Zemana AntiLogger Free License At DotTech

Thanks to regular reader John W, there’s a solution for those users who were lucky enough to get one of the several thousand free licenses for Zemana AntiLogger we sponsored last December, and who are now facing renewal.

Please visit DotTech.com, read the article carefully, and follow the instructions to obtain a new 12 month license. The only downside is – you must have a Facebook page.

But, this shouldn’t necessarily present a problem, even if you’re not a fan of Facebook. Just open a Facebook account and don’t use it – or, use it only for deals like this which are becoming more common. Frankly, I’m not a fan of this type of linked offer, but in this case Zemana AntiLogger is worth the aggravation.

Frankly, I do have several Facebook pages which I use for this type of deal, amongst other things – including malware checking.

If you found this article useful, why not subscribe to this Blog via RSS, or email? It’s easy; just click on this link and you’ll never miss another Tech Thoughts article.

Handy Backup Server Edition Contest – And the Winner is…

As part of our ongoing “backup your data campaign”, we recently arranged with Novosoft, to give away one free license (retail value $599 U.S.), for Handy Backup Server Edition.

I’m now happy to announce the winner of a free license for Handy Backup Server Edition – a backup application designed for small and medium sized businesses, with simplicity and convenience in mind.

Congratulations to Leofelix, who entered the contest on May 17, whom we have notified by email.

If you weren’t one of the lucky winners, you can test drive this great application for 30 days by visiting Novosoft. If you prefer, you can test drive Handy Backup Standard 6.6, or Handy Backup Professional 6.6.

Thank you, to all those who participated.

If you found this article useful, why not subscribe to this Blog via RSS, or email? It’s easy; just click on this link and you’ll never miss another Tech Thoughts article.

Handy Backup Server Edition – Free License Giveaway Contest

Handy Backup Server: Enterprise network backup software for workstation data backup.

Today’s enterprise simply couldn’t function without the automation that computers provide. It goes without saying; computers have become critical to the effective operation, and stability, of any business. System downtime then, regardless of the cause, can have lasting impact on a business’s long term viability, and reputation.

Without an effective system backup and recovery plan, an enterprise is gambling with its ability to survive in a business environment that does not forgive critical errors in planning, or strategy.

Any business which lacks an effective and systematic data recovery plan, is courting disaster, and is simply living on borrowed time.

As part of our ongoing “backup your data campaign”, we have arranged with Novosoft, to give away one free license (retail value $599 U.S.), for Handy Backup Server Edition, a backup application designed for small and medium sized businesses, with simplicity and convenience in mind.

To enter the contest, simply add a comment at the end of this article. On May 31, 2010, all comments will be added to the online List Randomizer, and the first name that appears, will win a free license for this valuable backup application.

You don’t need to write a paragraph – “enter me in the contest”, or similar, is enough. Good luck!

Read the following review and I’m sure you’ll agree, this is a contest worth entering.

Handy Backup Server enterprise network edition – the right application for those tough backup jobs.

Operating a small/medium sized business has always been a tough job. But, the unstable economy that we are all forced to content with, has made a tough job, even tougher.

The bottom line, always a major consideration, now looms ever larger in the background. But investing in the right technologies can deliver operational, and productivity efficiencies, that can flow straight to the bottom line.

Backup solutions, for example, don’t have to be a cost center. A strong and aggressive backup strategy, effectively implemented, can have a measureable effect on the bottom line by impacting positively on system administrator productivity.

Choosing the right backup solution and service provider then, has taken on a new importance. One in which cost savings can be realized through system administration productivity growth.

Handy Backup Server, from Novosoft, is a complete server-based network backup solution for small business enterprises. This application is designed to allow the user to back up and recover data stored on both central servers and remote computers, on a client-server scheme, and has multiple server-specific functions.

Workstation backup tasks can run as a service under Windows 2008/2003 Server, or Windows 7, Vista/XP/2000 seamlessly, and will not interfere  with employees’ work.

Handy Backup Server allows the enterprise to backup not only individual files and folders, but in addition, creates drive images – backups of the operating system and all applications.

All workstation backup tasks are fully automated, and run with low system priority – making it easy to perform backup tasks during operational hours.

A  Comprehensive user interface provides easy, step-by-step, adjustment of network backup – including compression, encryption and flexible task scheduling options. E-mail notifications, command line interface, and log file generation, makes the system administrator’s  task management easy and efficient.

