A Good Look at Data Protection Services

 

Data protection is part of smart efforts for business owners looking to safeguard their interests. Listed below are details on the subject and other considerations.
Protecting Data
Data protection is a prime concern in many industries due to hacking possibilities. Take for example, hacked e-mails of popular celebrities ending up in the wrong hands. These put private affairs out in the spotlight no matter how these people try to protect them.
Many companies without adequate document storage for file protection can wind up facing negative consequences. Examples of these are losing investors, facing inquiries or even lawsuits. Investment loss is possible because no investor will want their finances available to scams. The information can expose traders to many negative outcomes where they can lose privacy and money.
Inquiries from the government or legal claims may be possible as hackers release or use information against companies victimized. Client information can also suffer undue exposure leaving these people vulnerable to scams. Different governing bodies can also scrutinize the company's practices and this can mean delays and other depressing outcomes.
How does it Work
Companies have different services for document storage. Some firms offer full-range service including document imaging and storing. Document imaging involves converting paper files into electronic data. The process uses a scanner, PC, and storage device to do the task. In large-scale operations, companies can use their own programs to label files. These make archiving easier for later retrieval. Many such companies can also offer cloud storage so users can access files online. They also offer passwords so access restriction is possible. Some firms may also offer other means to secure files. These businesses can store data in their monitored servers so clients need not worry over PC or network crashes.
Certain firms offer converting processes onsite or offsite. On-site methods will have a chosen company going to a particular workplace where their personnel will do the job. Offsite service will have clients transporting paper files for digital conversion to the provider's office.
In terms of storing physical files, some companies offer Archive Box Storage and Open Shelf File Storage. The first system provides boxes with allocated and unique identifying barcodes for easier and faster recognition. High-rise metal shelving within secure warehouses store these and supply cleanliness, security, fire protection, and pest-control. The second one entails use of solid metal shelves in secure warehouses, too. The main difference, however, is files remain loose and improves refiling process if needed. These files have unique bar codes for easier accessibility.
How to Hire Companies
Company credibility is a big issue so better get referrals for these. Use the internet in case you can't find any credible suggestions. The web provides listings, reports, and consumer reviews on top companies. Look at these websites and compare rates, packages, and consumer guarantees. Choose several firms and if possible, interview representatives before making a decision. These actions will help you get better offers and protect you from scams.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Courtney_Hewitt

Sell Your Old Laptop and Make Some Money

 

We all have old bits and pieces lying around our homes that could actually be worth a bit of cash. More than likely you have old DVD's, games, music CD's, and other items that you no longer use. One item in particular that can earn us a nice bit of extra pocket change is our old laptops. Read on to find out why selling your used laptop can be a great idea.
It doesn't matter what condition it's in
You may be under the impression that if your old laptop isn't working that it isn't going to be worth something. This is simply untrue. Your waste can be another person's treasure. This is especially true with unwanted or broken laptops. Computers are full of useful parts that can be used again. Even if your computer fails to work, it does not mean that the whole computer is broken. Often, it will just be one or two components that fail to work, and the rest of the laptop can be broken down and used again. So if you think your laptop is of no use to anyone then think again, it could well be worth some cash.
You'll be recycling
Recycling your laptop is probably the best thing you can do. If you leave it in your home then it is just taking up unnecessary space. If you decide to throw it in the bin, then it's just going to end up at a landfill site and contribute to all the rest of the waste this planet cannot afford to have. Recycle it, however, and you'll be helping the environment. The best thing about recycling your laptop is that people will give you money for it. The parts will be used again saving the need for manufacturing new parts, and the environment will be benefitting from your efforts. So before you launch that laptop into the bin, consider recycling.
You won't have to spend a penny
If you've got an old computer to get rid of then you may as well be making money off of it rather than spending it. Our computers and laptops can contain very sensitive pieces of information about our lives. Most of us think we can just wipe the hard drive and all of our data is gone for good. This is a misconception. In fact, the data can remain on our computers and can be retrieved with relatively little effort. You can get software that will properly wipe your laptop, but this doesn't come for free. If you sell your laptop then the company you sell it to will wipe your data. You'll be saving money on buying software and making money on your laptop. It's a win-win situation.

