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One of the largest overheads that small and home based business encounter is the often high cost of computer software. The majority of business ventures start with modest or very little capital, many are home based initially and every spare dollar is vital to success.

Whether you already have your own small business or are just seriously considering it, appropriate business and protection software for your computer is vital. Chances are you will need at least a word processing program, a spreadsheet program, an accounting package, perhaps a database and presentation program. If you are looking at setting up a website you will also need a program to edit HTML and web pages, word processors do not do a good job. Don’t forget the most important of all computer security - even if you only use your computer to receive email and for research on the internet - anti-virus, anti-spyware, anti-malware and firewall programs are essential.

All of this software is readily available commercially, however it will cost you many hundreds, possibly several thousand dollars. If you are like me, working full time just to make ends meet, you may not be able to justify or afford the expenditure, when every spare dollar goes into promoting your fledgling business. After all this business is meant to get you out of the red not put you deeper in it! Well, there is a solution - open sourced software and freeware software both completely legal. Many software companies have a free but limited home or one user version of their product. When you can afford it or when the program becomes indispensable to your operations upgrade to the full version.

- Word processing, spreadsheets, database, presentation manager, drawing program, the open source free alternative, is also compatible with MS Office formats.
http://www.openoffice.org/

- Turbocash accounting, open source accounting package, available in 17 languages, suits most tax systems. Turbocash would require some accounting knowledge to use.
http://www.turbocash.net/

- NVU web page and HTML editor, open source similar to MS Frontpage - easy to use.
http://nvu.com/index.php

- Picasa, very useful image organiser and editor from Google
http://picasa.google.com/

- Thunderbird email, Firefox browser, open source a great alternative to Outlook and Internet
Explorer, enhanced security and tabbed browsing means fewer windows open at one time.
http://www.mozilla.com/

Over the past few years I have found the following free software to be invaluable in protecting my computer system from the “net-nasties” out there. If you want to keep your system clean, use them all. Hat’s off to the providers, they deserve our support. On some sites you may have to search for the free version.

- AVG, Anti-virus, automatic updates, email protection, an excellent product.
http://www.grisoft.com/

- Spybot, Anti-spyware, deals with most Trojan codes easily.
http://www.spybot.info/

- Ad-Aware, anti-malware and spyware, cleans out tracking cookies etc.
http://www.lavasoft.de/

- Zone Alarm, firewall, a must have.
http://www.zonelabs.com/

Other great sources for free business and home software are the CD’s and DVD’s given away with most popular computer magazines. Usually there are two or more fully functioning software programs, which can and should be registered, on each disc. Sure, it may be last year’s version but do you really need all the bells and whistles when you first start using it? Often, programs sound great in reviews etc. but after you install them on to your system and start using them, you find they can not do what you wanted. If you paid top dollar for what amounts to trial software, you would not be happy.

I have lost track of the programs I have installed, found to be inadequate for my needs and later thrown out. These days I search for free alternatives and upgrade if I find it suits my needs. Don’t buy it - try it.

D&K Bookkeeping Services provide a range of bookkeeping and payroll services to Small Business and Sole Traders in Adelaide, South Australia. For more information visit http://www.caig.com.au/bookkeeping1.html
Air your views on Accounting and Small Business issues in our Accounting Forum http://www.caig.com.au/phpBB/index.php

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If you use a computer, you need to know more than just how to use your email and surf the web. You need to know that you are protected. If there isn’t someone responsible for the computers in your home or office, then pick someone, quick. Their job is to assure you that everything I’ve listed below is getting done on a regular basis so you can relax a little.

Antivirus

This should go without saying, but I still run into computers with expired Antivirus software quite often. In 2005, Antivirus software needs to be updated daily, and paid for yearly. If you haven’t paid for a subscription, then you don’t have current Antivirus Software.

Every month, someone should verify that your installed AV Software is running, and that is updating automatically, with current virus definitions. Sometimes they stop working or updating because they get attacked between updates. You must remain virus free.

Spyware

Spyware is EVIL software that is getting worse every day. Spyware is probably what’s wrong with your computer. If you have not run spyware removal software lately then I guarantee that you have some on your system. It’s that simple.

For you to remove the Spyware yourself, you must run an updated version of your favorite Spyware removal software at least once a month. Weekly is better. Just like Antivirus software, it needs to be updated all the time. However, unlike Antivirus software, most Anti-Spyware software will not update on its’ own. Most have to be set to auto-update and protect you from further infection.

Windows Updates

Microsoft discovers and repairs flaws in their Windows Operating System on a near weekly basis. These “fixes” or “patches” are available for free at their website, and you should insure that your Windows updates are being done. Now that you probably have high speed internet, this step is critical for the security and functionality of your computers. Once you get some spyware, these security holes are being exploited.

