Computer Security – It’s Bigger than Spyware and Viruses
Computer security, in basic terms, means keeping your computer and the data that’s in it safe and secure. Our computers now store and access more of our personal data than ever before. Yet most people lack even the basic understanding of how to keep their computers safe and secure. By following just a few simple rules, you can dramatically improve the overall security of your computer.
Understanding the meaning of an internet connection is crucial. Your internet-connected computer bears many similarities to your home. There are many ways into your house. Windows, doors, etc. The greater the number of windows and doors in your house, the more entry points someone can exploit. While an open door doesn't guarantee robbery, it does increase the likelihood. Complicating matters, the doors you believe to be locked may not be due to a faulty lock or a hidden flaw in the door itself, which could provide an intruder with easy access to your home.
Your computer has many windows and doors, not all of which are locked. Every day, we discover new flaws, often not receiving a fix until days later. Just as you wouldn't leave your front door unlocked, you also shouldn't leave your computer unattended. The first two things we will discuss to help with this task are the installation of a quality firewall and regularly updating your installed software.
Updating your software is becoming easier these days, especially your operating system. We don't have the time to delve into the intricacies of updating the various software packages you may possess or utilize, but generally, the software manufacturer will offer an automated online method to accomplish this task. A wonderful example of this is the Microsoft Windows Update feature. Be sure to get the updates for everything installed on your computer; nothing is too trivial.
There are two basic types of firewalls, and both perform the same functions. One is hardware, the other is software. If you use a router, it likely includes a hardware firewall, but you might not have a software firewall installed. To continue our house analogy, a firewall is like building a wall and gate around your home and giving the guard at the gate instructions on who to let in and out. While this does give a tremendous deal of protection, it is not all that is required. Someone may know a way around or under your wall or can force the guard to comply.
You yourself may unwittingly allow someone in. This could happen by simply opening an email or even just surfing the net. Spyware, viruses, trojans, and the like are ever more adept in their methods of fooling you and your guards. Emails may come from a trusted friend containing a dangerous virus without them even knowing it. This is where the next layer of protection comes in: antivirus software.
Anti-virus software is a broad category these days. Often these packages come as "suites,” including a firewall and spyware scanner. Despite the effectiveness of most of these programs in their promised tasks, it is not advisable to allow them to deceive you into a false sense of security. They are simply one layer in what should be a multi-tiered protection plan for you and your computer. One last important note about antivirus software is to be sure that it updates on a regular basis. New threats come out daily, so check its updates manually to be sure they have happened.
Using the analogy of our house, we have secured all of our windows, doors, and other entryways, and we have kept them fully updated. We have erected a wall around our house, stationed a guard at the gate, and have installed software that scans everything entering past the gate. This is all well and good, but there is one final security flaw that we need to address: you.
Computer users themselves are responsible for a large percentage of infections. Users must educate themselves about the ever-changing nature of the internet. I’m not suggesting that you need to be a computer expert to simply read your email. I am, however, suggesting that you take some time to educate yourself on some of the dangers that pop up every day and the precautions you should take in order to avoid them.
In conclusion, your computer is a powerful device that connects to the internet, one of the greatest inventions ever made. If you lack proper preparation and knowledge, this vast resource can become dangerous. Regular software updates, a reliable firewall, anti-virus software, and a little education are the basics in computer security. Having and understanding these basics will make your computer safer, more secure, and more enjoyable.
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