What are plugins & extensions?
Plug ins and extensions are add ons that add some function to a web browser or email program. Think of it like car seat covers for your car. They didn’t come with the car but add some flash and personalization to your car. It is something that was added after you had the car. It is the same with your browser. Weather you use, Internet Explorer, Google Chrome, Firefox, or one of the other gazillion other browsers out there, there are add ons for it. Some help with spelling,some block pop ups, and some can help you to remember your passwords.
Sounds great huh? BUT, yeah there’s a big ole fat but here. You have to be very very careful with the ones you choose to download. There are some out there that can harm your PC. They can even infect your PC like a virus.
So, how do I know which ones are good?
This is very simple. If you are visiting a website and it has something like “Download our browser add on now!” or “Save $thousands with our browser add on!” , take a moment to think about it. Is this site an honest one? Are they listed in the browsers add on or extension page?Do I REALLY need this? Do I feel good about adding this? <– This is the most important question! Trust your gut! If it feels bad it is bad, or at least till you get more information on it. I’d rather spend $10 more on something because I didn’t download that add on that could save me thousands than pay $500+ for a new PC.
And if you are just not sure about it, ask someone. It’s better to feel a little silly than to be the big fool. 