As well as file, folder and HDD imaging, this application features plug-ins for backing up MS Exchange, MS SQL, DB2 databases and Lotus Notes/Domino data, stored on the central server.

Additionally, the user can back up Oracle database and ODBC-compatible databases, which can be located on both a local server, and remote workstations.

Data transferred to the central server can be stored on the widest range of backup media: the user can backup to FTP, SFTP, Network, FireWire and USB hard/flash drives, CD, DVD, Blu-Ray, HD DVD and much more. Detailed online help is available.

Centralized workstation backup and fast system recovery ability, distinguish Handy Backup Server from other network backup software. Handy Backup Server carries the “Certified for Windows Vista” and “Works with Windows Server 2008″ logos, and is acknowledged as one of the best tools for backup and recovery of the entire office network, or local server.

Fast facts:

Image backup – snapshot of entire hard drive contents including all programs and data files

Hot database backup through ODBC protocol

Backup of Lotus Notes/Domino databases

MS Exchange Server Backup

Client-server network backup – centralized workstation backup managed by one enterprise backup server

Backup of email directly from the server

Support for backup to CD-R/CD-RW, backup to DVD/Blu-ray/HD DVD media; remote FTP backup, secure SFTP backup; local and network drives; ZIP, JAZ, MO; flash drives; HDD and floppy disks, USB drive

Registry Backup

Data Restore

ICQ Backup plug-in

128-bit encryption support

E-mail notification on operation results

System requirements: Windows 2008/2003 Server, and Windows 7/Vista/XP/2000.

For additional information on Handy Backup Server edition, please visit the official website.

In the meantime, you can download a full-featured 30-day trial by clicking on the following link: Download Handy Backup 30 day trial

Note: A number of our regular readers are Handy Backup users and consistently report excellent results with this application.

About Novosoft:

Novosoft LLC was established in 1992. Over the years Novosoft has established an excellent reputation and the recognition of users worldwide. Today, Novosoft LLC is a prominent developer of computer and server backup software for both home users and small and middle-sized enterprises.

The key products of the company include three major editions meeting every user’s needs: Handy Backup Standard, Handy Backup Professional and Handy Backup Server.

If you found this article useful, why not subscribe to this Blog via RSS, or email? It’s easy; just click on this link and you’ll never miss another Tech Thoughts article.

Free – One Year License for Trend Micro Internet Security 2010

Regular reader John M. W, (thank you John), has brought to my attention that Trend Micro is offering a one year license for their Trend Micro Internet Security Suite. I haven’t personally tested this application, but CNET rates it 4.5 Stars out of a possible 5. My experience has been that CNET reviews can generally be relied on.

Since this offer is available only through the developer’s site, I have no way of knowing how long this offer will last. If you’re interested in this application, now is the time to download.

Fast facts:

From the developer’s site.

Protects against current and future viruses
An award-winning anti-virus engine protects against computer viruses, worms, Trojan horse programs, and related security threats. Automatic updates immunize you against new computer virus outbreaks for the full duration of your subscription.

Defends your personal information with anti-spyware technology
Powerful anti-spyware technology guards your personal information and privacy against spyware, rootkits, and other malicious software.

Safeguards against attacks with a personal firewall
Prevent your computer from exchanging data without your approval and defend against attacks from the Internet.

Prevents unauthorized changes
Improved security policies find and stop unwanted attempts to change your operating system and critical software.

Offers customizable security warnings
Decide how often you want to receive warnings about security threats.

Safeguards multiple computers
Install Trend Micro Internet Security on up to three PCs per household.

Surf the Web Safely

Protects against web threats
Steer clear of online phishing scams that try to steal your credit card or bank account numbers. Continuous updates identify the newest risky websites.

Secure Web surfing
Block malicious or untrustworthy hyperlinks in email, websites, or instant messages.

Blocks image spam
Stop seeing spam that tries to evade filters by delivering images instead of just text.

Device Access Control
Automatically prevent suspicious software on USB devices from opening.

Protect Your Children Online

Enhanced Parental Controls
Take charge of when and where your children go on the Internet. Block websites with inappropriate content, prevent access at specific times, and even stop kids from entering personal information onto webpages.

Smart Features for Your Online Activities

Home Network Map
See the computers and other devices connected to your network at a glance, manage the security of other computers remotely, and block wireless home network intruders from accessing yours.

