Where Are Operating Systems Working?

Understanding the basics of how operating systems work can help you to grasp the full power provided to you by a computer. An operating system is the brain power behind any type of technology. Operating systems run more than computers, however. Most types of technology-based devices have an underlying operating system that tells them how to work.

When you sit down and turn on a computer, for example, you are not in control. Though you may be able to move the mouse and change the wording on the screen, it is the operating system that is working behind the scenes that is actually making the system work. If you own a personal computer or a laptop, you likely have a Microsoft Windows operating system. For those who have a Macintosh-based system, your system comes loaded with a Mac OS X operating system. If you are using corporate-style computers, you may have a Linux or a UNIX operating system.

Operating systems are becoming more popular in a variety of devices. You will find these systems in your cell phones, especially in smartphones. You will find operating systems present in your iPod, your tablet computer, and even in the wireless access points available. One interesting fact is the amount of power and know-how found in these systems. The average cell phone operating system today has more power than the more advanced desktop computers from 20 years ago. And that’s just phones. Imagine how powerful an operating system must be on a new laptop!

Are operating systems important? Yes! They are vital to your computers and other devices. In the coming years, more operating system options are likely to be introduced. New technology may even make new systems much more powerful than the ones you are using today for the tasks you need to complete.

Open Source Router Operating Systems

Router Cisco 677 (ubt) 1
Image via Wikipedia

These days there are a variety of operating systems or firmware available for people who want more from their router or finer control over how the Internet is distributed inside their home or office.

#1: PfSense – This is a complete router operating system designed to work on commodity hardware. That is just about any old computer with two network cards can become a router. Once the operating system is installed it can be left to run without a keyboard, monitor or mouse. All settings and controls are handled by logging into the router via your web browser, just like any router you would purchase from a retail store. PfSense is one of the most popular, offering a very simple live CD setup, the ability to install to flash media or a traditional hard disk.

#2: Tomato – This is actually a firmware designed for small home routers. The firmware will totally replace the existing factory firmware and will open up a variety of settings that were previously unavailable. While the user interface is bare, the things it provides include the ability to monitor bandwidth, options to control Quality of Service and the capability of adjusting the power of the wireless radio on the router.

#3: SmoothWall – This is another complete operating system similar to PfSense. SmoothWall although has full router capabilities tends to focus on their implementation of an advanced firewall. It has a very nice user interface that is easy to use and navigate. SmoothWall also has a corporate product that is not part of their free offerings and should not be confused.

Regardless of the Operating System or firmware that you end up deciding to choose, all of these are free and Open Source meaning you can download the code they are built upon and are free to make any changes you want provided you have the ability.

Free Virus Protection and You

There’s no telling what motivates people to make destructive viruses. Viruses corrupt files, crash your computer and throw the dreaded “blue screen of doom” at you while they’re at it. Worse yet, new viruses are created every day — requiring constant awareness of how to protect your files from harm.

There is a lot of expensive virus protection software out there, but they rarely catch more than 80% of the viruses on the web. Freeware and shareware virus protection programs are sometimes better because they can be mortified constantly as new viruses are made. They’re also less bulky, cause less lag and are free.

The program called Avast actually has three versions, with the most expensive one being $55 and the least being free. The free copy alone can keep your computer from crashing. It runs constantly, running real-time shields on the files on your computer, your mail, while web surfing or instant messaging and while on the internet. It also has a smart program that monitors your system for strange behavior, alerting you if something suspicious starts running.

Ad-Aware also offers three types of protection, but the free version catches one thing that Avast has trouble with; key loggers. Key logger viruses save your passwords, log in information and any numbers you punch in online for their own devious purposes.

Last but not least is Malwarebytes, the blood hound of anti-virus protection. “Malware” stands for malicious software, which can slip onto your computer under even the tightest security. Unlike Avast and Ad-Aware, Malwarebytes doesn’t have to be on constantly. You can just run it ever so often to make sure your computer is clean.

If you are worried about your computer, run all three of these compact programs. Malwarebytes needs to be used once a week or so, while Ad-Aware and Avast should be on constantly. Don’t worry, because these programs are small, you won’t notice any lag or delay in your computer’s performance.

What is FreeBSD?

First of all, get your mind out of the gutter. This is not BDSM. This is FreeBSD. Whenever you see the moniker ‘free’ with something, you will begin to wonder whether you too should take advantage of this item. While not everyone might need FreeBSD in their lives, knowing it’s available will help you in the future, should your need arise. Or you could just tell your friends about it in the meantime.

