We Know Why You Haven't Decided Yet To Purchase A Security Product

There are many people, who heard about the security tools, available for data protection. But it is not an easy issue to understand to those who are not software literate. In this article we will look at this issue in order to understand that.

With the growth of information technologies, people own a lot of professional or personal information, which has both a financial and emotional value. As people get vulnerable to numerous security threats, they become more and more aware of the ways they could overcome their vulnerability. And this security concern is common to all people, especially when it comes to lose something they possess. This is why the security products, available on the IT security market, are more and more commonly expanded in Europe and USA.

Among many people who rely on different kinds of digital assets in their businesses and private life, there are some whose main concern is how to protect them. There are also people who think that it is too far for them to make a decision on purchasing existing security products, because they do not have any special knowledge in security. Here we would like to come up with the data, which would help you to get a start in considering the ways you could protect your information.

At first look, it seems that the security products market is so sophisticated, that without any professional knowledge it is not possible to understand what kind of products you need. You may think that it is so much complicated to be able to analyze what solutions exist, what for they may be used and which one is right for you to purchase.

These questions and the solutions to them may seem vague to people with excellence in other areas, but with no knowledge in the IT security. By giving the answers to these and other related questions, we will help you define your needs and decide which data protection and access control solutions will best suit your needs.
1. What is the security software for and how can it help people?
While the security products industry is largely expanding in the world, there are more and more areas where it can be used. The Dekart Company has committed itself to developing solutions that can be easily deployed and used by people.

Most of the digital assets, available on the market, are designed with the option for the security hardware installation. The PCs and many mobile devices that can be connected to PCs (like mobile phones) and that may have an increased need for security, are technically available now to be protected.

From another point of view, there are products, which can be of real help in protecting important data (like hard disk encryption and file encryption software, brought to you by Dekart). These products can protect any type of data for any kind of people, who are interested in protection of their business information, scientific researches, as well as personal information. This type of protection ensures that no data will be accessed and viewed by unauthorized malicious users, even if your computer is lost or stolen or if there are many people who can access it.

The security products have another large area of usage. When there is the need to control access to the office computers, Dekart offers its smart card and biometric authentication solutions. The state-of-the-art biometric identification improves the security of login procedures, thus ensuring that no third party will access critically important information.
Users now can also protect and encrypt their email correspondence using Dekart digital certification service in combination with the smart card and biometric authentication.

There are different hardware devices used to provide two- and three-factor authentication to secure access to the information. Dekart offers the flexibility to choose between different vendors' smart cards, tokens, biometric devices and even USB flash drives to satisfy users' security needs.

The types of the Hardware Keys (USB tokens and Smart cards)
Dekart Software uses the following types of Hardware Keys to generate secret cryptographic keys and store users' private data:

1. USB (universal serial bus) tokens are smaller token-style cards that plug directly into the USB port of a computer. The USB-compatible ports are being built into many PCs (i.e., desktops and laptops) and many mobile devices that connect with PCs (i.e., PDAs and mobile phones), as this is the simplest type of reader to connect

2. Smart cards are conventional credit card-shaped contact cards
The Smart Card device contains the cryptographic chip. The use of credit-card size Smart Cards has successfully been adopted by a number of European companies, with a particularly high level of acceptance in Germany and France. However, high hardware deployment costs and the lack of application standards associated with Smart Cards have proved to be significant barriers to their widespread use, especially in the US.

USB Token solution is different from traditional smart card solutions in that it does not require a reader infrastructure, helping to make it less expensive for organizations to deploy and easier for users to adopt.
Dekart has developed the following utilities for managing and deploying the smart cards or tokens used with Dekart applications:

1. Dekart Key Manager Utility can help determining the memory usage of the card, performing backups and duplicating the data stored on the hardware keys.

2. Key Formatting utility or Corporate Key formatting utility allows formatting the smart cards or tokens to be used with Dekart software.
What to consider before purchasing a smart card or USB token?