Security Activity Dashboard
Get a comprehensive and customizable snapshot of all the security activities on your computer through easy-to-use charts and graphs.

State Aware
Work on your presentations, watch movies, or play games without security updates or scans getting in the way.

____________________________

System requirements : Windows 7 /Windows Vista (all versions), Windows XP (32-bit version (SP2 or SP3) only).

Download at: Trend Micro

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Free Licenses for Zemana AntiLogger – Continues One More Day

In a continuation of this latest giveaway, we have streamlined the process for downloading a licensed version of Zemana AntiLogger. Simply click on the link at the bottom of this page, and you will be provided with a free license instantly.

This giveaway will end February 1, 2010, at 12:00 PM Eastern Standard Time (North America). This is a one day extension of the original offer, courtesy of Zemana. This is a firm time limit. After this time no free licenses will be available.

If you have any problems installing the free license, or issues with the software, please contact Zemana support directly for assistance. You’ll find them to be fast, efficient, and courteous.

System requirements: Windows Vista, XP and Windows 7. (32 bit only)

First: Download Zemana AntiLogger from here. If you have a problem with this link, use this link.

Next: Download your free license from: Zemana – (you’ll receive your free license immediately). The license must be activated by the end of the day, February 1, 2010.

All the signposts point to 2010 being a banner year for cyber-criminals. Being prepared and being aware, while not a panacea, will continue to be a key element in mitigating risk exposure. Adding Zemana AntiLogger to your layered defenses, will have positive impact on your ability to manage your risk exposure.

If you found this article useful, why not subscribe to this Blog via RSS, or email? It’s easy; just click on this link and you’ll never miss another Tech Thoughts article.

Zemana AntiLogger Server Attacked by Bots

It’s often said that “no good deed goes unpunished”. Generally, this statement means that one can attempt to be helpful to others, and despite good intentions, end up paying an unexpected price.

That seems to be the case in Zemana’s good deed, in providing a free license for their superb security application; AntiLogger.

Over the course of the last few days, in conjunction with Zemana, Tech Thoughts, has been offering a free license for AntiLogger and the response has been very gratifying. For more information on this offer please read “Free Licenses for Zemana AntiLogger – 3 Days Only”, on this site.

Unfortunately, cybercriminals, who as we know are driven by opportunity, obviously saw in this free license giveaway, an opportunity to be disruptive by launching a distributed denial-of-service attack, driven by a bot network, against the Zemana license server.

If you’re unfamiliar this this type of attack, Wikipedia explains it, in part, as follows:

A denial-of-service attack (DoS attack) or distributed denial-of-service attack (DDoS attack) is an attempt to make a computer resource unavailable to its intended users. One common method of attack involves saturating the target (victim) machine with external communications requests, such that it cannot respond to legitimate traffic, or responds so slowly as to be rendered effectively unavailable. In general terms, DoS attacks are implemented by either forcing the targeted computer(s) to reset, or consuming its resources so that it can no longer provide its intended service or obstructing the communication media between the intended users and the victim so that they can no longer communicate adequately.

There are very sensible business reasons why a company, such as Zemana, gets involved in this type of promotion, but at the end of the day, it’s the individual who receives a free license who benefits immediately.

While this attack has been extremely disruptive, and very inconvenient for those readers who choose to take advantage of Zemana’s generous offer, in a real sense this attack emphasizes the level of cybercriminal activity on the Internet, and the lengths to which these Neolithic idiots will go to threaten our enjoyment of the Net.

Inadvertently, those responsible for this attack have proven how important it is to ensure, that you as an Internet user are adequately protected against cybercriminal activity. The very definition of irony.

If you found this article useful, why not subscribe to this Blog via RSS, or email? It’s easy; just click on this link and you’ll never miss another Tech Thoughts article.

Free Licenses for Zemana AntiLogger – 3 Days Only

Last week, we ran a highly successful free license giveaway, for Zemana AntiLogger. The response from readers was overwhelming, and as a result, Zemana Software has agreed, once again, to provide free licenses for Zemana AntiLogger (retail value $34.00 U.S. each), in support of Tech Thoughts “Stay Safe on the Internet Campaign”.

In this latest giveaway, we have streamlined the process for downloading a licensed version of Zemana AntiLogger. Simply click on the link at the end of this review, and you will be provided with a free license instantly. This giveaway will end February 1, 2010, at 12:00 PM Eastern Standard Time (North America). This is a one day extension of the original offer, courtesy of Zemana.

