Should I Use Windows Update?

Should one use Windows Update?

This topic has good and valid arguments on both sides. Some would say keeping your windows up to date is essential in keeping it free of the newest, worst viruses and the like. Others would say that updating your windows is overemphasized, unneeded and a waste of time.

In the future, Microsoft will have ways of detecting whether your version of windows is actually store-bought, or pirated. With so many copies of pirated windows on the market, such a move by Microsoft is almost required in order to continue cornering the OS market. For instance, when SP 1 (and 2) came out, you had to have an authentic windows serial code in order to download the update. There are of course ways of getting around this, but it deterred much illegal upgrading to the new service packs. Had you have had a pirated copy of windows (and the majority does), then you could have downloaded a copy of windows SP 1/2, but you would have had to completely re-install and possibly format in order to install it.

If you had an original windows serial code that came with the product, you could have just downloaded the packs from the windows update servers.

So yes, having a non-pirated copy of windows is a convenience. However, some would remember a stunning virus that was released not too long ago; MyDoom. It managed to find its ways onto the Microsoft windows update servers. When you got the virus, you would have 30 seconds before the computer shut down. Should you have formatted, just to re-install windows with automatic updates turned on (and they are by default) you would get the virus again.

And not to mention Windows Updates are a large time factor. Some updates (especially the first time you use Windows Update) are colossal, and the download speeds are not always at their greatest. Someone on 56k would have a very hard time using windows update at all (and if you do, I recommend not bothering).

Now, you ask, what exactly is Windows Update? It's simply Microsoft engineers working hard to fix bugs, problems and backdoors in Windows. What are these problems, you ask? Well, when Microsoft released windows it wasn't exactly a perfect OS. With every version of Windows, it becomes more and more hi-tech. But there has always been problems with Windows being insecure.

The only way to find that Windows has a certain vulnerability is first for that vulnerability to be exploited. Eg, Microsoft using white hat hackers (the good guys) to breach windows, or for a hacker to break into a version of Windows and it is reported.

So, to answer the question, is it important to update your windows? It's hard to say, without the answer being a biased opinion. I will give both sides of the argument merit, but it honestly depends on what you want to do with your PC. For large businesses with intranets, windows updates are likely a good idea. It only takes one serious OS fault for a hacker or a bad virus to leak in and infect the whole network. Windows faults and security issues, IE backdoors, etc. Windows update constantly has fixes for these problems.

For a home desktop, even for a home network, windows updates really aren't that important. No one wants to hack the small guy; there is nothing to gain from it. Should you use a simple firewall, even the windows in-house firewall, you are protected from most threats. But big business is always at risk; major websites are constantly under the gun from DoS attacks and IE "tricks." Windows Updates cannot really help DoS attacks, but they can prevent hackers, crackers, viruses and the like from entering their network computers from faults in the windows code.

So to answer the question - should I use windows update? If you've got a lot of infrastructure you want to protect, yes. If you're a small guy, one PC at home, one laptop; even a few computers thrown together in your home network. The answer is no. I don't recommend it, anyway. Just throw on your windows firewall, Black Ice Defender, Norton, Avast....what have you. And enjoy browsing. That's about it.

I am a young, aspiring computer engineer into Internet Marketing, hardware, software, web design, SEO and just about anything related to computers. Please come check out my growing PC forum at [http://www.markspcforum.com]

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Timber Replacement Windows - What Homeowners Should Know

Replacing the windows in your UK home is a major undertaking. If you have a vintage, historic or "listed" home, or if your home is located in a "conservation area," chances are timber replacement windows will be your choice. Timber windows give an authentic look that will enhance the appearance of an older home because they can be ordered in a style to match your home's design and architecture. Here's some information about wood replacement windows that you may find helpful.

Wood Windows are Versatile

Very often timber frame windows are bespoke (custom made). This means that just about any design element or feature can be included. Although wood windows are generally more expensive than windows made from PVC or aluminum, the look you get is unmistakably classic.

Opt for Quality

When considering timber windows and doors, try to see the "big picture." This means that price should not be the only concern. Since the windows are such an integral part of your home, doesn't it make sense to consider as many factors as possible before contracting to replace them? Take a walk through a neighborhood similar to yours and look at the types of windows used in homes that compare to yours. You're likely to find that PVC or aluminum windows clash with many homes' vintage looks. Remember that window replacement can subtract from as well as add to a home's value.

Other Considerations

Since non-opening windows are cheaper than those that open are, you might think that choosing a high number of non-opening replacement windows for your home will help keep the cost of the project down. While this is true to some extent, it's important to remember that buyers looking for a traditionally styled home will probably want most of the windows to be operable and not merely decorative. Another point to consider is the type of glazing you want in the wood replacement windows. While double-glazing is highly touted from the standpoint of conserving fuel and keeping the heated or air-conditioned air inside the home, it's important to realize that it may be a considerable length of time before the money you save offsets the higher cost of these windows.

Final Details

Contact several contractors and get several written estimates. Before signing a contract, verify that the costs and services listed on the contract are the same as those listed on the estimate. Also, ask for references and make it a point to contact them. Unless your whole job is bespoke, avoid paying a deposit higher than 10% of the total price. Beware of verbal guarantees that aren't noted on the contract. Finally, read the guarantee and understand its terms.

Timber replacement windows are a great way to add value to your UK home. With a little forethought and circumspection, you'll receive both quality windows and quality installation from a reputable contractor.

Morris Streak has been installing timber and sash windows for the last 20 years. He is focused exclusively on the sash windows and timber window market. Since that time, he has shown hundreds of homeowners how to properly install sash and timber windows in their homes. By eliminating salesmen and installers, the owner of a typical 3 bedroom, 2 bath home can save thousands of dollars in costs, while at the same time ensuring that each window is done correctly.

Morris is also a dedicated member of Premier Windows Ltd - The goal is to provide the highest quality windows and workmanship in order to truly enhance the aesthetic of your home. To achieve this, we install only the best, most secure and energy efficient windows and doors. Premier Windows Ltd. specialises in sash and timber windows and to be more specific, Premier deals best in double glazed sash windows, sash window repair, sliding sash windows, sash windows,timber sash windows, wood sash windows, timber frame windows, timber replacement windows timber windows and doors, timber windows uk.

If you need more information feel free to get in touch with us at http://www.premierwindows.ltd.uk/timber-windows

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