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How Long is Too Long to Update?
StWaldo asks: "I'm sure everyone knows the story about the life expectancy of an fresh, un-updated PC, once it's connected to the internet. What about a PC which just hasn't been updated in a while? I've been deployed in Iraq for the last 9 months, and haven't been able to hook up my laptop to the internet to get updates (I do HAVE access, just can't hook up a personal laptop, gov't only). Before I deployed, I would update my software (system, anti-virus, firewall, anti-spyware, etc) regularly, but as I get closer to coming back to the States and my broadband connection, I'm beginning to wonder what the life expectancy of my PC will be. What's the lifecycle of a security exploit, hack, virus, etc - between discovery/release, propagation, and extinction (or a state approaching extinction)?"
For chrissake, put your box behind a NAT and get your updates. Or throw it out and get a Mac. Then get on with your life.
Jesus, I think I might submit an ask-slashdot of my own... "it's been five hours since I last went to the bathroom. I am trying to decide whether to take a piss or a shit. Could anybody post some pointers on how to weigh the pros and cons of each?"
-b
myselfmusic
Be a man and sign in -- put a name with your cowardly words.