Twelve Things You Should Know to Save on Computer Software

Do you want to get quality software at a reasonable price? Whether you work at home or just need good software for your personal computer, you are faced with an almost endless selection of computer software. Sorting through the options can sometimes be a major task. However, if you want to get good, quality software there are several things that you can do that will save you money and headaches.

With the arrival of online marketing, you have more choices than ever. There are a large number of reputable software companies that sell software at significant savings. With a little homework and thought on your part, you can get good quality software that will accomplish your specific task.

In order to save both time and money on computer software, here is a list of twelve things you should do.

1. First, make sure you know as closely as possible the exact task you want your software to accomplish. The more specific you are the better. For example, do you want a very general word processing program to write occasional letters or a more sophisticated word processing software program to run the marketing for your business?
2. Check out the minimum requirements necessary to run the software. You want to make sure it will run on your computer equipment. You should find out how much memory the program takes, what operating systems it will run on and how much disk space is required. Is there any other computer accessory required to use the software?
3. Talk to friends and associates that have used the specific type of software you’re searching for. Ask them where they got the software, how much they paid, how long they’ve used the program, what type of guarantee came with the program, etc. If you have a task, which involves a deadline, like a payroll program, ask them how they were able to get answers to their questions and how long did it take.
4. Search the Internet for reviews on the software. Look at user groups or bulletin boards to see what users are saying about the software. For example, if you’re looking at the QuickBooks business program, type in “QuickBooks Software Review” to locate review information about the program.
5. You should always test the software program before you purchase it. Many reputable companies will allow you to download their software and test it out before you buy. Take advantage of the opportunity to test the program. Enter some data, print some reports, and give the program a real workout. Try as many options as possible. Don’t always follow set procedures. Try to experiment on your own. You want to know what the software does in a real world setting. You want to know what happens when you make a mistake.
6. If the software provides support, you should think of a question about the program that may not be too obvious and ask support for help. You’re much better off to try out support before you truly need help than to wait until you’re in a “must have help” situation. See how long it takes to get an answer. Check out how clear the response is. Ask yourself, “Did this completely resolve the problem for me?”
7. Check out the software warranty and company guarantees. A software company that stands behind their program will usually guarantee their products for a specific period of time. You should get at least a 30-day money back guarantee after purchasing the product. A 90-180 day guarantee is better. Usually, the longer the product warranty, the better the software.
8. Find out how often the company provides updates to their software. Check out the cost for getting the updates. For example, many companies will include updates for a specific period of time with the purchase price of the software. Companies that actively listen to their users update their software. If a computer program has not been updated for a long time, you probably won’t get further updates.
9. If you get a “Freeware” software program, you need to know four things:
First, freeware is a software program that does not cost you any money. That means you will not be able to receive support from the author. You are basically on your own. Sometimes that is good. However, if you have a time sensitive task and run into a software problem, free software may not be your best option. If you miss a deadline and have to pay a penalty of some type, that free software isn’t so cheap after all.
Second, many times freeware is an “introductory” version of a program. That means you may still have to pay for the “complete” program or the ability to use all the program options.
Third, if there is no charge for a program, the program may include software options that gather information about you, your computer, your surfing habits, etc. and then return this information to the company via the Internet. This is sometimes referred to as “Spyware” and can cause some real problems with your computer. When you use a program to eliminate the spyware on your computer, your “free” software program may no longer work.
Finally, if you are fairly computer literate, have no specific deadlines and know that a freeware program does not contain spyware, then, a freeware computer program can be a great bargain.
10. If you get a “Shareware” software program you need to know three things:
First, shareware is a software program that lets you try it out before you buy it. The author is “sharing” the program with you. If the computer shareware program does what you want it to do, then the author expects you to pay for it.
Many shareware programs allow you to use the program for a set period of time. After that period of time, the program (or at least some of the program options) will not continue to work. Don’t make the mistake of entering a lot of important data and then decide you “don’t want to pay” for the program. You could be left high and dry.
Finally, some shareware programs will continue to operate regardless of how long you use them. If you come to rely on a shareware computer program, it is wise to pay the author the nominal fee they usually request. This will help the author continue to develop and enhance the program. Besides, you’ll probably get support and help from the author if you need it.
11. Beware of companies that send you unsolicited emails offering “name brand” computer software at huge discounts. These are often overseas companies selling “illegal” software. You will not get support, but you could get a letter from the company’s lawyer telling you that you’re using a pirated copy of their software. Some people have even reported giving their credit card information to purchase these “great bargains” only to learn weeks later, they had paid for software they never got.
12. Last but not least, always order your computer software from a reputable online company. You’ll experience the best service, the best warranty and the best computer products available.


About the author:
Larry Andrew is an educational consultant, author and publisher of www.ez-software-review.comLearn how to purchase cheap, reliable and quality software for your home, school and business.

