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Author Topic: A Windows from Mac newbie. Need security advice.  (Read 872 times)

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Offline ComicsLover

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A Windows from Mac newbie. Need security advice.
« on: October 22, 2011, 12:32:54 PM »
I've been with Apple for many years and love their OSX and the Mac Mini, but increasingly it's been harder to deal with the overpriced and limited selection of hardware options...not to mention the sheer size of downloads vs Windows versions (I had dial-up...still do right now, but this will change soon.)  The newest Mini version was the last straw what with Thunderbolt, no 3.0USB ports, and no internal disc drive option.

Anyway, I just purchased a Windows 7 Home Premium HP computer (Blu-Ray!) and am....lost.  Haven't had a Windows save at work where I only am allowed on prescribed pages....have just the bare bones memory of things like defrag *shudders* and so forth, so I really consider myself to be a newbie all over again.  Already dismayed I can't play some of my programs I transferred via an external drive such as flv...thought this would come with Flash installed....

Okay, meat and bones:

I'm scared to death of Bad Ware and bugs.  Had ClamXAV on my Mac, but that was just a precaution.  Now I want some serious protection not only via outside software, but through tweaking what Windows 7 provides in-box.

Also want some good software for playing music, movie files.

Some facts:

I do some online shopping for things I can't get via brick&mortar, but have yet to venture into banking and taxes.  Suspect will be forced to do the latter soon....my state is a tad insane.

I don't do photography.  Don't even own a camera and haven't snapped a picture in 15 years.  At most would like to do some cropping of pictures found online.  (See my user name.)

Love old movies; despite a lack of love towards 99% of what Hollywood and TV offerings, so might/maybe go into Netflix? one day.  Never purchased from iTunes....is Windows music site better?  Mostly download the odd fan film on YouTube.

Can't figure out how to transfer my iCal entries to Windows.  Can't find a Windows equivalent on the box.

Don't do games.  Last game I played was Riven (yes, the original one, which I loved, but which gave my old Windows fits.  In fact, I recall most games my sibling had gave his computer fits.  Will likely end erasing all the junk offerings they loaded on save for Solitaire when I'm bored waiting for something huge to load.)

Been using Firefox and Thunderbird for Macs, but have downloaded the .exe file for IE9.  Is it better/safer than FF?  Mail?

Oh, and though very paranoid about security, I'm also paranoid about venturing more than one short line into...changing internal software code.  Turns my hair white.  I'd show you a pic to prove it, but don't own a web cam or that aforementioned camera.

Thanks for any suggestions offered based on the above!   :mitch:
Pretty sure I'll be running to the Problems forums soon enough in a full panic later, but for now...hopeful of new purchase and format.

*deep breath*
helpmehelpmehelpme....

Oh, and how do you get rid of unwanted 'free installed' advertising sofware already loaded on courtesy of some idjiot?  Don't want all of those game or even know what Blio? Tangent? What is this stuff? are.  Don't want what I can't decipher.
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Offline Corrine

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Re: A Windows from Mac newbie. Need security advice.
« Reply #1 on: October 22, 2011, 02:50:43 PM »
Hi, ComicsLover.  Welcome to LandzDown Forum!  How well I recall the pains of dial-up.  Although I've had a broadband connection for a few years now, it is a "lite" connection -- better than dial-up but still a bit slow at times.

I have the feeling that by the time we get through your questions, this may end up a long discussion. :)   Just getting accustomed to Windows will likely take some adjustment.  You may find the information provided at this Microsoft site helpful:  Windows 7 Help & How-to - Microsoft Windows.

First forget about tweaking Windows 7 to make it more secure.  Updated antivirus software, a software firewall (plus router when you move to broadband), installing Microsoft security updates and keeping third-party software updated will go a long way to keeping your computer safe.  It is also advisable to surf with a Limited User Account (see Configuring Windows 7 for a Limited User Account).

The Windows 7 firewall is excellent.  So, unless you opt to go with a licensed antivirus/firewall suite, be sure the Windows Firewall is turned on (see Turn Windows Firewall on or off).

When it comes to antivirus software, Microsoft Security Essentials is free.  The definitions are the same as those used for Enterprise customers of Microsoft Forefront.  If you prefer a paid/licensed package, my personal favorite is ESET Smart Security 5.

