This and That Technology Tips Windows and Mac Updates February 11, 2005 This is a quick reminder that periodically (about every month), you should check to see if your operating system needs updates. I send this today, as Microsoft issued 7 critical updates on Tuesday which of course if not applied can allow someone to take control of your computer for nefarious reasons (attack other machines, use your passwords to buy stuff, erase your hard drive). This set of updates applies to Internet Explorer, MSN Messenger, Windows Media Player and MS Office. I believe it's the 2nd set of big updates to come after Service Pack 2 which was supposed to solve security issues - go figure! With your Mac, OS X, you'll have "Software Updates" - which are usually necessary and "Mac OS X Downloads" which are optional. These often contain updates for Mac OSX operating system, airport, iTunes and any other software Apple makes that's on your computer. Enjoy, Clyde PS - Look for new Google fun - 2 new features - buried in this newsletter. Windows Updates http://tinyurl.com/5cxo4 In addition to Anti-Virus, Anti-Spyware, Anti-Hacking (firewall) and Office updates, you should regularly run Windows Update. 1. Start Windows Updates one of the following ways: a. Internet Explorer, go to Tools, Windows Update. b. Click on Start button, go to All Programs, Windows Update c. If you've had a recent ITM visit, the icon will be in your ITM Maintenance folder. 2. Once you click on Windows Updates, take all critical updates. 3. Look over non-critical updates and select them as you need them. (You'll be fine - either way - if you take these or don't take these.) 4. Set Windows to update automatically. I've very rarely seen a windows update (save Windows Service Pack 2) do damage. To set up Auto update do the following: 1. Right click on "My Computer." 2. Choose "Automatic Updates" tab. 3. Click on "Automatic" and set time of day when your computer will be on. Look from time/time near your clock for a globe - this means you need to click on it to install updates. Microsoft doesn't seem confident in it's updates to actually automatically install them as it says - it actually downloads them. ***************************************************** Relieving Your Technology Stress for Computers that Misbehave: Our On-Site or Remote Computer Tune-Up Yes, it's true - we still come to your residence or small business and whip your computer, your digital camera, your scanner, your printer, your wired or wireless network into shape. As Ben Franklin used to say, "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." Let ITM Computing do all the necessary preventative measures and train you to keep your computer running in fine form. If you live beyond the SF Bay Area, join the growing number of out-of-state ITM clients (Vancouver, Australia, New York, Georgia, Connecticut are a few of the areas where we now provide remote support), who take advantage of our phone, e-mail, and remote desktop support.http://maps.google.com/ - new service which gives you tons of flexibility in using maps and directions - much more then Yahoo and Mapquest (still a work in progress). From our offices, we can fix almost any problem you're having. Call us today for your complimentary quote - 408.732.8500. ***************************************************** Mac Updates http://tinyurl.com/3x4c9 For the most part, Mac users are still fairly protected against security breaches from viruses and spyware. I'd still make sure to be behind either a hardware or software firewall - or both. Surprisingly, the Mac OS updates in addition to improving security are actually improvements in the program which the user can see and feel. The latest OS X Panther update reads as follows: Delivers improved compatibility and reliability for Mac OS X v10.3 ?Panther? and is recommended for all users. Key updates include: - improved OpenGL technology and updated ATI and NVIDIA graphics drivers - improved file sharing and directory services for mixed Mac and PC networks - improved compatibility for third party applications and devices - previous standalone security updates There was also an Airport, Quicktime and iTunes update. To run updates, do the following: 1. Close all programs before beginning. 2. Click on the Apple in upper left hand corner. 3. Select Software Update 4. Check all applicable updates. You will normally have to restart machine after update. Keep running windows updates until there are no more critical updates. ***************************************************** Web Design - Build Your Business in 2005!! Are you getting the response you want from your website? Does your website need an extreme makeover? Are you anxious to kick your website into high gear? Look at all we do for you! The first 10 people who sign up for changes to their site will get our spam-proofing suggestion guidelines included in their job. *Website Maintenance* Removal of any content that is no longer pertinent; Implementation of new content; Removal of any broken links to other websites; Change of copyright date. *Visual Improvements* Touch up of design, or a new look entirely; Touch up of logo, or logo redesign. *Spam Protection* Implementation of spam-proof contact form if none currently in place; Consultation on how to reduce spam sent to your e-mail account. *Marketing of your Site* Submission or resubmission to the top search engines and online directories; Configuring or reconfiguring the most effective keywords for your business; Creation of a viral (meaning it will spread like wildfire) marketing piece; Design of new stationery and other printed materials; Design of print ads for newspapers, magazines, yellow pages, etc. http://video.google.com/ - Search the Internet for Video and TV shows (still a work in progress). ************************ Hope you enjoyed the ride.... Clyde Lerner, In The Moment Computing Phone: 408.732.8500 E-mail comments/feedback to: http://www.itmcomputing.com/contact_computer.php This newsletter is a service of In The Moment Computing and is Copyright 2005 Clyde Lerner. All worldwide rights reserved. If forwarding, please forward all of e-mail, not any portion therein. To see past issues of This and That Computer Tips newsletter, please visit the web at: http://www.itmcomputing.com/newsletter.php and click on "Archives." Please note: Unless requested, questions pertaining to this newsletter will be answered in a 3-4 week time frame. If you need a faster response, there will be a small consultation fee of $15 per e-mail response. You will receive a reply within 48 hours. "Complete Computer Help (Networks, New Computer Installs, Software Training) for Individuals and Small Businesses" "Designing your Perfect Website, at an Affordable Cost, in a Timely Manner" Eliminate and Destroy unwanted email: http://spamarrest.com/affl?1337207 Send a greeting card through the Internet so recipient gets card in their postal mailbox: www.sendoutcards.com/7197 - let me walk you through how to send a card - it's easy. ©2005 In The Moment (ITM) Computing. All rights reserved.