Free Website Content - Be Prepared, In the Event Computer
Disaster Strikes
Be Prepared, In the Event Computer Disaster
Strikes
By S. Housley
Computers
Businesses and individuals alike have all grown to rely
on computers. The reliance is never more apparent than when
something happens to the horrid little box that makes our
lives easier. We expect computers to react a certain way,
in certain situations. It nearly always comes as a surprise
when the beloved little box, know as a computer, refuses
to boot up. Probably even more shocking, is the dawning
that we've neglected to backup or prepare for the unforeseen
disaster that has just been thrust upon us.
Regardless of the number of times you have
experienced the dread of being unable to access the information
trapped in the god-awful computerized contraption, we are
always invariably unprepared.
The reality of it is that computers, not only
contain moving parts, but they like other machines, they
are prone to failure at some point in their lives. Not only
can hardware failures occur, but viruses can also corrupt
data making it impossible to retrieve. Regardless of the
litany of words used to bully the box into behaving, the
truth is that the only offence is a good defense.
So how do you prepare for a computer tragedy?
Prepare for the Worst
In structuring an offense it's important to realize the
power of reinforcements: backups are invaluable and will
save countless hours of shameless degradation. Be sure that
you backup data and files on a regular basis, there are
a number of tools that will automate the process.
It is critical that you check the backup log
to ensure that a backup was completed properly. I cannot
begin to describe the devastation felt when it is realized
that though there was a backup process in place, the backup
never actually occurred. Realizing this during a restore
is likely to push any computer lover over the edge. It is
a good idea to store a weekly back up off site. This is
especially helpful, if an unforeseen fire or a natural disaster
strikes.
Protection is critical!
Build A Wall
If the computer has Internet access, either a hardware or
software firewall (or combination there of) must be used.
The firewall creates a barrier between a computer and the
world. Without a firewall, Internet worms are capable of
exploiting security holes and are able to create what are
referred to as 'back doors'. These back doors can then be
used to gain access to personal information stored on the
computer, including password files, and financial information.
Trust No One
If you are an avid Internet surfer or downloader be sure
to scan any downloads prior to opening or installing. Up
to date anti-virus software should be used to ensure, that
computers do not become infected with malicious viruses
that will ruin your life. Scan any email attachments prior
to opening regardless of whom they are from. Files that
end with .scr, .pif and .exe can contain viruses that will
wreak havoc with your data and emotional well being.
Preparedness goes a long way, and a little
foresight will ensure that, while a computer might be an
inconvenience, you will not be defeated.
Preparation Resources
Anti-virus Software -http://www.military-software.com/anti-virus-software.htm
Firewalls - http://www.monitoring-software.net/intrusion-detection-software.htm
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 and additional
articles can be found at http://www.softwaremarketingresource.com
, and http://www.small-business-software.net
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is included and the links are active. A courtesy copy of
the issue or a link to any online posting would be greatly
appreciated send an email to sharon@notepage.net
.
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available at http://www.small-business-software.net/free-website-content.htm
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