Are There Simple, Free Tools for Checking My PC’s Status and Health?

in computer performance
Computer performance

Just as you would with a car, it’s important to maintain your PC by checking its status and health from time to time. This task is made simpler with free tools found online, such as Belarc Advisor and Secunia Personal Software Inspector.

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How to Keep Your Computer Secure and Private

in privacy & security
Privacy & Security

It’s better to avoid malware and virus in the first place than to try to remove it after the fact. Several trustworthy, and often free, tools can help keep your computer safe and private, including while browsing the Internet.

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What Are Windows XP Service Packs?

in computer performance
Windows

Microsoft releases major updates in the form of service packs. Windows XP Service Pack 1, Windows XP Service Pack 2 and Windows XP Service Pack 3 have been released so far, and a quick look in your computer’s Control Panel can show you which SP you have installed.

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Free Antivirus Download Options

in privacy & security
Privacy & Security

It’s foolish to neglect to install antivirus programs where there are so many affordable, or even free, options available, and the damage to your computer – and your privacy – from a virus can be enormous.

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How to Connect Your Laptop to a Wireless Network

in Internet
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Connecting your laptop computer to a wireless network in a public place is convenient and usually straight-forward. However, be mindful of security concerns once you’ve established a network connection.

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Free Virus Scan Offers May Not Be Safe

in privacy & security
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If the offer of a “free virus scan” pops up while you’re browsing the Internet, don’t take it at face value. In many cases, it’s really a cover to install a virus, spybot, keystroke logger, or any other type of malware on your computer.

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How to Stop Secretmaker HOSTS file change attempt Alerts

in privacy & security
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When the security utility Secretmaker alerts you to a HOSTS file change attempt, it’s important to find out what’s trying to change your HOSTS file, which is a plain text file with information used to supplement or replace the Domain Name System.

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How Do You Make a Password Protected Zip File?

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It’s become much easier to create a password-protected .zip file, thanks to advances in Microsoft Windows. After you compress the file, double-click on the zipped folder and choose “add a password” from the menu. You can remove it later, if you know the password.

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Dealing with the Error: rundll32.exe is not a valid win32 application

in privacy & security
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The error message “rundll32.exe is not a valid win32 application” is bad news for your computer, as it means that malware has infected your computer, replacing a valid file with a malicious one. Anti-malware programs may fix it, but you might end up having to wipe the hard drive.

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What You Should Know About the Conficker Virus

in privacy & security
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The Conficker virus or worm is still a threat, despite failing to live up to the worst fears on April Fool’s Day 2009. You can find out if you have Conficker, get rid of it and learn how to protect your computer in the future.

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How Can I Avoid Putting Electronic Garbage in Landfills?

in computer hardware
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It’s bad for the environment, not to mention illegal in many cases, to dispose of your old, unwanted computer in a landfill. Fortunately, computers’ parts can be recycled, and in many cases a nonprofit can refurbish the computer for use by schools or other needy organizations.

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