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New Year's resolutions usually aren't worth the paper that folks write them on. Quit smoking...lose some weight...save some money...eat healthier...yeah, yeah, yeah...we've all heard them before, and nothing changes for most folks. While I don't want to discourage any of us from doing at least some of these things, I thought it would be fun to put together a list of technology based New Year's resolutions.

Assess the Antivirus Threat- We've all heard the stories of computer viruses running amock and exposing all kinds of sensitive data. Many of us around here have our live's on our hard drive, so it's important to protect ourselves. Thankfully, it's free and relatively painless these days. Our favorite is still Grisoft's AVG Anti-Virus. They've updated it from 7.1 to 7.5, and it still won't cost you a dime. With frequent updates, it puts some costlier solutions to shame. Also remember to run a scan at least once a month during the year with the latest virus signatures.
Make That Spyware Unwanted- Unlike viruses that you may encounter, I can guarantee that if you have a Windows computer on the internet, it has spyware somewhere on it. All of this is collecting information for who knows what. There are plenty of great programs, and a combination works best. Again, make sure the signatures are up to date, and do a scan at least once a month. Also, don't forget that Windows Defender is out of beta, and to upgrade it to the full version from Microsoft (I'm still not a big fan of it, but it does provide real time protection unlike some of the other freeware solutions.) While you're at it, AVG has also moved into the spyware business, and they are worth a download as well.
Tighten Up the Wireless Net- Many of us have a wireless network. Recall that the routers come open out of the box, and we need to enable security to keep it secure. Also, the older WEP security is easily hacked, so you need to use the WAP option. This should keep any wardrivers from sucking away the bandwidth that you paid for.
Update Windows- Make sure that all the versions of Windoze in your abode are running XP, Service Pack 2. Make sure they have the updates installed. This is an easy way to keep everything up to date, and trouble free.
Browser Update- I've been a big fan of FireFox for a while now. They seem to update it on a constant basis. Take a minute, and make sure your copy is the latest version. This is another easy and simple way to keep things humming along.
Find Firmware- If you burn discs, and have a newish DVD burner, than head on over to the manufacturer's site, and see if there is a newer firmware for your drive. This will make it more likely to be compatible with the largest variety of media you'll encounter. Sure, there is a teeny risk you'll toast the drive if the power cuts out during the upgrade, but the drives are so cheap these days, it will just be an excuse to upgrade to something better.
Get Interactive- The web these days is all about interaction, and expressing yourself. Consider starting a blog on a subject you care about, and no one is covering that well. Also, consider joining an existing blog, and contributing your knowledge, or just to learn. Trust me, once you try it, it's more than a little addictive!
Take Inventory- Now is a good time to take a look at what's in your current stable of computers. With support for anything older than XP gone, and Windows Vista on the horizon, take an objective look at your computer needs, and plan to dump (or donate...) what's not needed. Besides, you'll make room for the next item...
Make a 2007 Wish List- Now with the room you've created from the cleanup, you can plan some purchases for the year. This is the year that many of us hope to go dual core for example. Add in the new version of Windows, and this could be the perfect time to acquire a new PC. Better yet, plan on a build in a few months to really customize it. The other item on my wish list is a high definition television. With prices expected to continue to slide, and digital tuners mandated in all products starting in mid-March, I'm saving up for a sleek LCD, and maybe you should consider doing the same.
Make Sure To Keep Up With Your Favorite Web Site- I look forward to interacting with all of you throughout 2007 here on the TechNudge family of sites!