Justin’s 16 Rules of Thumb

When purchasing laptops and desktop PCs, don’t get the warranty if the computer costs less than $600.
If you are buying a laptop that costs over $1200, seriously consider getting the accidental damage warranty for at least 3 years.
If you see that a Java update is available …DO IT!
Back up your stuff. Seriously… back it up.
A backup means there are at least 2 copies.
Laptops should last reliably for 3-4 years.
Desktops should last reliably for 4-5 years.
Servers should last reliably for 4-5 years.
Use a surge protector rated at 2000 joules or higher.
If you have a wireless network…secure it with encryption.
You are the legally responsible for what goes on over your Internet connection.
Have different passwords for all your websites.
Passwords should be at least 12 characters or longer.
The computer you conduct business and work on SHOULD NOT be the computer your kids use.
If you think a computer might be infected with malware or a virus, DO NOT do banking or conduct any transactions online or even offline.
Think of malware and viruses not as bad programs but as bad guys sitting at your computer day and night seeing all that you do.

Justek