What do you associate with the word "retro"? Maybe it conjures up images of fashionably nostalgic styles from the past-curvaceous diners and chrome-laden automobiles, peace symbols and bell-bottoms, or disco lights and leisure suits. For the troops on the front lines of the computer virus battlefield, "retro" means a nightmare-a virus that disables antivirus software and leaves computer files open to attack. The topics in this unit are targetting the computer files from several angles, including what they are, how you can keep them organized, and how you can protect them.

Section A launches the unit with a general introduction to computer files-the storage bins for all of the "stuff' on your computer. It begins with some practical information about filenames, helps you understand the importance of filename extensions in the Windows environment, and guides you through the tricky maze of devices, folders, and filenames that form a path to a file.

Section B explains techniques for organizing computer files so that they are easy to access, update, and back up. It also explains how an operating system stores, deletes, and tracks files-good background for understanding when and why to use a file shredder or defragmentation utility.

Section C delves into the fascinating world of computer viruses. You'll discover why you shouldn't open an e-mail attachment called "LOVE LETTER FOR YOU" and where you might expect the Ping of Death to strike. This section also helps you distinguish between real virus alerts and hoaxes-a skill that can help you avoid the embarrassment of sending your friends panicky e-mails about a non-existent virus

Section D focuses on backup-one of the most important aspects of computing. You'll learn how to evaluate different backup options, such as tapes, CDs, a network, or a Web site. You'll also discover the pitfalls of depending on the Restore CD provided with your computer.

When you complete this unit, you should be able to:

Create valid names for files and folders, plus demonstrate that you can construct and trace file paths

Demonstrate how to use file management features of application software and operating system utilities

Describe how a computer physically stores data on disks, but represents this storage system with a logical model

Explain how file viruses, boot sector viruses, macro viruses, Trojan horses, worms, and Denial of Service attacks affect files and disrupt computer operations

Describe how a computer owner can use antivirus software to avoid, find, and remove viruses

Demonstrate that you can implement a viable backup and restore plan

Compare the advantages and disadvantages of using tapes, floppy disks, a second hard disk, CDs, Zip disks, networks, and Web sites for backups