What to look for before you purchase spyware software

Huge number of spyware software applications are available in the market, some being offered as shareware while rest as freeware. (Shareware means a software available for download / CD, and can be used for a particular length of time, usually 30 days. Some are disabled as well). Before making a decision to purchase any such software we should check the reliability and should consider various attributes possessed by them and then select the best and the most appropriate one. The various attributes that one should consider to be the most important when purchasing spyware detection and removal software are -

The spyware software should include tools to enhance the ease of spyware detection and removal. The software should be able to offer descriptions of detected spyware so we can determine whether or not to keep each item. The software should also have auto-update and auto-scheduling capabilities. Auto-update facility ensures that we never forget to download latest spyware definition file. Auto-scheduling ensures that the system is scanned for these malicious codes at a defined interval. This means that even is the system user has changed, the computer is still safe from these spywares. There should be "undo" capabilities in case we accidentally delete something we actually need, and many other features as per individual requirements. The product should provide real-time protection from spyware. In other words, the software should help us prevent spyware installation instead of just removing it afterward. The product should be effective at finding and removing the many different types of spyware.

The product should be easy to use. Its features should be user friendly avoiding any technical jargon, not so easily understood by an average computer user. The user interface should be pleasing to look at, and more importantly, should offer the ease of navigation. The product should be easy to download and install, it should be comfortable enough for running and us to get it up without consulting a book or a tech support person.

There should be a help section installed with the product and should offer easy to understand answers to our questions. There should be someone we can call for support, and the support staff should respond quickly to our email questions. With the right solution for removing and detecting spyware in place, you can keep your computer privacy protected and PC ad-free.

Few top most Spyware software are- Spyware Eliminator, Spyware Doctor, Spy Sweeper, CounterSpy, MS AntiSpyware, Ad-Aware, McAfee, Pest Patrol, NoAdware, Spybot S&D. Best Personal Firewalls are- ZoneAlarm, Outpost Pro, Sygate Firewall, Norton Firewall, Norman Firewall, SurfSecret, Windows Firewall, BlackIce, Injoy, McAfee Firewall.


About the author:
Computer security awareness is certainly on the improve however it is still amazing how many computer users leave themselves wide open to malicious attacks. Get more free info at: http://www.nichearticles.com/spyware/

What is Preventive Maintenance Software?

Preventive Maintenance (PM) is defined as scheduled work done on a system to identify and fix any occurring issues before they become problems. The concept of preventive maintenance applies to many different industries. PM is often done on buildings, various types of machines, computers, institutions, as well as personal assets, including finances and property.

A common example of preventive maintenance is a car getting its oil changed. Usually, this is done when the car is in good working order to prevent any future problems resulting from the car running on old oil.

In the past, preventive maintenance was formed solely by personnel, but now computers manage much of the process. Computer programs can schedule the maintenance and send alerts to employees when work is needed. Another name for preventive maintenance software is computer maintenance management software (CMMS). These are software programs that allow users to identify and fix potential problems. Some common uses for preventive maintenance are healthcare facilities, computer hardware, correctional facilities, and personal assets.

Preventive maintenance software works in several ways, depending on what is being maintained, but most types of preventive maintenance software operate on the same principles. The main difference between types of preventive maintenance software for different industries is the asset or equipment being maintained. The core concept behind preventive maintenance for an automobile and a healthcare facility is generally the same. The difference is that an automobile’s engine must be kept in running order, while a healthcare facility’s equipment must be kept sterile.

The price range for preventive maintenance software varies depending on its use. Programs can cost about $60 for some personal asset software to several thousand for software used in correctional institutions. Although much of the scheduling of preventive maintenance is automatic and computerized, it is still important that people keep up with the physical aspects of the maintenance, such as replacing old parts and following the software’s recommendations.

About the author:
Preventive Maintenance Software Info features detailed information on preventive maintenance software for health care and correctional institutions, computer hardware, and personal assets, as well as reviews of preventive maintenance software companies. Preventive Maintenance Software Info is the sister site of Fleet Maintenance Software Web.

How To Recognize The Telltale Signs Of Spyware

Spyware is the software that collects information about your online activities and preferences. The information is then sent to another computer with the intention of selling it to online advertisers.

Spyware and adware can enter your computer through e-mail, downloads or instant messaging. This is a frightening prospect for anyone, who uses the net frequently or constantly downloads products and services online. It is upsetting to think, that someone may be watching your every move, when you are online.

What is Adware?

Adware is software that displays advertisements like banners and pop-ups on your computer. It may also track the preferences of the user without his knowledge. If ad ware keeps building up, on your computer, you may face a deluge of pop-ups, banners and search tool bars, making it difficult for you to work.

Adware infection may change your homepage repeatedly. Mysterious toolbars may appear on your browser. Your computer may run at a noticeably slower speed or there may be other mysterious changes on your computer.

What Are The Signs Of Spyware?

If your computer shows any of the following symptoms, spyware or some other malicious software may have infected it:

* Spyware and other malicious software may add additional toolbars to your browser, which you don't want. Even, if you delete them, they will appear again, each time you restart your computer.

* Pop-up advertisements may appear whenever the computer is turned on, even when you are not online. Some of them may be for adult or other objectionable sites.

* The computer's settings may change mysteriously. Even if the user changes the settings back to the earlier settings, they may revert repeatedly to the new settings. Malicious software may change your homepage or search page settings.

* Spyware and other malicious software are not designed to be efficient. The process of watching a user's activities and displaying advertisements may noticeably slow down, the functioning of a computer or even makes it crash.

