Content

• Steps
• Tips
• Warnings

You don't need to be an expert in computer technology to properly maintain your computer and thereby significantly reduce the number of computer malfunctions.

Steps

1. 1 Use a good antivirus program. It is very important. After installing the antivirus program, be sure to do the following:
   • Configure your antivirus to automatically download and install updates.
   • Set up a scheduled full system scan.
   • Check regularly for updates to the anti-virus database.
2. 2 Configuring your computer to automatically download and install Windows updates to address vulnerabilities and improve system security.
3. 3 Install an anti-spyware program to detect malware.
4. 4 Install a firewall. Most modern anti-virus programs include a firewall, which is a barrier between your computer and the outside world. It protects your computer from attacks by hackers and spyware.
5. 5 Do not download or install unknown software. This is the biggest mistake most users make. Some of these programs can damage the Windows registry, leading to a large number of system malfunctions.
6. 6 Remove unnecessary programs installed on your computer.
7. 7 Be careful when downloading music from the internet. Do it from reputable and reliable sites.
8. 8 Scan your hard drive periodically for errors.
9. 9 Delete temporary internet files. In IE9, click Tools - Internet Options - Uninstall - Uninstall.
10. 10 If possible, do not use Internet Explorer because it is the most vulnerable browser. Work with the following browsers: Mozilla Firefox or Opera (or look here). Download the latest Java.
11. 11 Download Web Security Guard or download the SiteAdvisor plugin for web threat protection and website safety ratings. The rating is also displayed in Google search results - in green (safe) and red (dangerous). Web Security Guard notifies you about the potential danger of a site in a pop-up window (or nothing if the site is not very dangerous). You can go on and go to the site or not. One example of a dangerous site is http: //www.smiley central.com. One example of a secure site is http://www.google.com. SiteAdvisor can be downloaded here.

Tips

• Firefox users can install one of the most powerful web security tools, NoScript. It can be found at https://addons.mozilla.org. It blocks all web scripts if not allowed by the user to run. You can also blacklist any site.
• Avast and Comodo are very good free antivirus and firewall software, respectively.
• doubleclick.net can be blacklisted.
• If necessary, seek advice or help from a specialist.

Warnings

• Electrical circuit