Even the digital and online world now can be infiltrated with threats that can be a cause of problems for your devices and gadgets. This is why you have to make sure that anything you are using is safe from these. This is most importantly true for computers that are both used for personal and professional use. Since there are a lot of things you store and use it for, you cannot afford to have security threats that can damage, hack, and erase your data and harm the computer overall. There are several things you can do for the protection of the computer you are using.
Install Passwords and Authentication Settings
Passwords are your first line of defense when it comes to devices and programs. This is required in every account you have. All modern devices have the option to install passwords and authentications. Use complex and strong passwords that are difficult to decipher and copy. Use a variety of combinations of letters and numbers. Do not use a single password across different accounts and gadgets. There are tools that can break passwords easily so make sure that this is done well. Similarly, do not store a list of the passwords you are using online and on paper. The possibility of a hacker finding this out is very likely so use extensions and apps that can safely secure and store the passwords you have. Do not share your passwords as much as possible even if it is a close friend or family member because they can accidentally share it online and you wouldn’t be able to take it back.
Scan Messages from Emails and other Messaging Apps
Emails and messages are like the boat where viruses are attached and used to reach you privately for more chance of opening it. There are settings in your browser you can activate and extensions you can add which will scan your emails and messages from other platforms so you can know right away if they contain dangerous elements. Most of the messages included in your spam box are scrupulous so better discard them especially if they come from doubtful email addresses or they are offering something too good to be true. There are apps that have included email protection but you can still install a separate one just for this. Do not open links from messages if you see that the address is not decipherable and the address looks funny. When choosing a browser to use, go for the ones that have a sandbox system that won’t allow pop-ups to open a page of their own.
Use an Antivirus, Anti Malware, and Anti Spy Programs
There are various programs you can install that will really tighten the security of your computer. Most computers now have pre-installed protections but these can only protect you from the basics and can be bypassed by really strong viruses and diligent hackers. One common feature is a firewall that acts like a security guard that checks for any unauthorized program from the internet that is trying to come through your device. The firewall will notify you of this so you will know right away. An antivirus will protect your computer from complex codes or software that can harm your system by slowing down your processing speed of the computer you are using causing it to lag or damaging or deleting your data and files. The antispy software will ensure to block software that is trying to access and collect the information you are storing on your computer without your consent. To get to know more about an anti-malware and products you can use for it, you can refer to an IOBit Malware Fighter Review to get an in-depth breakdown of helpful information regarding this. You can install any program designed to combat viruses from entering and damaging your computer. These are the forms of precaution you need to ensure security on your device and data.
Backup Your Files and Data
There is no telling when you might lose data from hacking or even physical damage to your device so it is best to ensure that you have everything on back up. A periodic system backup will ensure that you have a copy of your files so you can easily retrieve them when they get damaged or corrupted. You can store your data online using cloud storage or you can have a personal external hard drive you can attach to your computer that will copy all the contents you have on your computer. You have to ensure that you have enough storage to copy everything.
Regularly Update Your Computer System
Your operating system is also doing its part in ensuring that the device you are using is taken care of. This is done by the regular system update that they are requiring from you. They provide repairs to any bugs and abnormalities that are within your system. Outdated systems are more vulnerable to hackers because the bugs remain longer in your system. Although sometimes you can be hesitant to allow updates because you are always using your device, it is essential that you let them perform their job. It only takes a few minutes and you can do it while on a break or before shutting down the device after use.
Be Cautious of the Internet
The internet is like a street where viruses and malicious software freely lurk. Avoid websites that do not have a security lock on their address. Do not click carelessly into offers and rewards and only visit trusted sites. You can also install extensions that will prohibit any site from launching a window without your permission or access to the microphone or camera without your knowledge.
It is better to be vigilant and extra cautious in order to protect your computer from any threat. It pays off to install necessary software that will tighten the security of your device. If you are able to apply these measures then you can go about your daily activities online without -fearing any problem.
About Nick
Nick is a Software Engineer. He has interest in gadgets and technical stuffs. If you are facing any problem with your Windows, feel free to ask him.