10 Steps To A Safe, Smooth Running PC: Spyware Security
I am listing here ten steps that will help you boost your computer’s security. From locating viruses to understanding how to avoid them, this article is a must-read for you! This article will prepare you for spyware security.
Windows password
This is the most straightforward way to make certain you know who is operating your pc. Pick a long password that includes capital and lower case letters. Including a number or two will significantly improve your security. Having a Windows password implies that the only people that can log onto a Windows session are individuals that you have granted credentials.
Password manager
You should never note your passwords down. Using the same password every time will also make it very effortless for hackers to reach your personal data. So if you can’t note it down and you’re not
thought to use the same one – how are you supposed to maintain track of all of your passwords? The most comfortable way to do this is to use a password manager. We like to use Roboform. Roboform is an easy-to-use password and profile manager that docks neatly into your Internet Explorer toolbar and maintains track of all of your passwords for you. Roboform also uses a master password system for added security. You will have one password that grants access to all of the passwords in the program. This way you can keep all of your data safe and secure. You can download Roboform for free at Roboform.
Spyware Remover
Next to spam, spyware is the internet’s biggest pain. By definition, spyware is “any software that covertly gathers user data through the user’s Internet connection without his or her consent, usually for advertising objectives. Once installed, the spyware monitors user activity on the Internet and sends that data in the background to somebody else. Spyware can also collect data about e-mail addresses and even passwords and credit card numbers.” The amount of spyware that exists is dependent on the amount of internet surfing you do on your pc. A good rule of thumb here is to scan for spyware one time per week or whenever poor system performance surfaces. If you don’t have a spyware scanner installed, we recommend trying webroot.
Antivirus
This should go without telling, but if your computer is connected to the internet you require antivirus software. With weekly scans and program updates, you should be shielded against most threats. For added security, we advise using more than one antivirus scanner.
Firewall
A firewall will keep undesirable visitors out of your computer. You can get a firewall either by using software applications like ZoneAlarm or Black Ice Defender or by using a router with your internet connection. For more information on routers please visit this URL http://www.Linksys.com.
File sharing
Essentially, file sharing programs are the single greatest security risk you will come across. This is because the only truths you have about the files you are downloading are the file name and the file size. It is quite simple to change a filename to trick someone into downloading a virus or other malware like keystroke recorders. Our recommendation – stay away from file-sharing at all costs. If you need to use it, make sure you have updated antivirus software installed and operating.
Research
In a sentence – understand what’s out there. http://www.Symantec.com has an area on their website that will serve you well. Understanding what types of viruses exist and how to avoid them will make you a much more intelligent internet user.
Email protection
Most of the antivirus applications available let you perform email scanning. If yours does not provide, you will wish to get one that does. Email scanning will make certain all of your incoming and outgoing emails are secure for both you and the recipient. Email viruses spread very quickly by utilizing your address book to propagate. Never read emails from people you don’t know and always make certain your email scanner is operational.
Network security
Another method that viruses spread is via computer networks. We have a few quick suggestions to keep your network safe. Always scan any files that arrive in from other computers. Even if it’s a file you have carried from home. Never let a file be placed on your network till it has been scanned. The main server should be the sole computer with file sharing allowed. By not allowing computer users to share files, you can quickly neutralize a threat.
Maintenance
Performing weekly virus and spyware scans will go an extended way to maintaining your computer safe. Defragmenting weekly will also greatly enhance performance. If you put in the effort, you will be rewarded with a secure and smooth operating pc. Not to mention fewer headaches!
By following these ten approaches, you will greatly enhance the performance of your computer. You will also develop the peace of mind as you acquire a new sense of security.
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