Dec 95 Online

Compiled by Julie R. Blumenfeld

With today's instant access via the Internet and abundance of free downloads, viruses are a greater threat than ever. Yet many users still don't inoculate their systems. The following tips should protect you from infection.

• Get antivirus software: If you don't already have an antivirus program, run, don't walk, to get one. Don't rely on your network administrator or trust an online service to check for viruses. Installing antivirus software locally is the best protection. For more information on the latest products, check out this month's New Products and Product Comparisons sections.
• Download with caution: Take note of file extensions before you download. Self-extracting executable (.EXE) files extract when you double-click on them. Some online services extract or unzip files automatically when you log off. Also check each file for viruses before you install it on your system. Some unzipping utilities, such as WinZip, provide configuration options for antivirus software.
• Stay current: Just because you've loaded antivirus software on your system doesn't mean you'll always be safe. Antivirus software companies provide constantly updated data files to protect against new viruses. Check at least once a month to make sure your data file is current.
• Scan monthly: Aside from scanning files as you download, check your system monthly. Some antivirus software, such as PC-cillin, remind you how long it's been since your last scan.

The most time-consuming part of shopping isn't selecting the gift, it's waiting to pay for it. This year, try doing your holiday shopping online.

• The All-Internet Shopping Directory
  http: //www.webcom.com/~tbrown/
  This directory, broken down by product categories, includes a list of Internet malls and shopping centers.
• Cybershop
  http: //www.nfic.com/Cybershop/Online
  Look for daily specials, and a wedding and baby shower registry, in this cyber-department store.
• Shopping2000
  http: //www.shopping2000.com/
  Fill your virtual shopping cart with products from more than 60 companies.
• Marketplace on America Online
  Keyword: Marketplace
  Online shopping is a breeze in this well-organized forum. Be prepared to download lots of art.
• Marketplace on Prodigy
  Jump: Marketplace
  This marketplace forum touts the products and services of about 60 companies.
• Electronic Mall on CompuServe
  GO: SHOPPING or
  http: //www.compuserve.com/homepage.htm
  CIS recently expanded its shopping area to its Web site, using the "CompuServe Wallet" technology to ensure secure transactions.

• NaviSoft and Macromedia have joined forces in interactive multimedia Web development by embedding the Macromedia Director playback engine into the NaviPress Web authoring software. n AOL has acquired Ubique Ltd., whose Virtual Places technology offers real-time interaction and joint navigation for the Internet.
• Nielsen Media Research and Internet Profiles Corp. (I/PRO) have formed an alliance to provide Internet measurement and evaluation services.
• Quarterdeck Corp. has purchased Prospero, an IRC client/server product. The company plans to integrate the Prospero technology with its own products.

We've been flooded with requests for a Windows 95 version of Wintune since the OS came out in August. Your wish is our command--we've revamped the WinMag Test and Tune-up Kit for Windows 95. You'll find the latest version in the Wintune section of our online areas listed to the left under WinMag Online Location.