Protect Yourself

Over the years it has become increasingly harder to protect your computer from the dangers posed by viruses. These malicious little programs have evolved into multiple forms and seem to spread like STDs. They can be contracted through a variety of ways, including opening email attachments, opening spam, and visiting corrupt websites.

I was just recently infected and learned that sharing USB drives with someone who is infected is also a surefire way to spread viruses. I was violated by a pretty virulent strain of spyware. Spyware secretly monitors the user's behavior and can collect various types of personal information, such as Internet surfing habits and login credentials. And if that isn’t enough to make you upset, spyware can also interfere with the performance of your computer by installing additional software, changing computer settings, resulting in slow connection speeds and loss programs. Apparently I contracted a serious infection because my laptop was basically rendered useless within a matter of days after first contact.

Fortunately, just as viruses have grown in strength and complexity, so have the tools used to

combat them. With the latest generation of antivirus software, you can give your computer a level of protection never before possible. The best antivirus software comes with multiple virus scans and real-time scanning, which scans your computer every few minutes thus stopping viruses before they have the opportunity to do any damage. Since new viruses are being created every day, the most effective antivirus programs offer convenient virus updates that occur regularly and automatically.

Good anti-virus software should be easy enough to both use and install. The software should effectively seek out and identify virus threats, as well as clean or isolate infected files. There should be understandable reporting available for each scan and plenty of user support available. Top Ten Reviews recommends BitDefender 2008, which they claim to be the best defense against viruses, spyware and spam. If you already have an anti-virus program but need additional defense, I highly recommend Webroot’s Spy Sweeper, an award-winning antispyware program that is internationally recognized.

Take precautionary measures to shield yourself from harmful infectious programs. Even tech-savvy women can become victims. A small investment can safeguard your data and provide peace of mind. Protect yourself and stay connected.

Go Offline

June 21 officially kicks of the first day of summer in the United States, although in many places the extreme temperatures have made us feel as if summer has been around for a while. Along with the warmer temperatures, fashionable sandals and need for sunscreen, summer is also a great time to take a vacation. There’s nothing like a getaway to help you unwind and forget about the daily grind of work, family and life. We all need some time to disconnect, but ask yourself…..can I?

The internet has not always existed (believe it or not) and many people find it agonizing to exist without access to the World Wide Web. If you have trouble disconnecting, consider some of these ideas to take your mind off of high-speed access.

Get outdoors and immerse yourself in activities. This is a great opportunity to become rejuvenated in a refreshing environment. Whether you take a walk along the coast or go hiking on a nature trail, physical activity is not only great for the body, but can help reduce stress and relax the mind. Those desk-trapped muscles need to be stretched and a little exercise never hurts.

Get plenty of sunshine and fresh air. Take time to enjoy the sights around you. If you are staying in a natural setting, listen for the sounds of nature, smell the scents and view the amazing sights about you. If you are artistic, take time to sketch what you see. If you are poetic, compose poems in your mind. If you love writing, do it in a journal.

For really heavy internet users, vacationing without access is a chance to reconnect yourself with the reality of life surrounding you. Consider it a luxury to not feel obligated to rush to the internet or respond to an email. Make a conscious effort this summer to rejuvenate and relax from everyday habits and chores. Life awaits you offline. Become reacquainted with humanity in the traditional sense and stay connected.

Digitial Dads

A Father's Day survey conducted by Best Buy, of all sources, revealed that Dad’s would prefer satellite radio service or a digital camera over a new set of golf clubs. Imagine that? The preference is technology over the traditional masculine gifts that we are accustomed to giving. So what's behind his preference for technology gifts?

Well…dads and men of parenting age in general, are beginning to appreciate how technology helps keep them connected as they strive to achieve better work-life balance. A poll by the National Center for Fathering revealed that 56.5 percent of fathers say they spend less time with their children than their fathers did with them. But thanks to devices like cell phones and PDAs, Fathers can e-mail the office from a son's soccer game or send a text message to his daughter while miles away on a business trip.

I recall a former boss that also took advantage of the convenience that technology provides. A critical business proposal was at stake so I sent him an email, with the expectation that he would reply when he returned from his father-son vacation at Disney World. To my astonishment, I received an immediate and quite thorough response to my question. He actually replied via Blackberry while standing in line for the Space Mountain ride. Gotta love it!

She-Tech laptop totes and accessories are definitely feminine and not suitable for most fathers, but after treating your father, why not treat yourself? While supplies last, She-Tech is offering a complementary pair of crystal ear phones ($30 value) with each tote purchase! Listening to your iPod has never been so stylish.

Hopefully if you are spending time with your dad this weekend, you can enjoy some of his technology toys together. Consider a day at the park taking family pictures or reminiscing about the “good old days” while rummaging through old music stored in your MP3 libraries. Cherish your fathers as they cherish you. Have a wonderful Father’s Day and stay connected!

Tech-sexy

I enjoy dressing up occasionally for the office and my personal style can be a little on the eccentric side. I think it’s okay to dress mildly spicy, but what are the rules of provocative dressing in the workplace? I'm all about bringing a little fashion and glamour to the office—but it's wise to be smart about it.

By now, most of us have learned to be careful with cleavage. No one will be listening to your ideas and recommendations if your v-neck shirt is yelling “look at these!" Plunging necklines can be very distracting for the boys, and also the women, who are probably not as impressed, if not completely turned off. I enjoy v-necks over scoop necks any day because they appear to be more flattering and feminine. To those that agree…wear your low-cut blouses and sweaters, but stock up on the appropriate undergarments such as camisoles, t-shirts, tanks and scarves.

If you’re a fan of short skirts, you should be happy to know that showing a little leg can be the safest way to suggest a little sex appeal without crossing the line. Most women are comfortable with their calves and able to show them off without feeling too revealed. The most flattering and appropriate skirt length hovers just a few inches above the knee. If you prefer to show a bit more thigh than a few inches, tone it down by avoiding stilettos and go for a lower heel.

By far, the sexiest part of your body that you have to display in and out of the office is your head. Brains are always your biggest asset and nothing stands out more than wit, charm, intelligence, inquisitiveness and professionalism.

On your way up the corporate ladder you don’t have to leave your sense of style behind. Be smart, tech-sexy and stay connected!