PC Maintenence and Security

Atomic Learning was an interesting website that offers tutorials on a variety of tech items and provides a place for those who are not technologically savvy to be able learn about technology issues, such as software and the internet, in relatively simple terms.  I was impressed by the "workshops" on the maintenance and security of computers and intend to look at other tutorials in the future.   I found three items particularly interesting:  "Intrusion Detection Software," "File Backup Options", and Tips for Safer Web Browsing."   

I knew about the need for anti-virus and anti-spyware programs, but I did not know about intrusion detection software (IDS) and its value.  First, anti-virus and anti-spyware only works on signatures that are in their databases and are not updated very frequently.  Intrusion detection software is able to prevent malware by looking at the real-time behavior of the malware and preventing it from doing damage.  Three programs suggested were WinPatrol, Spybot’s TeaTimer, and Prevx Home.

I liked the “File Backup Options” because it talked about the many options available for backing up my files.  I knew about Windows Backup, but until recently, I did not have anything with enough storage space until I bought an external hard drive a few months ago.  I may not have bought it if I had known about the free backup utility sites such as Karen’s Replicator and Media Max.
There were some interesting tips offered in the “Safer Web Browsing.”  I knew that cookies existed, but I did not know that there were three types of cookies:  persistent (used by large websites like Amazon and are helpful in remembering customer preferences), session (are erased as soon as you leave the website that left the cookie), and tracking (which is the most dangerous because the sites that leave them are able to follow users and then give personal information to advertisers or criminals).  Also, Active X is something to be careful with because “crackers” can exploit security holes and leave malware thus causing damage to your computer or giving them access to your files.

Even though it's a bit dated (videos made in 2006), Atomic Learning is a quality website.   I imagine CNET.com has additional suggestions for the different programs that Atomic Learning offered as solutions, but Atomic Learning provided educational videos that will give you insight into keeping your computer secure.