security

I was listening to Security Now episode # 124. Steve Gibson mentions the ability to perform offline updates and the DIY Service Pack software from Heise Security. I had to check it out!

This software is simple and solves the age old problem of getting a fresh install of Microsoft Windows up-to-date quickly, without risking it on the internet. When it runs it presents a dialog where you simply check the operating system you want, the languages you need and weather you want an ISO for CD or DVD. It then goes online and downloads all the security updates available and packs them into an ISO you can use to update a new system.

Thoughts on passwords & security

Security of your account is your responsibility. Please consider these guidelines when creating new passwords

Safe guarding your password:

• Do not share your password with anyone. There is no reason for anyone else to have access to your account
• Do not write down your password. Someone may stumble upon it, or you may lose the item on which you wrote it.
• If you must write down your password the keep the written note on your person, in your walet or purse, as the most secure location to store it.

How NOT to choose a password: