Thinking Safety At Home

Corporations spend large amounts on protecting their important data. Private users or those with home businesses also need to think safety and security.

Two broad concerns can be address without great effort:

Backing up and safeguarding data

First line of defense is a steady schedule of backing up or archiving key data. Backups made to tape devices, CD-RW or JAZ drives are essential. Copies can be placed outside the home or in a safe vault for further protection.

Many Web sites also allow online backup of personal or business data. See sites such as Atrieva.com or idrive.com.

Placing one’s computer where others can use it opens other opportunities for mischief or misuse. Get some peace of mind by using log-in passwords. If you leave the machine for extended periods, also create screensaver passwords.

Network protection

Anyone using the Internet regularly opens the door to potential invasion or data compromise.

The critical preventative tool against viruses is buying and upgrading first-rate virus software. Anyone who also keeps their PC connected to the Internet for long periods faces potential data snooping or system skulking. A host of firewall tools have been developed and are easily installed to protect against snoops or hackers. Free versions of those tools are easily found through search engines, or by trying www.listsoft.com.

Another level of security for email messages is relying on encryption software. Some e-mail programs, such as Outlook Express, provide built-in encryption so others can’t read sensitive messages.

There are a host of other programs, such as PGP (Pretty Good Privacy) to get the same results. (See www.pgp.com for helpful hints on data protection.) Those with always-on connections - such as cable or DSL - also face a threat of intrusion and data-tampering. Solutions are available; contact your connection provider and ask for assistance.

Or go to www.speedguide.net/Cable- modems/Index.shtml for tips and guidelines.