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Support & Community

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• Want to do more than just live? Get more out of life? Need help with life's everyday issues?
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• LifeMag.info
• LIFEdevelopment.info
• Because there's more to life than one's self, status or material things.
• (for those dealing with real-life issues and who enjoy participating in stimulating discussions on issues and ideas, crave the thrill of geographic, mental and spiritual exploration and discovery and value local and global community, belonging and old and new friendships)
• Watch or listen to Lifestyle Magazine online for free.
• Watch, listen or read as host Dwight Nelson focuses on life issues such as stress, forgiveness, and hope.
• Free Support for Life's Questions and Issues at AnswersForMe.com
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• Don't let your computer's idle time go to waste! Help find the cures for cancer and other diseases with your computer or SP3.
• Have you helped the victims of Hurricane Katrina, the South Asia Earthquake or other relief efforts this month? How you can help.
• How to Avoid Fraudulent E-Mails and Web Sites Asking for Donations

Important Health Topics

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• The Right Way To Save A Life, Including Your Own, According to Dr. Heimlich and the Red Cross
• 10 Questions That Could Save Your Life: Make the Most of Your Time
• Ten Questions a Woman Should Ask Her Healthcare Provider
• Can't find a cure for an illness or want to get healthy? Give a Lifestyle Center a chance.
• Unresolved emotional issues are dangerous to our health. The best way to bind your emotional wounds so the healing can begin.
• Poor oral health is also dangerous to our health. The risk factors of tooth decay and gum disease and how to treat or prevent them.
• Ingredients in our personal care products, cosmetics, foods, water and air are also dangerous to our health. How to be a safe shopper.
• How to Live a Long, Happy, Healthy, Low-Stress Life
• What You Need to Know About Asbestos - Contaminated Vermiculite
• Have chronic, searing, debilitating muscle pain? If caused by trigger points, you can relieve it yourself and avoid unnecessary surgery. Learn more.

Important Digital Topics

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• What you need to do to keep your child safe at MySpace.com and other Web hangouts.
• Too smart for the dangers at MySpace? Think again!
• Beware the CyberLover [Bot] That Steals Personal Data in Chat Rooms and Social Networks Through Social Engineering
• Security and Privacy Threats and the Solutions Most Are Unaware of or Still Ignoring
• Virtually Worry-Free Computing - Sufficiently Secure and Private Web Surfing
• Sold, recycled, donated and discarded computers, PDAs and cell phones can contain recoverable private data even after a delete, format or reset. How to securely erase your data.
• How to avoid becoming a victim of or recover from America's credit card debt crisis and recent fee deregulation.
• Parent! Seriously consider moving your preteen or earliteen from MySpace or another Web hangout to imbee or YoKidsYo. Here's why.
• Thinking of buying Windows Vista or a Windows Vista PC? Before you do, seriously consider this first.
• Putting up with a noisy computer? Give your ears and nerves a break. Buy or build a quiet or silent computer.
• Webmaster: Stop Spam with These Free, Spam-Proof, Customizable PHP Scripts

Important Spiritual Topics

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• Does the Bible say God will torture bad people in hell for eternity?
• Was Jesus just a man who married Mary Magdalene? Has the church been hiding information from us for years about Jesus? Don't decide too quickly. Examine the evidence first.
• Think conclusive cases can't be made for the Bible and Jesus as the God/Man Messiah? You'd be surprised. The overwhelming mountain of factual, historical evidence is too compelling, too convincing to be ignored.
• Investigate the Reliability of the Bible
• Investigate Jesus as the God/Man Messiah
• Investigate the Case for a Creator
• Investigate Christianity
• If God exists, why is there evil in the world?
• If you're angry at God or see Him in a negative way, discover the good news about God's character and gifts of peace, joy, meaning and eternal life.
• Examine false assumptions about God and Christianity, and why they make us so miserable and unhappy.
• Videos of What God Has Done for Others
• Audios of What God Has Done for Others
• Free Life-Changing Books and Magazines to Read or Listen To
• ''We are living in very interesting times. Too many people are confused about what the Bible says about the future, and a lot of that has to do with confusion about Israel.'' Learn more.
• If an angel or a loved one who has died appears or speaks to you, don't automatically assume it's a good angel or your loved one. Here's why.
• Don't automatically assume the entertainment industry is harmless. Listen to ''Escape From the Black Hole'' or get the DVD.
• Don't automatically assume the growing fascination with Harry Potter, witches, wicca and the occult is harmless either. Explore these controversial topics.
• Don't automatically assume that New Age / New Spirituality concepts and the alternative / holistic therapies and media influenced by them are harmless. Learn more.

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Security and Privacy

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• Have kids or grandkids that surf the Internet? Learn how to keep them safe while online.
• How to Avoid Fraud
• How to Reduce Your Risk of Identity Theft

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Still using...
...Windows 95, 98, Me, or XP Home?
...Windows 2000, XP MCE, XP Pro, Mac OS X or GNU/Linux as is?
...Internet Explorer?
...Outlook Express?
...a single, FAT16 or FAT32 hard drive partition?
...your default account?
...your wireless network as is?
...your cell phone or PDA as is?
...public computers and hotspots while unaware of the risks and how to prevent them?

Still think using a firewall, antivirus and antispyware software, maybe an alternative open source browser and e-mail program, and even keeping them and your operating system up-to-date, is all you need to do, to keep your computer secure and your private data private?

Or that using them constitutes basic security protection from online threats? (the folks that did the AOL/Cyber Security Alliance and AOL/NCSA online safety studies keep getting this one wrong.

• Zero Day/Zero Hour and Other Threats: The First Reason Why Security Software (Antivirus, Antitrojan, Antispyware and a Firewall) Don't Provide Basic Security
• An Unsecure Default Operating System Configuration: The Second Reason Why Security Software Don't Provide Basic Security
• Windows' Executable Script Files: The Third Reason Why Security Software Don't Provide Basic Security (in Windows)

By doing so, did you know you're making your private data available to strangers, and allowing crackers (mistakenly called hackers) and wardrivers to turn your computer into a ''zombie'' and use it and your wireless network, if you have and use one, to break into vital business and government computer systems? If this concerns you - it should, read on.

