Having trouble keeping track of all your computer passwords? Instead of covering your desk with post-it notes, try a password manager. These programs store all your passwords in one place. You can also store other sensitive information like credit cards numbers, serial numbers and custom lists (e.g., what’s in your safety deposit box or wallet). Each program below uses strong encryption to keep your data safe.
Have you ever had a file in a format you can’t read on your computer? Maybe it was created in a newer version of Word, or it’s a music file you can’t listen to. If you have a Google account, you can upload Word/Excel files to Google Docs and read them there or export them. You can also try Zamzar, a free online file conversion tool.
Do you constantly share files between a home and work computer? Instead of emailing them to yourself or carrying around a USB drive, try Dropbox. You get 2GB of free online storage to share files between computers or just keep an online backup. They also have an iPhone app if you need to access your data on the go.
If you use the internet on your PC, you are opening your computer up to a world of nasty viruses. It’s very important to have some kind of antivirus or anti-malware program installed. If you don’t have one, check with your Internet Service Provider (Comcast, AT&T, RCN) and see if one is included with your internet service.
If not, here are several highly rated (and free) programs you can try:
Malwarebytes’ Anti-Malware
Panda Cloud Antivirus Free Edition
Avast! Free Antivirus
AVG Anti-Virus Free Edition
Keep up with the latest tech tips over RSS or enter your email below to receive weekly tips in your inbox.
