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Showing posts with label spyware. Show all posts
Showing posts with label spyware. Show all posts

SpyWare24



Prevent hackers from spying and accessing your actions on a computer. Most Anti Virus programs out there try to find specific elements in spy programs to identify them. The problem is, there are millions of viruses and spy programs out there. By finding common features of these spy programs and viruses, we're able to detect the vast majority of them. We have designed it so it knows where to look, and what to do. Nitrous Anti Spy has the ability to tell you every dynamic link library, system task, and thread process currently active on your machine, showing the file location of the active program. Along with this, it has the ability to stop the current process.

Nitrous Anti Spy also comes along with a port scanner and a firewall. These utilities locate open ports on your machine, as well as monitor other commonly used ports. NAS has a database of ports used by hackers and the common Trojan spy programs out there. Nitrous Anti Spy also can show you what files load on startup, as well as a built-in registry editor.

Nitrous Anti Spy comes along with all these advanced features, but do you want to know the best part? Nitrous Anti Spy does not conflict with other Anti Virus programs. Use them as you normally do, and run NAS on the side. NAS is designed to allow a user to scan a file that he has downloaded or found that he is not familiar with. NAS does not auto scan any file opened; NAS does not load on startup and does not make any changes to your INI files or Registry. Nitrous Anti Spy does nothing secret. You, the user, have full control of this program. Nitrous Anti Spy also can update its virus databases, as well as check for new program updates.
 

Here is a more in-depth description of Nitrous Anti Spy's Features:


Easy to use interface:



  • Easy way to select what type of scans (deep search or standard).
  • Easy Setup - Simple installer and fully customizable scan list.
  • Able to add specific files, one at a time, or directory at a time.
  • Able to remove certain files that the user does not wish to scan.
  • Able to add recommended files, or all files.
  • Displays how many files are in the scan list.
  • Displays how many infected files are found.
  • Displays how big each file being scanned is.
  • Displays the progress of each file, as well as the overall scan progress.
  • Able to delete, mark read, mark read-write access to files.



Special Added Features:



  • Includes an Internet Firewall/Port Monitor.
  • Includes a Registry Scanner.
  • Includes a Startup file scanner.
  • Includes a Port Scanner on your local machine.



System Task Monitor:


Monitors all programs running, giving the file location.
Displays ALL program windows and DLL Threads in use by the Windows OS.

Ability to scan the selected program.


System INI Scans:


Ability to scan your INI files that are used during bootup.
Ability to clean the INI files if they contain an infected file.


Virus Database view and Information:


Displays a certain number of viruses/Trojans detected.
Displays information about certain keywords used in virus detection.


Upgraded Features:


Scan Code for Standard Search has been upgraded to 3x faster than the original.
Deep Search can now stop during the file in progress.
Detailed File Progress window.
Easier to use interface.
Professional Update feature, including BUILD checking to ensure the latest EXE version.
New database code.
More added definitions as well as modified old ones.


Other Important Information:


Runs on Windows 95, 98, ME. (Untested for Windows NT/2000)
Gives the user full control of the program.
Easy to use interfaces.
Ability to exit a directory scan faster than the previous version.
Ability to update its virus databases, as well as the EXE itself.
Simple, quick, and professional Setup.

Spyware Removal



Spyware Removal is a web site that design to give you relevant information, and methods on how to block spyware.

It will also give you information relevant to security and malware.

Spyware also pronounces spyware is a piece of software that design to spy and steal information from an infected device.

The spying methods of spyware can be recording keystroke to steal private password and other sensitive information.

Spyware Removal


Spyware can also be used to track your online activity for statistics and to recommend you on sites that are like the one you using.
It can also use to force you with unwanted home page and an unwanted popup that may cause your system to be slow.

Know that: unwanted popup may include sexual and pills materials.

Another type of spyware can be a Trojan that may install on your system and do all kind of stuff to your system.

Like open a backdoor, download more malware into your computer and so on.

The best way to fight spyware is to install antivirus software, anti-malware software and run them on a regular basis.

Keep them update with new file definition.

I also recommended using some tools that not required installation, more about it in this article.


Malware worth money:

Another aspect that needs to be taken into consideration in related to spyware is that there is a lot of money involved in this field.

The stolen information can be sold for a high price to someone that needs it and know how to use it.

Think what a database of 1 million users with emails, phone number and address can do for a company that sends spam messages.

To prevent infection and to be able to use spyware removal tools you have to be a security-aware user.

We all read or hear on the news about hacker hacking into organization stealing sensitive data, most of the time that data can be related to us, a user that uses the hack site.