If spy ware or ad ware infects your computer, don't despair. You can use any of the free or paid spy ware or ad ware elimination software products, available to detect and eliminate them.

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Click to find a daily updated blog of articles and news about spyware ! Get advice and information about how to protect your computer from attack, and disinfect it.. Click http://www.spyware-101.com/

About the author:

Philippa Smith runs a home business in los angeles. The constant attacks on here computer caused her to learn all about spyware & viruses, and how to deal with them.

What is Software Piracy?

There are several kinds of software piracy. The bottom line is when software is pirated, the developer does not receive compensation for their work.

Effects of Software Piracy

When software is pirated, consumers, software developers, and resellers are harmed. Software piracy increases the risk consumer's computers will be corrupted by defective software and infected with viruses. Those who provide defective and illegal software do not tend to provide sales and technical support. Pirated software usually has inadequate documentation, which prevents consumers from enjoying the full benefits of the software package. In addition, consumers are unable to take advantage of technical support and product upgrades, which are typically available to legitimate registered users of the software. Pirated software can cost consumers lost time and more money.

Developers lose revenue from pirated software, from current products as well as from future programs. When software is sold most developers invest a portion of the revenue into future development and better software packages. When software is pirated, software developers lose revenue from the sale of their products, which hinders development of new software and stifles the growth of the software company.

Kinds of Piracy

End User Piracy - Using multiple copies of a single software package on several different systems or distributing registered or licensed copies of software to others. Another common form of end user piracy is when a cracked version of the software is used. Hacking into the software and disabling the copy protection, or illegally generating key codes that unlocks the trial version making the software a registered version creates a cracked version.

Reseller Piracy - Reseller piracy occurs when an unscrupulous reseller distributes multiple copies of a single software package to different customers; this includes preloading systems with software without providing original manuals & diskettes. Reseller piracy also occurs when resellers knowingly sell counterfeit versions of software to unsuspecting customers.

Indications of reseller piracy are multiple users with the same serial number, lack of original documentation or an incomplete set, and non-matching documentation.

Trademark/Trade Name Infringement

Infringement occurs when an individual or dealer claims to be authorized either as a technician, support provider or reseller, or is improperly using a trademark or trade name.

BBS/Internet Piracy - BBS/ Internet Piracy occurs when there is an electronic transfer of copyrighted software. If system operators and/or users upload or download copyrighted software and materials onto or from bulletin boards or the Internet for others to copy and use without the proper license. Often hackers will distribute or sell the hacked software or cracked keys. The developer does not receive any money for the software the hacker distributed. This is an infringement on the developer's copyright.

Another technique used by software pirates is to illegally obtain a registered copy of software. Pirates purchase the software once and use it on multiple computers. Purchasing software with a stolen credit card is another form of software piracy. Unfortunately there are many kinds of software piracy that has hampered the software industry.

These types of software piracy have hampered the software industry. For the software industry to prosper and further develop useful software for consumers please support and pay for software. This results in better software for all.

To Report Piracy :

Software Information Industry Association

About the author:

Sharon Housley manages marketing for NotePage, Inc. http://www.notepage.net a company specializing in alphanumeric paging, SMS and wireless messaging software solutions. Other sites by Sharon can be found at
www.softwaremarketingresource.com

Email Recovery-Good Software can fix your lost mail trouble

Emails are an essential medium of communication in the fast track world of today. Be it for our personal or for business purposes, emails are indispensable. Loss of emails can bring about anything from a minor loss to devastation, depending on the need of the user. Hence, data recovery vis a vis emails is an absolute must, especially if emails are essential communication tools for one’s business. Data recovery softwares are a viable and dependable option when it comes to effective email recovery. Data recovery softwares function differently for different types of files, which are:

1) Outlook PST Files

2) Outlook Express DBX Files

3) Web Mail

1) Outlook PST Files

PST Files are very complex. So, once data is lost from these files, it is important to recover the data as well as repair them. To recover data the files themselves, these softwares are very helpful. Good software is equipped to repair and restore data from damaged or corrupted Microsoft Outlook file.

Microsoft Outlook stores email messages, contacts, notes and folders on the local drive as a .pst file. The Outlook recovery software scans the damaged .pst file and extracts and saves information in a new usable .pst file, enabling PST Recovery.

The key features of good PST files recovery software are:

* Providing PST Recovery from folders, calendars, contacts, tasks, notes.

* Repairing even the password protected files

* Restoration of formatting from RTF and HTML messages

* Recovering data from encrypted files

* Providing support to repair .pst files.

* Recovering deleted email attachments.

2) Outlook Express DBX Files

Good recovery software can scan, extract and save emails form .dbx files in which Microsoft Outlook Express stores messages and folders in the local drive. It should also be allowed to retrieve accidentally deleted messages from the ‘Deleted Items’ folder in Outlook Express. The .dbx files also need to be repaired so as to enable smooth functioning subsequently.

The key features of good DBX files recovery software are:

* Providing Mail Recovery from Outlook Express dbx files.

* Providing deleted email recovery of dbx files from corrupt media, such as floppy disks, Zip disks, CD ROMs, etc.

* Provides Mailbox repair of dbx files.