1. Define all of your anticipated present and future card usage requirements

2. Define the memory requirements for each certificate or application. Here is a sample of Smart Card memory usage:

· Free space - 5K

· Your custom application -1,5 K

· Smart Card logon certificate -2,5 K

· Smart card vendor applications - 8K

· Windows for Smart Cards Operating system -15K

3. Making a decision on which present and future applications are required. It is important to preview the future applications needed, as it is important to leave an extra storage space on the chip.

4. Test smart cards and smart card readers to verify compatibility before deploying them in your production environment.

In conclusion, there are few things important to understand:

1. It is important to remember that there are different types of hardware and software available for them.

2. It is suggested to understand specific needs of the buyer and the variety of existing products in order to make the best purchasing decision.

Virus Prevention and Removal

A virus is a piece of code that gets loaded onto your computer without your knowledge and runs against your wishes. The first known occurrence of viruses goes back to 1987 when the ARPANET was infected by one.

One common misnomer among people is that you can infect your computer just by opening an email and reading its text. That is not possible; it is usually the files attached to the email that contain the virus. The most common file types are ".SCR" ".VBS" ", ".PIF"

Prevention is better than a cure: Here are some tips to make sure that your computer does not get infected.

* Get a good Anti-Virus software like Norton Anti-Virus, MacAfee, PC Cillin etc.

* Keep your anti virus software updated by downloading new virus definitions regularly. Most Anti-Virus software comes with the feature of updating virus definitions.

* Keep your windows operating system updated by regularly downloading new updates from the Internet. Windows O/S's have a lot of security loopholes and bugs that can be easily exploited by worms and viruses.

* Make sure the anti virus scans the file each time before its opened.

* Floppy disks and removable media are a good source of viruses; always scan them before accessing files on them.

* Never open email attachments from sources that are unknown or suspicious.

* Do not open emails that have questionable subject lines.

* When in doubt about a file, don't open it.

* Even with the best of precautions bad things can still happen. Backup all your data and important files.

Even after taking all these precautions if your computer does get infected, then here are a few things that you can do:

Online clearing tools - are a good source of trying to clean out the virus, there are many Anti-Virus websites that offer free online virus detection and removal services.

Removal tools - If you have an Anti-Virus software then you can go to the website of that software and download removal tools designed specifically for the virus. However, you must find out the name of the virus that infects your PC beforehand.

If you have a backup of all your important files, you can also consider formatting your hard disk.

Five Stress Reducing Computer Tips

For most entrepreneurs computers are an intrical part of our business. An entrepreneur can not afford for their computer to be inoperable even for a minute. Implement some of these quick and affordable computer tips to keep your computer healthy and making money for your business.

#1 - Double Internet Speed

Comcast recently doubled cable modem download speeds. Now you can surf the Internet and download files twice as fast. However, you need to power cycle your cable modem [unplug it for 30 seconds and reboot computer] for the new configuration to be automatically downloaded to your modem.

#2 - Connecting to Work from Home

Having trouble with your corporate VPN connection when working from home? Oftentimes this can be fixed with a simple firmware upgrade to your network router or a slight change in settings.

#3 - Sudden Lost Connection

Has your Internet connection suddenly stopped working? Frequently computer users with software-based firewalls suddenly find their Internet connection no longer available. Oftentimes when you download a software update, it can change your original configurations. As a quick test, disable the software firewall. If connectivity returns, it's a misconfiguration issue.

#4 - Slow E-mail and Internet Browsing

Has your computer been working wonderfully, but suddenly e-mail or Internet browsing is painfully slow? It could be your cable connection went out. And although the connection has returned, your computer and the cable modem may be having difficulty communicating. Try power cycling your modem.

#5 - Eliminate Popups

Google offers a free popup blocker with its toolbar. Download the toolbar at www.toolbar.google.com. System requirements: Microsoft Windows 95/98/ME/NT/2000/XP, Microsoft Internet Explorer 5.0 or later. The popup blocker requires Internet Explorer 5.5 or later.

How Do I Uninstall Microsoft Silverlight 5?

Are you looking for an efficient way to uninstall Microsoft Silverlight 5? Do you want to remove the application without causing any hassle? You will know how to achieve that after reading this article.

