2011 is just one year further into the advent of the latest in technological advances. Technology has come a long way since the 1970s, when computers first became available to casual users. Once used just for simple games, now computers do so much for us, it’s incredible. How much do you rely on your computer? No matter what fancy upgrades you choose to invest in, The Basics are always necessary for protecting any system. The beginning of a new year is a great way to start or reevaluate your level of protection. Save this checklist and use it to remind yourself to fix any areas where you're lacking.

Preventing Viruses and Spam From Ruining Your Year

• How clean is your office? Research shows that for many people, an organized environment goes a long way toward maintaining organized thoughts. Start the year by sorting papers, minimizing clutter, and adding some order to your office environment. This may help you to maintain better order on your virtual desktop.
• Reduce virtual clutter, too. Do you have unnecessary programs installed on your PC? Do you have lots of folders that you’re not even using? Outdated emails? Multiple copies of the same images? Sort through this clutter just like you would a stack of papers in your office. This will help you to keep track of what is – and what shouldn’t be – on your system.
• Update your virus protection ASAP. If you don’t have virus protection on your computer, get some! Immediately. If you already have an AV (anti-virus) program that you’re comfortable with, great. Now’s the time to install any updates to ensure that your protection is current.
• Change your passwords. Here’s a good time to choose a new set of passwords. Feel free to jot them down on paper if you can’t remember them. If you share a computer or use a public system, make sure to always keep your passwords secure.
• Sort through that stack of old emails. A good way to keep track of valuable emails is to sort them into various folders. Other than the standard Inbox, Sent, Drafts, Spam, and Trash folders, create a few of your own. Name them appropriately and once organized, sort your email on a regular basis. When you become more familiar with your regular emails, you’ll do better recognizing the spam that slips past your email filter.
• Finally, run a detailed scan of your system. Yes, make this a regular chore, but take the time to do a full scan now. Once you do... Back Up Your Hard Drive! Don’t forget this most important part of good PC maintenance.