If you use the Windows operating system, know that it's very unsecure if used as is. And even if you use Mac OS or GNU/Linux (unless you use a secure distribution), it isn't sufficiently secure as is.

Computers will never be 100% secure, but if you want to make yours sufficiently secure, which will help make the Internet more secure in the process, I strongly recommend completing the following nine steps.

Testing for Vulnerabilities | skip

• WARNING: Vulnerability-testing software and services can't be trusted to find all of your computer, firewall and network's critical vulnerabilities. Nor can they be trusted to not collect and use the private data they find on your hard drive.
• "My personal experience is that I don't trust them to do a complete job, and I know that a lot of unknowing users on the Internet trust these online scanners to give them that "nice, warm, fuzzy feeling" about security. Big mistake, as complacency makes you drop your guard. Besides, who knows what sorts of data these scanners collect on the back end." - Jason
• Disclaimer: If in spite of this you still want to use the following vulnerability testers, you do so at your and your private data's own risk.
• Test your computer for vulnerabilities with these security scanners.
• Hide This Section

PLEASE Note: The following steps are hidden from sighted visitors and keyword searches with Javascript. If you prefer viewing them without having to click on the links to show them, or want to do a keyword search, or print this page, either disable Javascript in your browser, or view the steps without Javascript.

1. Operating System | skip
   • The Best Option - Use Windows, Mac OS or GNU/Linux on a Read-Only Live CD, DVD or USB Drive with Data on an Encrypted Removable Medium
   • Option 2 - Use a Virtual Operating System in a Secured Operating System | skip
     • Want a system that lets you try out software on your desktop or laptop computer and surf the Web without having to worry about it getting infected with malware, or about that malware stealing private data stored on your hard drive?
     • One that completely removes malware, if it does get infected, simply by rebooting or restarting? One that lets your kid(s) or a nonsavvy computer user change, delete or mess it up, only to make itself new again on reboot?
     • Or one that lets Windows and an alternative operating system coexist without having to install them on separate partitions or hard drives?
     • Then I invite you to keep an open mind to the possibilities of an old and proven, and now more widely used, security method.
     • The method of scanning your hard drive for malware after it has infected your system, which requires constant updates, has been made obsolete by the overwhelming and ever-increasing number and types of malware which have been created to exploit or take advantage of security holes or vulnerabilities in operating systems and software.
     • That method is now being replaced in more and more schools, libraries, kiosks and Internet cafes with one used for years by programmers that prevents malware from installing, running, or making changes to your real operating system by operating in a virtual operating system or ''virtual machine'' from a real one protected by a host intrusion detection and prevention system or systems (HIDS and HIPS).
       • Learn more about virtualization.
       • Learn more about HIDS and HIPS.
     • Note: You can run Darwin (a free version of Mac OS), BSD or GNU/Linux in a virtual OS from Windows. But since alternative operating systems are more stable and secure than Windows, I recommend doing the opposite: run Windows in a virtual OS from an alternative operating system.
     • How to Set Up a Sufficiently Secure Virtual Operating System skip
     • ATTENTION: If you want to avoid leaving private data entered for online purchases (usernames, passwords, names, phone numbers, addresses and credit card numbers) on your hard drive or removable medium after forgetting to reboot your virtual OS or securely erase the data, I strongly recommend doing the following two things: skip
       1. Encrypt the virtual operating system's (or virtual machine's) image with TrueCrypt (free) and for additional security, store it on a removable medium. skip
          • Warnings About Storing and Entering Encryption Keys and Accessing Encrypted Data
          • How to Encrypt a Virtual Machine with TrueCrypt (skip the part about creating a virtual machine image if you already have one or want to use one of the ones I've linked to later in this setup)
          • Other TrueCrypt Tutorials
       2. Complete step 7, including storing your private data on an encrypted USB key or token (a secure thumb drive) and your passwords in one of the following secure login and form fillers that protect against key loggers. Then follow the steps below to set up and maintain a private and secure virtual OS.
          • RoboForm2Go (formerly Pass2Go)
       3. If you have Mac OS, the Safari browser ''protects your personal information on shared or public Macs when surfing the Web. Go ahead and check your bank account and .Mac email at the library or shop for birthday presents on the family Mac.
       4. Using Safari's new Private Browsing feature, no information about where you visit on the Web, personal information you enter or pages you visit are saved or cached. It's as if you were never there.'' - Apple Computer, Inc.
       5. If you have a Mac, skip the first four steps.
          1. If you've been saving private data on your hard drive, especially in unencrypted form, or the previous owner did, if there was one, securely erase your whole hard drive. Otherwise, skip this step.
          2. If you prefer saving your private data on your hard drive instead of on removable media (not recommended), create separate partitions for your operating system and personal files (for Windows, create NTFS partitions - they're more secure than FAT16 or FAT32).
          3. Because a newly-installed Windows system can become infected and corrupted by malware within only a few minutes of going online, especially with a broadband connection because your IP number never changes, I strongly recommend downloading all of the following software you choose to use first and saving them on a removable medium, before installing Windows.
             • Make sure you include the lastest drivers for your hardware. (drivers are usually located in the support section of each company's web site - if not, check driverguide.com)
          4. Do a clean installation of Windows XP Pro, Windows Vista or an alternative operating system. (a virtual operating system won't work without a real, host operating system)
