Tools & Hints from a NetTech
Winsock Fix
If you are having problems connecting to the internet and you have verified
that your network settings and
hardware settings are correct try running
Winsock Fix.
Winsock Fix replaces registry keys, resets your TCP/IP settings, replaces Hosts files with a default one,
and then requires a restart. This tool has proven to be very helpful, especially if your connection
worked at home before you came to school. Note: this tool will only help if you cannot connect to the internet.
Instructions on using the tool:
- Download Winsock Fix
from a computer lab machine or friends computer.
- Save download to a floppy or CD.
- Open the CD or floppy from your computer and launch the WinsockXPFix.exe
- On the "Winsock and TCP Repair Utility" screen click Fix.
- When prompted: "Apply the VB_Winsock fix?" click Yes.
- On the "Repair Completed" screen click OK to re-boot your computer
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Aim Virus Fix
If you clicked on a link from another "buddies" away message
or in a message they sent to you and now find that your away message is changing automatically
or you are sending out the link to other "buddies" you likely have an AIM virus. Jay Loden produces
a removal tool which will catch and fix all instances of the AIM virus. Visit his
website to download and run
the latest AIM fix.
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How to keep your computer secure
No one wants to have their internet jack disconnected
or quarantined. In order to prevent either from happening
make sure your computer is secure.
The following steps are all essential for keeping your computer secure.
Protect your computer from viruses. Many people ask "how did I get a virus? I didn't download any attachments
from my email." Worms can infect your machine simply because you are connected to the internet.
The only way to protect yourself from getting viruses and worms is to install a virus scanner.
Even if you have a virus scanner there is a chance that you could catch a new virus before
the definitions have been released.
If you already have a virus scanner on your computer make sure it has not expired. Many companies make you pay
for a subscription so you can continue to receive the latest virus definitions. You can download the school
virus scanner and get updated definitions for free for the duration of
your term as a student at University of Illinois.
If you would like more information on how viruses work and spread visit
how stuff works.
Protect your computer from Spyware and Adware. Many people believe their virus scanner protects them from spyware and adware.
This is only partially true, as some virus scanners are starting to detect spyware.
It is important to have two or more spyware scanners on your computer
to prevent parasites like spyware and adware from taking over your computer and, in particular,
breaking your internet connection. Unlike viruses, infecting your machine with parasites can be prevented.
For more information on preventing parasites visit doxdesk.
WINDOWS UPDATE!!!! Not only can Windows updates protect your computer against viruses, but also helps your operating system run
more smoothly. For information on keeping your computer up to date visit our Windows Update
help page. For those of you that use Macintosh visit Apple to download and
install updates.
Set a Password. Setting a password on your computer is very important. If you don't want another password to remember- I recommend
setting your password to be the same as another password you already use. For information on setting up your password visit our
Set Your Password page.
Turn off shared folders. It is important to turn off shared folders
so your personal documents are not leaked out to those looking for them. Viruses can also get onto your computer through shared folders.
Turn off filesharing. Filesharing may cause a violation of
Copyright Policy and may cause you to be
ratelimited.
For information on disabling filesharing visit
www.housing.uiuc.edu/technology/URHnetsecurity/Filesharing/index.htm
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Advice on CITES Services
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Get Help
Check the FAQs! If you need help first check out the technology
troubleshooting pages for solutions to common problems.
If you have a specific question, check out the Frequently Asked Questions
page.
Google It Even NetTechs have to use google sometimes. If you are getting an error message, try typing the exact text of the
error message into a web search. Also check out Microsoft
or Apple help documents found online. Try going to your computer manufacture's website,
such as Dell or HP as your problem
could be specific to your particular computer model.
Also if your computer hardware is broken, you may still be under the manufacturer warranty.
Contact a NetTech After you have done as much as you can to fix your problem try contacting a NetTech.
You can contact via phone, internet, or in person at lab hours or by setting up an appointment.
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