Pictured below (in the final year of its existence) is the first computer I ever called my own. Built out of scrap parts my Dad brought home from his office, I managed to build the computer as a 33 Mhz 386, with 2 MB of RAM and a 20 MB hard drive, eventually upgrading it (in stages) to a 66 Mhz 486 with 8 MB of RAM and a 512 MB hard drive!
mmm... SCSI in a PC!
How, you may ask, could a diehard Mac/Apple fanboy start on a 386? Well, it was all about budget, you see. Free is good, especially when you're a little kid with absolutely zero dollars in the bank.
This computer died shortly after this photo was taken, when I was unplugging a connector from the motherboard while the computer was still powered up. Something sparked, I got the largest jolt of my life, and the computer started smoking. Oh well, such is life.
The one thing I really miss about those early days of computing (and using PCs in general ;-) was the physicality and brutality of computing. I would spend about 1/8 of the time using the computer with the lid off, working in the guts. I would constantly upgrade parts inside to make it a lean, mean, computing machine. Heck, I could still draw diagrams of the three different motherboards that were housed inside the case pictured above, and make an accurate diagram of all the components I had installed at one time or another, and how they were connected together.
With the complexity of computers these days, and the miniaturization and virtualization of everything, tinkering is much more limited. But that's just nostalgia talking—I'm kind of glad I haven't shocked myself touching my iMac, iPad or iPhone yet.
This article will help you to discover ways to avoid malicious software that can cause your Mac or Windows PC problems.
Most Windows users will encounter malicious software at some time or another. But the frequency of these encounters can be greatly reduced by keeping in mind some general tips.
Tips for Avoiding Malicious Software
You should keep in mind a few important things while using your computer to check email, install programs, browse the Internet or chat:
Always keep your computer up-to-date, with the latest software updates. On PCs, use Windows Update (in the Control Panel). On Macs, click on the Apple Menu and choose "Software Update..."
Never open any attachments on emails that either you don't know who they're from or you don't already know what is in the attachment. Some malicious software can even make an email look like it was sent to you from a friend or relative! Better to be safe than sorry.
When installing new software, ALWAYS watch the installer and make sure you know what's being installed. Some programs will ask you if they can install additional software. This additional software is often unnecessary and can cause problems on your computer.
Don't use Internet Explorer unless you absolutely HAVE to. Internet Explorer is full of vulnerabilities and bugs. Plus, alternative browsers such as Safari (Mac only) and FireFox (Mac or PC) are faster, offer more advanced features, and are more secure than Internet Explorer.
If you chat using AOL Instant Messenger, MSN Messenger, Yahoo! IM or another service, don't click on links sent to you by friends unless you are absolutely sure your friend intended to send them!
Windows PC Only: If you see a window pop up while you're browsing the Internet, or if you close your web browser window and you see a window that looks like an error message, warning, or otherwise legitimate window, beware—it could be a link to spyware. If you see the link cursor instead of your mouse button when you move your mouse over the 'cancel' or 'X' button, DON'T click! Instead, you may have to force-close the window by pressing 'Control-Alt-Del' and quitting it via the Task Manager.
Don't download 'free' software unless you really need it and/or it doesn't seem 'too good to be true'. Many 'free' programs, such as the WeatherBug, the MySearch bar, and many file-sharing programs (such as BearShare, Kazaa, and LimeWire) can make your computer run slow and also send information from your computer to marketing companies (including personal information!).
This article will help you to properly clean your computer, monitor, keyboard, mouse, trackpad, etc., to keep them looking and working like new.
Keeping your computer clean can not only make it look great, but it can also help your computer to run great. I've seen many really dirty computers (both inside and out) that have problems simply because they are dirty; dust, grime and electricity don't mix well. It is also very hard to see what's on your screen if you have a layer of dirt or grime. And don't get me started on sticky keyboards and mice! Ick!
The following are essential items for cleaning your computer:
IMPORTANT NOTES: Always turn off your computer and unplug any parts that you are cleaning. Also, never use a vacuum cleaner near your computer or other devices with memory or hard disks in them (unless the vacuum cleaner is a specialty electronics kind)!
The Monitor/Display (LCD flat panel and laptop displays): Because LCD displays have a special non-glare coating, you should NEVER use any alcohol or ammonia-based cleaners on the LCD screen. Instead, use iKlear (or another approved LCD cleaner) or rubbing alcohol with a microfiber cloth if your monitor is really dirty. If there's only some dust and maybe a few fingerprints, you can dampen a soft cloth (such as a cotton T-shirt or a microfiber cloth) and wipe the screen with it. For the exterior casing, you can use most kinds of general-purpose cleaners (test on an inconspicuous spot first).
The Monitor/Display (CRT): Since these displays don't have a delicate surface that can be damaged by ammonia or alcohol, you can use Windex or other window cleaners to clean the glass screen; spray it on lightly and use a soft cloth (cotton T-shirt or microfiber cloth) to clean dirty monitors. If the monitor is only dusty, just wipe it with a soft cloth. For the casing, use general-purpose cleaners (test on an inconspicuous spot first).
