The Top Five Internet PC Security Steps

Technology & Electronics - Internet

By: HandymanBob 15-Apr-2011

Browsing Technology & Electronics Lists

Introduction:

Computers and internet security get more complicated each day as hackers and troublemakers find new ways to cause trouble for businesses and users. In most cases, we can keep up with or ahead of security issues by using these top 5 Internet PC Security steps.

Install Antivirus Software

Most new computers come with antivirus software installed. Some of this software allows use for a trial period but most expire within 12 months. It is important to keep this software current and do not let it expire. There are several antivirus programs to choose from for free or for a fee. Many of the current internet suppliers for cable and DSL internet provide antivirus software with their service. Contact them to obtain the download link and instructions. Here are two very good free use programs that can be safely downloaded from CNET.Com: AVG and Microsoft Security Essentials Two very good fee based antivirus programs are Norton 360 and McAfee and can be purchased online or at an office supply store. All of these programs must be kept up to date once installed.

Install a Better Firewall

Windows comes with a built in firewall to provide internet security but there are better programs available. Some security programs like Norton 360 and McAfee come with improved firewalls. Free antivirus programs like AVG and Microsoft Security Essentials provide more internet security when used with free firewalls like Zone Alarm downloaded from CNET.Com. Most of the popular Internet security software also polices spam.

Do Not Open Email Attachments

Many of us are bombarded daily with new emails from senders we do not know. It is very important not to open or download attachments from senders you do not know. If your email service is set to download attachments automatically, reset this feature in your email service. Do not download unexpected attachments from senders you do know. Contact the sender and double check that the attachment is safe. Attachments can contain Virus and Trojan programs that once downloaded and opened can infect and take over your computer. Many of them shut down your security system and render you defenseless.

Keep Windows and Internet Software Up to Date

Windows programs require constant updates and Microsoft finds security problems with the program that may risk infection. Fixes and improvements are also updated this way. Generally, this update is automatic but it is wise to check weekly to make sure updates are not waiting or log jammed. Icon usually appear in the lower right corner of your screen often prompting you for action. Use 'Windows Update' in the programs list to check for Windows updates.

Use Common Sense and Avoid Phishing Scams

Reading information about security issues online helps to develop good common sense practices. Subscribing to newsletter sources from places like Komando.Com or CNET.Com to keep abreast on the latest security issues. These sources of information also provide information about phishing scams and pop up schemes that attempt to trick us into becoming infected. Emails with blank 'subjects,' and no message except a web link are typical signs of an attempt to phish your PC. Do not click on the link in this type of email and delete it from your PC. Alert the sender that they might be infected. Consider using Open DNS like Family Shield or Net Nanny to filter out malicious web sites.

Final Thoughts

As users of computers, we must stay informed of internet security steps to take to protect against PC infection and possible identity theft. All this effort is worth the costs and hassles of becoming infected. Keeping up with internet security also requires keeping informed when using social networks such as Facebook.

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snowfence 4/18/2011
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This is great advice along with great links for internet PC security. H5
goodselfme 4/15/2011
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Smart list of computer security ideas.