RESCUECOM Gives Tips About College-Bound Computers

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Syracuse, NY, August 2, 2006:

RESCUECOM Offers National "Campus Computing Checklist" for College Bound Laptops

With college students already preparing for the fall semester, most will pack up a laptop computer for the trip. Whether that student brings an older family laptop or debuts a shiny new machine this semester, there are several critical steps that any student, or parent, should take to protect the computer, the data and even family privacy.

RESCUECOM, the national computer repair and support company, has announced a "Campus Computing Checklist" to protect and maintain a campus-bound computer. The company also announced a "Student Gold Plan" which allows students and parents to purchase 5 hours of computer support time for a special rate of $395.

"Higher education deserves a higher level of support and service,'' said David A. Milman, the founder and CEO of RESCUECOM. "Hard working students, who are the future leaders of our country, have enough distractions at school. Their computers should not be one of them."

So if your college bound student's laptop has 1,000 downloaded iTunes, special family photos, tax returns or the Great American Novel - or you just want to keep the new laptop safe at school - take these simple steps, or call in an expert now before it's too late.

Parents interested in the special student rate can call (614) 600-1862 and ask for the Student Gold Plan, or for more information about RESCUECOM, visit www.rescuecom.com.

The RESCUECOM Campus Computing Checklist is as follows:

1. Know the rules. Make sure your student has the required software for each class and the school's rules and requirements for using computers on campus. For example, most campuses won't allow computers without anti-virus software and ban file sharing sites for security reasons

2. Immediately update windows when a new security patch is available. Don't ignore the pop-up in the bottom right-hand corner of your screen telling you that you need to install the latest security patch. Windows is providing you with a shield to protect you computer.

3. Security. Make sure the student has a physical lock that denies access to the keyboard (great deterrent for thieves).

4. Back it Up! Before that eager student leaves for the semester back up all important files, including work/school documents, pictures, and music. External hard drives and off-site daily back-up services are the most common and sensible solutions.

5. What's the password? Protect all of your important papers, research or projects with a password. This can be done through Windows XP or other programs. Also, password protect your computer so that a nosey roommate can't logon and delete your term paper; make sure to NEVER use any personal identification when creating these passwords like your social security number, birth date or pet's name. ALWAYS use an alphanumeric combination and change it every month.

6. Stay healthy. It is vital to have the most up-to-date anti-virus and anti-spyware programs on your computer. Reputable software companies include MacAfee, Trend Micro and Symantec. They programs they provide often have anti-spyware tools built-in. Another great anti-spyware program is Webroot's Spysweeper.

7. BYOR (Bring Your Own Router). Make sure you have you own router with a built-in firewall for added protection. Linksys, 3Com and Netgear offer mobile solutions - and ensure the network is closed and protected. Also, if the laptop is able to connect to the school's network or your router from home wirelessly, it is important to disable your laptop's wireless radio when not in use. This is an added security measure to keep evil doers away.

8. Be street smart, not just book smart - Don't open emails or files from unknown senders. You don't know Bill Gates and he wouldn't email you directly, so don't open an email that appears to be from him or anyone else with whom you are unfamiliar.

9. Buy new. Older computers are less compatible with newer software and have a greater potential to freeze, lose data or waste hours of work.

10. Invest in a printer. Proofreading is much easier on paper than on-screen and the dean's list could be at stake.

*Bonus* Tip -- Videophone Home. Be sure and pick up a webcam and a microphone because programs like Windows Messenger and Skype allow you to turn your college bound genius' PC into a videophone so you can see them more than once a semester. Students should also be equipped with a back up hard drive, and any accessories like a wireless mouse and keyboard.

About RESCUECOM

RESCUECOM provides fast and flawless on-site computer repair and support, 24/7/365. All local RESCUECOM franchisees offer guaranteed results and on-site, emergency one-hour response service with or without a contract, providing the industry's fastest response and easiest relationship.

RESCUECOM services everything from home computers to super computers, wireless Internet to global networks, hardware to software, e-mail to ERP. In addition to one-time, on-site solutions for virtually any computer problem, RESCUECOM provides comprehensive, ongoing IT management services for businesses.

RESCUECOM has been recognized by Entrepreneur Magazine in 2002, 2003, 2004 and 2006 as part of the "Franchise 500," as one of the fastest growing franchise companies in the United States. For more information, please visit www.RESCUECOM.com or call (614) 600-1862.

For More Information, Contact:
Christina Johnson, PR Specialist
1-800-737-2837
cjohnson@rescuecom.com