Protecting against ransomware

[stuck]

...it's not a lot of use to people like me who do not have the OS discs; my computer (DELL) came with OS installed and no means of reinstalling...

All is not lost! If you have a legit copy of Windows 7, which you do, then you can legally download a copy of Windows 7 with Microsoft's blessing by starting here:
https://www.microsoft.com/en-gb/softwar ... d/windows7" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

Ken

[silverback]

Ken
Thanks for that, but (whisper it oh so quietly) I am using Windows XP.
Yes, I know, and I am going to purchase another PC soon which will go straight on to Windows 10 (aaargh!) and all the problems that brings.

Thanks
Silverback

[JoeP]

With new hardware I think you'll find Windows 10 to be stable and fast. If you are planning on using older peripherals you'll likely have problems finding drivers if there aren't basic ones in Windows.