Yes, you can download free
tools to use from
http://www.download.com.
Recommended software include: SpywareBlaster,
Ad-Aware, Spybot: Search and
Destroy
Try
downloading the
Google Toolbar,
which has a
built in pop up
blocker that
works pretty
well. Also,
limit the
installation of
downloads you
are not familiar
with. Keep
Antivirus up to
date, always.
Trojans are executable programs, which mean that when you open the file, it will perform some action. In Windows, executable programs have file extensions like "exe", "vbs", "com", "bat", etc.
Trojans can be spread in the disguise of literally ANYTHING people find desirable, such as a free game, movie, song, etc. Victims typically download the trojan from a WWW or FTP archive, receive it via peer-to-peer file exchange using IRC/instant messaging/Kazaa etc., or just carelessly opening some email attachment. Trojans usually do their damage silently
Cabled networks also known as LANs are desired when speed and 100% security is required. Data on a wired network can travel almost 100 times faster than wireless networks. It is also harder for a hacker to access your wired network unlike the wireless, which if not configured properly can be a security risk. With cabled networks you do have the downside of having to drill through walls and run cable through the walls so you can get the wired connection to your desired location. This can make it difficult if you are looking to place a computer where the access to the wired network is not accessible.
Wireless networks, also known as WLANs, are desired for flexibility, ease of installation, mobility, cost, and when speed is not a concern. Standard wireless networks can reach up to speeds of 54Mbps, as opposed to wired at 100Mbps, and even 1000Mbps, also known as Gigabit. These networks are flexible because you can move around the area of the Access Point with your laptop and not have to worry about wires. Installation is easier since drilling or wiring is not usually required or at least not for most home installations. For Businesses, wiring might be needed for the installation of the Access Point (multiple users can connect to a single Access Point). With wireless you can move around in your home or office usually up to 150ft from the Access Point, assuming that you are not trying to obtain a signal through a concrete wall. The cost of wireless is less than having to wire all the rooms in your home that you want to use the Internet in.
Security today has been built around fitting small business to three available technologies. WEP/PSK/WPA are inexpensive and secure when properly implemented, but just too complex and error-prone to be practical. VPNs are great for Internet security, but applied to wireless networking, they are costly and highly restrictive. And RADIUS, while scaleable and secure, is too costly and complex for the small and medium business.
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