* Support to repair dbx files within a size limitation.

* Recovering deleted email attachments.

* Enabling the recovered messages to be opened directly in MS Outlook Express.

* Enabling recovered messages to be saved in the

*.eml file format on any (including network) disks visible by the host operating system.

* Enabling message source view.

3) Web Mail

In order to access a web based email program like Yahoo or Hotmail, one has to use the Internet Browser to log onto a remote computer which stores the emails. When mails from it are deleted, they cannot be recovered. Hence, data recovery software is required to retrieve that data. It is a very complicated procedure, and only messages that have been opened already can be retrieved using a good software.

As the old and clichéd adage goes, prevention I better than cure. So, it is advised that a lot of care be taken. After all, loss of important mails can spell disaster for your business.

About the author:

Emails are an essential medium of communication in the fast track world of today. Be it for our personal or for business purposes, emails are indispensable. Loss of emails can bring about anything from a minor loss to devastation, depending on the need of the user.

Do You Know How To Remove Spyware From Your Computer?

Spyware is rapidly becoming a major problem for Internet users. It is estimated that 9 out of 10 computers are infected with spyware or ad ware or both. Spyware may be responsible for 50 % of all computer crashes. Spyware runs silently and you may not be aware that your every move on the Internet is being observed and recorded.

If a user does not detect and remove spy ware from his computer, all his files may get infected and it may stop working. All his passwords, credit card numbers and other personal information may be stolen before he can realize what is going on. Once spyware has been removed, the computer will run much faster. It is worth while you to find and use the best spyware removal software available.

Features Of Good Spyware Removal Software A few features to consider, while searching for spyware removal software products, are:

* It should offer complete protection from spyware, key loggers, remote acess Trojans (RATS), browser hijackers and ad ware.

* A good spyware program will offer automatic updates, to provide protection from the latest spy ware threats.

* The spyware product should offer technical support, so you can call or e-mail someone, if you have a technical problem.

* A good customer service back up also shows that the manufacturer can be trusted to look after the needs of the customer in the long run.

How Does It Work?

It is very difficult to find and remove spyware software from a computer manually. Spyware protection software detects and removes spyware and ad ware from your computer automatically. It can also protect your computer from data thieves, hackers, malicious e-mail and other threats. There are many free spyware protection software products available. These programs can be used to detect and remove spyware and adware that is already present in your computer. Many types of spyware, install themselves on your computer again, after you have deleted them. Free spyware removal programs can help you to assess the problem. A permanent solution may be to get the best spyware solution product available.

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Click to find a daily updated blog of articles and news about spyware ! Get advice and information about how to protect your computer from attack, and disinfect it.. Click http://www.spyware-101.com/

About the author: Philippa Smith runs a home business in los angeles. The constant attacks on here computer caused her to learn all about spyware & viruses, and how to deal with them.

How To Use Spyware Elimination Software

Spyware elimination software is designed to detect andeliminate spyware. A large number of spyware eliminationsoftware products are available. Some of them are availableas freeware and some as shareware. Shareware can be usedfor a specified period, usually 30 days.

One must evaluate and compare the features of differentspyware elimination software products before selecting one.Some of the features of an effective spyware eliminationsoftware product are:

* It should give a list of detected spyware, to enableusers to allow them to decide, about which ones they wantto delete.

* Auto update ensures that the software automaticallydownloads the latest spyware definition file.

* Auto scheduling means that the system is scanned forspyware at defined intervals automatically.

* The "undo" facility allows the user to remedy accidentaldeletion of useful files.

* The product should provide real-time protection. Itshould prevent installation of spyware, instead of justdeleting it when it is detected.

* The software should be effective in detecting anddeleting, the different types of spyware.

* The product should be easy to download, install, navigateand use.

* Product support ensures that there is someone you cancall or e-mail, whenever you have a problem.

* The right spyware elimination software will ensure yourprivacy and keep your computer free of advertisements.

Some of the most popular spyware elimination softwareproducts are: Spyware Eliminator, Spyware Doctor, MSAntiSpyware, McAfee, Pest Patrol, Spy Sweeper, Counterspy,Ad-Aware, Spybot Search & Destroy etc.

The most popular personal firewalls include McAfeeFirewall, Norman Firewall, Windows Firewall, Surf Secret,Sygate Firewall, Zone Alarm, Outpost Pro, and NortonFirewall etc.

Spyware Eliminator

Spyware Eliminator is one of the most popular spywareelimination software products. It also provides you withanti-virus and anti-Spam capability and prevents malicioussoftware from entering your PC.

It gives users specific threat recommendations and itsconsumer ware facility identifies legitimate ad warecompanies and their software. The user then has the optionto delete this software or to keep it. Spyware Eliminatoris particularly effective in dealing with cleverlyconcealed, self re-generating spyware and adware.

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Click to find a daily updated blog of articles and newsabout spyware ! Get advice and information about how toprotect your computer from attack, and disinfect it.. Click http://www.spyware-101.com/

About the author:Philippa Smith runs a home business in los angeles. Theconstant attacks on here computer caused her to learn allabout spyware & viruses, and how to deal with them.

