As more of the content and services that we access day-to-day resides out there on the internet, or in “the cloud”, it makes sense that we take advantage of backing up our computer’s data using cloud-based services. Online data backup has evolved into a fast, secure and always accessible means of storing data while providing peace of mind and a seamless method for securing our important files. There are a number top-notch, trusted online services that offer free and inexpensive data backup plans and that list is growing. Here are four that receive consistently good reviews and praise from their users and industry analysts:

Mozy Backup (http://mozy.com) – Mozy has been providing data backup services since 2005. Both personal users and businesses have trusted Mozy for its reliable, always on backup solutions. Mozy offers a free backup plan that has a 2 gigabyte limit. For many people this is more than adequate for storing important files and documents. Simply signup for a free account and install the Mozy software on your computer. Mozy will monitor the most commonly used storage folders on the computer (others can be added as well) and as changes are made to the content of these folders, Mozy will backup these changes. All of the data that is sent to Mozy’s servers is encrypted. As long as your computer is connected to the internet, Mozy can do its job. In the event of data loss on the computer, Mozy will restore whole data sets, or individual files with one mouse-click. (Windows, Mac)

SugarSync (https://www.sugarsync.com) – SugarSync shares many of the features as Mozy and tosses in a few more that some users will find helpful. SugarSync’s free plan starts with a 5 gigabyte storage limit. Again, this will be plenty of storage for backing up documents and data files. Whereas Mozy backs up data at specific time intervals throughout the day, SugarSync backs up data in real time when changes are made to the folders that it monitors. This feature could more accurately be described as data syncing rather than data backup, though both accomplish the same task. Another great feature of SugarSync is its ability to sync data across computers. Install SugarSync on both your laptop and desktop computers and link them to the same account. Add or modify a file on one computer, and this change will sync to the other. Digital nomads will find this useful. For the uber-mobile, SugarSync offers a free app for the iPhone, iPad, Android, Blackberry and other handheld devices. (Windows, Mac, mobile platforms).

Crashplan (http://www.crashplan.com) – Crashplan has devised a unique solution for offering online backup to its users. In addition to a fee-based backup service to its own secure servers, Crashplan offers the ability to backup to any network or internet-based location free of charge. Install Crashplan on multiple computer in different locations and then choose your own backup source and destination. Backup from office to home, home to Aunt Martha’s computer, Aunt Martha’s computer to your external hard drive. As long as each location is connected to the internet, all of the encrypted backup data is routed through Crashplan’s servers to its destination. This online solution may be the ticket for those wanting off-site backup while keeping physical control of where the data is being stored. (Windows, Mac, Linux)

Dropbox (https://www.dropbox.com) – Dropbox has become the go-to solution for many computer users seeking a simple, straightforward backup and syncing tool. In fact many other software applications are incorporating Dropbox into their syncing and storage features because of its flexibility and ease of use. The free Dropbox plan starts with a 2 gigabyte storage limit. Once installed on the computer, Dropbox creates a folder that looks and feels like your other folders. However, unlike the other folders, any content placed in the Dropbox folder is instantly and securely synced to your Dropbox account online. if you have multiple computers, install and link your Dropbox account on each. Now, any content added on any computer is automatically synced to the Dropbox folder on all of the computers. Again, great for digital nomads and those requiring access to data from multiple locations. Dropbox also offers its free mobile platform application for added ease of access. (Windows, Mac, Linux, mobile platforms)

Each backup solution has its strengths. If your backup needs include large photo and/or music libraries, you’ll most likely want to choose from the fee-based storage plans offered by each of these backup providers. If you have any questions about getting started with an online backup plan, give Rogue Valley Computing a call.

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Cybercriminals employ sophisticated, if not deceptive methods of scamming people. Closer to home, I have noticed an alarming increase in the number calls from unsuspecting clients that have inadvertently installed bogus antivirus software on their computers. These folks report being informed by urgent, legitimate looking pop-up windows that multiple viruses have been detected on the computer. Furthermore, they have been instructed to visit a website and pay for software that will help rid the computer of these viruses. The bad news: the virus itself is making the claim of an infected computer. Still worse, making a payment to the bogus website amounts to a theft crime with little recourse as most of these sites are located in countries with lax enforcement of internet commerce regulations. And the coup de grâce, the computer still remains infected with a pesky virus that often requires a rigorous cat and mouse hunt to root it out completely.

A chance encounter with a computer virus may be unavoidable. Greatly reducing one’s risks can be significantly improved by taking a few simple precautions.

1. Use a reputable, highly-rated antivirus software. There are a number of antivirus products that do an excellent job of monitoring and safeguarding computer activity. Many charge a yearly subscription fee, while some are free. Regardless of which one is used, it is important to know and become familiar with the software’s look and feeI. In other words, when the application’s window is open, what does it look like? How does it alert you to threats and messages? The application’s icon in the system tray (lower-righthand corner of the desktop), what is its function? Does it change from green, to yellow, to red as the alert status increases? Knowing how to distinguish between a valid alert message and bogus pop-up window is a key step in not getting scammed.

