Enabling Computer Security
Computer safety is a huge challenge in the view of constantly developing invasion technology. You have to be extra vigilant all the time in
various dimensions to ensure your system’s security. Both software and hardware protection is desirable. Unfortunately though there is no perfect
solution for computer safety. Various measures minimize the probability of machine infection but cannot rule it out completely. Therefore, it’s
“optimal” that we strive for and achieve. The resulting discussion gives you some effective tips to keep your system maximally free of risks.
Antivirus. Install a registered version of all features enabled, reputed antivirus. The antivirus should always conduct boot up scan when
starting and should examine all the incoming emails. Scan every media (CD, DVD, Pen Drive, floppy, memory cards, etc.) with antivirus prior to
introducing it into your system. Don’t forget to regularly update your antivirus.
Antispyware. Install a licensed version of anti-spyware to keep your system free of spyware and to protect your privacy. Just take care to
regularly update your spyware.
Firewall. Install an effective firewall to prohibit the frivolous service sites from accessing your system.
Popup blockers. Employ an effective popup blocker to stop popup windows from cluttering your screen. This will also prevent your accidentally
clicking the popup and setting the problem in your computer.
Back up. This is a very important step to secure your data. Take a back up of your important files and data regularly so that in the
eventuality of a system crash, you have your vital information with you, safe.
Software update. Keep updating your OS features and your applications as their latest versions have upgraded features. At times these
applications are equipped with security attributes also such as inbuilt firewall.
Clicks. Do not click on any link, window, freeware or advertisement. They may cause havoc with your system. Click on emails or attachments
only if you were expecting them and are from a reliable source.
Downloads. Resist downloading freeware, screensavers, toolbars, emoticons, system utilities which are available free of cost to lure you. If
foxed, the downloaded software may spy on your computer information including important files (system files, program files), computer activity
(keystrokes, browsing habit), and your personal data (bank account number, credit card number, usernames, and passwords) to name some. Remember,
nothing is free in this world and the same applies to online world as well.
Online applications. Do not use peer to peer file sharing applications such as Kazaa which has inbuilt spyware, Bonzi Buddy. Such file sharing
platforms are home to malicious software and therefore, needless to say not worth trying.
Online account. Make sure that after each session you log out of your online accounts such as email account, friends network, net banking,
credit card, payment accounts, etc. Close the browser window after logging out.
Net banking. If you are into managing your finances online such as net banking and online payments, regularly check your account status to
ensure that all is fine.
Personal information. Never divulge your personal information such as your name, contact details, account numbers, card numbers, usernames and
passwords to any email or phone call requesting so. A reputed company will seek such data in a mail directed to you and for something you have
queried them. It will not take an initiative to gather your personal information out of nowhere. Take care to reveal your information, especially
financial, to a secure site only with the url beginning from HTTPS. A credible website will always have security certificate. Verify the
authenticity of the endorsement prior to submitting your information on the system. In case you have your information copied on a media and you
do not require the media then erase the data from it else, destroy it so that it does not go into wrong hands.
Alternative browser. Most of the malicious software is designed for the most widely used Microsoft OS and its applications. Using an
alternative explorer such as Mozilla and Opera significantly limits the chances of adware, spyware and malware attack. As a result, you may carry
on with your browsing with reduced risk.
Physical security. You may avoid computer theft by keeping your system locked in its room after use. You may also put burglar alarms on
computer peripherals. Ensure that your machine gets uninterrupted power supply (UPS), as erratic power supply may damage the hard disk or any
other computer peripheral. Have your system earth secured so that lightening does not affect it. You may also insure your PC in the purview of
natural calamity.
The computer world is full of hazards. However, a little acuity can enable you to utilize this potential resource to its fullest. Just be
careful and enjoy safe surfing.
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