Spyware removal as the human virus:

Like in real life, when we have a virus we need to take medicine to be cure from that virus. Like in real life. We can immune our self for some of the viruses, by getting a vaccine on a regular basis. Preventing, not 100%, the infection of that virus. Most of the time, if the vaccine is good and we do get ill by that virus, it is much easier for our body to fight that virus and the illness can be easy for us.

Also for spyware, we can use some tools that we can install on our system. We can also make a non-install spyware removal arsenal tools that we can use on a regular basis.

Let me give you a tip, and that is probably the best tip that you can get in related to the malware in general and spyware, in particular, think before acting, let me explain to you why.


Think before act:

First, you need to understand spyware like any other type of malware is a file, a file that when it runs it starts doing something that can be flag as problematic if no one runs this file it can’t harm your system.

Spyware can be attached to another legit file. For example, you can download the game from some ware and spyware can be attached to one of the executable game files.  Once this file runs the spyware will also start running and start doing what it designs to do – infecting your system.

Spyware can be hiding in images, in URL and can be sent over by emails and social network.

So to think before act means when you thinking to press on an image that was sent to you look if the image is a link.

Right-click it and copy the link. Check in google if that link is a legit site, a document or a malicious site that may install spyware into your system.


Antivirus software:

Antivirus software, using some sort of algorithm to try and identify if the file is legit, a type of malware or Potentially Unwanted Program (PUP), there are 2 main scanning methods that antivirus using.


Database signature:

The first is against a database that contains the signature of files known as malware. Every antivirus vendor holds a signature of files that represent malware. Then they classifying them into a signature. Using this method it can flag a new variant of know malware as malware.

In the old days, you used to generate a signature for the file. Then the antivirus scanner just compares the current scanning file against signatures in its database. If it gets a match it flags the file as malware.

Due to the fact that every bit of change to the file changes its signature, this technique was less officiant.

So, the classification method was created. In this method, the created signatures are from parts in the file. Most of the malware share common code between more than one type of malware. It also true to a new variant of the same malware.


Heuristic scanning:

The easiest way to understand heuristic scanning is to think about a list of common function to all malware. Then give each function a number that represents its danger level. Now when scanning a file, if the score it gets is more than a selected number flag it as malware.

A basic example will say that if the file is using a file packer we can rise to the score. If the file tries to copy itself to another file, we can also raise the score.

file packer is common in malware, as they encrypt the real file.

The big disadvantage that the heuristic method has is a false positive. Means we flag files as malware even if they were not malware. Modern antiviruses are managed to reduce it to zero false positives nowadays.


Antimalware software:

It started as a sidekick tool to Antivirus, with the changes in the security terms, and the new variants of viruses or alike, a new term create malware, the general term that under it contain viruses, Trojan, spyware, rootkit, adware and more.

Antimalware supposed to be a full security tool. Due to its name, it needs to find and remove all types of malware. Including Trojans, viruses, spyware, adware, worms, rootkits, phishing, etc.

With that in mind today antivirus and antimalware scan, find and remove all types of malware. You are covered by both of them. The cool thing is that they can live together on the same device.

If you ask me, use both.

This is like getting another opinion about your problem. Let them both scan your system in trying to find malware that can hard your system

Arsenal tools to have:

We need some tools in the out arsenal to fight spyware and other types of malware. To start with we need to understand what we have out there.

We have to types of tools, we have free tools that give you basic features and paid tools that can give you some additional features.

There is some free antivirus that you can download from the internet. These tools will give you the option to scan files, delete infected files, free updates, and real-time monitoring to catch virus as they come in.

Same goes to anti-malware tools. There are free that you can download, and install, most of the free version does not include real-time protection in them.

Other than Antivirus and Antimalware there are some other tools that you need to know about. They are tools that do not require installation and can be run on demand. You can download them from the internet and use them.

Put them on a USB disk, an example, to check other computers that you have and run them from the USB device.

Mobile devices:

With the rise of mobile devices like tablets and smartphones it was just a matter of time till we can find malware to mobile devices.

They are here for quite a long time and they are here to stay. As today everyone uses its device for a lot of task from payments, banks, social account and more.

The devices are getting stronger from the hardware perspective and use in a home network and connected to other devices, like your home PC.

A mobile device is another option to malware writer to spread the malicious code, in mobile devices they can steal sensitive information, spread to other devices, use it to enter block locations and more.

Today we look on vulnerabilities as options to use for spreading malware and hacking into devices. Mobile devices have a lot of tools and games that still need to be investigated. This is probably the next step in security.

