverse network in which one honeypot may not be sufficient. Honeynets and honeypots are usually implemented as parts of a larger computer trouble shooting system. A HONEYFARM is a centralized collection of honeypots and analysis tools.

The next visit from a Concise Computer Consulting technician should go smoother. And, when the topic turns to setting up a Honeyfarm for your small business’s computer system, you will immediately understand that you are not about to purchase a bunch of bee hives.

Concise Computer Consulting services the small and medium sized business community as well as residential homeowners. Concise offers every kind of on site computer service: laptop repair service, online pc repair, pc tech support and computer trouble shooting. Concise also offers Remote access configuration, Virtual Private Networks (VPN), Web site design, Server Administration, and Preventive maintenance in the metropolitan Detroit area. In addition, Concise diagnoses, installs, and manages both wired and wireless Local Area Networks, and even resells computers, laptops, and servers for Dell and IBM.


When you are experiencing computer problems, the time and money lost in productivity grows by the minute. Give us a call if you are having technology troubles and let us get you back up and running ...often within hours.

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Buying a Used Laptop Computer Versus Purchasing a Refurbished Unit

When considering the purchase of a new computer, Dave decided it may be wise to check into a pre-owned one. Dave actually was in the market for a used laptop and found many of them for sale at very reasonable prices. He soon discovered that many of these were simply sold "as is" and could include equipment that would not have much of a shelf life left. Dave really did his research and found that there are now companies that exist who are in the business of leasing computer equipment to large corporations and this leasing usually includes routine maintenance and timely upgrades.

At the end of the lease a lot of these same corporations choose to enter a new agreement that includes new equipment so that they can maintain state-of-the-art technology at all times. That means that the previously held computers are returned to the leasing company where they are usually offered for sale to someone who is looking for a great deal and are thinking of buying a second-hand computer. These companies offered much more peace of mind to Dave and he decided to eventually buy a refurbished laptop that suited him perfectly. Following are the four main influences in the decision that Dave made:

1. He found out that each and every previously owned notebook computer this company sold was subject to a comprehensive inspection. This check-up included a thorough cleaning and an evaluation that diagnosed any defects the machine might have. He discovered that each processor that was returned to the leasing company was checked over to inspect the CPU, the memory, and the hard drive.

2. At the time of the inspection any defective part on the notebook computer was either repaired or replaced guaranteeing that the next owner would receive a machine that was in good working order. Buying something that he knew would arrive as good as new went a long way with Dave. He felt it was worth a little extra money for that reassurance and it was still a long way from the price of a new one.

3. Dave also found out that this company was willing to work with him, find out what his computer needs were and then do the upgrading to make it customized to fit his requirements. For instance, he asked them to install extra memory and he wanted state-of-the-art video and audio cards as well. He found this much to his liking and felt he was receiving great customer service.

4. The main selling point though was the fact that he was able to receive a warranty on anything that went wrong with the notebook computer for one full year. In his mind, Dave felt this was adequate insurance that he decided made it on a level playing field with buying a new one. He knew that an individual could never make the promise of a warranty and he determined that the company he was dealing with had confidence in their product and the repair work that had been done on his pre-owned notebook computer.

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The Variety of Styles Available of a Laptop Desk or Laptop Table

With the advent of the laptop computer comes the need to use them in comfort. Using a laptop on a chair or in bed often leads to neck and back strain, but by using a laptop table or laptop desk, much of this can be avoided. Take a look at the two basic designs available to find what would work best for you.

In the last 10 to 15 years, a new piece of furniture has been developed to fill a new need in the market place, and that is a laptop desk or a laptop table. In some ways this piece of furniture reminds me of a lap board or breakfast tray. But the variety of styles of a laptop desk is way more deluxe, and sometimes quite different than either of these other items.

First, there is the basic "tray" style laptop table, great for using while sitting in a chair or propped up in bed (or lying down if it has a tilting, adjustable top). Much more comfortable than balancing your computer on your lap. There are a lot of different designs just within this subcategory of laptop tables. I have seen some where a portion of the table is adjustable, tilting up at various angles to make using your laptop more convenient. This is great for relieving neck and back strain, making you, as the user, more comfortable. Usually next to the adjustable part of the table is a flat area for using your mouse. Some even have a built in mouse pad. The leg height on most models is also adjustable. I have seen this style in wood, metal and composite plastic, and also in a variety of price ranges. A few I have seen have very sleek and stylish lines and others are very utilitarian. Most are quite light and some even fold away for easy storage. Though this style is designed for use with a laptop computer, it can be used for a variety of other activities such as homework, crafts, reading and meals.

A variation of the four legged tray, is a pedestal that has a base board that you can slide under your leg to keep the tray firmly in place. These also usually have adjustable height and tilt.

Probably the more innovative design has been the mobile laptop desk. These often have lockable casters so that you can easily move the desk to where you are working and then lock it in place. The height is fully adjustable and most have a tilting portion for the computer. This part will have a small ledge to stop the computer from sliding off the desk top. I have even seen some that have a small shelf on the bottom, which could be used for a printer. There is usually a single pedestal leg which has other legs coming off of it with the casters. These are usually very low to the floor, that way they can slide under a chair allowing easier access to the work space. Many I have seen with the adjustable tilt, will tilt in either direction, which allow for left or right hand access and use of the laptop desk. Some designs have two adjustable table top areas, one for the laptop and the other for the mouse, this is great for ultimate adjustability and compatibility for the user. This style also comes in a variety of material, including metal and wood, and often a combination of both.

