1. Most websites
that have downloadable documents use the Adobe .pdf format. In this way, it
doesn't matter what software that you have on your computer... anyone can view
the document. Adobe viewer is a free download, and works with all but the oldest
of PC and Macs. You can download a copy by clicking the link below.
2. In this day
and age, Instant messaging, or "IM"ing on the computer is a way of life. But
which format do you use? AOL Instant Messager is probably the most popular, but
Yahoo works great too, and MSN and ICQ have great features also. If you'd like
to use them all, at the same time, with the option to use a secure, encrypted
"tunnel", then try Trillion! You can learn more and download a free copy here:
3. If you have a
computer online, then antivirus software is a must. Most antivirus software
works great, until your subscription for updates runs out. Hackers are
constantly updating viruses, so you need to constantly update your antivirus
software. One great antivirus program that is available as a free download for
PCs is AVG Antivirus. The best part is that you can have it update itself
monthly, weekly, or every day... automatically! (One word of warning; it doesn't
play well with others, so uninstall any other antivirus software before you
install AVG. Click here to get it:
4. Equally as
important, especially if you use a broadband connection such as DSL or Cable, is
a good solid firewall. Don't depend on the firewall that is built into windows,
or in your modem. Some firewalls drive you nuts by blocking anything and asking
you to "OK" it. ZoneAlarm has an award winning firewall that "learns" what is ok
and what is not, so that after a few hours of use, you never know that it's
there (unless it stops something "bad"). Oh, and it's free. Click below to get
it.
5. Sometimes your
computer starts slowing down, getting hit with all sorts of popup ads, and
generally acting uncooperative. Many times this is because some websites install
"spyware" when you visit them. This could be simply so that they can see what
you are looking at on their site, or for more heinous purposes (like getting
credit card numbers). A firewall helps prevent identity theft, but many times
you need a good Spyware remover to reclaim your computer. We think that one of
the best is Ad-Aware, which you can download free at:
Ad-Aware Personal