Today, you can download free antivirus for your mobile device. You should do it if you haven’t done it yet. It is important to make your device as secure as possible. There is a lot of private information on phone devices.

The same role applies here as in your local PC, awareness, and thinking. We all use our mobile for email, social and other online activities, we need to think before we do.

Emails:

Emails are one of the most used methods to spreads spyware and other types of malware. It can be useful to target organizations by sending email to list of users in that organization. If one of the users will press the link in the email the entire organization can be infected.

Using that the attacker can gain access into sensitive organization data, like customers, user data central database and so on.

One of the stronger security methods that are in use and include machine learning technique is the email spammer.

That base on all kind of parameters can flag emails as spam. Automatically delete them or send them into the spam/junk folder in your email.

Facebook:

We all know Facebook the bigger social network. This social network knows a lot of information about people, due to the fact that people share all their life in that network.

The thing before the act is real relevance to Facebook. You have to remember that everything you send online stays online, and can be used to identify you.

In Facebook, you need to verify that you apply all the security option that you have to make your account safe from hackers, and spammers.

they can use your account to spam your wall and friends and to spread malware.

You also need to be aware that pressing on images in Facebook can lead to a phishing site that can be used to hack your account. No, I do not say that you should not press on images or links. Just think before you press.


Ask yourself:


Do you know the user that sent you the link?

How many users press this link?


If you move your mouse on the link see what is the target site it is pointing.

LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, and other social networks:
What true for Facebook is true for other social networks. Images may contain phishing links and links may be phishing.

The best way is to check the link before you click on it.

There are a lot of shorten URL services, that let you take a long URL and make it short.

A lot of users post short URL to save characters, so do phishing URLs.

If you were unsure about a URL you can use an un-short URL service to see what the real site is. Most of the services are free to use and you can find them on the internet with a small search.

As an example, I found out that some of the links lead to sexual content.


File downloading:

File downloading is something that we do on a daily basis. Actually, when we go into a website, we are downloading HTML, CSS and JavaScript files that represent the site we are in.

An antivirus with real-time monitoring should check each file we download to see if it contains malicious code.

In case of downloading a compressed file (like zip, rar, etc.) I will recommend you to let your antivirus scan the file and the files inside it to verify that it does not contain some sort of spyware.

P2P networks like torrents:

I am not going to write a lot about it. Just make sure your antivirus software is installed and up to date. That will ensure that you are covered in the case of malware. It will give you more protection against spyware or other malware in the downloaded file.

Make sure the P2P software you are using is updated to the latest version. The latest version supposed to be included with the last fix and patches.

Public WiFi environment – your loved coffee shop:

Today we have free WIFI almost everywhere. We all like to connect our laptop, table, and smartphone to that free WIFI. We need to remember that public networks can be used by everyone.

What if some of the users that use it are hackers. What if he uses a sniffing tool to catch passwords over the network. My recommendations are to reduce the use of the public network to enter the sensitive account, like your bank account.

Data backup:

To close all this long article, I would like to mention backup. Yes, we all know about it, and if we lose our data once we start doing it!

Backup is important to do as part of our weekly task. We all take a ton of pictures, write articles and another thing that we need to backup in case something happens. Keep in mind that even after using spyware removal it may be too late if your files were changed by the spyware.

In the case of mobile devices. You can configure automatic backup to one of the cloud services. The imported thing is that we make another copy of our data.

Online backup can use one of the cloud services. Starting with the free account and depending on your needs pay for more. It can also be used from your local computer. Using a tool that can sync and upload files that had been changed. You can also upload the files manually from time to time.

Offline backup is using an external device like a USB hard drive. Copy the data to that hard drive, you can also find a tool to automate the process of this process. Keep in mine. You will also have to transfer your file from your mobile device into the external hard disk.

In general, it is highly recommended to make a backup of your data. In a case of a problem like spyware other malware or even an electrical fault, your data may be damaged or deleted. With a regular data backup process, you can save your data! Keep that in mine.

Conclusion:

As a conclusion to this article;

I would like to mention that there are spyware, malware and other malicious that may harm your device. Using some of the free tools, like antivirus and antimalware to protect your system is a must.

But always be aware as awareness of what you are pressing on, installing and using it up to you.

Hope you enjoy the article and other articles on our spyware removal website.

Please share with us all your thought, recommendations and comments.

If you like it or it helps you please share it with your friend on your social network.