To remove the application, we need to understand what it is.The application, released on December 9, 2011, is a plug-in or an add-on for Internet browsers, allowing users to experience various Internet applications within web browsers. It is a big advancement over the previous version, with improved media features and user interface facilities. Take Hardware Decoding as an example, it enables low power netbooks to play HD content. Another example is that Trickplay in the application can speed up or slow down the video while keeping the audio pitch correct.

Unfortunately, there are also problems with the application. The most common one is the frequent occurrence of crashes caused by the application, in particular, crashes of Internet Explorer. For instance, IE8 usually stops working and it asks you to download a file called "dw20.exe" and you can not fix the problem after downloading that file. Another big problem is that the software, though similar to Adobe Flash, is less well-established, supporting only few browsers in windows and in Mac. Other reoccurring problems are the application's corrupted installation and corrupted registry entries. Apart from these problems, you have to keep updating web browsers and the operating system on your computer to avoid errors related to the application. Sometimes, even with the system and web browsers being fully updated, the application still refuses to work.

You may wish to uninstall the application due to these issues. How to uninstall it from your system?

If you are a Windows XP user, you should take the below steps:

Step 1. Shut down all browsers.

Step 2. Click on the Start button and then move on by going to Control Panel.

Step 3. Double-click on Add/Remove Programs.

Step 4. Select the target program and then click the Remove option.

Step 5. Follow the window wizard to complete the removal.

For Windows Vista users, take the following steps:

Step 1. Close all browsers.

Step 2. Click Start and then locate Control Panel.

Step 3. Go to Programs, click on Uninstall a Program( if you are in Category View, select Programs & Features).

Step 4. Click Uninstall/Change.

Step 5. Select the plug-in and click Uninstall.

This method will not delete the annoying plug-in entirely. There will be files and registry entries left behind by the plug-in. You can remove the left over files by searching and deleting them. And you can resort to a registry cleaner to get rid of those registry entries. But you should take care when choosing a registry cleaner in case of any further problem. To save against a rainy day, you'd better backup your registry and create a restore point before running the registry cleanup tool.

You can also uninstall the plug-in by using the Windows Installer Cleanup Utility, which only eliminates registry entries and files related to the Windows Installer portion on the program. It will not remove many files from the computer. To remove the plug-in with the utility, you should follow the instructions below:

Step 1. Login as an administrator.

Step 2. Download and run the utility.

Step 3. Close all the browsers.

Step 4. Select the plug-in in the list of installed programs and click on Remove.

You might find that the application still cannot be removed completely after using Windows Installer Cleanup Utility. In fact, using an uninstaller to do the removal is a better option for you. Here I take Mighty Uninstaller as an example. It will not only remove the stubborn programs that could not be removed completely from Windows Add/Remove program but also provides services like scanning both your registry and hard-drive, cleaning the empty or corrupted registry entry, improving your overall PC performance and backing-up your registry as well. What's more, it is easy to use and friendly user interface. To use that uninstaller, you can firstly download it for free from a safe website and then click the .exe file to install it in your computer. The next step is to run this application and select the plug-in in the program list displayed then click on "Uninstall" button. The removal will take a few minutes.

Top Android Tablet Reviews

Tablets are taking the electronics world by storm and many of the top Android tablet reviews can be found online. Since the Apple iOS emerged on the scene there have been many other tablets that have hit the market; and each and every one of them has something unique to offer consumers.

Even though Apple's smart phone is a superior device, there are many other very attractive and smart alternatives. Even though it has been a slow process, there are other viable competitor's to Apple's tablet. With its Nexus 7, Google has made one of the best and most amazing 7 inch tablets around today. It combines superior function with a comfortable feel that puts it at the head of the class when it comes to smaller tablets.

The Asus line of tablets is also an awesome group of devices in their own right and they perform incredibly well. They come in a range of sizes and designs and are definitely great contenders to Apple's tablet. Samsung and Sony both have created powerful tablets that have beautiful and clear picture qualities, but their price is on the higher end of the spectrum.