          5. Install all critical updates, or better yet harden or secure your operating system and then install all critical updates.
             • If you have a Mac, skip to step 10.
             • I recommend WindizUpdate for Windows users, instead of Microsoft's WindowsUpdate service, because unneeded updates can corrupt or disable Windows, and unlike WindowsUpdate, WindizUpdate only lists updates for software and services on your system.
          6. Install a two-way firewall.
          7. Virtualization software, combined with behavior and whitelist HIPS, antirootkit software and operating system updates, will help reduce your computer's vulnerability to threats to about 1 tenth of 1 percent*.
             • Because of that and a virtual machine's ability to return a system to its original, healthy state, it also makes antimalware software pretty much unnecessary. But if you still prefer being extra safe, install the following software, scan often and install updates when available. skip
             • Antivirus
             • Antitrojan
             • Antispyware
          8. Either install a HIPS with a whitelist, or better yet, combine it with a HIPS with a behavior blocker and a HIDS.
             • HIDS and HIPS Software
          9. To be safe, I recommend using the following antirootkit software as well to check for rootkits which may have bypassed your HIPS or HIDS program.
             • WARNING: Removing a rootkit may corrupt and disable your operating system, and destroy personal data in the process. I strongly recommend reformatting and reinstalling Windows instead, if you want to keep using Windows. Otherwise, you might want to consider taking this opportunity to switch to an alternative and more secure operating system.
          10. Install one of the following virtualization (CPU speed) or emulation (slow or very slow) software combinations: skip
              • WARNING: Installing software and working in your virtual OS for long periods of time without running a HIPS and / or HIDS could, if your virtual OS were infected, infect others' computers and you could lose private data to identity thieves, predators and others interested in your private data. I strongly recommend running a HIPS and a HIDS on either your host operating system, your virtual OS, or both.
              • Virtualization-Based Virtual Machines | skip
                • Parallels Desktop or Workstation (trialware) skip
                  • Run Windows, GNU/Linux or BSD on an Intel-based Mac with Parallels Desktop for Mac, a virtualization software program, or hypervisor, similar to the Virtual PC for Mac emulator, except that it runs at native, or CPU, speed.
                  • Or run them and / or Mac OS on a Windows or GNU/Linux PC with Parallels Workstation for Windows and GNU/Linux.
                  • Hide Workstation Public Beta
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                • VMware Player, Browser Appliance or Another Virtual Machine and a HIPS with a Whitelist (free, for Windows and GNU/Linux) skip
                  • Mike Healan, long time spyware / antispyware guru, in his newsletter said ''It is now my official position that using the [VMware Player and] Browser Appliance is the best and only way for Windows users to remain completely safe on the Internet.'' And in his Browser Appliance article (see below), he said ''it offers 99.9% protection from all spyware.''
                  • In ''The Best Way for Windows Users to Be Safe on the Internet'' Suzi Turner, spyware researcher and consultant, of SpywareWarrior.com, agreed with Mike: ''I previously blogged about the top 10 ways to stay free of spyware. It seems I left out two important tips, one being to use the VMware Player and Browser Appliance...''
                  • She said ''Mike has written a four part article on how to use the VMware Player and Browser Appliance, including how to share files between the virtual computer and the host machine, some recommended tweaks and how to install some additional software.''
                  • Ian ''Gizmo'' Richards, computer professional and author of Tech Support Alert, also feels it's the best option, and has written an article in his newsletter on ''How to Surf with Complete Security [with VMWare].''
                    • VMware Player and Browser Appliance (free for Windows and GNU/Linux)
                    • Other Virtual Machines to Use with VMware Player: Desktop Users | Advanced Desktop Users
                    • HIDS and HIPS Software
                    • Antirootkit Software
                  • Hide VMware Player
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                • Deep Freeze and Anti-Executable (formerly FreezeX) (commercial, for Windows, Mac OS and GNU/Linux) skip
                  • Deep Freeze for Windows
                  • Deep Freeze Mac
                  • Deep Freeze Linux
                  • Anti-Executable
                  • Deep Freeze Experiences
                  • Hide Deep Freeze
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                • VE^Lite skip
                  • VE^Lite - trialware - another VM
                • Pre-built GNU/Linux Virtual Machines (You're told to use the very slow QEMU emulator with the machines, what they call Free OS images, but I recommend using the VMware Player virtualization software instead, which is near CPU speed.)
                • Hide Virtualization-Based Virtual Machines
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              • Emulation-Based ''Virtual'' Machines (Slow or Very Slow) skip
                • Windows CE Emulator and a HIPS with a Whitelist | skip
                  • Windows CE Emulator
                  • HIDS and HIPS Software
                  • Antirootkit Software
                  • Hide Windows CE Emulator
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                • Portable Privacy Machine | skip
                  • Portable Privacy Machine is a complete, virtual GNU/Linux machine that uses the QEMU emulator to run GNU/Linux either in a window or full-screen on a Windows system from a USB drive. It contains privacy-enabled open source (free) Internet applications.
                  • No installation is needed. Just plug the USB drive into any Windows or Linux computer, and click on the Virtual Privacy Machine icon and you're ready to go. When you're done, take your Internet applications, email, bookmarks, history, web cookies, download files with you in a persistent home directory on your USB drive.
                  • It runs on any rewriteable media (USB drives, Flash Memory cards, Secure Digital devices, iPods, etc.) This PR1 release runs on Windows and Linux. The final release version will also run on OS X. And it has Enigmail plugins for PGP email encryption.
