Introducing the PC
3
Protecting Your PC
Using a Power Surge Suppressor
Power surges, for example, voltage spikes, power outages or blackouts may cause
software problems.
Symptoms of voltage spikes include a flickering video display, unexpected PC
startups and the PC not responding to your commands. A voltage spike can
occasionally corrupt or destroy files. Because of this, you should:
• Consistently make backup copies of your data files.
And
• Prevent damage from voltage spikes by installing a PC surge suppressor
between the electrical socket and the PC powercable.
Using Virus Protection Programs
HP provides a virus-scanning software program to help protect your PC (select
models only).
A PC virus can destroy information on the hard disk drive. You can get a virus
from infected files that you open from:
• An e-mail message or attachment.
• A file downloaded from the Internet.
• A diskette (floppy disk).
• A CD or DVD disc.
Some viruses affect your PC immediately, while others may activate only if you
open a certain file or do not delete the file before a certain date. New types of
viruses are invented all the time.
The virus-scanning software program on your PC has pre-set options that make
your PC safe. After you enable the virus-scanning program, it checks your PC
files for viruses.
The virus-scanning program manufacturer provides free virus definition updates
through your Internet connection for an initial period after your PC purchase. You
can purchase a subscription service for updates after the initial free period
expires.
You should take the following precautions to protect your PC:
• Do not open unsolicited e-mail from unknown sources.
• Download files only from sources you feel are safe.
• Always scan documents for viruses before opening them.
• Make sure you have the latest version of your virus-scanning software.
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