You also will want an anti-malware program for occasional scanning.  I have found Malwarebytes an excellent program.  There is both a free version as well as a licensed product, well worth the investment, particularly if you elect a free antivirus software.

WinPatrol is a favorite.  Personally, it is the first software I add to a new computer and wouldn't be without it.  Additional information about WinPatrol is available in our forum here at WinPatrol Help & Information.

As to a browser, I use Firefox, but that is only because of extensions that I use regularly.  IE9 is an excellent browser.  Again, a referral, this time to an article I wrote when IE9 was released:  Internet Explorer 9, Privacy and Security Enhancements.  Also of interest, is this IEBlog article, Safer and Faster Downloads in IE9.

The PC Decrapifier is a tool used by many to remove the OEM installed extras.  However, make sure you follow HP's instructions that should have come with your new PC for creating a backup. 

We need to wait for Aaron to have an opportunity to see your questions, as he may have suggestions regarding your iCal entries and whether there is a way to import them.

I'm certain I've missed things and you will likely have additional questions.  However, I think this is a good start. 
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Offline ComicsLover

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Re: A Windows from Mac newbie. Need security advice.
« Reply #2 on: October 22, 2011, 06:02:05 PM »
Whooops....I kind of flipped a coin about which forum thread to post in....and thanks...feel very welcome already. :)

"Just getting accustomed to Windows will likely take some adjustment."
I do already feel like Khan in Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan asking "Where's the override [button]?!"  It's going to be a long learning experience especially as I'll need to access the Mac for a bit yet. :P

I've put in Microsoft Security Essentials as well as Microsoft Live Essentials (from a website recommendation...which I may take off...we'll see.)  Installed like a breeze. Wow.  Even a try at defragging was a surprise since it didn't just show me the colorful bricklaying as I remembered from the prehistoric past.

Gosh....if I'd known this may not be as painful as it was looking like at first.  (Warning:  if a website out there tells you to transfer from Mac to Windows using a Mac Journaled Format drive....that person knows squat.  I had to redo my drive to a MSDOT FAT format to get the PC to recognize the drive's contents.  Gave me a freak out moment or three there.)

My music transferred fine, though I miss iTunes keeping track of at what point in the song it was at.  However, this maybe because I didn't actually install the MP and Wav files in the WMP library?  Curious to see how this rates against iTunes, but first trying to get Adobe Flash to download in Windows rather than Mac so I can check my flv files.  Also discovered that the disc player must have a DVI or HDMI connection to view Blu-Ray discs...which my older monitor has neither.  Another purchase to do as well as cables.

Speaking of disk drives, is it possible to do a boot disk or recovery disk using a flash stick?  Previous computers came with recovery disks..this is my first with everything in the hard drive (which I can't say I'm thrilled about.)  Would rather have a flash drive than a disk....somebody *glares at family* always manages to scratch my disks.
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Offline Corrine

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Re: A Windows from Mac newbie. Need security advice.
« Reply #3 on: October 22, 2011, 06:52:20 PM »
I'm thinking you had a two-headed coin.  :)  Not to worry, though, your topic was found.

Windows 7 is not like the old Windows you have knowledge about.  It will not need frequent defragging, although you should find it as a scheduled task.

It appears that you can create a recovery disk using a USB.  First, here's the Microsoft instructions to Create a system repair disc.  Since you have an HP computer, this should be the most relevant for you:  Creating Recovery Discs or Saving a Recovery Image to a USB Flash Drive in Windows 7 - HP Customer Care (United States - English).

Since you have installed Windows Live Essentials, I found help information there for importing iCal:  Hotmail Calendar Help Center - Import a Calendar or Subscribe to a Calendar.

I can't help you with your music questions, but I'm sure someone else will be able to.  I have a Zune and have never used iTunes.
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Take a walk through the "Security Garden" -- Where Everything is Coming up Roses!

Remember - A day without laughter is a day wasted.
May the wind sing to you and the sun rise in your heart.

Offline ComicsLover

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Re: A Windows from Mac newbie. Need security advice.
« Reply #4 on: October 23, 2011, 01:06:03 PM »
Aw nuts!  :confused:  Should have read more about this before I started because now I learn that I should have not put myself as the Admin instead of as a User and also need to get something to make that USB recovery stick cause my one seems to have disappeared.  (I need a blasted safe around here....)  Want to get the latter done before I do anything else.

