1. Remember to use strong passwords! Yes they are a pain to remember but that's why they are good. Hackers have programs to look for dictionary words or dictionary words followed by numbers and symbols. Here is an example of a strong password: Nbw2g2# and an easy way to remember it is to think of something silly that you can associate with it like a phrase "Nobody wants to go to prison". Or try something like ilg8f&foMD! "I like great food and flowers on Mother's Day!"

2. Do not write down your passwords. If you do, make sure you keep them in the safe and not next to the computer or in your office. People like to write down their password on a sticky note and stick it on their monitor. That is a BIG no-no! Any person that has physical access to your computer will have access to your profile, your information, and much more.

3. Use different log-in information for different accounts. If someone gets a hold of your username and password for one account, he or she will not have access to the rest of your information.

4. Purchase virus-scanning software (yes, even on a Mac and now increasingly for tablets and smart phones). Malicious software, also known as malware, is really sneaky and can even be picked up from legitimate websites. Through malware, spyware, worms, viruses, and Trojans hackers can have access to your personal information. There is so much more going on on your computer than what you can see on the screen! Paid protection is better than free protection for computers, but tablets and smart phones still have free virus software that is actually quite good (for now).

5. Shut down your computer when you are not using it. Just like humans, computers need rest. Machines are not made to run at all times and those that do, require constant maintenance and repairs. Also, if you are using a laptop, you can damage its components while transporting it if the laptop is in "sleep" mode. It is not really sleeping, so even a bump can cause damage.

6. Static electricity is not good for your computer. Especially during the winter, remember to touch a metal object before working on your computer. Even the smallest spark can fry the "guts" of your machine that are required for it to function.

7. Electronic equipment does not like wet stuff! Keep that coffee, soda, water, super-soaker water guns, rain, and hot tubs a safe distance away from your technology J. We recently triaged a laptop that drank a full cup of coffee. While it enjoyed the caffeine boost, it currently is not fairing so well.

8. Back-up your data. Loosing those pictures from your honeymoon will not be good!

9. Laptops have a life span of about three to four years under normal use. Don't wait until your computer crashes to upgrade. This way you can prepare and get a good business grade machine directly from the manufacturer. Buying from the manufacturer will give you a chance to select a longer warranty and high quality components!

10. Be cautious when you are online. Download only what you really need. If an e-mail looks suspicious, delete it. And only allow virus scanner from the software that you bought and that you trust.