Spector Pro spyware


1. Will Spector Pro work on my PC?


Yes, as long as you are running Windows XP, Windows Me, Windows 98, Window 2000 or Windows NT 4 or above and have a Pentium-based CPU running at 150 MHz or faster.

(NOTE: Spector 2.x supports Windows 95 - for more information. click here)

2. How much memory is appropriate for Spector Pro?


Spector Pro will run with 32M of memory, but we suggest 64M of memory or more for optimal performance.

3. How much disk space does Spector Pro take?


This depends on many factors, such as how frequently you set Spector Pro to save your screen snapshots, whether you save in full color or 4-bit grayscale. It also depends on how heavily you use your PC.

4. How does Spector Pro protect my child from Internet pedophiles?


It provides a great deterrent and allows you to be aware that such activity has been attempted.

One of the biggest deterrents to pedophiles is getting caught. If a pedophile has an online conversation with your child, Spector Pro will record that conversation.

Further, if a pedophile suspects that he/she is being recorded, they will quickly move on to another target. As more and more people use Spector Pro, pedophiles will begin to notice, and most likely stop going after children, at least on the Internet.

5. Is Spector Pro like the Internet filtering programs?


No. We at SpectorSoft do not believe that filters are very effective. They too often don't catch the web sites you want to stay away from, and they often prevent you from visiting completely legitimate sites.

When people know they may be watched, they are much more careful about what they do.

6. Can I use Spector Pro and an Internet filtering program at the same time?


Yes.

7. Will Spector Pro work with my other PC applications besides the Internet?


Yes. Spector Pro records PC activity for all of your applications, including word processors, spreadsheets, financial programs, databases, communications, and even games. If you are concerned about how much time your employees are spending playing games at work, you'll be able to see exactly how they are spending their time with Spector Pro.

8. Am I allowed to install this software on somebody else's computer?


You may only install Spector Pro, Spector or eBlaster on a computer that you own.

Before you install the software, you must agree to use it only on a computer you own.

9. Can I use the information recorded with Spector as evidence in a court of law?


SpectorSoft cannot guarantee that you will be able to use the recordings in a court of law. A judge determines the admissibility of evidence on a case by case basis.

10. Should I inform my employees or others that they are being monitored?


Yes.

11. But, if I tell them, I'm afraid they will try to circumvent the software.


That is why Spector Pro has a super Stealth feature.

When installed in Stealth mode, Spector Pro does not show up as an icon, does not appear in the Windows system tray, does not appear in Windows Programs, does not show up in the Windows task list, cannot be uninstalled without the Spector Pro password which YOU specify, and Spector Pro does not slow down the operation of the computer it is recording.


12. Does Spector Pro come with a money-back guarantee?


If Spector Pro does not perform as advertised, please notify us within 72 hours of purchase. Assuming you have notified us within 72 hours of purchase, if we are unable to resolve the issue within 3 days of your notifying us, we will refund your purchase price in FULL.

13. How easy is Spector Pro to install and use?


We have designed Spector Pro to be very easy to install and use. Installation should take less than two minutes. After that, you click on the Record button to start recording PC and Internet activity and a Playback button to review recorded activity. If you want to get more sophisticated, Spector Pro makes that easy too with simple menus and online help.

14. I would like to purchase and download Spector Pro on the computer I am currently using, but install it on another computer. Is this possible?


Yes, as long as the other computer is owned by you. Please do not install Spector Pro on a computer you do not own, as you may violate state or local law by monitoring the activities of property that does not belong to you.

When your purchase is complete you will be given a download link and serial number. This will allow you to download and install Spector Pro from any computer connected to the internet. Alternatively, you can save the Spector Pro installation file to a CD-R and then use the CD to install on another computer.

Please note that the software license for Spector Pro allows for one installation per purchase. If you would like to install Spector Pro on more than one computer, you may click here to add licenses anytime or call our office toll-free at (888) 598-2788 during operating hours and ask for multiple license pricing.

15. What is the difference between Spector Pro and eBlaster? Which product is right for me?


Let's assume that you are a parent who wants to monitor the Internet activity of your children and that you will be installed on the computer your children use.

If you have access to this computer frequently, and can check the computer for a few minutes once or twice a day to see what your children have been doing online, then Spector Pro is probably the more appropriate product for you because it will be able to SHOW you in EXACT detail what they have been doing. (E-mails, chat conversations, instant messages, web sites visited, keystrokes typed, applications launched -- additionally, Spector Pro will continuously take snapshots of what is on the computer screen and allowing you to play back these snapshots at your convenience.)

 you want to see basic reports of the web sites they are visiting and transcripts of their chat sessions, then eBlaster is likely the more appropriate product for you.