The top Android tablet reviews continually point to the fact that the Google Android mobile OS tablet is one of the very best tablets for your money. Also the Nexus 7 has proven itself to be just as good as the Apple device. It isn't quite as big as Apple's tablet, but since it is smaller it is far easier to carry along with you. Many people feel that this tablet offers the consumer their best tablet experience yet. It has a smart design with many awesome features.

It has also been said that if you are a person that simply uses your tablet to web surf, check emails and go on social or gaming sites, then the Google Android may be a better choice for you than the Apple iPad version of the tablet.

Whatever brand you choose to purchase it is easy to see that the Android tablets are some of the most innovative and smart devices around today. Whether you opt for a 7 inch or a 10 inch screen size, or whether you go with Google or Samsung, you will love the features and capabilities an Android tablet gives you. Take a look at these devices online today and pick out one to purchase online. You will thoroughly enjoy the advancements of these very cool devices.

Seven Vital Things to Know Before Buying a Laptop

Before buying a computer it is mandatory to check all its merits and drawbacks. It can be an annoying situation when you are buying an expensive laptop and you're unknown about all the facts. Today, there are several brands which promise to give their best shot in terms of performance and reliability. But still there are some essential factors to keep in mind like size, features, performance, durability, and more. Here are some very useful things to know before shopping for a laptop.

1) Operating System: Choosing an operating system is your own personal choice. Both Mac and Windows do the same thing, but they have different interface and performance. Mac is amazing with faster performance running multiple applications efficiently and crashes rarely. They are less vulnerable to viruses or other malwares. Windows OS also runs well and importantly it is more familiar for many people. If you're quite familiar with Windows then stick to it. But if you wish to learn something new, then go for the Mac.

2) System Memory: A system's memory plays a significant role in case of performance. Ensure your RAM keeps up a good performance level when you are using many applications simultaneously or watching multiple websites in different browsers. The more RAM, the faster your laptop will perform. Make sure your laptop gives you option to upgrade your RAM if required for more performance.

3) Processor: CPU is a chip inside a laptop which is considered as the brain of the computer where fast thinking (processing) happens. Go for the fastest processor that you can afford. Dual core processor will be fine if you're not running intensive, threaded applications regularly. But mainstream buyers can look for Intel's Core i3 or i5 processors which are quite advance. Centrino Core 2 Duo processor can give you a better performance at a good price. It will run more efficiently, with longer battery life and better wireless performance.

4) Hard Drive: It's a permanent storage in the laptop where you store all your files, photos, music, videos, documents, spreadsheets, applications, etc. If you often download and store movies and games on your computer, you need sufficient memory space. Make sure your hard drive holds at least 160 GB (163,840 megabytes). If your budget is a bit high, then more than 160 GB will be a better choice.

5) Keyboard and Touchpad: Apart from RAM, processor and hard drive, keyboard and touchpad are also the essential lookouts for a good laptop. You are going to use these two input devices most of the time. While you type, some keyboards flex or bounce under the pressure of your finger tips. It really feels unpleasant particularly while doing an important task. Check out for the best laptop having firm support underneath the entire keyboard structure. You can also go for a laptop having LED-backlit keyboard which can help you type in a dimly lit room. When it comes to touchpad, choose the one having excellent sensitivity and minimal lag. Make sure you can move cursor on the screen precisely along with your fingertip on the touchpad. Larger touchpad with buttons are generally good.

6) Screen & Audio System: It is quite difficult and expensive to change your laptop screen unlike desktop monitor, once purchased. So, look for the right resolution at the time of purchase. Cheaper screens are often invisible in outdoor light and become less useful for you. Clearly check how the laptop screen performs under sunlight. Get the right amount of pixels if it is required for your computer activities. You should also check the sound system before purchasing a laptop. Make sure the sound is quite audible and crystal clear. There are some advance models which comes with Intel's WiDi technology that helps you wireless stream video from your laptop to your HDTV.

7) Battery Performance: Most of the laptop battery comes with 1-year warranty. There are some organizations that claim a battery backup of 5 to 6hrs for their laptops. But most of the laptops can only sustain maximum up to 3hrs due to lack of actual back-up time. Make sure to get the right battery and check it after couple of days of usage. You can also extend the standard 1-year warranty by paying some extra bucks.