That's just a few key reasons why you should think twice before throwing that laptop in the nearest bin.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Stuart_Withers

A Tutorial On How To Make Your Own Websitev

A Tutorial On How To Make Your Own Website

 

There are many great things that you can do online. You can start a business, share you views with others and even get yourself a job. However, many of these things require that you know how to make a website. The good news is that it is easy to learn how to make your own website. It only takes a few minutes to get your new site off the ground.
Who Will Host Your Site
The first question you have to ask yourself is who will host your site. This is important because you have to decide if you want your own domain or if you want a sub-domain. A sub-domain is usually cheaper and comes with tools that make it easier to create your site. Getting your own domain may cost you money, will force you to create your site from scratch and can make it more difficult to get traffic when you first start out.
Spend Some Time Getting Used To The Site Tools
Make sure that you understand how to use the tools available to you. Take some time to understand how you will go about importing text and pictures. Take a look at different fonts and themes that are available to you. All of these different variables will have an impact on the user experience upon entering your site. If you have your own domain, you will need to figure out what a domain map is. Items such as CSS may require a class or two to full understand. Researching how to code with HTML may be something that you need to do as well.

Do You Want To Make Money From Your Site
If you want to make money from your site, you will need to get the right buttons and widgets needed to sell items. You will also need a merchant account that will allow you to accept credit cards. Selling merchandise online will typically require you to get your own domain. However, you should be able to get your site to accept credit cards fairly easily. Getting a merchant account shouldn't take too long at all. Installing the plug-inns and other tools necessary to allow people to make purchases should only take a few minutes.
Adding Graphics To Your Site
Adding graphics is as easy as loading the graphics file to your site. If you aren't good with Internet coding, you should find a site that allows you to drop-and-drag different graphics. Remember that pictures and videos add to the SEO value of your site. However, they can also slow your site down. Overall, they make the user experience more interesting for your visitors.

Test And Publish Your Website
Test your site to make sure that it loads in a reasonable amount of time. If it doesn't, you should run some tests to see what could be the cause of the slow load time. Test different browsers to try to isolate the problem. Slow load times will keep people away in droves. After you have done this, you are now ready to publish your site. To do this, simply hit the publish button on your site builder. Once this step has been completed, check the site to make sure that it looks and feels exactly how you think it should. If not, you can always go back and make changes to your site whenever you want.
Making your own site is not as hard as it may look. Decide ahead of time as to who is hosting your site, how much technical knowledge you have and whether or not your site is designed to make money. All of these decisions will help guide you on your path to creating your very own website.
Copyright (c) 2012 2MakeaWebsite.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kate_L._Graham

Learn How to Buy A Good Laptop Computer

 