However, I've downloaded all of your suggestions so that they are ready to install.
Also downloaded the exe versions for Adobe Flash and Adobe Reader to go with both Firefox and IE9.

Question 1:  What in the world is this Snapfish icon on the Windows 7 desktop?  I try to Go To...I mean...see the info, but it doesn't say what it is or does or even if it's a real W7 Microsoft program or some paid adverb thing like those Tangent games.  I don't do infomercial TV or stuff like bundled computer ware.   Policy is  :Win73: on sight!

Question 2:  I've read that Silverlight is Microsoft's equivalent to Adobe Flash.  Is it worth getting as a browser plug-in for Firefox or should I wait for version 5 which supports 64-bit?  Or is this more online game oriented so Flash will do for now?

Question 2 version 2:  Are any of those programs cited going to duplicate CCleaner or should I get that as well?  Don't want to duplicate things and run the risk of a train wreck.

Question3:  Anyone heard of Freemake?  Is it worth having their software?

Up all night coaxing my Mac to download it's replacements while trying not to scare it with that fact.  Is tired.  :thud:
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Offline Corrine

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Re: A Windows from Mac newbie. Need security advice.
« Reply #5 on: October 23, 2011, 01:57:17 PM »
Hi, ComicsLover.

Keep in mind with both Adobe Flash and Adobe Reader that, just like Java, you will need to keep both updated.  Personally, I got tired of dealing with Adobe Reader and switched to Sumatra PDF.  Another product I understand works with Windows 7 is Nitro Reader.

1.  I knew Snapfish was a photo sharing site but wasn't aware that it is owned by HP.  From Wikipedia:

Quote
Snapfish is a web-based photo sharing and photo printing service that is owned by Hewlett-Packard. Members can upload files for free, and are given unlimited photo storage. However, members must place a paid order with Snapfish within a year or their files are deleted

2.  You will eventually hit on a website that will require Silverlight in order to work properly.  You can install it now or wait until prompted.  Silverlight certainly isn't as vulnerable as Adobe Flash -- or perhaps not as big a target.

Since you mentioned the 64-bit version of Silverlight, there really isn't a need to run a 64-bit browser at this point.  The 32-bit works just fine. 

2.2.  No, the programs mentioned will not duplicate CCleaner. 

3.  Sorry, I can't help with video-converting software.
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Take a walk through the "Security Garden" -- Where Everything is Coming up Roses!

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Offline ComicsLover

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Re: A Windows from Mac newbie. Need security advice.
« Reply #6 on: October 23, 2011, 02:24:56 PM »
Thanks.  I'll check out Sumatra (although I seem to recall State tax programs demand Adobe (the so & so's.)

'Kay.  Snapfish is going to meet the DeCrapitator.  :flowers:

Is now going to bed.
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Offline Paddy

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Re: A Windows from Mac newbie. Need security advice.
« Reply #7 on: October 23, 2011, 04:36:12 PM »
Hi CosmicLover I’ve just downloaded Freemake from filehippo.com

http://www.filehippo.com/download_freemake_video_converter/

And I’ve just installed the software though; I will need a few days to play with it! 
 See screen shots below for a few pointers when installing make sure to un-tick Additional add-ons I just chose Desktop short cut, also as part of the installation you will be asked to install Micro Soft Net Frame work 4 and after that is installed you will also be offered Security up Dates for Net Frame Work, I had 3 updates to install.
Also when the install is complete a web page will open to tell you if you have the latest version I had as it only came out the other week.
May I suggest if you do install Freemake! Make sure and do the Security updates.

Now I away to play around with this, and just give it a good old test drive...

Paddy...  :Hammys pint:












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Offline ComicsLover

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Re: A Windows from Mac newbie. Need security advice.
« Reply #8 on: December 04, 2011, 06:45:17 AM »
Holy Holidays Time Warp, Batman! Is that December on the time clock?

 :look:  Um...oops?  I blame holidays, work, birthdays, and alien abductors.  (Plus just now realize I must add "Get a downloadable Dictionary/Thesaurus!" to my list of do's.  Really, I had no idea on how much useful bundled Mac stuff came with my Mini until I started using this PC in earnest just a couple of days ago.  Why is there no Calendar on this thing yet loads of Tangent Games?!)

But I digress (a major defect of mine.)

After a month of not having the time to get online I finally got MS-SE to finish downloading and installing and am now free.....dear god its December 4th?.... :blink: so and so's birthday is today.  Carumba.