                  • I recommend running Bastille, to harden or secure Portable Privacy Machine.
                  • Hide Portable Privacy Machine
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                • DSL Embedded with QEMU, KQEMU Accelerator and a HIPS with a Whitelist | skip
                  • WARNING: The following DSL Embedded page contains a 4-letter word you may find offensive. If you have a content filter, it may block the page unless you temporarily allow the word, which starts with a ''D.''
                  • DSL Embedded is a free GNU/Linux that you can run in Windows. It's based on the slow QEMU emulator, but by installing the KQEMU accelerator, it'll run near CPU speed.
                  • I recommend using a HIPS with a white list too, in Windows. And if it's possible - I don't know if it is - and you know how, you might want to also secure DSL Embedded with Bastille.
                  • Note: QEMU acceleration in Windows is currently in the experimental stage, takes several steps to install, and needs to be manually enabled every time you use DSL Embedded.
                    1. Install DSL Embedded.
                    2. Install the latest QemuInstall executable (exe) file.
                    3. Overwrite the qemu.exe file that's included in DSL Embedded, with the one that you've just installed. (You can now safely unistall Qemu 0.7.2, if you wish.)
                    4. Download the latest kqemu tar.gz file and extract it with one of these file archive compactors / extractors:
                       • WinZip (trialware)
                       • 7-zip (free)
                       • ALZip (free)
                    5. Right-click kqemu.inf and choose Install. (you only need two files: kqemu.inf and the driver - the others are only required if compiling from source)
                    6. Click Start, select Run and enter cmd (or click Start, select Programs, Accessories, then Command Prompt), to open the command prompt, then type net start kqemu. (Note: QEMU acceleration is disabled by default, so you'll have to do this step every time before using DSL Embedded.)
                    7. Double-click the dsl-windows.bat file in the dsl-embedded folder to start DSL Embedded.
                  • To see if QEMU acceleration is enabled or not:
                    1. Press CTRL+ALT+2 to open the QEMU monitor.
                    2. Type info kqemu.
                    3. Press CTRL+ALT+1 to get back to DSL Embedded.
                    • HIDS and HIPS Software
                    • Antirootkit Software
                  • You may also want to use Bastille, software that hardens or secures GNU/Linux.
                  • Hide DSL Embedded
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                • Hide Emulation-Based Virtual Machines
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              • Finally, don't forget to:
          11. securely erase private data stored in the virtual OS every time before shutting down. Better yet, keep your private data from being stored on your hard drive by the virtual OS.
          12. Reboot or restart your virtual OS at least twice a day, and always before logging on to an online bank.
       6.  
       7. Hide Option 2
       8.  
   • Option 3 - Switch to An Alternative Operating System | skip
     • If...
       • Windows is crashing or freezing so much that it's giving you fits, making you want to pull your hair out, and you're ready for a change;
       • you don't want to have to spend money on an upgrade, or can't afford to buy one;
       • you want to save yourself a lot of money over the years that you'd be spending on great software, and like the idea of getting them for free instead;
       • you want to save yourself a lot of headaches and valuable time you'd be spending over the years continually ridding your system of invaders and working hard to prevent new threats;
       • you're tired of your system always slowing down due to bloat and fragmentation, and of having to keep optimizing it by frequently deleting or securely wiping or erasing temporary files and restore points and defragmenting your hard drive to get your system up to speed again, removing viruses and keeping your deleted private data from being recovered; or
       • you're just curious to see what the other popular operating systems are like,
     • ...switch to GNU/Linux, or maybe better yet, Mac OS X (the FreeBSD code it's based on has been carefully reviewed by 20 experts over the years, instead of just one with GNU/Linux) and follow the guidelines in step 5 to secure it.
     • If you're an experienced GNU/Linux or Unix user, switch to FreeBSD or NetBSD and secure it, or if you're really serious about security, switch to OpenBSD, considered by many security experts to be the most secure operating system, due to continuous and thorough security audits of its code. skip
       • Windows Alternatives You Should Consider
       • How to Switch to Windows-Free Computing
       • The Advantages of a Mac Over Windows Versions, Including Vista
       • Mac OS Leopard's Time Machine
       • The Advantage of an Intel-Based Mac Over a Windows PC: Dualbooting Windows and Mac OS
       • Switching from Windows to Mac, Part I
       • Switching from Windows to Mac, Part II
       • Windows Vista Opens Doors for GNU/Linux Desktops
       • Windows XP's Service Pack 2 Gives Reasons to Switch to GNU/Linux
       • GNU/Linux Equivalents of Software for Windows
       • Choosing An Upgrade Path From Windows 98 to GNU/Linux
       • What Good Is a Linux Client: Can you make the switch from Windows?
       • GNU/Linux Migration Starter Kit
       • Giving Microsoft the Boot (introduction) | skip
         • Part 1
         • Part 2
         • Part 3
         • Part 4
       • GNU/Linux Live CDs: Risk-Free Rebellion
       • Little "Live" Linuxes - The Coolest Things Since Sliced Bread (courtesy of the Wayback Machine)
       • The magic of live CDs: What are live CDs, and how do they work?
       • 10 Things To Do With A GNU/Linux Live CD
       • FrozenTech's List of GNU/Linux Live CDs and DVDs
       • Benefits, Limitations and Types of Live USBs
       • Live USBs
     • Some helpful BSD, Mac OS and GNU/Linux buying guides, and some easy-to-use desktop versions of GNU/Linux, some of them free!
     •  
     • Hide Option 3
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   • Option 4 - Run Two or More Operating Systems | skip
     • Don't like Windows' security and privacy issues and would like to switch to a more secure operating system, but keep using Windows because there aren't any alternatives to your favorite Windows-based games or office software, or you don't like the ones that are available?