That is because eBlaster records chat conversations, keystrokes typed and the names of web sites visited and can notify you via e-mail as frequently as every 30 minutes. So, if you are at work for many hours a day while your children are home from school using the Internet, then you can automatically be notified via e-mail what they are doing.

Many of our customers choose to get BOTH Spector Pro and eBlaster because they want the convenience of the detailed screen snapshots that Spector Pro provides.

For a detailed comparison chart of all SpectorSoft Products and their Features, click here.

16. I know Spector Pro works for a dial-up connection. I have a cable modem. Will Spector Pro still work?


Yes. Spector Pro works independently of how you connect to the Internet. Whether your connection is with AOL, via modem dial-up, using a cable modem or DSL, or simply using a proxy server or local area network connection, Spector Pro is guaranteed to work.

17. How soon can I get Spector Pro?


Spector Pro is available now for immediate electronic download.

Using our secure server, you can purchase, download, install and begin using Spector Pro in less than 10 minutes, even if you download using a 28K modem!


Computer Networks Security System A Multilevel Approach


In many ways, we used to worry much less about our details being utilized improperly. Decades ago while most information was transferred and then saved resting on paper, there was less threat of it becoming misused or tampered with only because fewer people had access to it. Nowadays, when everything is accomplished and stored on computers there is a chance for hackers to access details stored on the computer without, as years ago, having to go anywhere a hardcopy exists.

Protecting computer networks


Protecting computer networks from this kind of attacks is most important as a lot of damage can be happened to persons as well as businesses and corporations when a reliable computer networks protection method is not in place. Technology for supplying this protection continues to upgrade, but unfortunately, so do the techniques of retrieving confidential or individual information by malicious tools and hackers.

Each computer network has established provisions made inside the infrastructure as well as policies in location to safeguard the network and resources that are accessible by it from becoming accessed by unauthorized folks or programs. This is done in many diverse ways to counteract the various threats posed to personal computer networks security systems.

Network protection could be the term usually utilized to refer to actions taken to protect a network from invasion by means of hackers or other intruders. It's usually done at the boundaries of a company, simply to prevent violence from the outside. Details security may be the term employed when it comes to protecting from malware blasts or even harmful blunders within the organization and is generally accomplished by compartmentalizing the larger network association with inner boundaries.

Step one in computer security network is to identify and confirm the user. This is achieved most often with a one aspect authentication of delivering a username and password. Other layers can supply considerably more protection such as making use of a security token, similar to an ATM card or mobile phone. With three-factor authentication section of yourself is also employed such as your fingerprint or an eye scan.

While the user is legal, the firewall is used to maintain users from accessing services which can be off limits. On top of this, it's important to have anti-virus or imposition prevention software (IPS) to guard against malware including worms, Trojan horses, viruses, spyware, adware, etc.

Simply because there are numerous ways a pc network may be attacked it is necessary to have several layers of safety in place to keep info shared and employed within the network safe. Also, simply because malware is regularly being improved and changed, it's important to regularly update any safety software you have in place.

Personal computer networks security system has to constantly monitor and measure the performance of the personal computer networks connections security to be certain that it is updated and that no holes appear within the system which can be taken advantage of by hackers, who will gladly slide right through as well as snatch whatever information they can to cause havoc on folks and companies.


DoS Denial of Service and Access attacks.


DoS (Denial of Service) attacks:


The main purpose of a DoS attack is slow down or disable a system such that the services the system offers become unavailable to its users. These type of attacks are generally caused by exhaustion of the system's resources or by exploiting a known vulnerability (bug) on the system that stops it from functioning in a normal manner. A simple example of this would be sending so much garbage traffic to a system that legitimate traffic could not process similarly to phone lines being tied up from too many telephone calls at once. More complex versions of these attacks are known as DDoS or Distributed Denial of Service attacks where multiple devices launch the attack on the system at the same time.

Access attacks: 

The main purpose of an access attack is to gain access to unauthorized (protected) system resources such as data or to simply take over control of an interior network system to perform the illegal activity. An access attack can often follow a Denial of Service attack but generally attacks of this nature with reconnaissance of some type in order to expose system exploits and exploitable systems. Amazingly enough, the most common threat when considering an access attack is Social Engineering. Social Engineering is the most effective and the hardest access attack to control because it involves the manipulation of people. An example of Social Engineering would be a hacker gaining access to a system by learning a valid username and password from someone through the art of deception.

