Category Archives: Security

Windows XP SP3 and Office 2003 Support Ends April 8, 2014

Security, Software, , , , , , , ,
XP Background
XP Background

If you haven’t already heard the news Microsoft is ceasing to support Windows XP and Office 2003 after April 8th 2014 – essentially both will go End of Life (EOL) after this date.

In brief what this means is that Microsoft will no longer be providing new security updates, non-security hotfixes, free or paid assisted support options or online technical content updates.

Essentially, although your PC will continue to run, it’d be wide open and vulnerable to attacks. Your current Antivirus software will only be able to assist so much before hackers find loopholes in the operating system to get through.

Frantik are currently providing deals on new PCs. We can provide a high spec AMD system running Windows 7, with 8GB RAM and 1TB hard disk for £450, or for £475 we’ll even copy the data from your old system. Microsoft Office will be extra cost.

If you’re interested in upgrading and wish to remain secure please call us now on 01462 888147.

 

 

ProTip: Remove malware with ComboFix

Malware, Security, Software, , , ,
ComboFix Icon
ComboFix Icon

ComboFix is a pretty nifty bit of of software provided by the guys over at BleepingComputer (we love the name!).

Described by them as ‘a program that scans your computer for known malware, and when found, attempts to clean these infections automatically. In addition to being able to remove a large amount of the most common and current malware‘.

Note: this is more an informative post than to guide the average user. It makes non-reversible changes to the computer by removing data from the foll0wing locations automatically:

  • Windows Recycle Bin
  • Temporary Internet Files
  • Temp Folder

Anyone in the IT field may like to take a look at the software and include it in their ‘toolkit’.

If you have any queries let me know.

Free Antivirus For Mac

Macintosh, Security, Software, , , , , , ,

Avast! for Mac

You would be pretty naive to think that Apple Macs are bullet proof now. With their increasing popularity (which I love) they are becoming a bigger target for people to attack.

Therefore we recommend that you install some software (no need to pay) that will help keep you Mac protected…

With each new install of the Operating System Apple have been locking the system down and improving the security but it’s worthwhile loading some extra software so you don’t get caught out.

Sophos for Mac has been around for a while and generally works very well…. but another one you could try is Avast! Free Antivirus for Mac – see review here: https://uk.pcmag.com/antivirus/35311/avast-security-for-machttp://www.macworld.co.uk/macsoftware/reviews/?reviewid=3367786

Here’s a link to download: https://www.avast.com/en-gb/free-mac-security

Stay safe and happy computing!

Microsoft Security Essentials – I recommend it over others!

IT, Security, , , , , ,

The first advantage of MSE is that it’s 100% free, and I would think most likely always will be… as it’s in Microsoft’s own interest to ensure that it’s client’s and customers are safe and secure whilst using their operating system!

The second advantage of it is that it’s going to be honed to the exact architecture and specific requirements of the OS.

Other things to mention are that it’s integrated directly with Windows/Microsoft update so virus definitions are updated automatically.

Basically the whole piece of software integrates beautifully with the Windows OS (Server versions also available!), it doesn’t slow the computer down unnecessarily and it doesn’t affect usage.

I’ve always said ‘why should you pay for software to protect you from viruses and malware, Microsoft should provide you with this protection’ and now they are finally doing that.

For personal, home and small business users this is perfect!

You can find the download link & more information here: http://www.microsoft.com/security_essentials/