What are 3 ways to protect your computer?

What are 3 ways to protect your computer?

Top 3 Things You Can Do To Protect Your Computer

Use security software 

The most important thing you can do to keep your computer safe is to install and maintain security software, which protects your computer from viruses and spyware. Such security programs perform two general functions: scanning for and removing viruses and spyware in files on disks, and monitoring the operation of your computer for virus-like activity (either known actions of specific viruses or general suspicious activity). Most security software can perform both of these tasks. 

  • Install an antivirus application, and keep your virus pattern files up to date. Program such as AVG, Avast, and Norton can be downloaded for free from many websites. Please note, antivirus software is only effective if updated properly. Routinely run the updater to check for the latest database to scan your computer against.  

In general, it's not a good idea to have more than one antivirus program installed on your computer. Each program may interpret the actions of the other as viral, therefore giving you false warnings about virus-related activities. 

  • For antispyware for Windows computers, Windows Defender or Spybot Search and Destroy are free programs used in finding and removing Spyware on your machine.  
  • Install and run Identity Finder, a tool to help you search for, protect, and dispose of personal information stored on your computer, file shares, or external media.  
  • Install a Malware detection and removal program such as MalwareBytes. You can download these free from many reputable sources. Similarly to antivirus software, you will need to regularly update the database before scanning to produce the best results. 

Maintain current software and updates 

Use a secure, supported operating system (Microsoft Windows 7 or higher, Mac OS X or higher). Keep your software updated by applying the latest service packs and patches. Refer to your operating system's help for assistance. 

Avoid threats to your computer 

  • Never share passwords or passphrases: Pick strong passwords and passphrases, and keep them private. Never share your passwords or passphrases, even with friends, family, or computer support personnel. Consider using a password manager such as Dashline, LastPass, Keeper, 1Password, KeePass, etc.  
  • Do not click random links: Do not click any link that you can't verify. To avoid viruses spread via email or instant messaging (IM), think before you click; if you receive a message out of the blue, with nothing more than a link and/or general text, do not click it.  
  • Beware of email or attachments from unknown people, or with a strange subject line: As a general rule, if you do not know the sender of the email, do not open any attachments that are included in it, or click any links inside of these emails.  
  • Do not download unfamiliar software off the Internet: KaZaA, Bonzi, Gator, HotBar, WhenUSave, CommentCursor, WebHancer, LimeWire, and other Gnutella programs all appear to have useful and legitimate functions. However, most of this software is (or contains) spyware, which will damage your operating system installation, waste resources, generate pop-up ads, and report your personal information back to the company that provides the software. 

Obtain public domain software from reputable sources, and then check the newly downloaded software thoroughly, using reputable virus detection software. 

When it comes to computer security, everyone is at risk. Your personal computer and smartphone security are more important than you realize. If you shop online, pay your bills, or do your banking online, your vitally important personal information is at risk of theft or misuse if you don’t secure your computer from malware and hackers. Here are the top three steps you need to take right away to make sure your data stays secure:

1. Computer Security starts with your Firewall

Firewalls are the first line of defense in computer security. They act as a gatekeeper, allowing good content in and keeping malicious software (malware) and unauthorized access attempts out of your internet connection. Your ISP usually has one pre-installed on the router they provide, but that won’t necessarily keep your computer safe. You should check out how to make sure your firewall is secure here, and there are numerous safe, no cost, and effective mobile firewall software programs.

2. Install and Regularly Use Anti-Virus Software

Computer viruses and malware are specifically designed to give an outside user access to your computer from a remote location.Users running Windows 10 are automatically protected by the pre-installed Security Essentials application that comes preinstalled with your operating system. Furthermore, there are many free programs available to scan and secure your computer from virus or malware attacks. There are also apps in the Apple Store and Google Play that will allow you to protect your mobile device. Make sure you set up automated scans at least once a week, and keep your software up to date to keep your information secure.

3. Keep Your Apps and Software Updated

Updating all your applications and the numerous programs you have installed on your computer can feel like a lot of work, but you can’t pass on updates. Many software and application companies regularly discover security vulnerabilities and security flaws in their programs, and they post updates to seal these leaks and protect you from data attacks. This is especially important if it is a Firmware Update or a new version of an app you use frequently or that has your saved credit card information.

Ultimately, your computer or mobile device’s security is up to you. Take the time to make sure your data is safe and that you are protected from viruses and other forms of data attack. If you are uncomfortable configuring these things yourself, be sure to set up an appointment with a qualified computer expert, and ensure that your computer isn’t giving away your most valuable information.

What are three ways to protect your computer?

Keep your device secure.
Keep up-to-date. Update your system, browser, and important apps regularly, taking advantage of automatic updating when it's available. ... .
Antivirus software. ... .
Antispyware software. ... .
Firewalls. ... .
Choose strong passwords. ... .
Use stronger authentication. ... .
Be careful what you click. ... .
Shop safely..

What are 3 main ways to protect against malware?

How to prevent malware.
Keep your computer and software updated. ... .
Use a non-administrator account whenever possible. ... .
Think twice before clicking links or downloading anything. ... .
Be careful about opening email attachments or images. ... .
Don't trust pop-up windows that ask you to download software. ... .
Limit your file-sharing..

What is the 3 types of computer security?

Network security – This type of security prevents any unauthorized users to intrude into the network. Application security – This type of security helps applications to be more secure by finding external threats. Information security – Information security is also called data security.

What are 3 tips to protect the security of your computer or your private information?

Lock your device with a PIN or password - and never leave it unprotected in public. Only install apps from trusted sources (Apple AppStore, Google Play). Keep the device's operating system up-to-date. Don't click on links or attachments from unsolicited emails or texts.