IE:

Claiming to be someone that one would trust, even though in reality they are not.
Some of the methods discussed previously can be used in order forcefully obtain access to unauthorized data and unfortunately, it could be yours. Fortunately, however, most major networks of the more prominent companies that one might do business with are generally secured from most threats that we've talked about by means of physical equipment security, monitoring, data encryption, and constant updating. Obviously, a threat to these type of systems always exists but is much less likely due to the vast amount of money and time spent by these companies in order to protect their networks and their customer's information. This should make you feel somewhat more comfortable but wait a minute, what about your system? Now, we will talk about some things that you can do in order to protect yourself a little better.

1: Perhaps one of the most important things that you should remember is to never give out any of your personal information to someone unless you have gone through means to verify their identity. This includes your email and any usernames and passwords that could lead to the discovery of your other personal information. As we discussed previously Social Engineering is the leading cause of unauthorized access attacks. Phishing, banding or carding is a very popular form of private information theft. This is when you might receive what appears to be a legitimate email or instant message claiming that you need to "update your account information" or something similar and provides a link to a site to input this data in order to steal it. The link is often masked such that it appears to come from this legitimate source and the site it sends you to also looks legitimate because they've matched the source code to the actual site in question. The best thing to do in this instance is called the customer support number that would come on your real statement. Most major organizations will never ask you this information outside of initial signup. Most companies will have a specific email address that you can forward such scams available on their website. This type of attack can also come via a phone call, so in this case, I would suggest that you disconnect the call and contact the customer support department directly with the phone number listed from a statement to inquire about the situation.

2: Be careful what type of information that you send via email. Where you send it is important but what you send is also important. Email by default is sent with clear text. An experienced hacker that might be sniffing or intercepting traffic to a service provider (man-in-the-middle attack) can easily read anything sent across standard email. There are some methods for encrypting email like Entrust http://www.entrust.com/ (digital certificates) and PGP http://www.pgp.com/ (pretty good privacy) that can be used when properly configured but your best bet is to never send any personal information via email.

3: Make sure you are doing business with a company that you know to be secure. Generally, you won't have problems when dealing with major companies like Wal-Mart or Gap but you should still read their privacy and security policies such that you have a good understanding of the information that they collect and what they do with it, as well as the means that they use to secure their transactions. If a site doesn't have this information readily available then I would not recommend doing business with them. Most private web transactions are secured with SSL or Secure Socket Layer encryption. This is the primary standard for encrypting web transactions and it is approved by the Internet Engineering Task Force. You will know that your connection is secured if you look in the address field of your browser and see https:// in front of the web address. Note: The Sin https which signifies that the session is secured with SSL.

4. Use strong passwords. Typically you will want to use at least 8 characters, use a mix of letters and numbers, do not use complete words, do not use sequential numbers, do not use your username and try not to use any personal information that could be guessed by someone like your birthday.

Here is a link to a Microsoft document on generating strong passwords complete with a link to a page to check your password strength: http://www.microsoft.com/athome/security/privacy/password.mspx

Here is a link to a document on generating strong passwords on the SANS site: http://www.sans.org/rr/whitepapers/authentication/1636.php

Its also never a good idea to store passwords or cache them on your local system. If your system is somehow compromised, then so are your account passwords.

5. If you are using a wireless network, secure it. Wireless networks can be easily sniffed out remotely by "war drivers" or even your neighbor. Change any default settings like the SSID that might be easily guessable. Disable remote administrator to the router and password protect local administration. Use MAC address filtering to only allow your trusted connections to the router. Enable the strongest encryption available on your router. Here is an article I wrote previously on securing a wireless network when using one of the more common Linksys wireless G routers. http://www.computernetworkinghelp.com/content/view/31/2/

6. Use a personal firewall to protect your computer from traffic originating from the outside world. IE: Traffic that you didn't initiate a request to come to you.

7. Use virus software and keep it up to date. Remember, if your virus definitions are old the software is all but useless. Scan your email in real-time (upon download or prior to opening attachments). Scan your drive regularly. It's also a good idea to never open attachments from unknown sources. Virus software relies on matching patterns a virus must exist before an updated pattern can be created so there is always a chance of becoming infected even if your software is up to date.

8. Use spyware removal software and keep it up to date. Remember, if your spyware removal definitions are old the software is all but useless. Scan your drive regularly. Spyware can not only be annoying but also dangerous in some cases.

If you follow the simple steps listed above you will be better protected against identity theft and personal fraud. I hope you've enjoyed the article and learned a thing or two along the way.

