The Internet can be a dangerous place if you don't follow a few basic safe computing practices. Viruses, spyware, malware, and all sorts of pests threaten your every move these days. It is said that it takes a newly installed unpatched Windows computer 10 minutes, on average, to become infested with these bugs. There are ways to work around this and it's not that difficult to do. If you follow these safe computing practices, your risk of infection will be greatly diminished.
Have Service Pack 2 Installed
If you ever happen to reinstall Windows XP, make sure you visit our article on installing Service Pack 2 at the same time as Windows installation. If you already have Windows installed and don't plan on reinstalling it, you better be updated.
To check if your computer is updated or not go to your Start Menu and then Control Panel. Then click the icon labeled System. You will get a screen like the following.
If it says you have Service Pack 2 installed. Great. If not, you better install it as soon as possible through Windows update. For more information on Windows update please see our guide to using Windows Update.
Use the Firefox web browser
Using the popular Firefox web browser is sure to cut down on many nasty bugs. Firefox does not allow web sites to install programs without your approval. (Service Pack 2 fixes this issue in IE as well). A new version of Internet Explorer is to be due out soon which will supposedly clean up IE 6's act.
Get Firefox
Don't Accept Attachments
Don't open attachments from your emails or your IM sessions unless you are absolutely sure that the source is credible and that you need to open it.
Install a Firewall
Installing a Firewall closes your computer off to outside computers that are trying to access your computer's open ports and it keeps programs on your computer from telling other computers about what you are doing.
Install a Virus Scanner AND keep it updated
Keeping your Virus Scanner updated is crucial. If it is not updated regularly, it is almost useless. If you suspect that you have a virus but do not have a virus scanner installed try an online virus scanner and see what it picks up. You should also try a Spyware scanner, as the spyware may be what is slowing your computer down.
Install a Spyware Scanner
Installing a trusted spyware scanner is more necessary than ever. Make sure that you download a reputable spyware scanner as some spyware scanners are spyware themselves. Adware and Spybout Search and Destroy are very reputable and free.
Read the Terms of Use
Before you install a new program, read its terms of use. Many free programs include spyware as a way to make the author money. Don't use these software packages unless it is absolutely critical that you do so.
Use Common Sense
Above all, use common sense. If something looks illegitimate, chances are it is.
Well, those are my safe computing tips. Good luck and stay safe.