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Most of us know
the importance of keeping our AntiVirus files and definitions updated but
can you remember the last time you updated your Operating System? (OS).
Besides keeping hackers out and your computer running smoother… it’s
FREE!
Think of it
this way. Let’s use your Windows 98 OS as an example. It came out in
1998 when the hottest processors (CPU’s) were Pentium II’s or AMD
K6-2’s. By today’s standards, these were turtles. Chip sets and BUS
speeds have increased dramatically as well. The old OS’s were geared
towards these older, slower computers and their peripherals. With the
advent of faster newer technology, more and faster memory and larger and
faster hard drives, faster and more graphical games and software, etc.,
operating systems also improved with things called ‘patches’ and
updates. Microsoft, as well as other OS software companies, continually
update their operating systems. These updates are generally available on
their Web Sites at no charge. The catch? If you haven’t updated your OS
for a long time or never, it can take quite a while. Even hours. But
it’s worth it!
If you’re
running a Microsoft OS (9x, ME, 2000 or XP) start with your ‘Start’
button and either look at the top of the menu that appears or go to
‘Programs’, (“All Programs” in XP), then look for a menu item
called “Windows Update”. Make sure that you’re on line first and
then click the “Windows Update” item and follow the on screen
instructions. Usually all the defaults are correct.
Microsoft will
first ask your permission or let you know that it is going to inspect your
computer and identify which updates you need. After which it will inform
you of the ones available. If you have the time, it’s best to let it do
all of them. Of course if your Internet Service Provider (ISP) bumps you
quite often, you’ll have to perform this process multiple times until
it’s completed.
Besides
improving the operation of your computer, these patches will also close
the “Back Doors” that let hackers in to your computer. Back doors were
‘bugs’ in the OS when it was released. These patches will close these
back doors to hackers of your computer.
Keep in mind
though, a hacker can only gain control of your computer by first sending
you a virus with a worm attached which will take advantage of the loop
holes and open the back door to your computer. The ONLY defense against
the virus/worm is a good AntiVirus software package. (See Viruses, October
2003).
So… keep
your OS up to date and you computer running faster and with less errors.
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