Healthcare Preventive Maintenance Software

Healthcare facilities such as clinics, hospitals, and biomedical laboratories can benefit greatly if up to date CMMS software is used. Healthcare CMMS programs will help with the maintenance of the building, alerting workers when items such as automatic doors, light fixtures, and plumbing structures are due for checkups.

Another invaluable function that they provide is to help keep track of the condition of various instruments in the facilities. Healthcare organizations deal with several kinds of expensive equipment, such as X-ray machines, adjustable hospital beds, sterilized tools, one-use disposable needles, and countless others. It is important to keep track of the condition of all this equipment, and modern healthcare preventive maintenance software can do just that. Supervisors can keep computerized records of when surgical equipment needs to be sterilized, when certain instruments need to be updated, and when supplies for disposables are running low.

One more important function of healthcare CMMS programs is to keep track of valuable medicines and chemicals. Since many types of medicine are classified as controlled substances due to their addictive nature, it is vital for the healthcare facility to be able to account for how much they have and where it is. This inventory maintenance is often done by an employee physically counting the number of pills or amount of liquid present and then recording it. This process is long, tedious, and has a high potential for error.

Healthcare preventive maintenance software programs can keep track of where controlled substances are stored, how much is present, who has access to them, and when they are administered. This function is especially vital for biomedical facilities that experiment with and produce many different types of medicines and chemicals. Healthcare preventive maintenance software can save healthcare workers much time and effort in their day-to-day jobs. Indeed, facilities can be maintained with a greater degree of accuracy and efficiency when healthcare CMMS is used.

About the author:Preventive Maintenance Software Info features detailed information on preventive maintenance software for health care and correctional institutions, computer hardware, and personal assets, as well as reviews of preventive maintenance software companies. Preventive Maintenance Software Info is the sister site of Fleet Maintenance Software Web.

Adware And The Case Against Bundled Software

Bundling software applications together is a practice much abused by purveyors of adware. The potential for sneaking unwanted software into a bundle of desirable software is obvious. The benefits of bundling software aren't so obvious. Isn't it time to consider dumping the practice of bundling software altogether?

Bundled Software: When Is It Not Adware?

If a user wants a piece of software, why can't he or she be allowed to install it separately? If the bundled software were essential to the functioning of the original software (excluding generic functions such as install, un-uninstall, and documentation), why wouldn't the developer build its functions directly into the original software?

Sure, sometimes there's a software application that clearly complements another application. But for users who do not want the complementary software, having it just means a bloated install file and a needlessly long installation process.

Does the chance that users will want the bundled software ever outweigh the risk of the bundled software being installed without the user noticing? In the case of adware, the technology community is increasingly willing to put the burden of proof on the adware bundlers:

* Cnet's download.com website recently removed any and all software that comes bundled with another piece of software that shows advertising, regardless of how well informed the user is of the bundled software.

* Affiliate networks such as Commission Junction and Kolimbo have either cautioned advertisers against accepting adware distributors into their affiliate programs or kicked them out altogether.

* Many technology law experts are saying that the click-wrap license agreements that supposedly legitimate adware are not proof of informed consent. Some experts even say that such agreements amount to unconscionable contracts: the burden imposed by adware is so great and the benefit offered so negligible.

Adware and Bundled Software: A Modest Proposal

If the spam arms race is any indication, we may soon face even more aggressive attempts to get adware on our computers. There will be even more tortured arguments that bundled adware is installed with users' informed consent. Why not head off any of those arguments right now? Let's push for an industry standard that reputable developers do not bundle software (with a few highly specific exceptions such as documentation, installation, and error reporting).

In the end, by getting rid of bundled software, what do we have to lose except adware?

About the author:

Read more of Joel Walsh's articles on spyware and adware: http://www.spyware-refuge.com

Malware And Antivirus Software

Warning: Most antivirus programs will not protect you against all forms of malignant software (often called "malware") on their own. Find out how to protect yourself.

Sure, your antivirus software will protect you against viruses. It will probably even do a good job against worms. But what Trojans, exploits, backdoors, spyware and the dozen other nasty software parasites?

Malware and Antivirus Software: a History

The war on computer viruses has led to an arms race between the designers of antivirus software and the designers of viruses (you didn't think viruses just created themselves did you?). Some years ago, virus designers responded to ever more successful antivirus software by creating the descendents of viruses, worms, which did not infect files but rather installed themselves directly on the hard drive, making them harder to detect.

The arms race has since led to a total of at least eleven distinct types of what is now called malware, a neologism meaning bad (as in malignant rather than shoddy) software. According to Wikipedia, these eleven types of malware are:

1. Virus
2. Worm
3. Wabbit
4. Trojan
5. Backdoor
6. Spyware
7. Exploit
8. Rootkit
9. Key Logger
10. Dialer
11. URL injection

There's a twelfth kind of malware: adware, which Wikipedia considers simply to be a subset of spyware.

Why Antivirus Software Isn't Enough for Malware

As you can see, makers of antivirus software have their work cut out for them if they're going to keep every instance of malware off your system. As a result, antivirus software makers have often had to pick their battles. Adware, whose makers often claim they are doing nothing illegal or even questionable, often gets treated more lightly.

