Virus Protection

• Be sure to install a virus scanning/detecting/cleaning program such as Norton AntiVirus or
  McAfee VirusScan to protect your computer from viruses, trojan horses, and "back door" programs.

Windows Update

• In today's business environment, most PC users are running a version of MS Windows, but few realize that Windows is not a static product. You need to stay on top of Windows Updates as a way to keep your computer and its data safe.

Hardware

• When purchasing a new computer, one of the most important components to consider, is memory (RAM). The more memory installed on your computer, the more prorgams you may have open at the same time and the faster they will run.
• A less expensive alternative to using a tape drive for data backups is a recordable CD-ROM or DVD-ROM drive. While this is not recommended for servers, this is a good alternative for workstations and home computers.

Computer Maintenance

• Many programs load information into your memory when you boot up your computer, even if you don't open them, slowing down your system. Uninstalling programs you no longer use will speed up your computer's overall performance.
• Defragmenting your hard drive twice a year will lead to overall increased system performance.

Remote Connectivity

• An easy and secure way to allow multiple computers to view or share one computer remotely, is to use Microsoft's NetMeeting. This program can be used for online meetings, presentations and software demonstrations. Someone must be physically located at the host computer to accept the "call."
• VNC (Virtual Network Computing) software is a desktop management application that is designed to allow remote access to your computer without needing someone at the host computer to receive the "call." VNC uses password protection to secure your computer from intruders.

Web Design

• The standard resolution for web design is for 800x600 pixels resolution. If your site is designed for a larger resolution, your customers may not be viewing your site in its entirety.

Web Presence

• To gain an Internet presence, there are a few steps to follow before your site can go live. You need to purchase a domain name, setup your DNS, select a hosting provider and create your web pages.