FreeBSD

FreeBSD is an operating system that can be configured, reconfigured, and changed once again if you like. This highly versatile and adaptable system works for all kinds of computer systems including: ARM, IA-64, x86 compatible (including Pentium® and Athlon™), amd64 compatible (including Opteron™, Athlon™64, and EM64T), PowerPC, PC-98 and UltraSPARC® architectures. What does this mean? Well, if you’re not a computer professional, then it simply means that FreeBSD will probably work on your computer. If it doesn’t, then you can’t use it.

Operating System

Just like any other operating system, FreeBSD allows you to work on your computer, installing programs as you like. As a stable system, this operating system will allow you to run more than one program at a time while also working on allowing you to arrange these programs as you wish. Easy to install, all you need to do is run the program and then wait to customize it with over 20,000 imported libraries and applications. Needless to say, if you want something on your computer, FreeBSD can probably handle it.

Security Features

Since so many people are worried about hackers these days, FreeBSD is allowing users some peace of mind with a highly stable security system. It will be difficult for anyone to hack into this operating system. Not only are there a number of security features, but since not as many people use this system, the hackers haven’t really caught up to how to crack it. It’s really a win-win situation.

Yes, It’s Free

True to its name, FreeBSD is free for anyone to use. This will allow you the opportunity to install it, see if you like it, and then uninstall if you don’t like it – all without having to cough up hundreds of dollars. For those who are queasy about installing a new program without knowing if it will work, this should set your mind at ease.

Just like all free software, you could always donate to the cause, helping to feed starving programmers around the world.  Ramen ain’t cheap, you know.

Where to Look for Safe Computer Downloads

There are hundreds, maybe even thousands of free computer downloads available on the Internet. However, if you do not know what places to trust you run the risk of putting your personal information, computer files and whole computer system at risk. For every free download site on the Internet, there are another 10 fake download sites that are filled with malicious computer software programs that will destroy files and information on anyone’s computer. To avoid downloading computer software that might be corrupted by malicious software, it is a good idea to only go to trusted computer downloading sites.

Here is a look at some of the most trusted websites on the Internet for computer downloads.

Cnet Download

Cnet Download is a comprehensive website filled with thousands of computer downloads. All available downloads have been put through a screening process to make sure they are safe and will not contain any malicious software. One of the best features of Cnet Downloads is the review system. Every download has a rating and review system that can be used by others who have downloaded and used the program, so computer users will be able to judge if the download would be worth it to download or not.

PC World

PC World is another great website that is trusted when it comes to free downloads. All downloads are put through a testing process to ensure that they are legitimate and do not contain any harmful software with it. PC World also has some great information and articles available to computer users so that they can stay up to date with the latest technological advancements and updates. PC World also has product reviews by experts in the technology field as well as consumers’ reviews of available downloads. You will be able to download free software knowing that you have all the available information when you visit PC World.

Education about Online Protection

Protection online is a very big deal. These days there is nothing that can’t be taken of the Internet. With scams running around every day there are never too many precautions taken. The key in preventing people from being taken by a scam or having information stolen is in the education of Internet and scam protection. It’s not so much about telling people what not to do, as much as it comes down to educating people on preferred practices on the Internet.

Of all the places where people are most prone to putting themselves and their information at risk is on online dating sites. These sites, while harmless and fun to many, can pose a serious risk to those who are careless about their actions on these sites. Following a few simple rules can keep a person safe while looking for that special someone.

The first line of defense on the online dating sites is to pick places that are reputable. There are a number of sites out there that provide instant access to singles because they lack a proper screening. While it’s nice to get into the dating pool as quickly as possible, safety must be a top concern.

The pay sites, the ones that are advertised so frequently, are probably a safer place to meet singles. They have a screening process that at the very least shows a dedication from people to finding someone. This could take a little of the scariness out of it.

It’s important that, regardless of what site that initial contact occurs on, that people meet for the first time in a public place. While it might not seem like it’s necessary, it’s important. And while it might not be fashionable to do so, seeing a photo ID would help to make sure that person is who he or she claims to be. It’s not meant to be mean but rather to be safe.

Free Downloads–Take Precautions

Of course everyone likes to receive something for nothing! But, in the computer world is it wise to use free downloads and open source software like the xvid codec? Many are harmless and will not create any issues with your computer system and may offer you what you are looking for. On the other hand, some free downloads may wreak havoc on your computer system. It is always a good idea to take precautions when downloading anything, but especially when you are receiving it for free; otherwise you may discover later that your “free” download was far from “free”!

Free downloads can include everything from computer software drivers, computer programs, and e-books to the latest music video. Most downloads that you will come across for free are harmless and legal. However, you may come across entire websites, communities, or individuals who are offering pirated software or files for download, which is illegal. If you download pirated software or files for free, you are committing a crime and can be prosecuted.

