The Complete Computer Protection Guide to Protecting Yourself from Viruses
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It is estimated that 30% of all computers in the world are infected with malware at some point. Viruses, malware, and the like are huge problems for businesses, individuals, and everyone in between.
While this is true, you can protect your computer. The key is to use the best computer protection available.
If you want to protect your computer from hackers, viruses, malware, etc., use the tips found here.
Keep your device up to date
Every operating system on your computer is updated frequently. The updates also include security fixes that will close security holes before cybercriminals have a chance to use them.
While updates can be frustrating at times, they are much less of a nuisance than dealing with a computer virus.
It is best to enable automatic updates, as well as running updates for certain programs, such as Java and Adobe. Also, be aware of situations where you might need to uninstall an app due to vulnerabilities. For example, on Mac, you can do this by going to https://setapp.com/.
Before allowing updates, make sure you are logged in to a secure connection, rather than a public connection.
Create strong passwords
It is also important to create and use strong passwords.
Some of the most common passwords – which you should avoid at all costs – include:
- 123456789
- 123456
- Password
If you use them, you are asking that your computer be hacked and infected with a virus.
You can help protect your data by creating complex and unique passwords. The best passwords will include a mixture of letters, numbers, and symbols. They will also be at least eight characters long.
You should also avoid using the same username and password on different sites. If a hacker enters a site, they will also leave the door open for all of your others.
Install anti-virus software
To avoid catching a virus on your devices while you are online, be sure to install and run quality antivirus software. Every day, new cyber threats are created.
These threaten all of your online activities, including browsing, shopping, online banking, and even use of social media.
A virus is a serious cyber threat, which is why you need to protect your computer from them.
Installing reputable antivirus software will help protect your device from phishing and other types of threats while you are working or browsing online.
Secure your network
Some computers connect to printers, files, or the Internet using a Wi-Fi connection. Make sure that this connection requires a password to access it and that you choose a strong password.
Never stream using an unsecured Wi-Fi connection. Instead, use WPA or WPA2 encryption.
In the past, WEP was quite powerful; however, today it can easily be bypassed by professional hackers in just a few minutes.
It is also not recommended to broadcast the SSID. You will still be able to use your device to access it; you just need to enter the SSID and password.
If you have guests who often use your internet connection, consider creating a guest SSID. Besides being a different connection point, it must also have a unique password. This will prevent the possibility of your main network being hacked.
Avoid Internet Explorer
While some old habits die hard, it’s a pretty exciting time technologically. Today there are countless browsers to use.
You can use Chrome, Opera, Firefox – and the list goes on and on. What you might not realize is that ALL of these options are more secure than Internet Explorer.
You can benefit from increased security simply by using a more secure browser. Also, when you choose to use a different browser, be sure to keep it up to date.
Use a firewall
When you install an antivirus program, you may think that you automatically have firewall protection. Unfortunately, this is not always the case.
PCs and Macs both come with preinstalled firewall protection. Make sure this is enabled to provide that extra layer of malware and virus protection.
Be careful when opening email attachments
Email services, such as Outlook and Gmail, ask for permission before downloading an attachment. It is an important element in the protection of your computer.
Some attachments can be dangerous.
Although some email services include virus protection, email messages with virus attachments may still end up in your inbox.
Sometimes cybercriminals try to spread a virus by sending email after email. They will send malicious attachments in emails to multiple people.
Once the attachment is opened and executed, the virus will settle in the background and start working.
If you don’t know someone who sent an email attachment, or if it was a phishing attempt, it may be best to ignore them. Make sure you only click attachments or download files from your email if you know and trust the source.
It’s also a good idea to turn off image previews in your email settings. You can find this option in the “Settings” of the email provider you have chosen.
Don’t skimp on computer protection
As you can see from the information here, there are several ways to ensure the protection of the computer. Make sure you keep this information in mind, which will help you prevent viruses and malware from attacking your computer or network.
Are you looking for more useful tips and information on your computer? If so, be sure to check out some of the other blogs on our site. We regularly post new information to help you stay informed.
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