The battle against malware is a losing one. Eventhough virus scans, internet security software, and operating systems are becoming more sophisticated, evil viruses, worms, and even rootkits are more prevalent than ever.
What is the solution?
This author suggests that, just like we are all required to pass a driving exam if we wish to drive, so must we pass a basic computer exam. Basic items include:
- How to get to the command line
- How to get to the command line and type ipconfig /all
- How to start Task Manager and what it can tell them
- How to browse a hard drive with Explorer and the command line
- How to compress a file without WinZip
- How to manually run Windows update from My Computer
- How to Add Remove programs
- The bandwidth ramifications of streaming videos/stock quotes/music/etc
- Why and when not to close the error message dialog before calling for assistance
Yes, this is a great idea. I like the interactive test for new users. Willful ignorance abounds.
ReplyDeleteNot a bad idea in pure conceptual theory. However, the gov't lets any moron pro-create without proving responsibility or knowledge; is requiring a test to use a computer ever going to be possible?
ReplyDeleteI agree with David i dont think it will happen unless there it helps save lives. driving tests keep people from driving that can't. if someone get a virus they don't die they just lose data. it be nice to bring everyone up to speed with computers only if we do it still wont stop the bad guys in the long run they will adapt
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