Path Technology

The world is going mobile. If you have been bitten by the "notebook bug", perhaps it's time to think about the security of the computer itself, and more importantly, the data that is on it!

1. Basic notebook security measures

Choose a secure operating system and lock it down by using secure passwords. Take advantage of encrypted folders now available in Windows XP and Mac OS X. Lock your screen when you walk away from it, or if it's left on in your hotel room.

Do you suddenly have some strange computer activity? Here are some things to rule out before assuming too quickly that your computer has a virus.

Many simple problems may make you think that your computer has a virus. By the process of elimination, you can often rule out some simple troubles before assuming that your computer is affected by a virus, spyware, or other "malware":

Are your better off using a typewriter? Well, of course not, but inefficiencies in using your word processor may make you wonder. Here's some ways to increase your efficiency.

One way to improve your word processing skills and save time is to learn some simple key commands for some of the more commonly used functions. Another tip is to configure your word processor to behave more to your liking. Let's explore both these ideas in Microsoft Word.

We see warning labels EVERYWHERE. Now you're seeing them on your keyboard, mouse, and monitor. They're strongly worded too! At times your computer can be aggravating, but can it HURT you?

Computer ergonomics is about things that you can do to make working on a computer more comfortable, less fatiguing, and safer. As some people are getting repetitive motion injury, or just plain tired, using a computer, here are some things for you to consider:

Your computer has seemed to slow down, so what do you do next? Add memory? Replace the hard disk? Before you make changes to your system, the Performance Tool can help you to see inside.

The Performance Tool in Microsoft Windows has "counters" which can measure specific computer activities that you can analyze. Before you make a major change to you system, do some meaningful analysis:

An uninterruptible power supply (UPS) may be all that comes between your computer and nasty power problems. It's also nice to be able to save your work when the power fails!

No longer an esoteric computing peripheral, a UPS is an essential part of any computer system. This is true of even for a desktop computer, not just a server. With UPS prices at an all time low, there is really no excuse not to have one.

If your system clock starts to lose time, or if your computer is more than 4 or 5 years old, the internal battery may need to be replaced.

Many of your computer's important functions rely on it's internal clock being accurate. Each file is time-and-date "stamped" with, depending on the operating system, the creation date, the modification date, and the access date.

Programs like file backup and directory synchronization (for quick and easy data backups) really need this data to be correct.

Excess heat can shorten the life of your computer. The most common causes of excess heat are dust and dirt. Clogged vents can keep heat-dissipating air from moving through the case.

If your computer is in a clean environment, an annual cleaning should be adequate. If your computer is in a less that perfect environment, you should clean your computer more often. Always turn off and unplug any components. Liquid cleaners should be applied to a soft cloth. Never apply a liquid cleaner directly.

The world doesn't sit still, and neither should your computer. It's generally a good idea to keep it 'up-to-date'.

You hear it all the time - keep your computer current with regular updates. Here are a few important reasons that a hardware or software manufacturer will issue updates:

Am I getting the most from my monitor and video card? What is the proper setup for my monitor? How can I see more columns on my spreadsheet!?

Many of us are confused regarding the difference between the physical size of our computer's monitor (such as 15", 17", etc.,) vs. the resolution of the video controller (640x480, 800x600, 1024x768, etc.).

The explanation is quite a bit simpler than you might think.