With regards to computers, security is a very important area. With the availability of different technologies, faster internet connections, and ever expanding threat to every computer, it is a good idea to understand some of the basic ways you can protect yourself.
Here is a list of 5 ways you can secure your computer! Note: There is no order of importance!
- Strong Passwords
Create and use a strong password for your computer accounts. Generally, hackers will try to use common terms to try and break a password. If your password is made of words that can be found in the English dictionary, it is easier to crack (break) than one that is made of random letters.
Create a password that includes capital letters, numbers, and special characters to ensure your password is strong. Use different strong passwords for different accounts.
- Virus Protection
A computer without virus protection is similar to a house without a fence. Strong virus protection software will keep your computer virus-free! There are a variety of free virus protection software that one can install and use on their computer. We will have a topic on some good virus protection software in the near future. Until then, make sure you have at least Microsoft Security Essentials installed and constantly updated. You can also find a large list by simply searching for “free antivirus software” on google.
- Password protect your wireless network
If you have a wireless network setup in your office, make sure to password protect it. Password protection will keep out unwanted users from your network and thus protect you from additional risk. Also note that some encryption methods are weaker than others so use WPA2 encryption when setting up your wireless password.
- Visit legitimate websites only
Sometimes, the best way to keep a computer secure is to stay away from questionable websites. Sites that are usually promoting free items in exchange for installing a software will end up installing malicious software on your computer. Sites that offer cracked/stolen software, music, and/or movies will also do the same. Protect yourself by avoiding these websites and only visiting legitimate ones.
- Do not click on questionable links
Another way for a hacker to gain access to a computer is by creating opportunities that mislead the user into thinking they are following a legitimate link to a website. Typically these forms of hacks are called “Phishing”. In this scenario, a user clicks on a link from an email that seems to take you to a legitimate website or allow you to download a legitimate document. Once the user clicks on the link, the link will take them to a location where malicious software will be installed on the user’s computer. All this can happen without the user having a clue as to what happened.
Be cautious of the emails you receive from people you do not know. This also applies to emails that are out of character from people you do know (as sometimes a colleague’s/friend’s email will be hacked to send legitimate looking emails to the contact list).
Conclusion
Of course there are more things you can do to make your computer secure. As always, with technology, there are many ways you can do the same thing. Take these recommendations as a starting point and continue to keep yourself informed about the latest security trends. Keep all the software on your computer up to date!
If you have questions or would like to recommend a topic to discuss, feel free to contact us or leave a comment.