The Winter Tech Express

Computer security is a complex subject. But ordinary users of Windows desktop and laptop PCs, armed with a little knowledge and several powerful and easy-to-use tools, can protect themselves very effectively against the vast majority of security threats on the Internet.Jay Stamps will cover such subjects as how to avoid attacks by computer viruses and hackers, good security practices that won't cramp your style, password facts and myths; and he'll introduce and demonstrate several tools available to the Stanford community that help to lift the burden of Windows security from the shoulders of those who just want to use their PCs to get some work done.Download Jay's PowerPoint presentation here.

Do you use Stanford's FTP (File Transfer Protocol) service for downloading computer files via transfer.stanford.edu, edit Web pages with a program like Dreamweaver, or otherwise put files online? Did you know that on February 28, 2005, the old "transfer.stanford.edu" FTP service will be shut down? The old FTP service allows hackers to potentially steal your password. Fortunately, a new, more secure FTP service is already in place. Come to this session to learn how to switch to this new FTP service. Mark Branom will show you how to get free Stanford software that works with secure FTP. Mark will also cover HTML editors that have a built-in FTP program. You may have to upgrade to a newer version that uses secure FTP (for example, Dreamweaver users will need to upgrade to Dreamweaver MX 2004). Anyone who moves files from one computer to another, whether on a Mac or a PC, should attend this session. See http://filetransfer.stanford.edu for more info.

Don't risk revealing your password and/or data to outside snoopers. Be informed!

Tips and Tricks in Sundial

Have you been using the new Stanford-wide Sundial calendar for a while but don't think you've figured out all of the features? Have you wanted to use it but not gotten around to it yet? Are you moving to Sundial from another calendaring system? Are you confused about the terminology used in Sundial?

In this Tech Express, Mark Branom will show you Sundial's features and uses. Attend this session to increase your productivity using this computerized calendar to set up meetings and manage your personal schedule!

Topics include:

• Setting access rights (to allow others to view your calendar and/or act as a designate for you)
• Creating meetings
• Effectively setting up your options
• Accessing Sundial on the Web
• Setting up and using group and resource calendars