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Heading Off a Virus
I wrote this article as a wakeup call to remind people to back up their data after my own system was trashed by a virus.

Viruses and Computer Problems
Can Wipe Out Your Data
This summer I learned a very painful lesson. After years with no PC problems, I became complacent. I thought, "it's never gonna happen to me." I wasn't backing up my files on a regular basis. Then whammo! My PC was hit by a virus that wiped out my entire hard drive. It didn't just wreck a few files. Everything—programs, operating system, fonts, client files—was gone.

Even though I was running a virus scanner and keeping it updated, I still got nailed. It took weeks to rebuild lost files from my last pitifully outdated backup, and to get my system back up and running as it was before. I felt like an idiot, but it motivated me to get more serious about protecting my data.

I am by no means a computer expert; I'm just a regular person who uses a computer to earn a living. But here are some simple steps that can help protect your data.

1: Back Up Your Data Often
Unless your files are stored on a server where your data is backed up automatically, make copies of your important files on a disk or CD. Store them in another building or in the lockbox at your bank in case of fire. I bought a backup program called "BackUp My PC." It's very simple and can back up your entire computer (or selected files) to a CD-ROM with just a few mouse clicks.

2: Anti-Virus "AV" Software
Install it. Keep it running all the time. Update it at least every week with the latest "virus definitions' (as soon as a new virus is created, your software manufacturer will create a fix for it). Most AV programs can be set up to update automatically through your internet connection.

3: Use Email Safely
If your email program is set to "preview" messages before you open them, turn this feature OFF. Previewing a message with an infected attachment can actually trigger the virus to run. Never, ever open an email with an attached file unless you know exactly what it is, even if you recognize the sender's name. Some viruses send infected email with attachments from people you know, so even if you know the sender, an attachment could contain a virus. When in doubt, call or email the sender to verify that he or she sent the email before you open it.