When buying a laptop, you need to consider factors beyond performance and weight. There are many additional things like screen dimensions, battery life, and keyboard and connection options which you have to think about.
Let's look at some of the factors one should consider when buying a laptop.
1. Processor
One of the first things you need to consider in a laptop is the CPU. The latest laptop CPUs include Intel's Core Duo and Core 2 Duo processors which outperform older single-core Intel processors (e.g. Pentium M). Other laptops use the AMD Athlon Turion 64 X2 dual-core processor - which is also a good performer. In general, however, if you're looking for a laptop, I'd advise you to look for one with an Intel Core Duo processor. You can also read this guide to find out more.
2. System memory
The amount of RAM in the laptop is very important. If you're not short of cash, my advice is to get at least 1GB of RAM - that is the minimum you need to get newer PC applications to run fast. Also remember that you can always add more memory to your existing laptop. You may be interested in this short guide on how to install new memory modules into a laptop.
3. Graphics memory
Laptop graphics are another feature you will want to consider. Typically, I'd say you should go for 128MB of dedicated video RAM. Also, ensure that the graphics memory is used solely for graphics use and not shared with the main memory. If you intend to play games on the laptop, then look for advanced 3D graphics chips with about 256MB to 512MB of dedicated graphics memory. Be prepared to fork out a lot more cash though.
4. Screen
You will also want to take a look at the laptop screen. Laptop screens have recently become bigger. Most of them have gone widescreen so you can watch movies or edit spreadsheets more comfortably.
If you intend to use the laptop from home a lot, then I'd go for a 17-inch wide screen. If you are more concerned about portability or if you travel a lot, then laptops with screen sizes of 12.1 or 13.3 inches might suit you better. There are also 14.1- or 15-inch screens for laptops, but I believe manufacturers are shifting away from these models.
5. Battery
Here's another critical factor - laptop battery life. I personally find it very frustrating to have my notebook power run out after 15 minutes at Starbucks. What you need to do is to buy a laptop that has about 3.5 hours of battery life, running on a Core Duo or Core 2 Duo processor. Make sure you question the retailer on how long the battery can last - a short battery life is usually a deal breaker for me.
6. Keyboard and Pointing Device
Some people believe that the keyboard and pointing device on a laptop is important. If you have big fingers, you might be more comfortable typing on a larger notebook keyboard than a small one. Make sure you try the laptop out - get the feel of typing and navigation before you buy the laptop.
7. Optical drives
I'd usually recommend getting a laptop with a rewritable DVD drive as a minimum. One thing you need to know is that some laptops sacrifice a DVD drive in exchange for a lighter weight and portability. If you don't think you need a DVD drive all the time, then you might want to get a model that doesn't have one.
8. Hard drive
In the laptop hard drive department, what can I say? More is better. These days, you can get a notebook hard drives coming in sizes of 160GB or more. You can also get SATA hard drives if you have more cash.
9. Weight
Another thing to note is the weight of the laptop. Now, when you buy a laptop, always remember that the total weight includes the notebook AND the AC adapter, any external modules, and their cables. These can add up to quite a bit of weight.
10. Communications
These days, you will find that most laptops come with at least two USB 2.0 ports - I'd recommend that as a minimum. If you do a lot of video editing, then a FireWire (IEEE 1394) port also becomes essential.
You should also check for good network capabilities. Make sure your new laptop has built-in ethernet capability, a built-in wireless connection and also built-in Bluetooth (if you need to transfer data between your mobile phone and the laptop).
Some of the laptops also include card slots for removable media such as CompactFlash, Secure Digital and MultiMediaCard. If you take a lot of digital photos, then this feature might matter to you.
11. Laptop Shopping Tips
Whew! That sure is a long list of features to consider when buying a laptop. In addition to understanding the features, there are three important laptop shopping tips you should bear in mind.
Tip #1: How will you use the laptop? One of the problems when you buy a laptop is that you pay for features you don't really need. One of the best ways to avoid paying too much is to consider how you will use the laptop. If it is mostly for word processing, then settle for a cheaper machine. If it is for gaming, then you need a more powerful one.
Tip #2: Think of features you will not compromise You should also be aware that there are some basic features in a laptop you should NOT sacrifice. For example, for me, if I were buying a laptop, I'd choose (as a minimum) - an Intel Core Duo or Core 2 Duo processor, 2GB of RAM, 160GB of hard drive, a very small screen size and a super long lasting battery. Your list of critical feature may vary.
Tip #3: Remember you can pick and choose Most vendors will let you custom-build your own laptop. This is a good thing, because you can just pick those features you need and not pay any extra. You can easily purchase a faster notebook by accepting a smaller hard drive or DVD drive, for example.
Conclusion
I hope this article has shown you that ins and outs of buying a laptop. Remember, a laptop is an expensive device. It will also be something you bring along anywhere you go. Hence, it is critical that you do proper research and find the correct laptop to suit your needs. Remember the above tips the next time you're in the market for a laptop, and happy shopping!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gary_Hendricks

How To Protect Your Laptop Against Theft & Lossอ

How To Protect Your Laptop Against Theft & Loss

 