     • Let Windows and an alternative operating system coexist on your computer's hard drive(s) with one of the following options. Then use Windows to play your games and / or use your office software, and an alternative operating system when online (strongly recommended).
     • Ways to let two or more operating systems coexist on your computer: skip
       • Use Windows when offline and a GNU/Linux Live CD, DVD or USB when online.
       • Set up a virtual OS on a clean-installed and secured OS.
       • Set up a dual boot system by installing Windows and an alternative operating system on separate partitions or hard drives.
     •  
     • Hide Option 4
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   • Option 5 - Get a More Secure Version of Windows | skip
     • DON'T use Windows 95, 98, Me or even XP Home. Use one of the following versions of Windows instead. They can be made sufficiently secure, but the other versions can't. And if that's not bad enough, Microsoft no longer provides security updates for Windows 98 and Me (95: since December 30, 2001 - 98 and Me: since July 11, 2006). Read the following articles to learn more.
       • Windows 2000 with Service Pack
       • Windows XP Professional
       • Windows XP Tablet PC Edition (XP Professional plus writable screen technology)
       • Windows XP Media Center Edition (XP Professional minus a few features - not XP Home - with personal / digital video recording features, known as PVR, DVR, etc.)
       • Windows Vista (the most secure version)
       • Symantec Highlights Windows Vista User Vulnerabilities
       • XP Home: Don't Go There
       • Home Networking in XP Home: Two Steps Back
     • Note: There's a catch for using Windows XP Pro and XP MCE (Media Center Edition). Upgrading to XP Pro will most likely require getting a year 2000 or newer computer, if you don't have one already.
     • And upgrading to the retail version of XP MCE requires buying a Media Center PC. It can't be bought separately. But if you don't need Microsoft's support or the XP MCE manual, and don't want to buy a new computer, you can buy the OEM version of XP MCE by itself.
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     • Hide Option 5
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   • A New Security Technology for Windows, GNU/Linux, Mac OS and BSD | skip
     • ATTENTION: Some CPUs (chips) now have a new security technology AMD calls NX (No eXecute) bit or Enhanced Virus Protection (EVP) and Intel calls Execute Disable Bit or XD Bit. It prevents viruses, trojans and worms that take advantage of buffer overflow from doing their malicious deeds and damaging your system.
     • CPUs That Have NX or XD Bit:
       • Intel Pentium 4 3X1, 3X6, 5X1, 5X6, 6XX (including 3.73GHz Extreme Edition), 8XX (all 3X1 to 8XX chips have 32-bit and 64-bit support through EM64T - Extended Memory 64-bit Technology), 3XXJ, 5XXJ and 7XXJ
       • Intel Pentium M 730, 740, 750, 760 and 770 (have 32-bit support)
       • Intel 64-bit Xeon (have 32-bit and 64-bit support through EM64T)
       • Intel Itanium and Itanium 2 (both have 32-bit - only efficient if it has IA-32 Execution Layer or IA32EL - and 64-bit support)
       • All Future Intel CPUs
       • AMD Athlon 64 and Athlon 64 FX (both have 32-bit and 64-bit support)
       • AMD Sempron for Socket 754 (have 32-bit support - BX chips also have 64-bit support - How to Identify 64-bit Sempron CPUs)
       • AMD Opteron Single-core (90 nm version) and Dual-core for Socket 939 / Socket 940 (both have 32-bit and 64-bit support)
       • All Future AMD CPUs
       • Transmeta Efficeon
     • The latest versions of Windows, GNU/Linux, Mac OS and BSD now have a security feature that supports NX bit. It's called either Data Execution Prevention (DEP) in Windows Vista and Windows XP with Service Pack 2 (SP2); No eXecute or NX in GNU/Linux, Mac OS and NetBSD; Exec Shield in Red Hat Linux; W^X in OpenBSD or PaX in GNU/Linux for chips that don't have NX bit).
     • For Windows Users: Unless you already have a computer with a CPU that has NX bit, if you want to take advantage of the protection that it provides, and be able to continue using your 32-bit Windows operating system and software, you'll need to either:
       1. upgrade your computer's CPU, or main chip, and BIOS if your computer's motherboard allows for it
       2. upgrade your motherboard and CPU if it doesn't, or
       3. buy a new computer that has a CPU with NX or XD bit.
     • WARNING: If you buy a computer with a chip other than one that has NX bit to support Vista's or SP2's DEP technology, you won't be protected from some of the most damaging viruses, trojans and worms that are aimed at Windows and its related software programs.
     • Here are some articles about the new technology and the chips that support it: skip
       • NX bit
       • PaX and GNU/Linux Distributions That Use It
       • EM64T
       • Your CPU's Hidden Weapon
       • CPU-Based Security: The NX Bit
       • 'No Execute' Flag Waves Off Buffer Attacks
       • Windows XP Pro Data Protection Features
       • Data Protection The AMD Way
       • Intel Catches Up With Its 64-bit Competitors
     •  
     • Hide New Security Technology
     •  
   • Upgrading Windows | skip
     • If your computer's motherboard allows for one of the new chips that support SP2's DEP technology, or you already have one, here are some helpful Windows XP buying guides and resource sites:
     • Before installing Windows, check your computer's hardware and software for compatibility.
     • skip
       • Which Vista Is the Right Vista?
       • One In Two PCs Won't Run Vista's 3D Interface
       • What PC to Buy If You Are Planning On a Vista Upgrade
       • System Requirements and Information on Windows Vista Capable and Premium Ready PCs
       • Which XP edition is right for you?
       • Windows XP Upgrade Buying Guide (doesn't include XP MCE)
       • Home or Professional? Which One Is Media Center 2005?
       • PCMagazine's Review of Windows XP Professional x64 Edition
       • Paul Thurrott's Review of Windows XP Professional x64 Edition
       • CNet's Review of Windows Media Center 2005
       • The Green Button - The Premier Windows Media Center Community
       • Windows XP MCE vs. MythTV for GNU/Linux
       • TiVo versus XP MCE versus Cable Company
       • How to Build a Dual-Core Windows Media Center PC
       • How to Build Your Own Windows Media Center PC
       • Build Your Own Windows Vista System (written Sept. 13, '06)
       • Build a Windows Vista System Today! (written Jan. 20, '06)
