LAB 2-7 Protecting Hardware and Software

Objective

The objective of this lab is to research ways to keep your hardware and software safe.

Ž List common “ailments” of computer operating systems and utilities that can prevent problems.

Ž Identify ways to protect computer data.

Ž Identify ways to protect computer hardware.

Lab Setup & Safety Tips

During this lab you will be installing software to protect your computer from viruses, spyware, and malware. When installing software it is imperative that you make sure you know where you are downloading your utilities from. Some programs can masquerade as utilities but are really Trojans in disguise.

ACTIVITY

Researching Computer Threats

1. Start your lab workstation, and allow it to boot into Windows XP.
2. Go to the following website: http://www.calicutnet.com/yourpc/pc-security/issues/threats-issues.htm (there is a link on the module 2 website). Also check out http://www.its.qut.edu.au/virus/types.jsp for different types of viruses. Also look up the definition of phishing. After reading that site, take the virus quiz online.
3. Describe the different threats to your computer software and hardware and identify avoidance solutions and removal solutions (as appropriate).

Threat

Description

Avoidance

Removal

Research Hardware Protection

One of the greatest threats to your hardware can be electricity. It can be friend, powering your devices, or foe. Surges can wreak havoc with your system. Power “browns” (dips in power) can cause your power supply to fail if it has to compensate too often.

Go online and research the following items and describe their purpose and where you can buy them.

Device	Purpose	Vendors
Surge protector
Line conditioner
Uninterruptible power supply