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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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