Dictionary of Computer Networking Terms

Dictionary of Computer Networking Terms and PC Lingo


This page is a Dictionary of computer networking terms and definitions of other various PC terminology.
This list is Alphabetized and at the bottom, there is a search tool from Webopedia.com

Access Point:

A hardware device used to transmit a wireless signal to create or extend a network range. Works on multiple protocols and various speeds depending on the type. Search Access Point

Adapter:

Hardware that is added to your computer to add functionality, such as a Network adapter or Display adapter. Uses many types of interfaces and could refer to anything that connections to your pc. Search Adapter

Adware/spyware:

Software that gets installed on your computer (not always with your knowledge) and tracks information about your internet habits, using that data to request pop-ups redirect your internet browsing. Search Adware/Spyware

Anti-Virus:

Software that is a list of known "bad" programs that can attack your computer causing permanent damage, the software is only as effective as up-to-date the list is, making updates essential.

Browser:

The program used to view webpages, by "translating" HTML code into images, text, and links to display internet pages. Examples are Internet Explorer, Mozilla, Opera, or Netscape. Search Browser

CAT-5:

Type of cabling used to connect/network computers together by using Ethernet technologies. Also, see CAT-5 E (enhanced). Search CAT-5

Cable:

In terms of internet connection, Cable is using the cable company's infrastructure to bring data from the internet to your home, typically shared between a regional group of subscribers.

Client Manager:

Software that is used to configure wireless communications between two devices. Controls encryption and authentication settings. Windows XP has built-in software for this other operating systems require a simple install. Search Client Manager

Device Drivers:

Software that tells your computer how it is going to communicate with the hardware that's connected to it. Usually comes on a disc with the hardware and vendors have updates available for better performance. Search Drivers

DHCP

Dynamic Host Control Protocol is the technology used to automatically assign IP addresses to all the computers on a network and make sure each one is different. Usually set to automatic on a home network, unless you need a static address that never changes. Search DHCP

DNS:

Domain Name System is the technology used on the internet to change a computer's IP address into an alphabet name, which makes it easier to understand and remember. This is almost always set to automatic for a home network. Search DNS

DSL:

Digital Subscriber Line is a form of high-speed internet which uses the phone company's existing phone lines that come into your home. Usually has several different speeds to choose from, but is an older type of connection and can be less reliable. Search DSL

Ethernet:

In terms of this website, ethernet refers to the technology used to connect PC's to one another using CAT-5 cabling and network cards; or a wired connection. Search Ethernet

File and Printer Sharing:

A feature built into Windows operating systems that allows resources such as Files or Printers to be shared on a network between different PC's. A file that is stored on one computer can be accessed from another computer. Search File and Printer Sharing

Firewall:

Software that runs in the background on your pc and controls which applications can access the internet. Without a firewall, spyware and virus are an attempt to connect without your knowledge. Search Firewall

Gateway:

Usually, a hardware device that represents the computer's connection to the internet. Or the last device that connects to outside your home network; Also known as a Default Gateway. Search Gateway

HPNA:

The technology used to create a computer network by sending data through the existing telephone wiring in the walls of your home. An older technology that is not as reliable or as fast as other choices. Search HPNA

Hub:

A hardware device used to expand the number of Ethernet connections available, not a "smart" device such as switch or router; so it will not make decisions on network traffic, it will only broadcast data on all ports. Search Hub

IP address:

Similar to the address for a house, it's used to determine which computer is which. All devices on a network have an address in the form of 4 numbers separated by dots; such as 192.168.1.5 - which is an example of private address used for home networking. Search IP address

ISP:

Internet Service Provider is the company you pay for your internet connection, can be a Telephone, Cable or others. The ISP can determine what speed you connect at based on what they charge. Search ISP

LAN:

Local Area Network is a common term in the networking world used to describe a small "local" network of computers. Used as a way to segment larger networks geographically and define smaller sections of networks. Search LAN

Modem:

A hardware device used to change take the information from the internet and convert it into something a computer can understand and use. Modem stands for modulator/demodulator because it changes data so that it can be "carried" across the network and changes it back again at the next modem. Search Modem

Network Interface Card:

Otherwise referred to as a NIC, this is an expansion card you insert into your computer in order to give it a way to connect to a network, could be an Ethernet card with a RJ-45 connection, or could be a wireless card, or a HPNA card - the most common type is a PCI card with an Ethernet connection. Search NIC

PCI card:

Peripheral Component Interconnect is one of the most common types of connections on your motherboard, for adding internal devices. PCI adapters/cards can be used to connect networking devices, additional ports, sound cards, and some older video cards. Search PCI

PCMCIA:

