Here are several ways to make your computer more secure.
Update your computer frequently
Updates provide extensive protection to PCs on your network. There are two types of ‘updates’ – Automatic and Optional. Automatic updates ‘automatically download and install recommended and important updates. Optional updates are not automatically downloaded or installed. Recommended updates refer to updates that can improve PC performance and concern non-critical issues. Important updates are those that boost security and consistency
Avoid staying logged on as an Administrator
Logging onto your computer as a standard user instead of as an administrator is safer and recommended while using programs to access the internet e.g web browser/email. Many viruses/worms can’t be accumulated and run on your PC unless you’re logged on as an ‘administrator’
Utilize firewall
Hackers, worms or other malware are frequent visitors to your computer. Firewall prevents these from accessing your PC via internet/network and prevents your PC from transmitting the malware to other PCs. Additionally, it is important to ensure your firewall is updated regularly.
Install and update Anti Virus Software
We have talked about hackers and worms affecting your computer. Although firewalls protect your computer from these, they are however not specifically designed to provide protection against viruses and that raises the need to install Anti-virus software. Viruses can be transmitted in almost any form especially email attachments, files on DVD/CDs, downloaded files from the internet and online shops. Antivirus software requires frequent updates to remain effective and scanning your PC regularly is also highly recommended.
Use a router to share web connection
Routers are good devices for your PC if you share an internet connection. These are generally incorporated firewalls, network address translation (NAT) and various other features which aids your network in protection against potential hackers .
Take advantage of a network security key
Network security key is useful because it turns on encryption which encodes the data broadcast between your PC and your wireless router. It also blocks people from connecting to your network without the security key, which helps prevents attempts to access your network/files without your permission. From the various options, Wi-fi Protected Access (WPA or WPA2 ) is a recommended encryption method.
Change default admin/password
Most manufacturers set router to default name and password which someone can readily access without your knowledge – to avert the risk, change the default admin/password regularly. It is also important to create a good password that is strong, distinct and long. . If you forget the password, most routers have a reset option that will restore all the settings to defaults
Change default SSID
Service Set Identify or better known as SSID is a wireless network on routers and access points. Manufacturing firms use the same SSID in all routers/access points. It is recommended that you create a new password in order to avoid overlapping with other wireless networks using default settings. Default SSID may indicate to a hacker that other options (such as password/username) may be set to default.
Positioning your router/ access point
In order to limit your wireless signal from extending beyond places you prefer, position your router/access point near at the center of your home/office rather than near window or outside wall.
