subject: Basic Steps To Protect The Data Stored In Your Computer [print this page] Looking at the usage of computer nowadays, it will not be wrong to say that a computer isn't a luxury but a necessity. Computers are used in different industries to store important and essential data. Hence, one must give due importance to computer security policies. Computer security is very easy and something that everybody should take seriously. Once you've setup your computer to be secure with the help of information security experts, you don't have to worry about loss of data or your c on a day to day basis. It will help you to surf the internet and use your computer comfortably without worrying much about your most sensitive information falling into the wrong hands.
Here are a few simple steps that will help protect your computer from hackers.
Install Latest Anti-Virus Software Remember, if you dont have anti-virus software installed on your computer, youre asking for trouble! Go for an anti-virus software with real time scanning so that it can scan and detect computer viruses before they can cause damage to your personal computer.
Use Updated Software Installing an anti-virus program is just not enough protection to your computer. Hundreds of new threats are coming up regularly and the anti-virus programs release updates regularly to keep a control over the new threats. Hence, make sure you anti-virus program is set to update automatically. The same goes for all the software installed on your computer. Keep your Windows operating system up to date by keeping the Automatic Updates turned on and set to download and install updates automatically.
Delete Unknown Emails If you receive emails from random peoples names, never open the email. It will be better just to delete it. Also never download or open attachments unless you are sure its from someone you can trust. Also, be caution of any emails from sites pretending to be banks, auction sites, etc asking for verification.
Never click on Ads Avoid clicking on ads announcing you have won some prize. Such ads can be sore sort of virus and once you click these ad copies, your computer is at a high risk of getting some unknown virus.
Regularly Scan Run a scan for virus on your computer once a week. Actually, setup a schedule for your computer in your anti-virus software to run a scan automatically at the scheduled time. This will ensure information security to the data stored in your computer.
Install a Firewall Make sure the Windows firewall is turned on as it prevents hackers from gaining access to your computer by limiting the number of ports that are open to the public. The built in Windows Firewall provides a basic layer of security which is still better than nothing.
Secure Your Wireless Network Most wireless routers have no security during the time of installation. Be sure to log into the router and to set the basic computer security that requires a password. This is must as otherwise anyone can connect to your home network and access everything.
These small but useful steps will help in maintaining computer security.