How can you ensure that the information you are downloading is safe and legal? Start by only dealing with reputable sites. If you are looking to download a software program like xvid, driver, or file that you need for a piece of hardware you need it for, visit the official website for the hardware and download it directly from there. Never download a file offered for free from an individual or community. Some music and video files are offered for free legitimately and legally. To ensure that you are receiving legal copies be aware of the websites you are using and if necessary do a little research to determine that you are dealing with an honest website.

To protect your computer system from harm during a download, you can begin simply be ensuring that your internet security program is turned on and running properly before beginning the download. Again, using reputable websites to download from will also ensure a greater level of protection.

The Importance of Website Security

If you are thinking about selling products online, a main consideration should be the level of security you would like to place on the website. Security issues are now of utmost importance given the number of hackers attempting to steal personal information from online shoppers. Here are the main reasons why the security level of your website should be a top concern as you begin this venture.

Increased Consumer Confidence

It seems that stories of identity theft and hacked accounts are everywhere these days. As such, many online shoppers won’t purchase products from websites until they have assessed the site’s security and feel comfortable with it. Not only are shoppers worried about outside hackers attempting to steal their financial and personal information from online transactions, but they are also worried about the legitimacy of insecure websites.

If you want to be successful at selling products online, it’s very important that you place the proper security levels on the website. Additionally, you will need to be aware of the latest security threats and make adjustments as necessary. By doing this, you can increase consumer confidence and, in turn, increase your profits.

Obtaining Security Certificates

If you are worried about the security process taking too much time, don’t be. It’s now easier than ever to purchase the appropriate security certificates; this can be one of the least time consuming aspects of building a website. In fact, most hosting websites include this as an option in the purchasing process and even provide discounts. As such, there is no reason why you shouldn’t have the easiest level certificate on the site.

If online customers are willing to purchase your products, then you must be willing to ensure their personal information remains safe when it’s passing through your website. By remaining committed to secure online practices, you can experience much more success as an online retailer and generate repeat customers.

Increasing Your Operating System Security

Endpoint antivirus software
Image via Wikipedia

Have you ever noticed that updates are almost constantly available for your operating system? This is because operating systems are frequently being improved, and new flaws or security threats in operating systems are found practically on a daily basis.

Without the proper security measures in place, your operating system could be vulnerable to system attacks through viruses. These tips will help you increase your operating system’s security:

  • Keep your software updated. It might be tempting to merely postpone the installation when you’re prompted for software and hardware updates, but regular updates are important in keeping your operating system safe. Updates are often the result of holes or vulnerabilities in the system that need to be covered. Set your system to install updates automatically.
  • Protect your accounts. Use the Accounts Management feature to control who has access to your computer. Even if you do trust the people around you, leaving your computer wide open means anyone can hop on and download something harmful, however unintentionally.
  • Use a firewall. Don’t assume that just because you have an anti-virus program in place that it does the same thing as a firewall. A firewall is crucial for operating system security and ensures that unwanted internet traffic doesn’t reach your computer and operating system. Most operating systems have built-in firewalls already (including both Mac and Windows) and you just need to take the time to install and set them up.
  • Always use an antivirus program. A trusted antivirus not only blocks viruses, but isolates potentially harmful files so they don’t infect your operating system. Make sure you run antivirus updates as well and stay on top of your subscription so it doesn’t expire. You can also download a number of antivirus programs for free online.

You can protect your operating system with these easy security measures.

Are Free Downloads Safe?

You can find a lot of things out there on the Internet that are free, including music, movies, software, training products, software like FileZilla, etc. If you need it, chances are you can find it on the web. When you choose free downloads rather than paying for what you need, there is caution to be had. You need to be careful where and how you download free information. Take a look at these tips for keeping your computer safe.

1.                    Only download from a trusted website. If you are looking for music or e-books, you’ll want to make use a trusted site like Amazon. When you download free things from unknown sites, you risk infecting your computer with a virus or spyware. If you are unfamiliar with a website, check for any reviews or user information before you press download.

2.                    If you are downloading software like File Zilla or training material, see if you can get a CD. It’s always best to download software that comes from an original CD. Even if a download is available for free online, the company may be willing to send you a CD, as well. Some companies use free downloads as marketing and will be willing to send the CD to get you to try the product.

3.                    Keep your virus protection up to date. This is good advice for anyone who spends time on the Internet, but if you are getting free downloads, it’s especially important to keep your virus protection going. Even some of the most trusted websites can be vulnerable to virus attacks.

4.                    Avoid pop ups. Pop-up windows can be virus carriers. Although not every pop-up window will carry a virus, it’s best to avoid them when you can.

Go ahead and enjoy those free downloads, just be smart about the way you go about getting the things you want.