Laptop theft is rampant. You have a 1 in 10 chance
your shiny new laptop will be stolen. And the real
shocker: according to the FBI 97% are never recovered.
And they should know, the U.S. Department of Justice
stated in a recent report that the FBI lost 160 laptops
in a 44 month period ending in September of 2005. If
FBI agents have trouble keeping track of their laptops,
imagine what the ordinary person is facing.
The statistics are pretty grim. A laptop is stolen every
53 seconds. Ouch!
With stats like those you have to do everything in your
power to avoid becoming a victim of laptop theft. If you
keep valuable personal or business information on your
laptop the consequences can be even more gruesome and
devastating. For laptop hardware can be easily replaced,
but your valuable information may be lost forever.
So here are...
10 Practical Ways to Protect Your Laptop Against Theft,
Loss or Misplacement.
1. Keep Your Eyes On Your Laptop
Be aware of your laptop at all times especially when
traveling. You wouldn't leave a Thousand Dollar Bill
lying around unattended would you? So watch your laptop
closely.
2. Don't Use An Obvious Laptop Bag
Carry your laptop in regular luggage that doesn't look
like it has a laptop. Don't advertise your laptop to any
would be thieves.
3. Use Visual Locks And Restraints
Use visual locks and restraints to secure your laptop and
to act as a deterrent. It won't fool hardened thieves but
most will opt for a less secure laptop. For example, you
can use a product like STOP, this system works by attaching
a specially-made security plate to your laptop. This plate
is barcoded and registered. It also carries a warning label
letting would-be cyber thieves know that the ownership of your
laptop is permanently monitored.
4. Use Passwords And Encryption
Use passwords and encryption to protect any sensitive
information on your laptop. Again, unless you use very
sophisticated encryption it won't fool the experienced
hacker or hard-core digital thief but it will slow down
and hinder the common criminal.
Set a BIOS Password for your laptop. You have to take
advantage of any security option that's on your laptop's
OS or operating system. For those using Mac OS X you can
encrypt your entire hard drive and set-up a master password
in order to view it.
Windows XP & Vista lets you encrypt files and folders. Just
right click your data, select properties, open general tab
and then advanced to check "Encrypt contents to secure data
box".
5. Use Encryption Programs Like Steganos Safe 2007
You can also try something like Steganos Safe 2007. Vital
files can be encrypted and it can even turn your USB thumb
drive or iPod into a key for unlocking your hard drive.
6. Use Anti-Theft Software Like LoJack
Use anti-theft software that can track and locate your
laptop or computer through the IP address once the stolen
laptop is used to access the Internet. Use systems like
"LoJack For Laptops". It costs around 50 bucks a year
but it may be worth that price for your peace of mind alone.
According to the info on their site they recover 3 out of 4
stolen laptops equipped with the LoJack system. It basically
places hidden and silent software that reports back the IP
address and location of the laptop once it is stolen and the
thief connects to the Internet.
7. Use Invisible Ultraviolet Markings
Use invisible ultra-violet markings so that any recovered
stolen laptops will be clearly marked as yours to the police.
Keeping track of your laptop's serial number is also a good
idea and have this number stored in a different place other
than on your laptop.
8. Try Remote Data Deletion
If you place important information on your laptop have a
remotely controlled self-destruct solution in place. Then
your highly sensitive information can be deleted remotely
after your laptop is stolen.
9. Be Prepared
Create company policies for management of your company's laptops.
Have set procedures in place for tracking and reporting of any
laptops stolen or misplaced. Be prepared for the inevitable.
10. Backup Backup Backup
Regularly backup any vital information you have on your laptop.
Most information will be useless to potential thieves but may
be extremely important to you personally or for the running of
your business.
No matter if it is through theft or simple misplacement, losing
a laptop is a painful experience, one you should avoid at all
costs. However, if it does happen to you, be assured you can
minimize the pain by having a complete backup of your laptop's
contents. In most cases, this information will be much more
valuable than the laptop itself.
For hardware can be easily replaced, your personal data and
months/years of work may take forever to recover or redo.
Sometimes it is lost forever, so BACKUP your information
regularly. Keep your laptop and its contents safe and out
of harm's way. Simply protect yourself and your laptop by
using the tips you have just read.

....
The author has a keen interest in all things laptop and runs an online: Laptop Buyer's Guide For Timely Special Savings/Deals/Coupons on Toshiba, Dell, Apple, Sony, Alienware...click here: Cheap Laptops Copyright © 2007 Titus Hoskins. This article may be freely distributed if this resource box stays attached.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Titus_Hoskins

How to Buy a Laptop / Notebook Computer

 