In Windows XP, you can schedule this to happen automatically in the Properties of My Computer. I use auto update for myself, and all peer to peer networking customers. In a server environment, I don’t recommend it.
For other Windows versions than XP, you should update your Windows on a monthly basis at windowsupdate.com

Startup programs

There are dozens of software programs that can start up when Windows loads, slowing your computer to a crawl. These are usually apparent in the task bar by your clock, and by pressing CTL - ALT - DEL to see the services and applications. If you need a scroll bar, you’re bogged down!
By using a Windows utility called msconfig you can manage your startup items. Go to Start - run and type msconfig - then press Enter. Go to the Startup tab and you’ll see the choices under the startup tab. Be careful in there, and pay attention.

Firewall

A Firewall keeps people from coming into your computer over the internet. Spyware and Trojan horse viruses make it easier for hackers to get into your computers, but even when your system is clean, the risk of attack is still there, if there’s a Windows hole (and there is). You need a firewall, and if you have a wireless connection, you need secure password protection on the router to keep your neighbors out.

On a monthly basis, you need to be sure that your firewall, whether (software or hardware) is both turned on, and current. I can’t tell you the number of times I find it intentionally disabled, with no malicious intent, but unprotected nonetheless. More knowledgeable users should review the logs for any abnormal activities.

Windows XP has a free firewall that is much better than nothing, and getting better every month with Windows update. To insure yours is on, go to Start - Help and support - and type firewall.

Disk Maintenance

Windows has two built in utilities called Scandisk and Disk Defragmenter. Scandisk checks the surface of your hard disk for flaws or errors that may be developing, and Disk Defragmenter rearranges the files on your hard drive for faster and easier access.

Depending on the version of Windows you’re using, the names are a little different, but the utilities can always be accessed in the following way…

Reboot first, minimizing the amount of programs running in your Startup. Go to My Computer, and right click on your hard drive (usually the C: drive). Go to Properties and select the Tools tab and run Scandisk or “error checking” and Disk Defragmenter or “Defragmentation”. In some computers, you’ll need to reboot again.

It’s well worth doing these once a month to keep an older computer running well, however, they are time consuming, and I confess, I do not run them. Ever. That’s only because I have a good backup system.

Backup, Backup, Backup

You have to have a backup of all your important data. For some home users that means one folder (usually My Documents) and their email. For others, their data can be scattered all over a computer in different folders, or in some cases, a network. Just figuring out where the data is can be a problem. Get a handle on it right away and know what needs to be backed up.

You will lose data some day, and you’ll either be inconvenienced or devastated. It’s your choice. I prefer to use a convenient local disk copying program called Second Copy. However, to protect against fire or theft, everything from my kids’ baby pictures to last night’s spread sheet is securely backed up and archived over the internet.

Summary

These things above are not difficult, but they take time. Someone in the business or family needs to see these gets done on a routine basis. If you do them, your computers will not only be more secure, but they’ll run faster and have fewer problems.

Scott Hendison lives in Oregon, and is the owner of Portland Technology Consultants. He is a computer and internet consultant, and has been in the industry since 1995. For over 75 other articles, visit his website at http://www.pdxtc.com

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Free adware and spyware scans are something that you should certainly take advantage of if your computer is running slow and you do not presently use an adware program. They can easily be utilized in one of 2 varying ways.

Firstly you can actually get an online scan without downloading any software’s. The disadvantage of this is that this method is usually not as accurate and will more often than not leave some hidden malwares or adwares lurking deep within the depths of your pc files.

Secondly you can take advantage of the free adware scans that are all over the internet. These take just minutes to install and are very easy to work. These free scan software’s will usually carry out a more thorough job of locating and isolating any adware of spyware problems that you may have picked up whilst surfing the net.

You will find that a free scan software will carry out what is called a deep system scan and the adware that has locked itself in the deepest and most intricate workings of your computer will easily be located in order for you to destroy it.

You might also wonder how did the adware get into your system in the first place? You know you did not download any program’s so how did this happen? Well unfortunately it is all to easy to pick up these nasty viruses simply by visiting a website or portal. Some unscrupulous webmasters will plant scripts or codes on their WebPages in order to infiltrate your pc.

Adware / spyware viruses from websites will usually try to carry out tasks such as hijacking your net browser or home page in order to get you to come back to their site and purchase. Others might probably have darker intensions such as stealing your personal information and data, This is not to be taken lightly if you store such things as your financial details or passwords within your pc.

With such dastardly deeds taking place on the net I am afraid that only an idiot would go unprotected, for the sake of a free spyware or adware scan please check out your computer as soon as you can.