Hundreds of readers missed out on the last offer since we simply ran out of licenses – if you missed out; this is your opportunity to get your license direct.

Update: January 31, 2010 @ 10:30 EST – Zemana’s license server may have intermittent problems in issuing a license.Cyber crimininals have launched a denial of service attack against Zemana, which included 100,00o requests per second from a network of bots. Zemana has hardened its defenses as a result, so we don’t expect this issue to continue. We apologize for the inconvenience. All license requests will be honored by Zemana.

For more information on this attack, please read our just posted article – Zemana AntiLogger Server Attacked by Bots.

If you have any problems installing the free license, or issues with the software, please contact Zemana support directly for assistance. You’ll find them to be fast, efficient, and courteous.

Here’s a graphic of the landing page (be sure to click on the link at the end of this article to get to this page).

Despite the best efforts by anti-malware developers to meet new threats head-on, cybercriminals will respond, as they always have, by generating even more diverse threats to evade detection and elimination. So, button up your overcoat and get your rain gear ready; 2010 is going to be the stormiest malware year to date!

After reading the following review of Zemana AntiLogger, I’m sure you’ll agree, this is an application that will increase your sense of safety as you surf the Internet.

Zemana AntiLogger – An Ounce of Prevention

We’ve previously discussed Keylogger malware here, and how to employ an ounce of prevention by using highly regarded SnoopFree Privacy Shield, a free application, which unfortunately, is compatible with Windows XP only.

Because Keyloggers, are a particularly sinister type of malware, that, amongst other tasks, monitors every keystroke a user types on a computer’s keyboard, are often executed as part of a rootkit, or a remote administration (RAT) Trojan horse, they can be extremely difficult to detect, and remove.

While it’s true, that many good quality malware and spyware detection tools should capture Keyloggers, and a properly configured Firewall should prevent all authorized connections, the reality is – this is definitely NOT always the case. Keyloggers in fact, can disable Firewalls, and anti-malware tools.

Since my personal home machines now run on Windows 7, I can no longer protect against Keyloggers using SnoopFree Privacy Shield, so I had to find an alternative. Unfortunately, I could not find a freeware substitute application. However, I did find a competitively priced application, Zemana AntiLogger, following a reader’s recommendation, which I’ve been testing for just under 30 days.

I was immediately impressed by this application, particularly the system defense function. The application intercepted proposed changes to system files NOT picked up by other security applications on my system.

Since I use a Webcam extensively for communicating, I was more than happy to see the active Webcam protection offered by Zemana AntiLogger, which was immediately apparent.

Test Screens:

This is an example of a Zemana warning, triggered by my launching an anonymous proxy application which by design, injects code into my primary Browser. By checking an appropriate check box I established a rule, permitting this action in future.

This is an example of a Zemana warning, triggered by my updating both Microsoft Security Essentials and Malwarebytes definition databases which, in each case, will make changes to system files. Simply checking a check box establishes a rule, which will permit this action in future.

This is an example of a Zemana warning, triggered by a screen capture utility I was in the process of using. If this had been an illegal activity. I would of course, have received the same warning. Again, simply checking a check box establishes a rule, which will permit this action, by this utility, in future.

Part of the testing procedure in testing the ability of Zemana AntiLogger to block Keyloggers, included the use of Anti-Keylogger Leak Tester, which tests for 7 different keylogging attacks. All attacks were easily defeated by Zemana AntiLogger.

Fast facts:

Secure your Internet banking and financial transactions

Protect information in emails and Instant Messages

Protect keystrokes from spyware

Protect all screen images

Webcam Logger protection

System Defense

No need to download latest virus signatures

No need to know or detect the malware’s signature

No need to wait for updates from a virus lab

No need to scan files

Proactively looks for suspicious activity

Catches not just the usual suspects, but also sophisticated “zero day” malware

Prevents theft of data via secure connections (HTTPS / SSL)

Does not slow down your PC

Easy to download, install and use

Future-proof

System requirements: Windows Vista, XP and Windows 7.

First: Download Zemana AntiLogger from here. If you have a problem with this link, use this link.

Next: Download your free license from: Zemana – (you’ll receive your free license immediately). The license must be activated by the end of the day, February 1, 2010.

