In the Spotlight

This page will describe a constantly evolving number of must-have technologies

• Firewire and/or USB 2.0 Portable Hard Drives
  Such a product will allow you to quickly and completely backup your entire hard drive. They are available as pocket size (up to 120GB or more) and in standard size (up to 800GB). Some include backup software but one of the best products to purchase with a portable hard drive is Acronis True Image.
• Skype VoIP Service
  A very mature and free Voice over IP (Internet) program. It is available for Windows, MAC OSx, LINUX, and PDAs. For a nominal fee you can even purchase a telephone number for incoming land-line calls.
• Uninterruptible Power Supply
  A UPS can be purchased for as low as $40.00 so why doesn't everyone have one? The purpose of a UPS is to keep your computer supplied with power in the inevidable event of a power outage. The consequences of abruptly losing power are loss of data, posibility of system file corruption (meaning, next time your computer will not boot).
• Acronis True Image Backup Software
  A well designed program that allows you to make an exact copy of your computer's hard drive. Works best when backing up to a separate hard drive such as a USB portable hard drive.
• Internet Archive (Archive.org) Web Site
  This is a facinating site where you may look up almost any site on the Internet as it was at almost anytime in the past.
• Copernic Desktop Search Desktop Search Software
  Tired of waisting time searching for information on your computer? The Windows search function is completely inadequate but fortunately Copernic is available. Even better, they offer this exceptionally high quality tool for free.
  
• Microsoft Windows Defender
  Offered for free, this is a mature and quality tool for protecting your PC from Malware.
• BitDefender AntiVirus Software
  One of the best AntiVirus tools as rated in 2006. They offer both comprehensive and free versions.