You want to buy a laptop do you? And looking at the vast choice available you are confused.....not to worry....heres some advice.
Before I go into details, a quick recap of processors is essential. Be aware that it is the processor (cpu) that governs the price of the laptop (along with the screen size). The two major companies manufacturing CPUs are Intel and AMD (there's Apple too but lets stick to mainstream laptops). Intel makes the famous line of Pentium processors (''Intel inside'' ting tong ting tong!). For laptops you have three main cpus available - Mobile Pentium 4 (basically a desktop P4 processor), Pentium M (low voltage cpus which enhance battery life and are specially built for laptops) and the Mobile Celeron processor (poor man's P4 cpu). Wait a minute, you say, you didnt mention the Centrino processor. That's because Centrino is not a processor - it's a technology. Centrino is a combination of 3 things - Pentium M cpu + 855 chipset + Wireless Pro (802.11b). The other company is AMD - they make really good cpus that rival Intel's cpus. Traditionally AMD cpus have had heat generation problems but lately there aren't many complaints. I would advice you to stick to Intel processors which have good re-sale value.
The next Q is....what will you use the laptop for? Are you going to use it for simple stuff - spreadsheets/word processing / internet browsing? Then go in for a Celeron CPU. If you are going to do more serious computing, intend travelling frequently and want to run the laptop on its battery, go in for a Pentium M laptop. If you need wireless access go in for a Centrino laptop or a Pentium M laptop (u can add wireless technology using a pcmcia card). If you aren't going to move the laptop around much or you want a laptop for games, get a Mobile P4 laptop. But be aware that a Mobile P4 laptop is a desktop replacement - it will be heavy and will run hot.
Now that you have the CPU decided, think about the size of the screen. 15'' is today's ''sweet spot''. But you do get smaller or bigger screens. Choose the size that fits your budget. 14'' or less is a bit too small these days unless of course you want a ultra portable (read expensive) laptop. For gamers, the bigger the screen the more fun they will have. Bigger screens are also good for spreadsheet warriors and DTP professionals.
The next item on your list is RAM (temporary memory). Most laptops come with Windows XP which needs at least 256 mb ram to run happily. I urge you to upgrade to 512 ram for best results. The more RAM you have, the better your laptop will behave. It is said that increasing your RAM is the best and cheapest way of improving performance of any computer (i.e. without changing the motherboard/cpu).
Another thing to look at is the graphics memory. You can either choose dedicated video memory or shared architecture. Dedicated memory means that your video card has its own memory and does not have to ''beg'' for memory from the system memory (RAM). A rule of the thumb - dedicated memory = fast performance. Gamers and DTP guys must insist on dedicated memory. Good graphic chips are ATI Mobility Radeon or Nvidia GeForce. The more video memory you have, the better it is. Try to get a laptop with at least 32 mb video memory. Most laptops use shared architecture these days which is a cost cutting measure (an example of shared architecture is Intel's extreme graphics). If you are not going to play serious 3D games or run heavy duty graphic programmes, shared architecture will be just fine. But make sure that you have enough system RAM (read 512) because the video memory is going to steal part of your RAM.
The hard drive capacity will be in the region of 30 gb and above. Get the maximum bang for your buck - don't fall into the ''I'll never need that much capacity'' rut. You will need all the hard drive space you are given so get the biggest capacity you can afford. For normal laptop users 40 gb is sufficient. You can easily increase hard drive space by buying an external USB 2.0 hard drive.
Battery life is very important for road warriors. Expect 3-5 hours battery life from most laptops. Mobile P4 laptop batteries will last much less. Always go in for a lithium ion battery as against a nickel hydride one.
Most laptops offer optical drives - the best value for money today is DVD-ROM + CD-RW drive. This means that you can read DVDs and read/write CDs. If you have lots of money to spend, get a laptop with a rewritable DVD drive.
Sound quality on laptops is just about acceptable for movies/songs/games - you cant go wrong with Harmon Kardon / Altec Lansing speakers.
One important factor to consider is weight. You don't want a dislocated shoulder do you? So ....the lighter the laptop, the better it is for your health! The catch is that the lighter the laptop, the more expensive it is going to be. Don't forget the AC adapter - some laptops have huge adapters which weigh a ton!
Don't ignore a floppy drive - most laptops don't have floppy drives any more. But don't worry - USB external floppy drives are cheap. Ask the salesman to give you one for free; he will oblige you if he wants to make the sale. While you are at it, ask him for a free laptop bag as well.
Get a laptop with lots of USB ports which will come in handy and will improve the versatility of your laptop. Make sure that the USB ports are USB 2 (technology which is much faster than the old USB 1.0). An external USB mouse is a must as the inbuilt pointing devices are really painful to use.
All laptops come with built in modems and usually have LAN connectivity. Some laptops offer card slots where you can read/write to memory cards (as used in cameras).
Most laptop companies offer minimum software - Windows XP and basic stuff. They won't even give you Office software. You will have to add more software yourself. To keep prices down, some companies offer Linux operating systems - unless you are seriously strapped for cash, I would advice you to stick to windows. As soon as you get your new laptop, make copies of the recovery CDs and store the original CDs safely. Carry the copies with you when travelling extensively.
Now, armed with the above knowledge dive into the market and choose the best laptop you can afford. Compaq and Toshiba make excellent laptops so check them out first. Compaq is generally cheaper than Toshiba. I used a Compaq laptop initially but later on moved to Toshiba as I found their laptops better. This is a personal choice so don't read too much into it. Compaq and Toshiba are well established in most countries so repairs are not a problem. Find out where the nearest repair centre is and keep that information handy.
A laptop is usually a long term buy - forget about upgrading laptops. So choose carefully. Check the warranty - National and International. Remember that some companies will not honour your International warranty and will tell you to take the laptop back to the country where you bought it! Make sure you clarify this point before you buy the laptop.
Take good care of your laptop. Invest in a surge protector. Don't move the laptop when it is switched on. And remember the golden rule - NEVER drink tea/coffee while working on a laptop!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Vaibhav_B

