The new City of Windom Internet system offers a variety of choices for Internet service, from dial-up to broadband. Besides a huge difference in speed, there is another difference - the broadband service is always on.

With dial-up service, you are only connected to the Internet when you or a program on your computer tells your computer's modem to connect by dialing into the Internet through your telephone line.

Broadband connections differ in that your computer is not connected to the Internet by a modem and phone line - rather it is connected through an ethernet port (wired or wireless) to the city's network.

This connection allows your computer to always be connected to the Internet.

But what about the viruses, worms and spyware? Are you more susceptible to attacks by these?

Yes - if you do nothing about security. No, if your computer is protected properly. The city will provide the first line of defence against these, but you can and should do more to stay junk-free. There are very good tools and programs, many of them free and easy to use.

There are also very simple ways to disable your computer's connection so that it cannot be connected without a command by you.

• Repair • Internet Hookup

• Networking • Purchase Assistance

• Advice • Home or Business

Don’t get frustrated. Many computer problems can be taken care of with patience and understanding. Contact Rick at iCitizen for your computer needs. From repair to common sense advice, Rick will help you find the computing solution taylored to fit your situation.