Best single print or web resource for admin'ing a PC

by campbelltf Sep 1, 2004 4:25AM PDT

I have worked with laptops for almost a decade, but always on a company machine that was administered and maintained by the company's IT group. I have recently purchased my first, personally owned laptop - a Dell Inspiron 8600/1.6 Ghz/512MB/40GB/XP Pro - and I suddenly realize I don't have the know how to keep it running smoothly and to "monkey" with it to diagnose any issues (I hear Dell isn't the most useful first line of defense). Can people suggest either a single book or website they consider a general "must read" for the newbie? Thanks.

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Re: Best single print or web resource for admin'ing a PC

by r. proffitt Forum moderator Sep 1, 2004 4:30AM PDT

Just my opinion here.

1. A current antivirus. Some don't have such or let them lapse.

2. XP? You need a firewall. If you have SP2, then it's enabled by default and stops the usual worms.

3. PEST CONTROL!!! An Anti-Parasite Suite such as Adaware, Spybot, Stinger and Housecall. Cwshredder is not being developed but may help. Keep reading in the Security Forum for updates.

4. Try another browser. Internet Explorer has some issues...

Bob

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Re: Best single print or web resource for admin'ing a PC

by billzhills Sep 1, 2004 4:40AM PDT

I don't think there is any one web site for a nebwie

My List will be followed by others.

http://computer.howstuffworks.com/

http://www.pcstats.com/articleview.cfm?articleid=1458

http://grc.com/default.htm
(scroll down to ShieldsUP!)

http://www.pcguide.com/

Enjoy

Bill

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Campbelltf, We've Got Something Of Our Own

by Grif Thomas Forum moderator Sep 1, 2004 5:32AM PDT

Here's a link to a "Tips" thread in the "Computer Newbies" forum:

A Few 'Tips' For Computer Newbies

Click on the link above and read some of the specific tips.

Hope this helps.

Grif

Best single print or web resource for admin'ing a PC

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