The Keyboard: (Never spray anything onto the keyboard—spray it onto a cloth, then wipe the keyboard!). Keyboards and mice receive the most abuse and can become quite disgusting (especially if you get hairs and such things under the keys!). You can use most general-purpose cleaners for getting the grime off individual keys (use a paper towel or soft cloth and wipe away, with your keyboard disconnected, of course!). If there are problem areas (especially between keys), use Q-Tips with a little dab of alcohol or cleaner and wipe them. To get the dirt, dust and grit out from under the keys, use either an electronics vacuum cleaner attachment (Shop Vacs may come with these) or hold the keyboard upside-down while spraying small bursts of air from a compressed-air can.
The Mouse: If you have an optical mouse, you can simply use Windex, window cleaner or a general purpose cleaner (test on an inconspicuous spot first!) on the whole mouse while the mouse is disconnected. For tough dirt, use a Q-Tip cotton swab with a little rubbing alcohol and rub the dirt away. If you have a mouse with a rolling ball on the bottom, you may want to take the ball out, clean it in a paper towel with some cleaner on it, and use a Q-Tip to get the dirt and grime off the tracking wheels inside the ball-holding area (fingernails sometimes come in handy here).
The Trackpad/iPod Scroll Wheel: Because trackpad and iPod scrollwheel surfaces are fairly delicate and hard to replace, it's best to be very gentle with them and not destroy the surface. If you can, clean it using a soft (microfiber, preferrably), dampened cloth. However, if there is a lot of grime, you may want to use Mr. Clean's Magic Eraser (called by other names in other countries, such as "Mr. Propre" in French); dampen it with a little water, then gently rub it on the surface of your trackpad (always test a little corner first, to make sure nothing goes wrong!). Dry the trackpad with a soft cloth immediately after you do this, to prevent any problems.
The Computer (Outside): Most computers have plastic or metal casing that is very tough and can stand up to a lot of abuse and chemicals; always test whatever cleaner you try using on the outside of your computer. If there is visible dust on the computer, wipe it away with a paper towel or cloth. You can use most general-purpose cleaners on computer cases, but always test the cleaner on an inconspicuous area first to make sure. iKlear/Klear Screen polish is good for Macs and other computers with shiny plastic surfaces.
The Computer (Inside—does NOT apply to laptops): (Make SURE the computer is turned off and unplugged!). Sometimes, computers in dusty environments can become unstable because of the amount of dust in them. To get rid of dust in your computer, you need to take the outer casing off (follow your computer manual's instructions if you don't know how), then use a can of compressed air to spray dust off internal components; if there's a LOT of dust, you can hold the hose of a vacuum cleaner near where you're spraying to suck up the airborn dust (however, be sure to keep the vacuum far away from the computer, and don't stick the hose near any components). Be sure to spray fans from both directions (inside to out and vice-versa) if you can). When spraying the compressed air, spray in short bursts, and NEVER hold the can upside-down, as this can spray a freezing, moist spray that could possibly damage internal components.
The Cables: Many people often overlook cables when cleaning or making sure things are working properly. Many cables, especially mouse cables, can become extremely dirty and grimy over time. The key to cleaning them is to not bend, twist, kink or apply too much pressure to them. Use a soft cloth and some general cleaning solution (such as Windex), and gently pull the cable through the cloth while slightly squeezing on it. Be sure to pull on the cable, and not on the device the cable's attached to (or the plug on the end of the cable. Cables can sometimes be too dirty to clean; in this case, either live with it or buy a new cable!
Other Stuff: Use common sense for cleaning other things; if something is delicate or seems like it could corrode because of certain cleaners, don't use those cleaners. Always test cleaning solutions on inconspicuous, out-of-the-way areas to make sure they won't damage the surface you're cleaning. For advanced cleaning of electronics, you should either take your parts to a repair center or use special alcohol-based electronics cleaners.
Ways to Maintain Cleanliness
Here are some good guidelines for keeping your computer and your peripherals clean:
Never get any of the electronics inside your computer (or other devices) damp or wet, and keep pets and smoke away from your computer. (If you are a smoker, make sure the computer is in a well-ventilated room away from where you smoke).
Never eat food or drink liquids around your computer, ESPECIALLY near your keyboard—it's an accident waiting to happen (trust me!).
It's better to be safe than sorry: always test cleaning solvents and solutions on a small, inconspicuous area of whatever it is you're cleaning. If you do this, you may prevent ruining the whole surface of whatever it is you're cleaning!
Replace the air filter in your Heater/Air Conditioner when it becomes dirty; this will help keep the air in your house or room less dusty.
Keep the area around your computer well-ventilated (especially if the computer is under a desk); this will prevent dust from settling as much.
Keep your computer away from direct sunlight or other sources of heat.