Even when antivirus software makers do come out with a product that fights all twelve or so kinds of malware, responding to each new instance of malware to come on the market isn't easy. First the malware has to be identified, which means someone's computer, and probably tens of thousands of computers, will be infected first. Then, the malware has to be dissected. Then a removal program and a filter must both be written. Then the removal program and filter must be tested to make sure they work, and that they don't interfere with any other functions of the antivirus software or the computer itself. When a fix for the virus is out, it then has to be loaded into an antivirus software update and transmitted to every single computer worldwide that has the antivirus software installed.

The speed with which antivirus software makers are able to deliver updates for newly discovered malware would impress even Santa Claus. Yet there's still a crucial window of one to a few days between when the new malware has reached a critical mass of thousands of computers, and when the update is released. If your antivirus software is not set to check for updates automatically every hour or so, that window opens even wider.

Practically speaking, then, you're better off having more than one line of defense against malware. Even if two different anti-malware programs utilize the exact same database, there might be a crucial difference in the speed of getting updates. It makes sense to back up your antivirus software with anti-spyware software. When you consider that dedicated anti-spyware software developers make protection against the non-virus forms of malware their stock-in-trade, you can see why anti-spyware software is so essential. In fact, you should strongly consider having two anti-spyware programs running on your computer at all times, since the gap in updates between two anti-spyware programs can be even longer than for two antivirus programs.

After all, with a dozen kinds of malware out there, shouldn't you at least have two pieces of software to fight them?

About the author:
Joel Walsh writes for http://www.spyware-refuge.comon how to remove spyware: http://www.spyware-refuge.com?spyware adware blocker [Publish this article on your website! Requirement: live link for above URL/web address w/ link text/anchor text: "spyware adware blocker" OR leave this bracketed message intact.]

Beating Adware | The Sneakiest Software

Promoters of adware, software that shows advertising on a user's computer, use some cunning tricks to get you to install their software on your machine. Here's what to look out for. Adware is, by definition, something reasonable people don't want on their computers. That's why malware can't just come out and ask people to install it. Often, the computer owner is completely unaware of it being installed. But not always. When adware doesn't want to sneak in through an open window, it will try to trick you into letting it in through the front door. Don't think you could be tricked? Don't be so sure until you've checked out these most common ways people have been tricked into allowing malware to be installed on their machines.

Adware Installation Trick 1: Piggybacking

• How it works: malware may come bundled with a legitimate piece of software the user actually wants, such as a game or emoticon. The malware is merely labeled "companion software," without any indication of what it will do.

• How to fight it: be very suspicious of any software that comes bundled with other software. Don't installed software that comes bundled with other software unless you know everything that the bundled software does. After all, if the bundled program has anything to do with the program you actually want, why couldn't the software developer just get both programs' functionalities into a single piece of software? Software developers are now very sensitive to malware concerns and will provide a lengthy explanation of just why the bundled software is necessary, in the cases when they actually do need to use bundled software.

Adware Installation Trick 2: Bait and Switch

• How it works: since people are getting more and more suspicious of bundled software, the malware's developers may simply label it as valuable software, for instance, a browser plugin that supposedly accelerates web browsing (but in reality only shows ads).

• How to fight it: again, a suspicious mind is useful in avoiding malware. Ask yourself some questions:

1. What will this software actually do? Malware often comes with very fuzzy claims attached. Sure, it says it will improve your browsing experience, but how? Often, this improved browsing experience just means a browsing experience with more advertising.
2. If the software is so great, why is it being given away free? Most commonly, software is only given out free in two cases: if it's OpenSource (designed by a community of developers and not proprietary--OpenSource software is always clearly labeled as such); or simply a come-on for a fuller-featured version of the software. If neither case is true, there's a real chance the software is financed by adware.

Adware Installation Trick 3: Outright Lying

• How it works: malware may even be labeled as something else entirely, such as a well-known piece of software or a crucial component of the computer operating system.

• How to fight it: this is the trickiest malware of all, and requires extreme caution. You don't want to start deleting any of your program files, much less your system registry entries, unless you're absolutely sure it's malware. Plenty of overzealous parasite hunters have shot their own machines to bits this way. This is one case where you want to be using an anti-spyware program, and preferably a second anti-spyware program to provide a second opinion.

Getting Rid of Adware

Adware is so tricky that trying to uninstall it by yourself could be like a trip into the Matrix. Luckily, there are good anti-spyware programs that tackle adware as well--after all many adware programs are also spyware since they monitor your internet usage. True, it may feel like adding insult to injury to have to install more software to get rid of software you never meant to install in the first place. But sometimes you just have to fight fire with fire.

About the author:Joel Walsh has written a companion article on stealth tactics used by adware: http://www.spyware-refuge.com?adware protection [Publish this article on your website! Requirement: live link for above URL/web address w/ link text/anchor text: "adware protection" OR leave this bracketed message intact.]

9 Steps to Protect your MS Windows System from Viruses

Nowadays as the Internet and other networks are greatly developed computer viruses are distributed rapidly and intensively. Everyday several new viruses capable to damage considerably your computer system arise. Anti-virus specialists work hardly to make updates their software against new viruses as soon as possible. The viruses can get inside computer in different ways. That is why there is no simple method to protect system. Only series of measures can give you reliable protection from the infection. Below are 9 steps to protect MS Windows based PC system from viruses.

