Top 6 Ways on Protecting Your Computer

The reality is that common sense is not enough when it comes to protecting your system from malicious files that are capable of infiltrating your system and stealing confidential data from it.

There are so many ways that a hacker can attack your computer, which is why having various layers of security is a must if you want your system to be hack-proof. Below are 6 tips that you should use when attempting to protect your system!

When it comes to protecting your system, the first thing you’ll want to do is install antivirus software. However, despite the obvious nature of this security tip, so many people neglect to do it, but, with all the different options now available, there is no excuse why you shouldn’t. Microsoft includes a free protection tool called Windows Defender that you can use.

Once the security tool is installed and running on your system, you’ll want to ensure that it is regularly updated with the latest virus definitions.

 Install Firewall

The purpose of a firewall is to act as a sort of security guard. There are two different types of firewalls, the first is the software firewall and the second is the hardware firewall. Each has its own function and purpose. A firewall is a must for any system that hopes to remain secure online. It works by creating a barrier between the system and any unauthorised program that may try to get onto your system via the internet. If you don’t have a firewall program, I recommend you get one right now and turn it on permanently. It will notify you and block any authorised attacks on your computer.

 Use Complex Passwords

One of the most effective ways of maintaining the security of your system is by using complex passwords. A complex password is very difficult for a hacker to break. You want your password to be at least 8 characters combining both letters, numbers, upper case and lower case with special characters. Hackers use tools that are designed to break your password. Studies have shown that these tools are capable of breaking a 6 character password in lower case within 6 minutes.

 Keep Your OS Up-To-Date

Hackers are always looking for new ways to exploit your operating system, which is why Microsoft, for example, is constantly releasing new updates for their operating systems. You want to enable automatic updates, that way all new updates are automatically downloaded and installed, as per specified.

With Windows 10, Windows updates are automatically enabled, which means you should be receiving the latest updates, as and when they are made available. However, it is possible for you to carry out a manual search for Windows Updates, just access Windows Update and click on the Check for Updates button.

 Use the Latest Internet Browsers

Web browsers are very important programs, but just like every other program, they contain bugs and issues. Hackers are always looking to exploit these bugs by creating sites and programs that are designed to do just that. Once your web browser has been compromised by a hacker, they can now monitor everything that you type on your keyboard, including credit card details and passwords. That’s why you want to ensure you’re always using the latest web browsers, anything else is a potential security risk.

Internet Explorer will eventually be replaced by Microsoft Edge, so you definitely shouldn’t stay vested in that. Edge, Firefox and Google Chrome should all carry out automatic updates.

 Install Antispyware Software

Spyware is a malicious program that is designed to collect sensitive information or information about a specific organisation without authorisation. This information is then sent to a third-party website. Spyware programs are designed in such a way that they can be rather difficult to detect and remove. This is where antispyware software comes into the equation. Similar to antivirus software, this antispyware program is also capable of scanning for viruses in real time. It will scan all incoming traffic, helping to alert you to any threats and block them where applicable. Many antivirus tools come with spyware protection today.