PLENTY OF WEBSITES ask you to register your details so that you can log in to access their information. If you’re signed up to a number of sites in this way, it can be tricky remembering your different usernames and passwords.And keeping note of these details on Post-it notes next to your PC is a risky approach in terms of security.

Here are two ways of keeping your vital information to hand without risking your security.

• Password Safe is a free download that acts like a lockable notebook. You can use it to store all your passwords and you only need to remember one to access them.
• Google’s AutoFill is a feature of the Google toolbar, a download designed to make browsing easier. It doesn’t remember passwords, but it will store your credit or debit card information securely, and it makes it a doddle to complete online forms with your address, e-mail and telephone number.

These two downloads are primarily time savers. This Canadian site offers plenty more tips for using Internet Explorer more effectively and don’t forget that Windows XP has plenty of built-in ways of making your computer more secure. Just click on the ‘Start’ button, go to ‘Help and Support’, and search for ‘Security’ to see tips and tutorials.