Getting Computers in Shape for '05: Quick, Easy and Free

Getting Computers in Shape for '05: Quick, Easy and Free

REDMOND, Wash., Jan. 5 /PRNewswire/ -- This year, as millions of Americans make their annual New Year's resolutions to get in shape, they might also consider the same for their poor, besieged, clogged-up PCs and laptops.

(Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20000822/MSFTLOGO )

Fortunately, tools from companies such as Microsoft Corp. make it much easier to get a computer in shape than to shed those 10 pounds gained over the holidays. But the same three-step approach can help make both resolutions a reality.

First, get motivated. Just as weak muscles are unhealthy for you, weak security provisions are bad for computers. Nobody wants cholesterol invading their arteries, nor do they want hackers, viruses and other security risks invading their computer.

Second, commit to a course of action. Computer security protections should be selected as carefully as the right gym. Of course, it isn't enough to just join the gym; you need to actually work out there. Likewise, it isn't enough to download security protection; it also must be installed and used.

Third, ask for support when it's needed. People have days when they'd rather sleep in than hit the gym. A personal trainer, or even a workout buddy, can make all the difference. Similarly, online technical support can be a lifesaver for firming up software.

The good news about shaping up a computer as opposed to a cardiovascular system is that it's quick and easy -- and in many cases, it's free. For example, Microsoft Windows XP Service Pack 2 (Windows XP SP2) is a free upgrade for the millions of people who run Windows XP on their computers. Windows XP SP2 helps provide stronger security settings, increased manageability and control, and improved and more secure experiences.

Downloading Windows XP SP2 is easy and can be done conveniently from the home or workplace simply by turning on the Automatic Updates feature in Windows XP and installing it after it downloads.

Many of the updates and enhancements needed to help strengthen, secure and protect computers from hackers, viruses and other security risks are readily available online for all computer users in most cases.

To help keep computers in top shape and better protected, industry experts also recommend the following simple and effective three-step approach:

-- Use an Internet firewall on all PCs and laptops.
-- Update your computer by turning on Automatic Updates to receive the
latest security updates for Windows XP and download anti-spyware
software.
-- Use up-to-date anti-virus software.



Being mindful of consumption habits also is important. Opening attachments or clicking on links sent in junk e-mail can be as risky to a PC as eating junk food is to you. Computer users also should be wary about downloading programs and entering personal information online. To learn more about how to protect against spam scams and other online ploys, visit http://safety.msn.com/phishing .

Working out and keeping fit helps rid the body of pollutants and other harmful substances. Likewise, you can help keep your computer clear of unwanted and even hazardous programs, called spyware, which can accumulate as you use your PC. Visit http://www.microsoft.com/spyware to find information about available anti-spyware solutions and to look for a prerelease version of an anti-spyware solution that will be available soon from Microsoft Corp.

Finally, as with all resolutions, shaping up the computer should be taken one step at a time. Fortunately, in this instance it's no pain and all gain.

For guidance on installing Windows XP Service Pack 2, please visit http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=fh;en-us;windowsxpsp2 . For more PC security tips and other useful security information, please visit http://www.microsoft.com/security .

Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20000822/MSFTLOGO
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com
Source: Microsoft Corp.

CONTACT: press only, Rapid Response Team of Waggener Edstrom,
+1-503-443-7070, or rrt@wagged.com, for Microsoft Corp.

Web site: http://safety.msn.com/phishing

Web site: http://www.microsoft.com/spyware

Web site: http://www.microsoft.com/security

Web site: http://www.microsoft.com/


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