     • If you can get your tech support from somewhere other than Microsoft, I recommend getting the full OEM version of Windows XP Professional with Service Pack 2 or the full OEM version of Windows XP Media Center 2005. If you're a student or teacher, look for the discounted academic version. (The Full version avoids the problems the Upgrade version can cause and the OEM CD is half the price of the retail CD - no manual or tech support from Microsoft.)
     • CAUTION: Read customers' reviews of the stores first, especially the complaints, before buying the CD.
     •  
     • Hide Upgrading Windows
     •  
   • Buying or Building a Windows Computer | skip
     • If your computer's motherboard doesn't allow for one of the new chips that support SP2's DEP technology, and you'd rather buy a new computer than a new motherboard and CPU, here are some helpful computer buying guides:
       • CNet's Desktop Buying Guide
       • CNet's Notebook / Laptop Buying Guide
       • Geek.com's Notebook / Laptop Buying Guide
       • Geek.com's PC Building Guide
       • Buy or build a quiet or silent computer.
     •  
     • Hide Buying or Building a Windows Computer
     •  
   • Alternative Operating Systems | skip
     • Contents:
       • BSD: Introduction and Support Resources
       • Mac OS: Introduction and Support Resources
       • GNU/Linux: Introduction and Support Resources
       • GNU/Linux Computers
       • GNU/Linux Compatibility Check
       • GNU/Linux Live CD Security Risks
       • Easy-to-Use GNU/Linux Distributions
     •  
     • ATTENTION: Once you've ordered or downloaded one of the following operating systems, see step 2, File System and Partitions, to learn how to prepare your hard drive for a single, dual or multi-boot system, in other words, a computer with one or more operating systems installed. Then follow steps 4 through 8 to keep your data sufficiently secure and private.
     •  
     • FreeBSD, NetBSD and OpenBSD (recommended for experienced GNU/Linux and Unix users only) skip
       • And what about BSD?
       • Want a Windows alternative? Try BSD
       • FreeBSD vs. GNU/Linux vs. Windows 2000 (outdated but still helpful)
       • FreeBSD for GNU/Linux Users
       • PCBSD.org
       • DesktopBSD.net
       • FreeBSD.org
       • NetBSD.org
       • OpenBSD.org
       • To learn about OpenBSD, get the book ''Absolute OpenBSD.''
       • BSD Support Forums
     •  
     • Mac OS (based on FreeBSD) skip
       • What's a Mac? And why switch to a Mac?
       • How to Switch from a PC to a Mac
       • MacMentor - Switching Made Easy
       • Check out Mac OS X's security features.
       • Mac OS X Basics
       • Mac OS X Secrets
       • Understanding Mac OS X: In Depth
       • How to Maintain and Troubleshoot Mac OS X
       • A GNU/Linux Geek Embraces Mac OS X
       • A ''Welcome Kit'' for UNIX Users New to Mac OS X
       • Check out Darwin, the free version of Mac OS X.
       • Introduction to Darwin
     •  
     • GNU/Linux skip
       • What's GNU/Linux?
       • 10 Reasons to Switch to GNU/Linux
       • The Easy Way to Switch to Linux
       • Switch to Linux
       • GNU/Linux: Switching for Free
       • Sub300 Will Install GNU/Linux on Your Computer for Free
       • Five Mistakes GNU/Linux Neophytes Make
       • GNU/Linux Guides and Articles for Beginners
       • Michael Barnes' GNU/Linux Desktop Odyssey, 2004 (written in March '04, so a bit outdated)
       • Security: GNU/Linux Versus Windows
       • Windows vs GNU/Linux Security: The Real Facts
       • Security Showdown: GNU/Linux vs. Windows - The Great Debate Continues
       • Counterpoint: GNU/Linux vs. Windows Viruses - Which operating system is safer?
       • Introduction to GNU/Linux - A Hands on Guide
       • The Beginners GNU/Linux Guide
       • A Beginners Guide to GNU/Linux
       • How YOU Can Get Started With GNU/Linux
       • Tuxs, a Friendly Penguin to Help You Get Started with GNU/Linux
       • TUX - The First and Only Magazine for the New GNU/Linux User
       • GNU/Linux Newbie Administrator Guide
       • NewLinuxUser.com -
       • Support Resources for GNU/Linux Newbies
       • Linux User Groups List 1 | List 2 (check both lists! each list shows groups not found on the other list)
       • GNU/Linux Links for Beginners
     •  
     • Planning on buying a computer? Check these out: skip
     • Laptops / Notebooks skip
       • $760+ Linspire Laptops (eLinuxstop)
       • LinuxCertified Laptops
       • $900+ Freespire OR Linspire LaptopS (Gigastrand)
       • $900 Linspire Laptop (Sub300)
       • $1200 Linspire Laptop (Sub300)
     • Desktop PCs skip
       • Linspire Desktop and Laptop PCs in Several Countries
       • $75-$580 GNU/Linux or BSD Desktop PCs (Z-Tech)
       • $99-$189 Linspire Desktop PCs (Sub300 Fall/Winter Clearance)
       • $149 Vector Linux Desktop PC (MadTux)
       • $200 Freespire Desktop PC (Sears)
       • $200 gOS Desktop PC (TigerDirect)
       • $200 gOS Desktop PC (Walmart)
       • $299 Linspire Desktop PC (Sub300)
       • $315 Linspire Desktop PC (eLinuxstop)
       • $500+ Freespire and Linspire Desktop PCs (Gigastrand)
       • $509+ Ubuntu Desktop PCs (Dell)
       • Mini PCs skip
         • Shuttle
         • AOpen
         • Cappuccino PC
         • iBox Mini PCs
         • Emphase, SolidLogic and IEI Fanless Mini-ITX PCs
         • Hush Mini-ITX PCs (completely silent - Caution: usually only the AMD 64 CPUs have DEP, which, combined with Windows Vista or Service Pack 2 for Windows XP, provides protection from certain viruses, but some suppliers' Hush PCs may not have DEP)
           • Suppliers in Other Countries
     •  
     • Planning on keeping the computer you already have?
     • Before installing GNU/Linux, check your computer's hardware for compatibility.
     • Then check out the following easy-to-try out, install and use GNU/Linux distributions.
     •  
     • Question: What are the security risks with using a GNU/Linux live CD?
     • Answer: If a GNU/Linux Live CD is on a CD-R (not rewritable - write once, then read-only), malware (including spyware) and adware will be unable to install themselves on your system, making them unable to:
       1. steal your money, identity or other private data* or
       2. use your computer to send spam or break into other computer systems.
     • (*That's why some banks have given them to their customers to do their online banking with.)
     • Linux Live CDs Touted as the Solution to Online-banking Problems
     • Warning: A GNU/Linux Live CD on a read-only CD-R can't protect you from hardware key loggers, ''recording devices that could be physically installed on your computer's motherboard, inside its box or keyboard, or remote monitoring of your computer activity thru its radio-frequency emissions, such as 'Tempest' attacks.'' - Information on Knoppix-MiB Live CD
     • Here are some GNU/Linux Live CDs and distributions for USB drives and other removable media that keep your private data secure and private: skip
