| • Basic Steps To
Optimize Your Internet Security |
After hearing many people complain about their weak Internet
security, I decided to write down some things that will help
everyone for your Internet security.
First, tips to make Windows safer :
- For basic security and update patches
install your operating systems latest Service Packs.
Service Pack 2 for Windows XP or Service Pack 4 for Windows
2000.
- Once a month use Windows Update so you
can get the latest security updates and patches.
- Always run anti-virus software.
- When you download software from the
Internet make sure you download it from the original website.
When you access the Internet you are browsing the web using a
browser such as Internet Explorer. Internet Explorer
contains several security vulnerabilities. You should make it as
safe as possible or switch your default browser to an alternative.
You will have to set some options from the Manage Add-Ons menu
option in Internet Options. You will see a list of add-ons that
can be activated or deactivated. If you see any unusual entries
just deactivate them so you can be sure you don't have a
trojan/worm.
Under Internet Options -> Security -> Internet -> you
will see your security Level. You should set it as high as
possible in order to disable most of the security threats.
Let's see what we have to do from our email point of view.
Because it's built-in in their Windows system lots of users like
to use Outlook Express for emailing. But it's a fact that it
contains many security vulnerabilities so it may be good advice to
use alternatives. If you use a web based Email (you can browse
your email with your web browser) you can delete viruses even if
you don't download them to your PC.
Make sure you have installed an Anti Virus for 100% virus
protection. One that I've found to be very reliable to me is
Symantec Anti-virus. If you regularly update it you will be much
better protected. Symantec updates their virus definition
files weekly.
Many people install Firewalls because they believe their Internet
security will be higher. This is true, however, if you do
not know how to configure it, you may not be defending your
computer at all. Be sure to test the effectiveness of your
firewall.
These tips should make your PC safer. It is, however, your
responsibility to your computer to update its components to ensure
optimal security. There is NO computer without risk.
With that in mind always be sure to keep a backup of your
data.
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