Frequently Asked Questions
The following Frequently Asked Questions may be of interest to you. If you have a question and would like to see it posted here, please contact me.
What should I look for in buying a computer?
Besides a buying plan and a budget, the single most important question one has to ask when thinking about buying a new computer is, "What am I going to be using it for?"
A buyer should evaluate the need or desire for mobility. Ask yourself how important it is to be mobile and connect from "wherever". Many of today's desktops have laptop equivalents that can provide you with mobility and the computing power for whatever need you may have.
If you will only be using word processing and web browsing programs then you should consider a system that has less hard disk space, less memory and processing speed.
In addition, you may want to consider a system that has integrated graphics. These components will increase or decrease the overall cost of a system. The end user who wants to do graphic design or have more of a multimedia experience while computing will want more processing speed, more memory and a larger hard drive for storing photos, music and more.
What is spyware and adware?
Spyware is a malicious program that runs on your computer and monitors and collects user activity. This information is then transmitted to someone else. Spyware can monitor keystrokes, chat programs, capture screen shots, e-mail addresses, passwords and credit card information.
Adware on the other hand, is legitimate software often installed on programs as a way of generating money through advertisements that pop up as you use the software. When you uninstall the software, these pop ups should stop as well. While not dangerous in nature, adware can be very annoying.
How will viruses, spyware and adware affect my computer?
Viruses, spyware and adware all steal system resources from your computer. Side effects of these can result in computer crashes, loss of data, inability to use programs or devices and could possibly turn your computer into a “bot” that automatically infects other systems.
How do viruses and spyware get onto my computer?
There are several ways that this could happen:
- Installing free untested software.
- Opening an email that has an infected attachment.
- Visiting a website that has been infected.
- Not having the latest Security Patches/Upgrades on the Operating System or other legitimate software vendors.
- Using a File Sharing program.
- Not using a legitimate antivirus program.
I have an antivirus program installed on my computer, can my computer still become infected?
The answer is YES. While there are many outstanding antivirus programs available, I have yet to find a “silver bullet” that eliminates every virus ever made. Remember, in order for there to be a cure, the problem must first be identified. The viruses are always trying to stay one step ahead of the cure. Damage to your computer can be minimized by having an antivirus program installed and up to date. Scheduled “full scans” of your computer are an important part of daily maintenance.
How do I minimize the risk of being infected?
I would recommend that you always use an antivirus program. Make sure you keep it current. The annual fee is a small price to pay compared to that of having to wipe a system clean and reinstall the Operating System (OS) and all programs.
How can Fraser Technology Solutions help?
Fraser Technology Solutions can install antivirus software, clean infected systems and help you with establishing a basic maintenance plan to keep your computer running at an optimal level.
