OFM Newsletter


Spring 2011

Our primary goal is to set the industry standard, as we provide our clients with quality computer products, computer services, and peace of mind.


OFM Computer Systems
2715 Hydraulic Road Charlottesville, VA 22901
Phone: (434) 984-6190
Fax: (434) 984-1024
E-mail:
www.ofm.com

Malware

Malware is a term used to describe any malicious software. Most people use the word “malware” interchangeably with “virus”, “spyware”, “worm”, or “Trojan.” Technically this is incorrect, but bad is bad no matter what you call it.

More importantly than what it is called is how we protect ourselves against it.  Computer applications that protect us are written in response to the malware they protect against. This means the malware comes first, then the application is modified to protect us. The bad guys are always one step ahead.

While there is no perfect protection, we can take steps to minimize the threats. The first step is to recognize that the web is by far the biggest vehicle for malware. The only way to ensure complete protection is to not use the internet at all, and that is just not realistic today. Achieving a balance between safety and usability is the goal.

Using computer applications such as antivirus programs (such as Symantec Endpoint Protection, Microsoft Security Essentials, McAfee), firewalls (these are often built-in to wireless routers, but also can be purely software like Windows Firewall), and Spyware applications that are usually directed toward internet traffic (Malwarebyte’s Antimalware, Spybot Search and Destroy).

But all this computing power put toward detecting and defeating malicious software is not enough. User awareness is the key. Don’t open emails from unknown senders. Use multiple sources to verify the legitimacy of files and software before downloading and using them. Know how your protection software works so you can identify false alerts.

Here are some free tools you can use to help protect your home computer:
     Microsoft Security Essentials (always on, updates itself, protects in real time)
     Malwarebyte’s Anti-Malware (manually updated and scanned at least once a week)
     Spybot - Search and Destroy (manually updated and scanned at least once a week)

Mobile Computing:
iPads, iPhones and Blackberries in the workplace

Sales of mobile computing devices like iPads and smartphones have exploded.  While originally aimed at personal use they have entered the workplace, but have had some problems finding their role.  Questions of integration and security are addressed in this article.

Sales Special:
Business Desktop 6000 Pro

$1062.00

Capable. Integrated. Designed with enterprise class performance, manageability, and stability in an integrated form. Get a desktop computer, high-definition LCD monitor, webcam and more; the tools you need for your twenty-first century business.


  • Product Description

    Desktop 6000 Pro

    Type

    Desktop Computer

    Dimensions (WxDxH)

    21.5" x 2.6" x 16.89"

    Weight

    18.19 lb

    Processor

    Intel E8400 Dual-Core 3GHz

    RAM

    4 GB DDR3-1333 / PC3-10600 - 8 GB max ( DDR3 SDRAM)

    Storage Controller

    Serial ATA

    Hard Drive

    500 GB

    Optical Storage

    DVD writer (DVD-RAM/±R/±RW) with LightScribe Technology - dual layer support

    Monitor

    21.5" Active Matrix TFT Color LCD.  HD 1080 w/ 16:9 aspect ratio
    Max resolution: 1920 x 1080

    Graphics Controller

    nVidia GeForce GT230

    Video Memory Capacity

    1 GB (dedicated)

    Networking

    Gigabit Ethernet

    Power

    AC 120/230 V ( 50/60 Hz )

    OS Provided

    Microsoft Windows 7 Professional 64-bit Edition

    Microsoft Office Preloaded

    Includes a pre-loaded image of select Microsoft Office 2010 suites. Purchase an Office 2010 Product Key Card or disc to activate preloaded software on this PC.

    Environmental Standards

    Green Compliant.  Cerificate/Authority:  RoHS, WEEE, Energy Star, EPEAT Gold

    Manufacturer Warranty

    3 years warranty