All the signposts point to 2010 being a banner year for cyber-criminals. Being prepared and being aware, while not a panacea, will continue to be a key element in mitigating risk exposure. Adding Zemana AntiLogger to your layered defenses, will have positive impact on your ability to manage your risk exposure.

If you found this article useful, why not subscribe to this Blog via RSS, or email? It’s easy; just click on this link and you’ll never miss another Tech Thoughts article.

The Winners in the Spyware Doctor with Anti-Virus 2010 – Free License Giveaway Contest Are….

I’m happy to announce the 10 winners of a free license for Spyware Doctor with Anti-Virus 2010, a superior anti-malware application that is easy to setup, customize and run, for both less experienced, and expert users alike.

No fussing and bothering with a ton of long winded setup or customizing screens – just install, and after choosing a few run options, you’re good to go!

Congratulations to the winners: Mal, Aurel Moroseanu, Bori , Louis Gordon Jr., HarleyBBorn, as77, CE, Ahmed, springboy, and Adrian.

The winners will receive official notification, directly from me, within the next 3/5 days, which will include the free license.

Thank you, to all those who participated.

If you are not a winner, you can of course, download a fully functional 30 day trial of Spyware Doctor with Anti-Virus 2010.

Spyware Doctor with Anti-Virus Review:

So how do you take the best and make it better? That’s a neat trick, but something PC Tools has managed to do with the release of Spyware Doctor with Anti-Virus.

Spyware Doctor, as a stand alone anti-malware application, has long had a rich reputation for effectiveness, and ease of use. With the addition of both an anti-virus component, and ThreatFire technology, PC Tools has taken PC security to a new level.

Regular readers will remember, I have often recommended the stand alone version of ThreatFire, as one of the top three necessary components to maximize PC security. Kudos to PC Tools, for including it in this new version of Spyware Doctor with Anti-Virus.

Experience has taught me that typical computer users are most interested in two areas when choosing an anti-malware application:

• Protection against current threats, and equally as important, protection against rapidly evolving new threats. During testing, I found  Spyware Doctor with Anti-Virus, excelled in detection; particularly in its active protection against phishing sites.
• Ease of use, with a limited learning curve; so that the inherent power of the application can be be brought to bear immediately. Those of us you have relied on the free version of Spyware Doctor Starter Edition, are familiar with its clear, simple, no nonsense user interface, and this new application continues that tradition.

Fast facts:

• IMPROVED ON-DEMAND DETECTION – Detects and thoroughly cleans an extremely diverse range of malware during on-demand and real-time scans.
• UPDATED BEHAVIOURAL PROTECTION – Leverages ThreatFire technology to detect and block zero-day malware based on its runtime behavior.
• NEW BROWSER EXPLOIT & SCAREWARE BLOCKING – Dynamically scans every webpage loaded in Internet Explorer to detect and block malicious exploits, such as iFrame & MDAC, that trigger drive-by-downloads of malware. Detects and blocks websites that scare visitors into buying scareware through fake antivirus scan pop-ups.
• NEW STATE AWARENESS MODES – Detects how you are using your PC and adjusts to minimize performance impact and reduce interruptions.

– Game Mode: all scheduled scans, smart updates and program alerts postponed when playing games, resulting in an interruption-free experience. Activated automatically when playing games in full-screen, otherwise manually switchable

– Power Saving Mode: no scheduled tasks run when powered by battery

– Idle Mode: automatically scans in background when PC is not in use to reduce the length of subsequent scans

• EMAIL GUARD – Detects and cleans infected email attachments at unencrypted POP3 and SMTP4 protocol layer (client independent).
• 24/7 Help – available in 10 languages. Select the most convenient option for you – reach our support staff by phone, email, live chat or web.

I have always been a strong proponent of free security software, but with the increasing challenges we now face on the Internet, I’m finding that, by and large, the free versions of security applications are not up to the task of protecting an average, or typical user.

Free security applications, with their built-in limitations, are best suited to those who have a “better than average” understanding, of operating systems, security systems, and who have a heightened awareness of the hidden traps on the Internet. Even with an enhanced skill set, technically astute users are still finding that staying safe on the Internet is more difficult than ever.

In the last two years, I have only recommend two “pay for” applications and Spyware Doctor with Anti-Virus, has now become the third.

