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Protecting your Computer from Viruses

Written by Miranda Russell

Pellissippi State Technical Community College

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One of the biggest issues today in the technology field is network or PC security. The only way to ensure that your computer or network does not get invaded is to not go online at all. This advice is impractical, because pretty much any business in this century uses the internet for something. Listed below are a few points of advice for anyone who connects a computer to the internet:

1. Use a virus scanner and a firewall. One would think this is common sense, but still there are some who believe it will never happen to them. You should have the firewall on at all times. Not only should you run a virus scanner at least once a week, but you should also keep it updated. Yes, it is worth the money. It will cost a lot more to pay someone to remove those really tough viruses.

2. Limit downloads to companies you trust. Never download anything that is unsolicited. A virus can come in through what is called a Trojan horse - a program that seems harmless but turns out to be a scary virus or a hacker‘s means of getting private information.

3. Update Windows. Usually your computer will send up a flag when new updates are available for Windows. Please take the time to download them. Some viruses are written to target certain vulnerabilities in the Windows software. Microsoft usually catches the vulnerability and sends patches.

4. Use Mac computers. Hackers rarely write viruses for Mac computers. Depending on your business needs, Mac could or could not be a practical solution. The Mac’s only major flaw is the lack of software available.

5. Use caution when buying things online. Pretty much everybody knows this one. A lot of businesses use e-commerce for ordering supplies. Read and understand a company’s privacy policy. Make sure the business uses secure lines and heavy encryption.

6. Pick a great password. It should not be in the dictionary. It should be a mixture of numbers and letters. Tell nobody what your password is. Never use a default password. Change the password regularly. Use different passwords for different things like e-mail, desktop, certain websites, etc.

7. Back up files. Always keep a copy of everything on a back up disk.

These are just the major things a person can do to protect their computer from trespassers  It is important for businesses and individuals to know what is out there waiting to infiltrate a computer system. A smart user can make all the difference.