Checking You Computer's Security
Do you want to know whether your computer is secure or not? Afraid that someone may be looking through your files and altering or erasing it. Uneasy about the thought that someone might be monitoring your every move in cyberspace? These are some of the things that usually comes to one's mind when faced with the problem of hackers, viruses, and other security risks that abound in the internet. Below are some tips on how to make your computer as safe as possible.
Updates
It is important that you keep your computer updated. The latest critical updates and service packs from Microsoft's download center should be installed. The next thing to do would be to configure the system to utilize Automatic Updates. If the operating system that you use does not have this feature, then you can get updates directly from the website of Microsoft's download center. Service pack 2 is the most current service pack to date for Window XP.
Firewall Protection
Using a firewall will increase the security level of your computer. This monitors the activity that ensues while connected to the internet, specifically the points of entry to your system. Suspicious programs are immediately cut off and prevented from entering the computer system. Anything coming from unauthorized and unknown sources are denied access to prevent possible infection by viruses, worms, and other malicious codes.
Buy an anti-virus pack and an anti-spyware program
Although your computer is protected by your firewall, it is still necessary to buy an anti-virus pack. This is another layer of armor for your computer which makes it harder for hackers and their malicious programs harder to penetrate and control your computer. Some well known anti-virus packs include Norton, Trend Micro PC-cillin, and Mc Affee. You should also get a decent anti-spyware program to reduce the chances of spyware getting into your computer. This will improve your level of privacy and this is particularly important if you like to buy products online. Important information that must remain confidential like credit card numbers, social security numbers, and police records can be obtained by hackers if they know your activities by the use of a spyware program.
Home network protection
There are instances wherein you might not be aware that you are actually using a network at home. You have a computer network at home if you have more than one computer at home and each one shares the same internet connection or if you have a wireless internet access. Securing a single computer is useless if you have a home network. The whole network should be protected as well. Home networks face different kinds of risks. If you are using a wireless connection, anyone within the range of your network may be able to look at the websites that you frequent as well as the contents and kinds of files that are shared within the network.
A lot of networking devices employ their own security mechanisms. Using this alongside each computer's own security defenses should be sufficient enough to thwart attempts from hackers to hi-jack your network and use your computers. Most routers function as Network Address Translators (NAT) which makes your connection to the internet safe.
These are some of the things that you should check to increase the security of your computer. Although you can never be totally immune from attacks, following these steps will greatly increase your computer's chances of not getting infected.
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