This article will help you to diagnose common problems, such as Spyware, Adware, Viruses, RAM and Hard Drive problems, that cause your Windows PC to run slowly.
Over the course of time, everything becomes dirty and needs some cleaning. Computers are no different; many different programs do many different things on your computer, and 'dirt' can result. It's a good idea to clean up your computer from time to time, and it's usually not very hard to do! Be sure to read through this whole article to find advice for keeping your PC running smoothly far into the future.
Now, in addition to fixing your computer's software, you can take additional steps, such as upgrading your hardware, to make your computer faster. One of the easiest things to do is to purchase additional RAM. As a rule, I say you can never have too much RAM. If you don't have at least 1 GB of RAM, you should immediately upgrade. In addition to RAM, you should consider getting a faster/larger hard drive, video card, or CPU. If your computer is more than three years old, however, you might want to consider purchasing a new one.
The following are essential utilities for keeping your Windows PC running smoothly. (Click the links to go to their download sites):
AdAware and Spybot are two programs to help you detect and remove "spyware" and "adware" from your computer (click here to find out what spyware is). It is a good idea to download the latest versions of these two programs, then, before you scan your system the first time, use the built-in 'web update' feature to get the latest scanning definition files.
Startup Control Panel is a good utility for seeing all the programs, system tray items, and extensions that load when your computer starts up. Instead of rooting through your computer's registry and possibly messing things up, you can turn on and off most of the essential startup items using this utility.
Norton Antivirus, McAfee VirusScan and other Virus detection and removal programs are very important for every PC user to have. If you simply go on the Internet, chat or check your email, you are at risk for viruses (yes, even the most scrupulous of users!). I don't recommend free scanners such as AVG Lite because they do not do as good a job at preventing virus attacks. It's a good idea to pay for a subscription to get virus definition updates as often as possible using Norton or McAfee products.
Microsoft Windows Update is built into your computer, but can be accessed by the above link, as well. It is important to try to keep your computer as up-to-date as possible, because more viruses, hacks and vulnerabilities are found every week. Sometimes updating can be quite a pain, and patches can cause problems, but it's better to be safe than sorry. Just make sure you have your important files backed up before you do large updates!
If you have all of the above programs, it is a good idea to run each of them (excluding the Startup Control Panel) at least once a month, if not every week or even daily. Most of these products are able to actively scan and protect your computer, and you should let them do so. You can change these settings in each program's 'preferences' or 'settings.'
Ways to Keep Your Computer Running Fast
In addition to using the above programs, you should keep in mind a few important things while using your computer to check email, install programs, browse the Internet or chat:
Never open any attachments on emails that either you don't know who they're from or you don't already know what is in the attachment. Some malicious software can even make an email look like it was sent to you from a friend or relative! Better to be safe than sorry.
When installing new software, ALWAYS watch the installer and make sure you know what's being installed. Some programs will ask you if they can install additional software. This additional software is often unnecessary and can cause problems on your computer.
Don't use Internet Explorer unless you absolutely HAVE to. Internet Explorer is full of vulnerabilities and bugs. Plus, alternative browsers such as FireFox are faster, offer more advanced features, and are more secure than Internet Explorer.
If you chat, don't click on links sent to you by friends unless you are absolutely sure your friend intended to send you the link!
If you see a window pop up while you're browsing the Internet, or if you close your web browser window and you see a window that looks like an error message, warning, or otherwise legitimate window, beware—it could be a link to spyware. If you see the link cursor instead of your mouse button when you move your mouse over the 'cancel' or 'X' button, DON'T click! Instead, you may have to force-close the window by pressing 'Control-Alt-Del' and quitting it via the Task Manager.
Don't download 'free' software unless you really need it and/or it doesn't seem 'too good to be true'. Many 'free' programs, such as the WeatherBug, the MySearch bar, and many file-sharing programs (such as BearShare, Kazaa, and LimeWire) can make your computer run slow and also send information from your computer to marketing companies (including personal information!).
Upgrade your computer's RAM (Right-click on 'My Computer' and select Properties to see how much you currently have). The more RAM you have, the less your computer will have to access the hard drive to run programs (especially if you run more than one program at a time!).
Make sure you have about 10-20% of your hard drive empty. If your hard drive is almost full, you should consider getting a new drive; larger, faster drives can be very inexpensive when on sale at retailers such as Best Buy, NewEgg, Micro Center, Fry's and others.
Keep your computer clean; if you have never opened your desktop computer and cleaned the dust from the inside, you should do so—you might be surprised at how much dust you find! You can use a Shop Vac and soft brush (keep static away, though!) or a can of compressed air (a few bucks at a computer store) to get rid of all the dust bunnies. Dust can cause a LOT of problems with a computer!
Reinstall Windows. In some cases, if you can't get your computer running its best via the methods outlined above, it's best to backup all your documents, music, videos, etc., format your hard drive, and reinstall everything from the CDs that came with your computer. If you don't feel comfortable doing this, you might want to turn your computer in for this service (but it will cost a bit).