2. Do regular maintenance on your computer. In addition to using real-time, always-on antivirus protection, use an anti-malware/spyware application for periodic scans of your hard drive. If the internet security industry has demonstrated anything, it’s that no one software product is foolproof and 100% reliable. By using security software in tandem, you’ll increase the odds of having a squeaky clean computer.

3. Use a different browser. The gateway of choice for most  malicious content coming onto a computer is Internet Explorer. Microsoft has improved things over the years, yet the hijacks and exploits keep on coming. Using a browser such as Firefox, Google’s Chrome, Opera or Safari tends to reduce such browser exploits. Like antivirus software, no single browser is invulnerable to the risks of the internet, yet these other browsers have a better track record.

4. Use a different operating system. OK, here we go……Mac vs PC. Mac users that have read this far are already saying, “I don’t deal with any of these issues”. Mostly, this is the case. However, as the usage of Mac computers and the Mac OSX (operating system) continues to grow, the shadowy cybercriminals will find ways to increase profits by exploiting this segment of computer users as well. It’s simple supply and demand.

5. Lastly, don’t open email attachments from unfamiliar sources. Even if you know the source, ask before opening.

It has been stated that the most secure computer is the one that’s turned off and unplugged. While no one wants the headache and hassle of debugging a computer, most of us are willing to accept the day-to-day risks of using the internet for the value and convenience that it adds to our lives. By becoming informed and applying a few simple steps, your computer will remain a useful tool and not become the scene of a crime.

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Almost four decades have passed since HBO first beamed made-for-tv movies and raunchy stand-up comedy into our homes. HBO’s offerings may not have changed much in 40 years, but our choices for multimedia content have grown dramatically since those early days of cable.. Today, with some creative decision-making and willingness to venture into the wilds of the internet, it is possible to take advantage of excellent services, while saving a bundle of money. From internet radio to online movies, banking to long-distance phone calling, there’s something for everyone. The following is a selection of some of the better known, top-rated services available:

Music – Perhaps the best free online radio service is pandora.com. Pandora is a personalized radio service that plays music based on your preferences. Select an artist, album or genre and pandora will broadcast music that has been “genome typed” to your selection. Very clever. There are literally thousands of other online radio stations, yet pandora does an excellent job of providing free, quality content. Worthy of mention is another top-notch station, shoutcast.com.

Video / TV – Look beyond youtube. Everything from live newscasts to new feature length movies are available and easily accessible. Most cable channels offer free online programming similar to their fee-based offerings, oftentimes without commercials. Check out sites like hulu.com and boxee.tv for a wide variety of programming. For new release movies, amazon’s video-on-demand can be streamed right to your television set for a few dollars per movie.

Telephone Services – If you aren’t using Skype, what are you waiting for? The granddaddy of VOIP (voice over internet protocol) calling is still free and offers crystal clear voice and video chat services. Sign up for an account and your conversations with other skype members anywhere on the planet won’t cost you a nickel. Others companies have jumped into the VOIP arena, notably some of the major cable providers. Many subscribers save on phone bills by combining cable/internet/telephone services into a single monthly package.

Banking – As an alternative to pen and paper bookkeeping, Mint.com provides an excellent method of keeping track of all one’s financial accounts in a free, easy to use, feature-rich environment. Recently acquired by Quicken, Mint helps users manage accounts, prepare budgets and reports, and find savings. Rock solid and secure, Mint has set the standard for online financial services.

The list goes on and on……educational games, photo processing, shopping. For ease of use, accessibility, and cost savings, internet-based services can be a great value. Fortunately, making the most of these services (like pandora and amazon video) won’t necessarily require additional hardware costs as newer computers come with built-in output connectivity to stereo systems and flat screens. So, sit back, relax and enjoy the movie. Oh, and the plumbing’s on its way.

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Regular cleaning is good for computer gear. Taking a few minutes to remove the dust, crumbs, smudges and other unwelcome guests from your computing devices will make for a better experience and potentially help avoid hardware failure resulting from dust buildup. Let’s take a look at some common inroads to computer clutter and ways to clean them up, starting with THE TOWER.

Inside the tower is located all of the computer’s hardware that springs to life when the power button is pushed. ALL computers generate heat. As a system’s cooling fan draws air through the tower, so to goes the dust. Years of accumulated dust acts as an insulator. This can raise the temperature of a computer above its operating capacity and cause hardware failure. The solution – remove the dust. Here are some simple DO’s and DON’TS that need to be followed when cleaning dust from a computer:

1. All power cords, cables and devices need to be unplugged and removed.
2. Dusting should take place outside in a dry, clean and ventilated area.
3. Remove only the removable side of the tower’s outer case, typically held in place by a hinge or locking screw.
4. Do not touch any of the internal parts as they can be sensitive to the static discharge from your body.
5. Using only canned or compressed air, apply short puffs directed at a distance of 2-6 inches from computer parts.
6. Never use a vacuum cleaner or dusting device to remove dust from your computer.

