10 Ways to Secure your Computer
March 19, 2008 · Print This Article
Top Ten Ways to Secure Your System
1. Use anti-virus software and update it regularly.
If you have a PC, antivirus software is a must. Many companies offer antivirus software and some are even freely downloadable.
2. Keep Windows and your other software current.
Keeping your OS and your software up-to-date is crucial. Many patches and vulnerabilitie fixes that can pose a major threat to your software are offered through updates.
3. Strengthen your passwords.
Creating a hard to guess password is, in most cases, the first and only line of defense against an attacker. Try not to use passwords that have significant value to you. There are many random password generators on the web, but if you create your own then be sure to use letters, numbers and some special characters.
4. Enable your Windows firewall or a third party firewall.
Firewalls are used mostly to block ports and malicious internet requests. In most cases using a firewall will hide your existance on the internet from would be attackers. If you use a router you already have a firewall.
5. Use anti-spyware software.
If you are an internet web surfer then you need anti-spyware software. Spyware programs are the annoying programs that tend to make your internet experience and your computer slower. Collecting a bunch of these programs could lead to an alomost worthless computer. There are many free anti-spyware programs on the web.
6. Be cautious of installing computer software from unknown sources.
A big portion of the spread of viruses and spyware today is due to users installing software they “found” on the internet. While the software may look appealing and useful, it may contain viruses and malware code.
7. Be cautious of downloading email attachments from unknown sources
Another great way to transmit viruses and worms is by downloading email attachments from unknown sources. Rule of thumb: if you are not expecting an attachment, don’t open it!
8. Encrypt or password protect your files.
This is especially true if you own a laptop or a thumb drive. A great way to do this is by downloading the free software called True Crypt. I use it and it works great!
9. Secure your wireless connection.
If you are connected to a network wirelessly this step is a must. Without wireless security features such as WEP or WPA-PSK, you are leaving your internet transmissions open for capture. That’s right! By not using wireless encryption methods, hackers can use techniques to “listen in” to your internet browsing. They can gain passwords, account numbers, and other personal information.
10. Back Up! Back Up! Back Up!
I hope we got our point across. Back up’s are extremely important and can save you from a major headache and heartache. Just think of your impressive music collection or all of your priceless family photos … gone in a flash! If just the thought of this doesn’t set you running for an extra hard drive, then the what about all those hours of financial data you’ve set up in Quicken or Money? Your best bet is to find a back up solution and stick with it, trust us.
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