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Be Prepared, In the Event Computer Disaster Strikes
Be Prepared, In the Event Computer
Disaster Strikes
By S. Housley
Computers
Businesses and individuals alike have all grown to rely
on computers. The reliance is never more apparent than
when something happens to the horrid little box that
makes our lives easier. We expect computers to react
a certain way, in certain situations. It nearly always
comes as a surprise when the beloved little box, know
as a computer, refuses to boot up. Probably even more
shocking, is the dawning that we've neglected to backup
or prepare for the unforeseen disaster that has just
been thrust upon us.
Regardless of the number of times you
have experienced the dread of being unable to access
the information trapped in the god-awful computerized
contraption, we are always invariably unprepared.
The reality of it is that computers, not
only contain moving parts, but they like other machines,
they are prone to failure at some point in their lives.
Not only can hardware failures occur, but viruses can
also corrupt data making it impossible to retrieve.
Regardless of the litany of words used to bully the
box into behaving, the truth is that the only offence
is a good defense.
So how do you prepare for a computer
tragedy?
Prepare for the Worst
In structuring an offense it's important to realize
the power of reinforcements: backups are invaluable
and will save countless hours of shameless degradation.
Be sure that you backup data and files on a regular
basis, there are a number of tools that will automate
the process.
It is critical that you check the backup
log to ensure that a backup was completed properly.
I cannot begin to describe the devastation felt when
it is realized that though there was a backup process
in place, the backup never actually occurred. Realizing
this during a restore is likely to push any computer
lover over the edge. It is a good idea to store a weekly
back up off site. This is especially helpful, if an
unforeseen fire or a natural disaster strikes.
Protection is critical!
Build A Wall
If the computer has Internet access, either a hardware
or software firewall (or combination there of) must
be used. The firewall creates a barrier between a computer
and the world. Without a firewall, Internet worms are
capable of exploiting security holes and are able to
create what are referred to as 'back doors'. These back
doors can then be used to gain access to personal information
stored on the computer, including password files, and
financial information.
Trust No One
If you are an avid Internet surfer or downloader be
sure to scan any downloads prior to opening or installing.
Up to date anti-virus software should be used to ensure,
that computers do not become infected with malicious
viruses that will ruin your life. Scan any email attachments
prior to opening regardless of whom they are from. Files
that end with .scr, .pif and .exe can contain viruses
that will wreak havoc with your data and emotional well
being.
Preparedness goes a long way, and a little
foresight will ensure that, while a computer might be
an inconvenience, you will not be defeated.
Preparation Resources
Anti-virus Software -http://www.military-software.com/anti-virus-software.htm
Firewalls - http://www.monitoring-software.net/intrusion-detection-software.htm
About the Author:
Sharon Housley manages marketing for NotePage, Inc.
http://www.notepage.net
a company specializing in alphanumeric paging, SMS and
wireless messaging software solutions. Other sites and
additional articles can be found at http://www.softwaremarketingresource.com
, and http://www.small-business-software.net
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publications and websites, provided that the resource
box is included and the links are active. A courtesy
copy of the issue or a link to any online posting would
be greatly appreciated send an email to sharon@notepage.net
.
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available at http://www.small-business-software.net/free-website-content.htm
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