Spyware Doctor with Anti-Virus, offers all of the protection that a top notch anti-malware application should, in an easy installation package leading to a “dead simple” interface, and then does what it sets out to do – protects the user efficiently, against the epidemic of malware and additional dangers circulating on the Internet, waiting to trap the under protected, and the unaware.

System requirements: Windows 7 (32bit, 64bit), Windows Vista SP1+ (32bit, 64bit), Windows XP SP2+ (32bit).

You may Buy Spyware Doctor with Anti-Virus direct from PC Tools, ($49.95 direct, for three licenses).

If you found this article useful, why not subscribe to this Blog via RSS, or email? It’s easy; just click on this link and you’ll never miss another Tech Thoughts article.

Spyware Doctor with Anti-Virus 2010 – Free License Giveaway

As part of our continuing “Stay Safe on the Internet campaign”, PC Tools has generously provided us with 10 free licenses for Spyware Doctor with Anti-Virus, (retail value $49.95 U.S.).

To enter the contest to win a free license, simply add a comment at the end of this article. On January 15, 2010, all comments will be added to the online List Randomizer, and the first 10 names that come up, will win a free license for this award winning security application.

As with previous contests, you don’t need to write a paragraph – “enter me in the contest” is enough. Good luck!

After reading the following review of Spyware Doctor with Anti-Virus, I’m sure you’ll agree, this is a contest worth entering.

Spyware Doctor with Anti-Virus Review:

So how do you take the best and make it better? That’s a neat trick, but something PC Tools has managed to do with the release of Spyware Doctor with Anti-Virus.

Spyware Doctor, as a stand alone anti-malware application, has long had a rich reputation for effectiveness, and ease of use. With the addition of both an anti-virus component, and ThreatFire technology, PC Tools has taken PC security to a new level.

Regular readers will remember, I have often recommended the stand alone version of ThreatFire, as one of the top three necessary components to maximize PC security. Kudos to PC Tools, for including it in this new version of Spyware Doctor with Anti-Virus.

Experience has taught me that typical computer users are most interested in two areas when choosing an anti-malware application:

• Protection against current threats, and equally as important, protection against rapidly evolving new threats. During testing, I found  Spyware Doctor with Anti-Virus, excelled in detection; particularly in its active protection against phishing sites.
• Ease of use, with a limited learning curve; so that the inherent power of the application can be be brought to bear immediately. Those of us you have relied on the free version of Spyware Doctor Starter Edition, are familiar with its clear, simple, no nonsense user interface, and this new application continues that tradition.

Fast facts:

• IMPROVED ON-DEMAND DETECTION – Detects and thoroughly cleans an extremely diverse range of malware during on-demand and real-time scans.
• UPDATED BEHAVIOURAL PROTECTION – Leverages ThreatFire technology to detect and block zero-day malware based on its runtime behavior.
• NEW BROWSER EXPLOIT & SCAREWARE BLOCKING – Dynamically scans every webpage loaded in Internet Explorer to detect and block malicious exploits, such as iFrame & MDAC, that trigger drive-by-downloads of malware. Detects and blocks websites that scare visitors into buying scareware through fake antivirus scan pop-ups.
• NEW STATE AWARENESS MODES – Detects how you are using your PC and adjusts to minimize performance impact and reduce interruptions.

– Game Mode: all scheduled scans, smart updates and program alerts postponed when playing games, resulting in an interruption-free experience. Activated automatically when playing games in full-screen, otherwise manually switchable

– Power Saving Mode: no scheduled tasks run when powered by battery

– Idle Mode: automatically scans in background when PC is not in use to reduce the length of subsequent scans

• EMAIL GUARD – Detects and cleans infected email attachments at unencrypted POP3 and SMTP4 protocol layer (client independent).
• 24/7 Help – available in 10 languages. Select the most convenient option for you – reach our support staff by phone, email, live chat or web.

I have always been a strong proponent of free security software, but with the increasing challenges we now face on the Internet, I’m finding that, by and large, the free versions of security applications are not up to the task of protecting an average, or typical user.

Free security applications, with their built-in limitations, are best suited to those who have a “better than average” understanding, of operating systems, security systems, and who have a heightened awareness of the hidden traps on the Internet. Even with an enhanced skill set, technically astute users are still finding that staying safe on the Internet is more difficult than ever.

In the last two years, I have only recommend two “pay for” applications and Spyware Doctor with Anti-Virus, has now become the third.