Personal Computer Memory Card International Association is the term for the connection that laptops use to interface/communicate with add-on cards that slide into the slots on the side; such as network adapters, modems, hard drives, or memory. PCMCIA comes in three different sizes: Types I, II, and III. Search PCMCIA

Router:

A Hardware device that acts as the "conductor" of a network, directing all traffic as for where it should be going by using information such as TCP/IP addresses. The router is usually the device that assigns each network device it's addressed and is responsible for your wireless security, based on its configurations. Search Router 

Computer Networking Tools

Computer Networking using Ethernet Technologies 

Intended to help the average person do computer networking at home with the same techniques used by professionals; 
Everything from:
- How to Guides for setting up your own network,
- Using Wireless, Ethernet, or HPNA,
- Purchase the computer hardware for networking,
- A dictionary of computer networking terms,
- Securing your network with Firewall protection,
- Optimize and Test your internet Speed,
- Share one Internet Connection and share files between computers,
- Check your computer for harmful viruses, spyware, or adware,

Computer Networking is much more than that, of course, and this site hopes to provide the step by step directions to connecting your family's personal computers into a functional, secure home network, even wireless connections, and file and printer sharing.

Types of networks:

HPNA is using the phone jacks and telephone cabling in the walls, an HPNA enabled router and HPNA adapters to connect pcs'.
Wireless is where a wireless router/access point and wireless adapters send a signal to each other, therefore removing the cables connecting the computers to the router.
Ethernet is connecting all your computers to one another using Ethernet cabling, a router, and network cards.

If some of these concepts are unfamiliar to you, this site is designed to explain some of the benefits of computer networking. And make setting up, troubleshooting, and improving your home network more familiar to the basic pc user.

With all your PC's connected on the same network you will be able to "share" files that are on one computer out onto the network so that the other computers will be able to "see" those files and that way be able to access them. And, of course, the same principle applies to a printer that's connected to one pc; It can be "shared" on the network as well and other computers on the network can then print to that one printer.


Computer Networking using Ethernet Technologies 

You can also share One Internet Connection for all your computers and that way you don't have to get separate connections for each pc. (and not pay separate bills)

Here you can also get useful information and tips on how to secure your home computers from outside attacks and viruses. Through the use of firewalls and anti-virus software. Resources are available for getting online virus protection and locations for downloading software to control what type of access takes place from your computer.
And techniques for maintaining your PC's health and performance.

This site is inspired by the work done of today's tech support people who are on the phones every day helping people get fixed.


Computer Networking Guides for Home users, HPNA,Wireless,Ethernet
Computer Networking Guides - Directions and Guides for Ethernet, Wireless, and HPNA. Setting-up a home network using different technologies

Computer Networking using Ethernet Technologies 
Computer Networking using Ethernet cabling to connect your PC's with a router. Directions for setting-up and diagrams

Computer Networking using HPNA Technologies 
Computer Networking using HPNA connections - using Home Phone Line Networking. Directions for setting-up and diagrams

Computer Networking using Wireless Technologies 
Computer Networking How to Guide using Wireless- Directions for the setting-up router and wireless diagrams. 

Help with Microsoft Windows settings for computer networking 
Help to configure Microsoft Windows for computer networking. Various settings and testing in MS XP, 2000, ME and 98se

Computer Networking Resources/Tools and Sites 
Computer Networking Resources/Tools and links to Useful Sites to help the average computer user. The page dedicated to additional resources for maintaining your home computer

Computer Networking Benefits and Features - why home networking 
Computer Networking Benefits and Features such as Internet connection sharing, firewall protection, and File and Printer Sharing. The real reasons for setting up a home network

Computer Networking and Internet Connection Sharing guide to setting up ICS 
Using computer networking to Share one Internet Connection. Microsoft directions for ICS and why there might be an easier way

Computer Network Hardware - Reviews and Descriptions of hardware components 
Offers network hardware descriptions and explains the pros and cons of each device - also links to purchasing at competitive pricing

Dictionary of Computer Networking Terms and Jargon 
Dictionary of computer networking terms and definitions for pc lingo so the average person can understand. Explanations for basic networking terms

Checking and Troubleshooting your Device Manager in Microsoft Windows 
Directions for Checking your Device manager and Troubleshooting problems with New Hardware or Drivers

Configuring DHCP in Microsoft Windows 
Directions for setting up/ configuring DHCP in Microsoft Windows XP, 2000, 98se

How to check IP address in Microsoft Windows 

How to check your IP address in Windows XP, 98se, 2000, ME Basic directions for determining your IP address