Bravado and a big blast from the lungs is not a good idea for cleaning the tower. You’re liable to get a face full of old, fine dust.

THE PRINTER can also benefit from a regular cleaning. A gentle wipe down of the outside of the printer with a damp, lint-free cloth will do the job. As for the “guts” of the printer, methods of cleaning can vary depending on the printer type. Fortunately, most newer printers have built-in cleaning utilities accessible from the printer software installed on the computer or from the settings on the printer itself. The built-in utility will typically take care of cleaning and aligning the printhead or print cartridges. This will help cut down on waste in both paper and ink. Older printers may require removal of these items for manual cleaning.

Cleaning THE MONITOR is a straight shot. Newer LCD monitors are more sensitive to scratches and abrasions compared to the glass screens found on older CRT monitors. Consequently, a softer touch and non-abrasive materials are key. Always use a clean, micro-fiber cloth such as the type for cleaning eye glasses. NEVER use paper products (tissue, towels, newspaper) or other cloth types. Plain water or a water/vinegar solution sprayed onto the cloth will help remove smudges on the screen. Slow and gentle is the way to go while cleaning an LCD monitor.

As for THE KEYBOARD, don’t let it become your personal petri dish. A little patience and light elbow grease will expose those smudged-over keys in no time. First, take care of the dust and crumbs with some compressed air (like with the tower) blown between the keys. A vacuum with a brush attachment will also work, but use caution and avoid “popping-off” a key. A cotton swab or lint-free cloth dampened with isopropyl alcohol will remove smudges and sanitize your keyboard. Periodic sanitizing of a keyboard can be done with household cloth-sanitizing products or a cloth lightly dampened with alcohol.

These few simple tasks will help keep your devices humming along.

Additional resources:

Lifehacker – Just the basics for a quick once over of your computer and peripherals

Bleepingcomputer.com – An in-depth look at cleaning the computer tower

Computerhope.com – General cleaning tips for computers and peripherals.

ehow.com – Links to numerous articles on a variety of cleaning information, including laptops

Crunchgear – A video overview of cleaning your computer

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New players are continually coming onto the scene offering a product or service with an eye on simplicity and innovation, as in the case of many cloud based offerings. Even the behemoth Microsoft has stepped up to the plate with its free security essentials software which does a better job than many subscription-based anti-virus products. Ultimately, well developed software paired with good customer support will stand the scrutiny of an increasingly tech-savvy consumer market.  But when in doubt about your money’s value when purchasing a 3 year subscription, go for one year. There’s always the chance to renew.

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Enter the cloud. “Cloud computing” is a term that is gaining traction in the ever changing world of computers and technology. In a nutshell, cloud computing refers to the process of storing and accessing personal data over the internet rather than from the hard drive on a personal computer. Put simply, the cloud = online data. Fortunately for Mom, she had been using an online backup service that had been keeping her valuable information and files synced in the cloud. All of her photos, documents and backup files were immediately accessible from the new laptop, which never goes near soymilk.

Shifting data to the cloud has some distinct advantages:

Mobility – For both business and personal use many people rely on cell phones, “smartphones”, iPhones and other similar devices to access appointment calendars, contacts and email. Being able to add someone to a contact list or create an appointment on a phone and have it sync immediately with a computer’s address book and calendar (and vice versa) can be a huge time saver. No more fumbling for scribbled notes stuffed into pockets and backpacks.

Collaboration – I’m writing this article using Google Docs, a free online suite of office applications (think Microsoft Office). Let’s say that my co-authors, scattered around the globe want to tweak and revise this otherwise shining example of tech journalism. They could do so simply by accessing it online and making changes, in real time. No more email attachments getting lost in the shuffle.

Security -  Online backup has evolved into a seamless, efficient method for storing and accessing data from a single online source. Services such as the free Windows Sky Drive and Dropbox offer a way to store large amounts of data while making it accessible to a variety of devices. If any one device gets lost, damaged or stolen all of the data resides online in the cloud. No more frantic searches for misplaced flash drives or out-dated backup CDs.

Stability – We’ve all experienced the sudden computer freeze or the dreaded windows “blue screen of death”. We’re all aware of lurking viruses, spyware and the other shadowy files that find their way onto our computers. Fortunately the numerous cloud-based applications like Google Docs, Flickr, and Mint.com are more immune to these various threats simply because they don’t exist as applications installed on the computer. They are managed, updated and backed up online and typically accessed through a web browser (i.e. Internet Explorer, Firefox, Safari…). No more trying to figure out if the old software is compatible with the newest operating system.

Cloud computing isn’t a cure all for backing up, accessing and storing personal information. It does however add an element of ease and simplicity, especially for those of us who are as disciplined about data backup as we are about changing the oil in the car.

Mom might be old school when it comes to the hazards of soymilk and computing. But she is so 21st century when it comes to her digital stuff.

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