Each and every day new adwares are making their way onto the world wide web, This is why it is essential to get an adware eraser that is regularly updated with the newest and most deadly of spywares and adwares.

So first.

Get a free scan.

Use the erase function it if you are infected with an adware.

Regularly check your computer and cleanse it.

Regularly update your adware/spyware software [ this will be free of charge ]

If you follow all the above your computer should be adware free and running like new for as long as you keep to your anti adware regime in place.

Keith Larraby finds free ways to remove adware and spyware.
For details and tips, visit: http://adwarenuke.com

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With identity theft statistics currently at an all time high, and climbing, it just makes sense that we should all be doing everything we can to protect ourselves.

One of the most prevalent yet overlooked ways your personal information and passwords may be being compromised is through the presence of Spyware on your computer.

Note these very disturbing Facts about Spyware and Identity Theft:

- 27.3 million Americans have been victims of identity theft in the last five years, including 9.91 million people or 4.6% of the population in the last year alone.

- Spyware infects 91% of all computers. That equates to an alarming 9 out of 10 computers!

Stop thinking Identity Theft can’t happen to you. It can.

Spyware is without doubt the most prevalent threat to online computer privacy and security.

You maybe wondering, exactly what is Spyware?

Spyware applications are programs and files that hide on your PC’s hard drive without your direct knowledge. They allow hackers and advertising companies to track your every move, both online and even when you work offline.

Tracking the websites you visit, the items that you buy online, the emails you send and receive, your Instant Message dialog, and worst of all they can even record your credit card number, personal identification numbers, and all of your passwords.

If you use dial-up to connect to the Internet then spyware can be used to bill 900 numbers to your telephone bill.

Spyware allows hackers to take control of your browser and alter your computer system files.

These computer parasites slow down your Internet connection by inundating you with unwanted Spyware pop-up ads.

This is just a short list of the harm that Spyware can cause.

Note: Spyware and Adware cannot be detected by anti-virus and firewall software.

Have you noticed your computer running slower than ever?

The reason for that may have to do with online advertisers adding Spyware, or Adware to your computer without your knowledge.

What is Adware?

Adware works very much like Spyware.

Adware is software that will show you popup ads over and over. These files can also be extremely dangerous to your PC and could cause major problems with your Computer.

If you’re still wondering why you should be concerned about adware or spyware, consider this reality.

Through the use of adware and spyware your passwords, credit card numbers and other personal information could end up in the wrong hands.

In an attempt to provide some much-needed information on the subject of spyware, adware and identity theft I’ve compiled a Special Report called Spyware! How To Get and Stay Safe.

The report is in PDF format and can be had for the asking by visiting the following URL:
http://www.easyhow-to.com/identity-theft-avoidance.htm

Clyde Lee Dennis, a.k.a. “SmoothLee” has been bumping around on the web since 1999 and is a self described “Web Head, and Life long AVID music fan”. Smooth Jazz Music in particular. In addition to writing CD Reviews for I Love Smooth Jazz.com he is also the Program Director, and can be heard during his daily radio show which airs on one of the internets most listened to smooth jazz radio stations, Smooth Jazz 24/7

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Surpassing viruses as the number one internet threat is spyware which can install itself in your computer and monitor your usage as well as record private information. Though the threats of spyware are endless, there are several measures you can take to guard your computer and personal information from being hijacked by spyware.

Spyware is able to get into your system by several methods, one being with downloads you select off the internet. Music, game and other file sharing programs commonly contain spyware that is downloaded in your computer upon your approval to download the main program. Many other types of freeware and screen saver or other image downloads are linked to spyware as well.

Reading the user license agreement will tell you if a particular download will have spyware tagging along. Many users do not read through the agreement, rather they check to agree to the terms and unknowingly have spyware installed. When downloading freeware, music and game programs cancel the installation if you notice any third party software, see ad supported material or are asked to agree to more than one license agreement as they are all signs that spyware and annoying pop ups will occur after the download is complete.

Checking for and performing updates from your software provider regularly will help a great deal in avoiding a privacy invasion. Continue running your anti-virus software but also invest in or use the free spyware tools. Free spyware tools scan your computer and rid of current infections, however those applications can usually re-infect shortly after being removed. For preventative protection purchase well proven spyware software or find free tools that will provide sufficient protection.

Mitch Johnson is a successful freelance author that writes regularly for http://www.spyware-removal-made-easy.com/ , a site that focuses exclusively on spyware removal software, as well as tips on how to prevent spyware from popping up on your computer. This site articles on has spyware guard, http://www.spyware-removal-made-easy.com/spyware_guard.htm as well as spyware scanner, http://www.spyware-removal-made-easy.com/spyware_scanner.htm

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