       • Anonym.OS Live CD (575 MB) - OpenBSD with Tor - has tools for anonymizing and encrypting connections.
         • A Review of Anonym.OS: Anonymity on a Disc
       • ELE Live CD - based on DSL - focused on privacy
       • Knoppix-MiB Live CD - This version of Knoppix allows you to store your personal files (home directory) on removable media, such as a ''USB FlashDrive'' or an IOMEGA ZIP disk in encrypted form with AES, currently the strongest encryption.
         • All the data written to your hard drive, including the swap file, is automatically encrypted using AES and a randomly generated session key. It includes the Postfix mail server software (SMTP MTA) and automatically encrypts the e-mail you send using TLS, provided your recipient's e-mail server is also able to use this protocol.
     • Note: ''Most [GNU/Linux Live CDs] have now refined methods of saving changes to a USB memory stick, or a hard disk partition, or a floppy disk, then at boot a command is passed to tell the computer where to find these saved settings.'' - Puppy Linux skip
       • Build Your Own Live CD (easy - for anyone)
       • Build Your Own Live CD That Includes AuFS (Another UnionFS) (AuFS allows a persistent Home directory to be stored on and automatically loaded from stationary or removable media)
       • UnionFS vs AuFS
       • Build Your Own Debian-based Live CD (technical - not for beginners / newbies)
       • Several Versions of Ubuntu, Kubuntu and Gnoppix Have a Live CD Persistence Feature
         • Ubuntu Live CD
         • Kubuntu Live CD
         • Gnoppix Live CD - based on Ubuntu
       • How To Save and Restore Configuration Files With MEPIS Traveller Disc - a unique application that allows users to save their home directory to a USB drive in Mepis (replaced by Desktop OnTheGo, for which there's no HowTo guide yet)
         • Desktop OnTheGo - an evolutionary application that allows users to save their home directory to a USB drive in MEPIS - features optional AES encryption to keep your files safe from prying eyes.
         • SimplyMEPIS and MEPISLite
       • How to Create a Persistent Home Directory with a Knoppix, Kanotix or Kanotix CPX-MINI Live CD
         • Create Persistent Knoppix Settings
         • Burn Home: An Alternative to Persistent Home
         • I Have Your ''Ubiquitous Computer'' Right Here
         • Knoppix Live CD
         • Kanotix Live CD
         • Kanotix CPX-MINI (on Live CD or USB drive)
       • Puppy Linux Live CD Saves Your Settings On the CD If It's a CD-RW - automatically re-loads your saved settings on the next boot. WARNING: not nearly as safe as one on a read-only CD-R.
         • Puppy Linux Live CD
       • How To Save Your Settings With a PCLinuxOS Live CD
         • PCLinuxOS Live CD
       • OnebaseGo Live CD also allows you to save configuration settings to removable media.
         • OnebaseGo Live CD
       • How to Use Your USB Flash Drive as Persistent Home with MCNLive
         • MCNLive
       • Nest Your Home and Settings with dyne:bolic Live CD
         • dyne:bolic Live CD
       • How to Save Configuration Files to Removable Media with ADIOS - Red Hat's Fedora Core-based Live CD
         • ADIOS Live CD - based on Slackware Linux
       • STUX GNU/Linux Allows You to Manually or Automatically Save and Load Config to Persistent Home on Removable Media
         • STUX GNU/Linux Live CD - based on Slackware Linux
     •  
     • Here are the easiest GNU/Linux distributions (versions) to use, listed in descending order of included applications and helpful, useful configuration. skip
     •  
     • It's All About the Debians
     • skip
     • Why All but One of the Following Distributions are Based on Debian
     • Note: I believe SimplyMEPIS has the best configuration and selection of included software, but some think Linspire is the most user-friendly for new Linux users, while others think Kubuntu or SUSE is.
       • Freespire (now available! Linspire's official, free version with only open source software)
       • Try GNU/Linux for Free with Kubuntu (recommended for new Linux users - includes KDE interface - a broadband connection is recommended)
       • A Review of Kubuntu Gutsy
       • Buy a Kubuntu CD or DVD
       • A Review of Ubuntu
       • Make Your Own Install CD for Ubuntu (not recommended for new Linux users - includes GNOME interface - awarded best GNU/Linux distribution of 2005 by PC World and recently named best distro at the LinuxWorld Expo in London)
       • EasyUbuntu (install the most commonly requested apps, codecs, and tweaks not found in Ubuntu, all with a few clicks of your mouse)
       • Free Version of SUSE Linux
         • Buy the Free Version of SuSE on CD or DVD
         • Buy the Commercial Version of SUSE Linux
         • Why Choose SUSE Linux?
     •  
       • 1. SimplyMEPIS | skip
         • (a free distro based on Ubuntu, which is based on Debian - includes a firewall enabled by default)
           • The Best Free Desktop GNU/Linux...and how to make it better.
           • Ten Reasons For Trying SimplyMEPIS
           • Take a Video Tour of SimplyMEPIS (by Robin Miller, author of Point and Click Linux - requires QuickTime Player plugin)
           • MEPIS.org
           • MEPISLovers.org (support forum)
           • MEPISNightCrew.org
           • Note: ''MEPISLite is a lightweight version of SimplyMEPIS optimized for 'modest hardware.' To run gently on older machines, MEPISLite includes skinnier packages [software programs] and a number of tweaks to minimize 'disk thrashing.' It has been used successfully with as little as a 2 GB hard drive and a Pentium 2 processor with 128MB of RAM. MEPISLite preinstalls a full complement of software including KOffice, Kontact, and Firefox.'' - mepis.org
           • ATTENTION: Before installing GNU/Linux on a hard drive that has your data on it, make sure you back up your data first! And check your computer's hardware for compatibility.
           • If you need information about your hardware before installing GNU/Linux for the first time on a Windows PC, run Belarc Advisor (free) or Sandra Lite (free) and print out the results.
           • Note: To install SimplyMEPIS on your hard drive, boot up the SimplyMEPIS CD, enter root as both the username and the password, and log in. Then click on the Install SimplyMEPIS icon on your desktop.
             • MEPIS Installation Guide
             • MEPIS - Windows Dual Boot Installation Guide
             • MEPIS Help For Newbies
             • MEPISGuides.com
             • Buy a SimplyMEPIS CD
             • Get the book Point & Click Linux! (comes with a SimplyMEPIS CD)
             • If you have a broadband connection, download SimplyMEPIS or MEPISLite for free.
