Tech Tips (a work in progress)

1) Help! My computer's infested with some virus or spyware or something!

A) Go to http://housecall.antivirus.com. Free online scanner for viruses and spyware from TrendMicro. Once it says you're clean (you may have to run it a few times) proceed to B) and C).
B) Go to www.lavasoftusa.com to get Ad-Aware. WARNING: there are other products out there with similar names. Most of these in fact INSTALL spyware, instead of removing it. Don't get it wrong. It's free, so what are you waiting for? It requires occasional updating to catch the newest apyware applications.
C)  Go to http://free.grisoft.com for the AVG free antivirus. USE THE HOUSECALL as mentioned above BEFORE installing - some viruses are smart enough to notice you installing antivirus software, and can trigger destructive events, like formatting your hard drive. Note that it's free only for home use, if you need something for work, you need to pay. Don't forget, antivirus programs need updating, so if you get a message that says something like "Your antivirus definitions are out of date," update them!

2) Isn't there some way I can reduce the risk of bad software being installed on my machine?

A) Yes. A big problem with Windows XP (and other versions of Windows) is that they don't force you to create a limited user account. So, what you need to do is create a limited user account. This can be done most easily in the "Users" item in the Control Panel. While you're at it, assign a password to the built-in Administrator account, and use that account only for installing software and devices and so forth . Some programs might not like to run as a limited user, but since XP has been out for years now (and 2000 and NT before it) most developers are now writing code that will let you install the program an Administrator and then run as a user. If you are having problems, contact the software manufacturer and ask for help.

B) Get a hardware firewall. They're cheap now, I see them at yard sales for $5 and new for $40 or less.If you have dial-up,  be sure the Windows Firewall is enabled.