Laptop Security -Where'd My Laptop Go?

 

Laptops are lovely. They are convenient, mobile, powerful and prestigious.
They are also thief magnets. Over 400,000 laptops disappear each year, leaving their owners wondering where they went, what is happening with their data and what to do next.
Some of the laptops are just lost - left in cabs, at hotels, restaurants and at conferences and events. Many of these laptops (but not all) find their way back to their lucky owners.
Some are stolen by people - many of them co-workers, service staff or people taking advantage of a "moment of opportunity" - who just want to have a laptop.
Some are stolen by professional "Laptop Lifters" who may work in teams to steal the laptops for resale.
And others are stolen, not for the laptop itself, which may be a bonus, but for the data on the laptop's hard drive - financial or identity data or business plans or data.
For example:

• QualComm's CEO had his laptop stolen while he was conducting a Press Conference. Reportedly, some of QualComm's most valuable secrets were on that laptop, unencrypted and only protected by an easily bypassed password.
• A Department of State laptop containing high level information on nuclear proliferation was stolen right from State's headquarters. Two administrators were fired and other personnel were reprimanded.

Think about it - What other piece of equipment or personal possession do we routinely carry around that is worth over a thousand dollars, by itself, and may be worth thousands more in data? Why wouldn't that be attractive to thieves?
A large part of the problem is less on the hardware or software end of things, it's in the HUMAN side of things. By raising our awareness many of the vulnerabilities can be greatly lessened.
There are 3 areas of vulnerability: 1) Securing the actual laptop, 2) Securing the Data, 3) Getting the laptop back.
1) Securing the actual laptop
There are many ways to control the physical security of a laptop.
There are cable locks that can be attached to an immovable object to make it more difficult to just pick up the laptop and walk away. Although these cables can be cut with a bolt cutter, some of them are combined with an alarm that will sound if the cable is cut.
Alarms or motion detectors are also available without the cable locks. They can be set to activate whenever the laptop is moved or when the laptop is moved a certain distance away from a pocket receiver that the owner has, which also alerts the owner.
http://www.anchorpad.com, http://www.kensington.com, http://www.computersecurity.com, http://www.pcguardian.com, http://www.trackitcorp.com, http://www.minatronics.com
Use a laptop carrying bag that does not look like a laptop case. Having a laptop case that says IBM or Sony is advertising that you are carrying a highly valuable commodity. Consider using a backpack with your laptop in it in a padded sleeve. One of the prime places for laptop theft is the men's bathroom in airports and convention centers. Another prime place that laptops are stolen is at pay phones in a busy area.
Just as there are pickpocket teams, one of whom distracts you by "accidentally" bumping into you while the other steals your wallet, there are "Laptop Lifters" one of whom will accidentally spill something on you while the other walks off with your laptop. A good rule to follow is: any time there is a diversion near you, put your hand on your laptop.
People usually feel comfortable at conferences and conventions. After all, you are usually surrounded by your peers, and there are often convention staff around to provide security. Often the theft will take place on the second or third day, when IDs for entry are not being checked as stringently, and many of the attendees are NOT wearing their badges. Many times people will leave laptops unguarded on or under conference tables during breaks.
Even if it is not your laptop that is stolen, your PCMIA cards - modem or wireless connectors - can be stolen in an instant. Not only is this a loss of value, it's also a real inconvenience.
It's a good idea to engrave your company information prominently on the outside of the laptop and on its carrying case. It makes it less attractive to the thief, because it makes it easy to identify and makes it harder to sell. Having a large or conspicuously colored luggage tag securely affixed makes it less attractive because thieves like to be "invisible."