1. Make regular backups. It should be said that there is no absolutely safe way of protection. Virus creators regularly find holes in new computer products to use them for infection of computer systems. Some dangerous viruses can considerably damage data files or even erase entire file system. Make regular backups of your data files to separate file storage device. It can be separate hard drive, flash card, compact disc or another file storage device which you choose. To ease the procedure you can use some automatic backup software. And be ready if the system will die because of virus infection.

2. Be ready to reinstall your system if it dies because of viruses. Get distributives of your operation system and distributives of software which you use and keep them together, for instance, on a set of CDs not far away from you. In this case if virus infection will cause unrecoverable system failure you can rapidly reinstall your working medium.

3. Protect your network connection with Firewall. Firewall is a software which blocks suspicious potentially dangerous connections to preventing viruses from network to penetrate into your system. Windows XP system has quit simple but reliable built-in firewall. You can enable it as follows. 1) in Control Panel, double-click Networking and Internet Connections, and then click Network Connections. 2) Right-click the connection on which you would like to enable firewall, and then click Properties. 3) On the Advanced tab, check the option to Protect my computer and network. If you need more flexible control of connections with network you can get and install more advanced firewall software like Norton Personal Firewall or Outpost Firewall. If you use this software you have ability to permit or to block particular connections and to monitor network activity.

4. Use antivirus software. Install antivirus software which will scan your system searching and erasing viruses on a regular basis. Leaders in antivirus software products for Windows systems are Norton Antivirus, McAfee, Kaspersky Anti-Virus and PC-cilin.

5. Regularly update operating system. Windows XP has built-in automatic update service. It regularly contacts Microsoft server to find updates and notifies you if updates are ready to be installed. Updates are important because hackers regularly find holes in operating system which are often used by virus creators.

6. Don't install and don't run suspicious software. Check new programs which you are going to install with anti-virus software. Don't download software from suspicious websites. To download software always seek website of software creator or official distributor. Do not open applications received by email from unknown persons.

7. Limit access to your computer. Protect enter to system with password.

8. If you use Internet Explorer, consider moving to another browser. As IE is the most distributed browser today virus creators actively use defects in its security system to infect computers. Infection may arise if you will visit webpage which contains invisible harmful code. You are more safe if you use less known browser only because virus creators do not pay much attention to it. Major IE competitors Firefox and Opera browsers provide now the same comfortable interface and range of services for working on the Web.

9. Use spam protection. Viruses are often distributed via email. Switch on spam filters in your email box to block spam receiving. If you need assistance with using of the filters you can ask your email service provider.

About the author:Evgeny Kovalenko is the Editor of FSSD computer software directory with free submission service for software developers and distributors.

Why Do I Need Anti Virus Software For My Computer?

If you’ve recently purchased a computer, or are just learning about using email and the internet, you may have heard about computer viruses and anti-virus software. You may be wondering if this is something that you should be concerned about, and if so, what you should do about it. This article will attempt to answer these questions for you. First, you may be wondering just what a computer virus is. Basically a computer virus is one of many types of small programs that install themselves on your computer without your consent. Usually they enter your program through an email, or while you are browsing a website. When these programs run, usually without you knowing, they can cause all types of problems with your computer. Some viruses can be mildly annoying, slowing down your computer as they use your computer’s resources for another purpose. Others can be very dangerous, collecting your personal information and sending it to another party, or damaging your hard-drive. True to their name, viruses are able to use your internet connection and email program and send themselves to the computers of other people you know, spreading themselves just like a contagious disease. Because of this, just like the health of your body, when it comes to computer viruses, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. It is much easier to prevent viruses from entering your computer than it is to get rid of them and cure your computer once it becomes infected. This is why Anti-Virus software is important. Once you realize that you need anti-virus software installed and running on your computer, you’ll have to choose which one to purchase and install. This can be a complicated process, but here are some tips to make it a bit easier. First, check your computer to see if it came with anti-virus software. Many new computers are shipped with anti-virus programs already to go on them, you just need to turn them on. Check your instruction manual to see if this is the case with your computer. Check with the vendor. If you purchased your computer from a local retailer, check with them to see what anti-virus program they recommend. They should be more than willing to help you and may even be able to provide you with a discount since you purchased a computer from them. Once you have your anti-virus installed and running on your computer, be sure to contact the software’s support if you have any questions. It is also important to keep your software updated. Many of these programs will automatically update themselves when you are online. This is very important since new viruses are always appearing and you want to make sure your computer is protected. About the author:Angie Noack is a business strategist with a sharp edge for technology. With her unique ability to combine these two skills, she's able to help businesses save time and increase profits. You can find her online at http://softwaresoftwaresystems.com

What Is Adware?