Spyware Doctor with Anti-Virus, offers all of the protection that a top notch anti-malware application should, in an easy installation package leading to a “dead simple” interface, and then does what it sets out to do – protects the user efficiently, against the epidemic of malware and additional dangers circulating on the Internet, waiting to trap the under protected, and the unaware.

System requirements: Windows 7 (32bit, 64bit), Windows Vista SP1+ (32bit, 64bit), Windows XP SP2+ (32bit).

You may Buy Spyware Doctor with Anti-Virus direct from PC Tools, ($49.95 direct, for three licenses), or you may download a free, limited, older version, at PC Tools.

If you enjoyed this article, why not subscribe to this Blog via RSS, or email? It’s easy; just click on this link and you’ll never miss another Tech Thoughts article.

Handy Backup Server Contest – The Winner is…

I’m happy to announce the winner of the free $599 U.S. license, for Handy Backup Server enterprise network edition, a superior enterprise grade backup application.

Congratulations to the winner: Aaron G. Sword

Aaron has received notification directly. Thank you, to all those who participated.

Just a reminder – we are currently running a contest for 10 free licenses for PC Tools Spyware Doctor with Anti-Virus. Click on the link, and get your entry in for this terrific anti-malware application.

If you are not a winner, you can of course, download a a fully functional 30 day trial, of Handy Backup Server enterprise network edition.

Why Handy Backup Server enterprise network edition, is the right application for those tough backup jobs.

Operating a small/medium sized business has always been a tough job. But, the unstable economy that we are all forced to content with, has made a tough job, even tougher.

The bottom line, always a major consideration, now looms ever larger in the background. But investing in the right technologies can deliver operational, and productivity efficiencies, that can flow straight to the bottom line.

Backup solutions, for example, don’t have to be a cost center. A strong and aggressive backup strategy, effectively implemented, can have a measureable effect on the bottom line by impacting positively on system administrator productivity.

Choosing the right backup solution and service provider then, has taken on a new importance. One in which cost savings can be realized through system administration productivity growth.

Handy Backup Server, from Novosoft, is a complete server-based network backup solution for small business enterprises. This application is designed to allow the user to back up and recover data stored on both central servers and remote computers, on a client-server scheme, and has multiple server-specific functions.

Workstation backup tasks can run as a service under Windows 2008/2003 Server, or Vista/XP/2000 seamlessly, and will not interfere  with employees’ work.

Handy Backup Server allows the enterprise to backup not only individual files and folders, but in addition, creates drive images – backups of the operating system and all applications.

All workstation backup tasks are fully automated, and run with low system priority – making it easy to perform backup tasks during operational hours.

A  Comprehensive user interface provides easy, step-by-step, adjustment of network backup – including compression, encryption and flexible task scheduling options. E-mail notifications, command line interface, and log file generation, makes the system administrator’s  task management easy and efficient.

As well as file, folder and HDD imaging, this application features plug-ins for backing up MS Exchange, MS SQL, DB2 databases and Lotus Notes/Domino data, stored on the central server. Additionally, the user can back up Oracle database and ODBC-compatible databases, which can be located on both a local server, and remote workstations.

Data transferred to the central server can be stored on the widest range of backup media: the user can backup to FTP, SFTP, Network, FireWire and USB hard/flash drives, CD, DVD, Blu-Ray, HD DVD and much more. Detailed online help is available.

Centralized workstation backup and fast system recovery ability, distinguish Handy Backup Server from other network backup software. Handy Backup Server carries the “Certified for Windows Vista” and “Works with Windows Server 2008″ logos and is acknowledged as one of the best tools for backup and recovery of the entire office network, or local server.

Fast facts:

Image backup – snapshot of entire hard drive contents including all programs and data files

Hot database backup through ODBC protocol

Backup of Lotus Notes/Domino databases

MS Exchange Server Backup

Client-server network backup – centralized workstation backup managed by one enterprise backup server

Backup of email directly from the server

Support for backup to CD-R/CD-RW, backup to DVD/Blu-ray/HD DVD media; remote FTP backup, secure SFTP backup; local and network drives; ZIP, JAZ, MO; flash drives; HDD and floppy disks, USB drive

Registry Backup

Data Restore

ICQ Backup plug-in

128-bit encryption support

E-mail notification on operation results

System requirements: Windows 2000/XP/2003/Vista

You can download a full-featured 30-day trial by clicking on the following link:

Download Handy Backup 30 day trial

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