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Find and Correct Security Gaps in the Software on Your Windows Computer With Secunia PSI
(Clearwisdom.net) Most people's computers have popular software from such famous names as Microsoft, Adobe and many others, any of which may
have security gaps that allow outsiders to hack the computer. Software companies
publish patches or upgrades after these security gaps are found, and customers can
remove these loopholes by installing the updates. Unfortunately, with dozens of
software programs installed, many of us do not have time to keep track of these
upgrades. Some practitioners' computers have been hacked through such security gaps in
Word, Flash, Skype, etc. Others have unwittingly sent malicious .pdf or .doc
files, or been diverted to malicious websites. Some technically savvy practitioners now recommend the installation of free
security software called Secunia PSI. The software automatically scans all the
software installed on your computer and reports security loopholes. Generally,
Secunia PSI will provide you the links to download upgrades or methods to remedy
the loopholes. Secunia is considered to be a reputable company, and the software
safe to use. Note: This software is for Windows machines only. It will not run on Mac or
Linux. Webpage of Secunia PSI: https://psi.secunia.com/ After downloading, it can be installed quickly with default settings. Then
Secunia PSI will automatically scan your computer and report to you any insecure
software with links for upgrades. You should click the links- the small dark blue round icon with a white arrow
in the middle. Download the upgrades for the software and install them. Whenever you start your computer, Secunia PSI will run automatically. When
you move your mouse to the Secunia icon at the bottom right hand corner, it
should show zero insecure software and zero end-of-life software. If either of
the numbers is not zero, it means software in your computer has known security
gaps. You need to open Secunia PSI and click the corresponding links to download
patches, and uninstall any End-of-Life software. Note: Installation of Secunia PSI does not protect your computer by itself.
Whenever you receive reports of insecure software, you should download and
install the patches following the links provided by PSI, and then your computer
is protected. July 1, 2008
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