April 1st is here, and early indications are that the much-ballyhooed Conficker worm is more bark than bite. Aside from a modest increase in junk mail that may be completely unrelated, users have yet to report any rise in infection or other adverse effects. Regardless, there is a drop-dead simple process you can use to protect against virtually any potential Conficker maladies, and the same process should be put in place under any circumstances to protect against other malware, viruses and other security threats. Here are the steps:
1. Make sure your Windows system has all pertinent updates Launch Internet Explorer and go to windowsupdate.microsoft.com. Install the ActiveX control if necessary, then use the “Express” option to download the latest and most important updates. That’s it–your system now has Microsoft’s latest Conficker protection mechanism installed. Microsoft may issue “zero-day” updates over the next few days, so check back regularly.
2. Install one (and only one) strong anti-virus package and make sure it’s up-to-date There a number of free, regularly updated anti-virus packages that do a fabulous job of protecting against worms like Conficker. Here’s a list:
Pick one and only one package and make sure it is updated frequently. Installation of multiple anti-virus packages can create conflicts that might actually weaken your system’s immunity and can create stability and performance issues.
As mentioned above, vendors may issue “zero-day” patches over the next few days to counteract any new variants of Conficker. Check the developer’s website or intra-application auto-update mechanisms regularly for the latest updates.
3. If you’re already infected, run this One of the nastiest elements of the Conficker worm is that it can disable antivirus and anti-malware tools, making it difficult to find and eliminate the worm after it’s been hatched. However, Microsoft offers a free OneCare system scan that is done over the Web, meaning it will be more likely to work if Conficker has crippled your software. Click here to access the scan.
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If you’re still paranoid, you can rework your password to make it stronger and disable AutoRun.
Filed under News, Windows 7, Windows Vista, Windows XP by on Mar 31st, 2009. 1 Comment. 
Earlier this month, Microsoft delivered the first release candidate of Windows Vista SP2, meaning that the final, public edition of the update will be posted for download soon. The new release features some sweeping improvements, including Windows Search 4.0, native Blu-Ray recording capabilities, easier Wi-Fi configuration and more.
Unfortunately, many users are likely to encounter a variety issues, such as startup problems, application crashes, performance hiccups and more, after the update. Here’s a run-down of the best methods for preventing these issues and making your update experience a smooth one:
Backup First and foremost, a full backup should be performed prior to any major system update. Your best bet is to use a tool that can create a complete, bootable backup of your primary volume. If major problems ensue post-update, you will have working copy of your current applications and documents that can be put into use immediately. Acronis True Image is one such tool. Alternatively, you can use Windows Vista’s built-in backup tools.
Check for spyware Next, eliminate any spyware or malware that might interfere with the update process or create conflicts after your system is updated. Various free or inexpensive tools, including Ad-Aware and Spybot are available for this purpose.
Kill any unnecessary startup processes Eliminating any unnecessary startup processes, or removing all third-party startup processes, can reduce compatibility headaches that often follow major system updates. Launch the System Configuration utility by clicking “Windows” then entering “System Configuration” in the search bar and pressing return. Click on the “Startup” tab and remove any unnecessary items, then restart.
Update drivers Check manufacturers’ websites for the latest driver editions for any third-party devices that are connected to your system. Many manufacturers have already updated their drivers for basic compatibility with Vista SP2.
Disconnect any unnecessary devices Aside from your keyboard, mouse, monitor and network connectivity, virtually all external device should be disconnected from your system right before you install Vista SP2. Disconnecting these devices can preclude a variety of issues. Once the update is applied, you can reconnect the devices one by one and check for compatibility issues.
Uninstall any pre-release Vista updates If you installed the Vista SP2 release candidate or a prior beta, uninstall it right before running the Vista SP2 update. Open Control Panel, click Programs, then click “View Installed Updates.” Look for the Microsoft Windows list, then right-click the beta or pre-release service pack and select uninstall.
Use the standalone updater Users have reported fewer problems when using full standalone Vista service pack updates instead of obtaining the updates through Windows Update. Microsoft will post a download link when Vista SP2 is officially released.
Feedback? info@windowsfixup.com.
Filed under News, Windows Vista by on Mar 25th, 2009. 1 Comment.
Google has released Chrome 1.0.154.53, the latest edition of its Web browser. The new version, though minor in number, includes some significant fixes for Windows Vista users, including:
- Fix for a problem setting Google Chrome as the default browser on Windows Vista
- Fix for a problem in which blank entries can appear in the address bar’s list of suggestions.
Several users have also reported a significant speed boost from the new version.
To download the new edition, visit this page or, within Google Chrome, select “About Google Chrome” from the Tools menu and proceed with an automatic update.
Feedback on the new release? Let us know.
Filed under News, Windows 7, Windows Vista, Windows XP by on Mar 25th, 2009. Comment.