Maintaining Your Computer: How to Protect Yourself
The very first line of defense against attack is to stay
current with Window's
updates. For the average user, these updates should be
installed as soon as they are released. Windows now has a
firewall, virus and spyware detection and removal tools, and
continuous fixes to known software vulnerabilities. Microsoft
also has an auto-update function. You can access this by
clicking on the tools menu of Internet Explorer, by clicking the
Start Button and selecting Windows Update or by going to Microsoft's
Windows Update page.
One of your first lines of defense against attack is a good
set of anti-virus software. Many Internet companies are
supplying their customers with free or low-cost anti-virus
software. You may be able to save yourself a good $50-100 if you
look into it. If not you may want to choose from following:
- Symantec
is a leader in computer security and offers comprehensive
software packages, including it's venerable and well-known
Norton's series. It's site is filled with great tips, news
and recommendations.
- McAfee has
been around almost as long as Norton's and has proven it's
worth. Again, a great source of software, tips, news and
recommendations.
- Trend Micro
is another excellent choice.
While many anti-virus products contain spyware protection, it
is highly recommended to obtain one or more of the following,
many of which are free.
Finally, computer users have to maintain vigilance against
attacks. Sometimes, anti-virsus and anti-spyware programs just
won't protect you. This is especially true against new threats.
Many hackers will try to enlist your help in destroying your own
computer. Spam email and Website technology are the most likely
doorways for this type of attack.
Only open email from people you know. It's advisable to give
the sender a call if the email has an attachment, to double
check if they themselves sent it. Delete suspicious email as
soon as they come in. Avoid unsavory neighborhoods on the Web.
Link farms, gambling, get-rich-quick, file-swapping and
pornography sites are notorious for their propagation of viruses
and spyware.
Continue to Part Three: Maintaining
Your Computer
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