HELP DESK

Q: I regularly delete cookies on my computer to protect it from hackers.

A: Most cookies are harmless little text files that help customize a frequently visited Web site. The only bad cookies come from shady Web sites. If you stick to brand-name Web sites, there's no real risk.

Cookies become a problem for those who visit adult Web sites and sites created by hackers. It's no different from being safe when you visit a new city. If you stick to the nice neighborhoods online, you'll be fine. Cookies from brand-name sites do not slow down your computer.

Still feel nervous about cookies? You can adjust your browser to delete them or keep them off your machine, or just block the ones from sites that don't have a good privacy policy. Procedures vary based on the browser you use. With Microsoft Explorer, open the browser, select Tools, Internet Options and then Privacy to make that adjustment.

Q: I think my PC is chock-full of viruses and spyware. Would it make sense to just reformat the hard disk and start over again?

A: Reformatting is a last-ditch measure. In most cases, good anti-virus and anti-spyware programs can take care of the problem. But reformatting will get rid of stealthy programs that are sometimes missed by even the best software.

I get nervous about recommending it because there are so many steps to do it correctly. The first step may be the most important: Making sure you have a good back-up copy of all your data. Reformatting will delete every bit of it.

At a minimum, spend time researching the do's and don'ts. I like the Web page http://faq.oit.gatech.edu/0305.html as a starter. Consider buying one of the "dummies" books. Failing that, take your computer to a repair shop and have the entire process done for you.