You also should be sure to send in that little registration card that came with your laptop. Sometimes a stolen laptop will be sent back to the manufacturer for repair by the person who had innocently bought it from the thief. You may get your laptop back this way.
Don't leave your laptop in your car. If it is visible, you may lose your laptop AND have to pay for the damage to your car. Rental cars are often the special target of thieves, especially at popular restaurants or shopping malls. Plus, the extremes of temperature (both hot AND cold), can either fry your laptop or freeze the LCD screen.
2) Data Security
Losing your laptop may mean you'll have to shell out $1,000 - $3,000 for a new one. Losing your data can be MUCH more serious. Many people ONLY have a laptop, so ALL of their data is on it. Plus, most people don't back up their data as often as they should.
Replacing the data can be a pain. But losing your PERSONAL data, including perhaps your Social Security number, PIN numbers, credit card info, etc can be a form of personal hell.
Here are the steps you should take:
Set a BIOS password. BIOS is the first program to load when you turn on your computer. Your laptop will not boot at all until that password is entered. Although there are ways to bypass this, (there's all kinds of info on the 'Net), it's the first in several layers of security you can institute. (See http://www.lockdown.co.uk/?pg=biospsw&s=articles to see how to set a BIOS password).
Use the NTFS file system (assuming you are using XP). NTFS has strong encryption capabilities not available in FAT or FAT32. Here are a couple of articles that might help you decide: http://windows.about.com/od/filesfoldersdisks/l/aa001231b.htm http://www.microsoft.com/technet/prodtechnol/winxppro/maintain/convertfat.mspx
Prevent data loss through your Infrared port. Do you actually use your infrared port? Do you even know if you have one? If you do have one, your computer can be hacked into all the way across the room! A simple way to disable it is to put a piece of black electrical tape across it. (It's a little dark window, generally on the back of your laptop). Alternatively you can disable the infrared port completely. Because each laptop manufacturer has different steps, search on Google or Yahoo for "Disable Infrared Port" and add your laptop manufacturer's name to the search terms.
Back up your data before you leave your office. That way, if your laptop is lost or stolen, you have not lost your files.
Consider keeping sensitive files off your laptop hard drive. A DVD can hold multiple gigabytes of data and can be carried in your pocket. A USB storage device is also quite handy.
If you are running XP Pro, your can encrypt your data using EFS (Encrypting File System), so it will be totally unreadable without the decryption key. If you don't have the Pro version, you can purchase third party encryption software.|
3) Getting your laptop back.
So the worst has happened and your laptop has disappeared. Hopefully, you have your name and phone number on it somewhere, so it can be returned to you if it was just left in a cab.
If you've taken the right steps before it disappeared, there's a fair chance you will get it back.
Here's what you can do to increase the chance of getting it back:
There are software solutions that allow you to trace your laptop if it ever connects to the Internet. For instance, http://www.computrace.com/ will give you the IP address wherever your laptop logs on. The cost is under $50. Getting the police to go and recover your laptop is another story, however.
According to some reports, when the police cooperate, recovery is up to 90%!
All in all, the most effective preventative is user awareness. Reportedly, Arthur Andersen CPA firm not only has classes and posters on laptop (and other) security, but they also have roving security personnel who take unattended laptops, cell phones, purses and PDAs off of desks and other unsecure locations, leaving a note behind telling the hapless "victim" where to get their property back. Quite an education, and probably pretty effective in raising awareness!
© Steve Freedman, Archer Strategic Alliances 2005 All Rights Reserved

Steve Freedman Archer Strategic Alliances [http://helpprotectmycomputer.com]

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