Adware is one of many "malwares" or malicious software programs that are unknowingly installed on your computer when you visit online sites and download freebies. When you use share files or visit sites with free downloads of wallpaper, videos, or music, some of these sites will send along adware software with your download. These malwares are a rapidly growing threat to all computer systems. It is estimated that in the first three months of 2005 over 80% of computer users had some type of malware software program running on their computer, without their knowledge. Although it is much less a threat to your computer and information than spyware is, what adware will do is cause pop up banners and advertisements to appear on your computer. These advertisements are displayed on your computer no matter what program you might be using. What the people who place this type of nuisance software on you computer say is that adware advertising helps them to recover costs and allows them to offer you those freebies you want. What you want to do to stop adware from appearing on your computer is to first run an anti-adware program. Run this program on demand regularly. Along with an anti-adware software program run your regular computer virus scan on demand also. Check the security level on your computer. You security level setting should be at least medium to help protect you from unwanted downloads. Do not download free files from the internet, period. When downloading any software read the end-user license agreement. Some of these agreements will state that when you download their software you are also agreeing to accept a downloaded spyware that may be placed on your computer at the same time. Be aware of threats to your computer, and your personal information.

This article courtesy of http://www.adware-eliminator-guide.net

Spyware: What It Is and How to Combat It

Spyware is software or hardware installed on a computer without the user's knowledge which gathers information about that user for later retrieval by whomever controls the spyware.

Spyware can be broken down into two different categories, surveillance spyware and advertising spyware. Surveillance software includes key loggers, screen capture devices, and trojans. These would be used by corporations, private detectives, law enforcement, intelligence agencies, suspicious spouses, etc.

Advertising spyware is software that is installed alongside other software or via activex controls on the internet, often without the user's knowledge, or without full disclosure that it will be used for gathering personal information and/or showing the user ads. Advertising spyware logs information about the user, possibly including passwords, email addresses, web browsing history, online buying habits, the computer's hardware and software configuration, the name, age, sex, etc of the user.

As with spam, advertising spyware uses the CPU, RAM, and resources of the user's computer, making the user pay for the costs associated with operating it. It then makes use of the user's bandwidth to connect to the internet and upload whatever personal information it has gathered, and to download advertisements which it will present to the user, either by way of pop up windows, or with the ad banners of ad-supported software. All of this can be considered theft in the cases of advertising spyware that installs without disclosure.

And while anti-virus software like Symantec's Norton Anti- Virus or McAfee's ViruScan can offer some protection, one of the best ways to combat spyware is with anti-spy software. The free version of Ad-aware does not proactively protect against spyware infestation. You have to start the Ad-aware application and initiate a scan to detect spyware. But the paid version, Ad-aware Plus does remain alert in the background, like Spybot, to deflect any attempts at infestation. In recent tests, Ad-aware Plus and Spybot both protected systems extremely well.

If you haven't already done so, I highly recommend installing Microsoft's Service Pack 2. SP2 tightens your PC's security with a new Windows Firewall, an improved Automatic Updates feature, and a pop-up ad blocker for Internet Explorer. Plus, the newly minted Security Center gives you one easy-to-use interface for keeping tabs on your PC's security apps.

There are also other steps you can take to protect against spyware. One simple step is to switch from Microsoft's browsers, which have security holes for spyware programs to exploit. A good alternative is Mozilla Firefox. Another not- so-simple step is switching to the Mac or Linux operating systems, which don't have spyware problems.

About the author:Dean Phillips is an Internet marketing expert, writer, publisher and entrepreneur. Questions? Comments? Dean can be reached at mailto: dean@lets-make-money.net
Visit his website at: http://www.lets-make-money.net

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Software For Your Kids

Computers are all the rage today for people of all ages including children. There are many different types of software that you can choose from when it comes to picking something for your children to enjoy on the computer. Depending on the age bracket of your children you'll have to take some time to choose software that does what you want it to do.

For the younger child aged three to five there is software that features some of their favorite television characters such as Dora the Explorer or Bob the Builder. Your children will be both entertained and educated as they play games, learn the alphabet, and learn to count. Software for very young children is easy for them to play so that you're not always coming to their assistance whenever they press a wrong key.

Software for older children aged five to ten has even more interactive features than software for the younger child. You can buy software that is exclusively for learning and software that will only provide entertainment. Most software comes with a rating to let you know that it doesn't contain any material that is inappropriate for children. Some types of software for this age group of children include puzzle games, software for learning a second language, math and science software, video game software, software for the artist, and software that allows your child to connect with the internet and play games with other children around the world.

Software for teens is something that you'll need to supervise a little more closely since much of the software on the market can be objectionable and will often test the morals and virtues that you are trying to teach your children. When you buy software for your teen make sure that you take a good long look at what the software is all about, since many of the software games can feature a large amount of violence. There are, of course, software programs for your teen that are educational as well as fun and that they can use to enhance their schoolwork.

With so many different software choices out there how do you know that you're making the right choices? Check out some of the parental listings that can be found on the internet. Many parent websites will offer you advice and ratings for much of the new software that comes out each month. This way you can be assured that other parents are approving a certain piece of software before you make your purchase.

Keep in mind that you should always limit the amount of time that your children spend on the computer. Children should be encouraged to spend just as much time playing outdoors as they do playing and learning on the computer.

About the author:

Zack Macchio is a software enthusiast and webmaster of "Software - Fone Software", a top Internet directory for software resources. Get more great software tips and tricks at: http://www.fonesoftware.com