           •  
           • Hide the SimplyMEPIS Section
         •  
         • Note: The following GNU/Linux distributions require a membership to download software programs which you can download for free with SimplyMEPIS.
         • CAUTION: You can also download them for free with the following GNU/Linux distributions, but they probably won't work, since these distributions have tweaked the GNU/Linux distributions they and the software programs are based on (Debian and Corel Linux).
         •  
         • 2. Xandros | skip
           • (free and commercial distros based on Debian)
           • WARNING: 1)Xandros Open Circulation Edition does not come with a firewall installed. You may either download the Firestarter firewall from Xandros Networks (membership required, but the firewall is configured for Xandros) or download Firestarter or Guarddog for free. Then enable it. (These free firewalls may or may not work in Xandros). 2)The firewall in the Standard, Deluxe and Business editions may not be enabled by default. To enable it, open the Personal Firewall Wizard. It's in the Internet section of the programs menu.
             • Xandros: GNU/Linux for a Windows Crowd
             • Xandros: A GNU/Linux for Windows Users
             • Xandros: An Excellent Desktop Replacement (scroll down for article)
             • Top Ten Reasons to Use Xandros Desktop OS
             • Compare the Xandros editions.
             • Top Ten Reasons to Use Xandros Business Edition
             • Student and Educator Licensing for the Standard, Deluxe and Business Editions
           • ATTENTION: Before installing GNU/Linux on a hard drive that has your data on it, make sure you back up your data first! And check your computer's hardware for compatibility.
           • If you need information about your hardware before installing GNU/Linux for the first time on a Windows PC, run Belarc Advisor (free) or Sandra Lite (free) and print out the results.
             • Xandros Getting Started Guide (Installation, Dual-Boot, Updates, etc.)
             • Buy the Xandros User Guide
             • If you have a Broadband connection, download the Xandros Open Circulation Edition (FREE) when available. (usually released 4 months after commercial editions are released)
           • Note: Members of Linux User Groups or LUGs get to use 45% discount coupons when buying Xandros. So if you aren't a member yet of your local LUG, now you have a good reason to join! Find a Linux User Group in your area. List 1 | List 2 ((check both lists! each list shows groups not found on the other list)
           •  
           • Hide the Xandros Section
           •  
         • 3. Linspire (formerly LindowsOS) | skip
           • (a commercial distro based on Debian - includes a firewall enabled by default)
           • WARNING: In Linspire, going online in your default account is unsecure. See step 4 for instructions on how to create a (limited) user account in Linspire. skip
             • Freespire (now available! Linspire's official, free distro in two versions: Freespire (version number) has proprietary software - Freespire OSS Edition includes only open-source components.)
             • Linspire's CNR (Click 'N Run) Basic Software Service is Now Free
             • Top 10 Reasons to Make the Move to Linspire
             • Carmony Dispels Linspire GNU/Linux Myths
             • One Person's Opinion about LindowsOS / Linspire's Unsecure Default Account Problem
             • Watch a Flash demo of Linspire. (Flash Player Required)
             • Linspire Guide
             • Buy The No Nonsense Guide to Linspire
           • ATTENTION: Before installing GNU/Linux on a hard drive that has your data on it, make sure you back up your data first! And check your computer's hardware for compatibility.
           • If you need information about your hardware before installing GNU/Linux for the first time on a Windows PC, run Belarc Advisor (free) or Sandra Lite (free) and print out the results.
           •  
           • Want to check out Linspire without installing it on your hard drive? Get LinspireLive.
           • PLEASE Note: You can't install LinspireLive on your hard drive. It doesn't have an installer. However, if you know what you're doing, you can install software programs and save files on your hard drive. Aside from that, it's a fully functional operating system. skip
             • If you have a broadband connection, download LinspireLive for free with BitTorrent.
             • If you don't have a broadband connection, buy a LinspireLive CD.
             • Buy a Linspire OEM CD or DVD
             • Other Ways to Get a LinspireLive CD
           • (Keep in mind that you can't install LinspireLive on your hard drive.)
           •  
           • Want to install Linspire on your hard drive?
           • If you have a broadband connection, you can download Linspire for free or at a discount if you know the current coupon code. Linspire makes one available once in a while, but you can only find it on certain web sites. Do a search for ''linspire coupon code'' to find it.
           • (To get it for free or at a discount, enter the current coupon code, if there is one, and click Apply Coupon.)
           • If you don't have a broadband connection, buy the Linspire CD.
           • (To get it for free or at a discount, enter the current coupon code, if there is one, and click Apply Coupon. Note: The coupon is sometimes only valid with the single CD, not with the bundles.)
           • Linspire Installation Guide
           •  
           • Hide the Linspire / LindowsOS Section
           •  
         • 4. Mandriva Discovery, PowerPack and PowerPack+ | skip
           • (a commercial distro based on Corel Linux, which is based on Caldera)
           • I had Lycoris Desktop/LX listed here, but it's now owned by Mandriva, who have merged Desktop/LX, Mandrake Linux and Conectiva Linux into Mandriva Linux Discovery, PowerPack and PowerPack+.
             • A Comparison of Discovery, PowerPack and PowerPack+
             • ZDNet's Review of Mandriva Linux 2007
             • A Review at Linux.com
             • A Mandriva 2007 Review by Clement Lefebvre
             • A Mandriva 2007 Review by Michael J. Jordan, Linux Online Staff
             • A Review of Mandriva Linux 2007 PowerPack Edition
             • Mandriva's Enterprise Distributions
           • ATTENTION: Before installing GNU/Linux on a hard drive that has your data on it, make sure you back up your data first! And check your computer's hardware for compatibility.
           • If you need information about your hardware before installing GNU/Linux for the first time on a Windows PC, run Belarc Advisor (free) or Sandra Lite (f