There are some main topics we are going to cover, which include:

PREEMPTIVE

Firewall / Network Security
Ah yes, the infamous Windows XP firewall.  You may hear a lot of negative things about using the Windows XP firewall, but for the sake of not having any compatibility issues, this is by far your best bet!  The purpose of turning this on is to keep the baddies out.  Essentially, you are locking the front door to your house.

First, turn it on:  START > CONTROL PANEL > NETWORK CONNECTIONS > LOCAL AREA CONNECTION > PROPERTIES > ADVANCED tab > SETTINGS > select ON

While in this screen, click on the EXCEPTIONS tab.  Make sure that the following ARE NOT checked:

• File and Printer Sharing
• Remote Assistance
• Remote Desktop

Click OK and you should be good to go.  Be sure to never install TWO software firewalls on the same computer!!!

Internet Explorer Browser Security
Install SpyBot S&D on your computer which is available FREE at: http://www.safer-networking.org/en/index.html

During the installation of SpyBot make sure to enable “TeaTimer” which will actively monitor your browsing and prevent any identifiable nasties from getting on your computer.  Another major benefit to SpyBot is it “immunizes” your computer from certain known attacks.  You can, through the SpyBot interface, have the software immunize your computer from all known threats.  This is a great feature in itself!  If you are ever concerned that you may have caught something, you can always run a SpyBot scan of your computer.

POSTMORTEM

Antivirus Solutions
I suggest and use AVG for my antivirus solution.  I have used many AV solutions in the past, but AVG offers the most ease, usability, and effectiveness compared to any mainstream solution on the market for home users.  AVG has a FREE edition which is excellent and automatically updates and scans your computer on a daily basis.  It can be downloaded and installed here: http://free.grisoft.com

Malware Removal Solutions
Okay, so we have SpyBot installed, but why would we want another solution?  Aside from the fact it is FREE, you should be acutely aware that a single solution cannot cover every spyware, adware, or malware floating around on the Internet.  It can be beneficial to use another product just to cover your bases.  Lavasoft’s Ad-Aware Personal edition is just the solution for this and can be downloaded an installed from: http://www.lavasoft.de/software/adaware/

Whenever you sense that your computer has been compromised or just when you have some free time and want to take extra caution against malware, update Ad-Aware and run a scan on your computer.

CONCLUSION

With the right amount of care it is possible to extend the time between operating system re-installations.  If your system has too much damage and you need to recover it for whatever reason, I do not suggest a do it yourself approach.  Always contact a professional if you are worried about losing more than your MP3s and bad pictures of yourself.  A good source for professional help is http://www.GeekPatch.com and don’t forget to give coupon code PCTB0306 to get a discount from here!  Enjoy and happy surfing!  :-)

  If you need further assistance, please consult our techs on our message boards.