Technical Tips

• Antivirus software is essential, especially if your PC has internet access.  There are currently over 200 new viruses being discovered every month!  Here are some symptoms that may show that your PC has a virus:  1.  Your PC slows down, everything takes longer than it used to.  2.  You have run out of resources for no apparent reason (memory, disk space).  3.  Disk access is excessive.  4.  Unexplained files appear on your hard drive.  5.   Your PC locks up for no given reason.  6.  Your PC does not boot (your hard drive may have been corrupted such that the computer will no longer boot up).  7.  Files are missing. 

• Remove all Spyware.  If your PC is running slower, you are getting lots of junk email, or lots of pop-ups, chances are you have spyware on your PC.  This means that information about your web browsing and about you is being collected.  Letting spyware reside on your machine can be dangerous!  Run the anti-spyware programs often!

• Keep your PC clean.  Dust and animal hair will shorten the life of your computer!