Right.  Well, I haven't forgotten this place...just...Reality is EVIL and not letting me and my PC get acquainted as quickly as I'd thought, plus am still not connected to a (bleeping) high-speed service!  :sad:

Paddy, did that Freemake work out?  I honestly mainly want a converter to change my FLV files to something Windows 7 Media Player will not disdain to recognize.  Otherwise will end up downloading the PC version of VLC that I have had on my Mac for eons.

On the plus side of things I finally got my Blu-Ray player to accept Blu-Ray disks via an updated TV set and got lost for a couple of mesmerized hours just watching the intro of Thor.  :goodie: (Who needs 3-D TV when the special effects are that awesome!)  Worth the hassle of Black Friday right there.

Anyway, I'm alive and looking up Dictionary offerings.
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Offline ComicsLover

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Re: A Windows from Mac newbie. Need security advice.
« Reply #9 on: December 05, 2011, 09:26:53 AM »
Oh my GOD.  (I'm still shaking.)

Everything was swimming along like Aquaman cruising with the dolphins.  I had nearly every 3rd party install done and other than some problems with Decrapifier not getting rid of all the HP Games and WinPatrol Scotty being rather rudely insistent that I get online immediately...(and VueMinder Calendar) not working so I had to uninstall....) everything was okay.

Until I tried to read one of my text documents and discovered that all my documents save for three that I had made that day....had their titles changed where there was at least one period and a space inserted beforehand.  Opening them up I found just a couple of sentences comprising of more periods, symbols, and "Mac Time Machine".

Okay.  :shocked:

Fine.  One of my last installs must have been a lemon.  So I got out the new hard drive I'd just purchased for making backups and which I'd just set up with a backup before installing the 3rd parties (because I ain't a dummy, no sirreee!) and opened it it to reinstall all of my docs.

Nothing but a couple of icons...nothing of my personal folder.

Adrenaline rush.

Right.  Restore Point.  I had a restore point made before each decrapifier move.

No fix on any of 'em.

White hairs are sprouting on my head.

I finally found a restore point from before I installed any of the 3rd parties (but thankfully after I had Mail and basics like the original set of MS-SE installs done.  That got my doc files reading normally.  Rebooted and still fine.

Here's what I think happened:

Having routed the USB cord for the new external hard drive designated for PC backups, I must have gotten it and the Mac's Time Machine USB cord mixed up (they pretty much all look the same) and this destroyed my doc files (while leaving the picture ones okay for some reason.)  Strange thing is, the Time Tunnel hard drive is formatted for Mac Journaling while the new hard drive would surely have been preformatted for a PC.

I don't get how the PC would have allowed a Mac Journal Time Machine drive to try to install at all....let alone manage to mess up my doc files.  (Note:  when I did the original transfer from Mac to PC, I placed all of my personal files in a created desktop folder so I could keep them separate from any PC files until I could go through the lot and remove/sort them all.

So....either it wasn't the hard drive, but one of the 3rd party software (Malewarebytes, WinPatrol, VuMinder, TheSage) that did this or it was my mixing up the drives.  The drive seems the most likely given the left over data on each file, but...how?

My next move is to be far more cautious:  install only one thing at a time and test, test, test; keep a paper notebook journal of my steps, and put colored hair bands on each USB so I can tell which is coming from which machine without having to backtrack wires.

And breathe.  Must remember to breathe.
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Offline ComicsLover

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Re: A Windows from Mac newbie. Need security advice.
« Reply #10 on: December 14, 2011, 05:04:44 PM »
Update:  Got Malewarebytes and WinPatrol to install without much trouble. (Question on WinPatrol placed at that forum.)  Unable to get anything by Freemake to install after downloading the exec file.  May be a Windows version requirement I missed.

Neither I nor my sib have been able to download Avast for additional security despite multiple attempts.  It gets at best about 20% downloaded then dies.  I've tried via DownThemAll! via Firefox....he's tried using the standard MS Downloader via IE9: same result.  He can't download AVG Free either.  I even tried to get it down during the dead of night when traffic might be slower....no such luck.  However, also could not access my regular grocery shopping page....net is slow! Probably desperate Christmas shoppers.

Keeping MSE very much updated; it and MWB always come up clean.  Other than a strange cookie, so does WinPatrol.
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