Sometimes we just have to use a public computer, whether it is in school, the library, coffee shops, airports, or wherever. This does not mean our online safety be jeopardized. Here are 10 tips on using a public computer safely. Bottom line is do not enter anything sensitive on a public computer.
We have used the active security monitor (ASM) for a few months. The current product version is 2.0.0.18. Over time ASM has gotten better at detecting whether a particular product is up-to-date. Sometimes it has said a critical update was available for Windows but it turned out to be an update for Windows Defender.
We turned off the antivirus monitoring in our firewall; no reason to have two monitors.
One thing that needs to be corrected is the detection of optimization programs. I have one computer that uses an older version of Diskeeper which is not detected. What ASM should do is have an option that you will monitor your optimization program and not penalize you for it.
ASM has caught a few times where the virus scanner was out-of-date. One time the scanner was turned off!
Doug
AOL has released a security monitor that rates a computer’s security defense. It chooses a number between 1 and 100 to rate your system. It analyzes your firewall, antivirus program, antispyware program, wireless security and several other indicators then rates it. Recommendations are provided on how to fix problems.
You can get it for free here.
Doug
This standard was also created in 1999. It has speeds up to 54 mpbs but is not compatible with 802.11b or 802.11g. Maximum range is half of 802.11b (75 feet). It has a harder time penetrating walls and other structures.
Available around 2003. Faster than 80211.b. Its maximum speed is 54 mpbs. It is compatible with 802.11b which means if your connection supports 802.11g, any 802.11b can connect to it but will only get the maximum speed of 802.11b. Maximum range is the same as 802.11b. 802.11g (and 802.11b) is susceptible to interference from microwaves and some cordless phones (not cellphones).
Not generally used for wireless networks. Range is about 35 feet with speeds up to 1 mbps. Used on many wireless printers. It has same interference problems as 802.11b.
The best bet these days is 802.11g.
802.11n - Expect products mid-2007 though some manufacturers may upgrade earlier. The standard is still being developed but is expected to be ratified in early 2007. The current goal is ten times the 802.11g speed and a broader range. 802.11n is based on MIMO technology so you may see 802.11n referred to as MIMO.
Doug