So, if you have a laptop, consider getting a laptop table or a laptop desk because regardless of the style that you use, most offer the same benefits: they keep the heat off your lap, the computer stays cooler on a harder surface, they allow you to work more ergonomically, most have adjustable height and tilt which results in less strain on your neck and back. With benefits like these, a laptop desk or table will allow longer periods of use and will make your time more productive. Also, with such a large variety of styles available, you are bound to find one that is perfect for you.

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Are Apple Laptops Innovative?

by Lacy

Apple notebooks have created a niche for themselves in the laptop industry. What makes Apple laptops different from others in the market? In short, it is Apple’s high-end features, cutting-edge technology, innovative ideas, and creative design. With these, they can meet all your computing needs while on the move. This makes these creatively-designed laptop computers, the first choice among laptop buyers worldwide.

You can find a wide range of Apple laptop computers that suit your requirements at Portable One, a systems integrator and reseller of mobile computing products. I bought an Apple MacBook Air from Portable One and am pleased with it.

This cute-looking notebook has a 13.3-inch display. Don’t go by the size and doubt its capabilities. These computers are made from a single-piece of aluminum that makes it lighter and thinner. You can easily carry it in your briefcase or backpack. The NVIDIA GeForce 9400M graphics processor is a big plus point to the laptop. To give the best quality other notebook PCs might drain your battery dry. But, the Apple MacBooks provide you better performance without draining the battery. You can watch your favorite videos or play 3D games even on the move.

If you are looking for a slightly bigger version, opt for the Apple MacBook Pro. Both 15-inch and 17-inch MacBook Pro laptops have ultra thin, high-resolution LED backlit displays for excellent picture quality. You will see the difference when you start using the new multi-touch trackpad in the Apple MacBooks. The trackpad that also works as a button helps you to click just anywhere you want to. All you have to do is press the trackpad. Read Apple’s online tutorial on MacBooks’ and learn all the interesting ways to use your trackpad efficiently with your fingers. It’s like magic, you will love it!

Make every moment count with any one of these powerful Apple laptops wherever you go!

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Low Cost Laptops- Now a Reality

by Adam Jaylin

The invention of laptops has given a different connotation to the term ‘notebooks’. Perhaps one of the most useful devices in the world, the status of laptop has changed from a luxury to that of a necessity. Laptops have become part of our daily requirements like mobile phones for the simple reason that they can be carried around without any obvious hassle.

The only advantage that the laptop has over a desktop personal computer (certainly a more powerful and reliable machine) is the laptop computer’s mobility. Business travellers and executives can move around with their laptops that contains precious data and information. A student can work on assignments or study notes even while relaxing in a park! But earlier the price of these sleek and high-tech machines was a big obstacle in actually laying hands on them. Today this equation has changed.

There are various options and outlets to buy cheap laptops, which are very much usable and affordable. Various online laptop and computer retailers have made buying a laptop for incredibly cheap price easier than commenting on England’s performance in Euro 2008 qualifiers! One can either buy decent low cost new laptop computers or if one wants it really cheap then second hand cheap laptops are also available in the outlets online and in the actual brick and mortar stores in the high street.

The internet buyer is getting more and more aware and knows how to find the best deal in the vast world of web. With special deals that offer students lucrative cashback if they purchase a laptops are allowing students to buy laptops with relative ease. Even in case of school, quite a few institutions are giving students laptops to help them do their work. This is good for the future as the younger generation will shape the world of tomorrow and the sooner the get familiar with technology, better is it for the world of tomorrow.

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New Laptops Coming your Way!

by Raisa Raima

It's been more than a decade since laptop computers or notebooks have been ruling the market. Just a few years back, laptop computers or notebooks were truly a luxury item, at prices almost twice than those of desktop computers. But with the advent of technology, prices were slashed, and nowadays a laptop is commonplace.

Laptops are compact and visually pleasing because they allow you the convenience of taking your work with you. There are numerous reasons to invest in a laptop. For students, this means that you can have your computer with you in class or at the library. For professionals, working at home - or even during your daily bus or train commute - becomes easy.

Laptops bring an array of benefits like that of wireless internet access to easy mobility. Wireless services are starting to be available in public places such as libraries, college campuses, and even some coffee cafes. Laptops computers and notebooks offer you the convenience of connecting to the World Wide Web wherever you might be.

Everyone dreams of owning a supercomputer – a computer that can do anything we want at the ultimate speed. What if we could have one that was the size of a laptop? IBM might have just got the breakthrough they need to make this dream come true. Only time will tell whether we can own this or not, but as of now this dream is still to take the shape of reality.

Purchasing these laptops has also become easy. With online shopping, you can choose from a huge variety of products and can also avail special discounts and offers.

In the coming future we could expect more efficient and easy to use laptops than we have already seen. In a few years we may see a new era of laptops that run a hundred times faster and can hold much more information than the present ones.

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