10 Strategies to Keep Your Personal computer Secure

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If you are looking at just transferring files from XP to Vista or from your old computer to your new computer you have many different options. One of which is the free easy data transfer tool built into Windows XP and Vista. This easy data transfer tool is not hard to use and does transfer over files and user settings. If your using a network then you have no additional costs.

The Windows easy transfer wizard will not transfer over programs. If you want to transfer over your old data you will need to purchase software to do this. If you do not check you can always just uninstall the program if it does not work.

How To Transfer Programs From Old Computer To New Computer

Update your OS2. Install anti-virus and update3. Use anti-spyware/adware4. Secure your home network5. Use a firewall6. OpenDNS9. Keep your personal information safe

1. Update Your Operating System (Windows Update)

In my household, I have 4 computers running Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, Ubuntu 9.04, Xubuntu 9.04. Especially if you’re running Windows, I recommend that you turn on the auto-update in ‘Windows Update’ if not already done so. To check if you’re covered (in Windows), open up your control panel and click on Windows Update. If you see the automatic update option selected, you’re all set. It’s FREE and SAFE.

2. Install Anti-Virus and Keep the Virus Definitions Up-to-Date

An anti-virus software is a MUST. Now, if you want more features and protection, you can move up to a paid anti-virus software. 3. Anti-Spyware / Adware

Recommended: Free: Spyware Blaster, Windows Defender, SuperAntiSpyware

If you have Windows Vista or 7, you will have Windows Defender by default. You simply run it, update, and protect.

If you have a wireless network enabled in your router, please look at your security settings.

Set it up so that you are using WPA or (preferably WPA2 if supported) with AES encryption (or TKIP if your device doesn’t support AES). 5. Use a Firewall
If you have a router, you already have a firewall. A software firewall can increase the level of security, and especially if you don’t have a router, you need a software firewall. Opera is faster than Firefox. I personally use Firefox, Opera, and IE. 7. Careful Opening Email Attachments

If an email is from a stranger, most likely the attachment is a virus. Having an anti-virus should protect you from email threats, but still be careful.

8. Try OpenDNS
10. Keep Your Personal Information Safe

Don’t store credit card and other sensitive information on your computer.