Following computer security practices are essential to having a machine that runs without problem, and one that protects the user's personal information. According to Symantec, it only takes 20 minutes for an unprotected computer to be attacked once it connects to the internet. In that time, it can be flooded with all sorts of malicious programs. According to Kim Komando of Microsoft, it can also be turned into a Zombie in that short amount of time. The zombie computers are machines that have been taken over by hackers and are used by malevolent programmers to send spam or attack web sites. Some of these criminals may even put keyloggers on your computer to your private information, like passwords and credit card numbers; and there are plenty of others who just want to destroy your data for entertainment. 1 To protect your PC and your own personal information, you need to establish a thorough and strong security system that will guard your computer from the latest attacks.
Establishing PC Security
There are several steps you can take to ensure that your PC is safe from Malware and other common computer security threats. These include:
Establish a Firewall
A firewall is a software program or piece of hardware that helps screen out hackers, viruses, and worms that try to reach your computer over the Internet. A firewall protects your computer by regulating the flow of information between computers with different trust levels. Basically, it is used to keep outside networks from entering your private network. To set up a firewall, you must first decide on what kind of firewall you need. 2
There are different ways of setting up the two types of firewalls:
Hardware Firewall
- A firewall may integrated into the router or DSL/cable modem supplied by your ISP
- A hardware router/firewall can be purchased from companies like LinkSys, Microsoft and D-Link.
Software Firewall
- Protect only one computer at a time.
- Can be Customized
To Enable a Firewall on a Machine Running Windows XP
1. Trace to and click Start.
2. Click Control Panel.
3. Double-click Network Connections.
4. Right-click the connection that you use for internet access.
5. Select Properties.
6. Click the Advanced tab.
7. Select Protect My Computer and network by preventing access to the Internet.
8. Click OK. 3
 | NOTE
If you don't have Windows XP, you can purchase a commercial software firewall. |
Avoid P2P Programs
Main Article: Peer to Peer File Sharing
Peer to peer file sharing programs, also known as P2P programs, are frequently used to violate copyright laws and may allow your personal information to be leaked through the programs file searching features. While there are manylegitimate uses of Peer-to-Peer filesharing clients, in general they have all the associated risks of downloading information from any server, along with a few of their own. Furthermore, use of P2P clients on the University Network will trigger an excessive traffic violation, causing your network port to be shut down. The bottom line? Just don't use them. 4
Update Often
The creators of viruses and spyware like to keep users on their toes, creating new malware all of the time. Because the list of malware is always growing, it is imperative that to maintain computer security, you update all the software installed on your PC frequently. You can do this two ways:
Automatic Updating
According to Microsoft, "automatic updating is the easiest, most reliable way to help protect your computer from the latest Internet threats by having security updates delivered right to your computer automatically."
If you are connected to the Internet, automatic updating will analyze the Microsoft software installed on your computer and check for any important updates. It will check for both current and past updates. Then, it downloads the updates and installs them at the time you choose.
Immunize
Main Article: Antivirus Software
To keep your computer free of viruses, be sure to install an antivirus software. Keeping that software updated is one of the ways you can keep your PC immunized. 5
Block Spyware
Main Article: Antispyware Software
Like its name suggests, spyware can collect private information from your PC without your consent. It can also redirect your browser activity, and launch advertisements. To keep your computer running smoothly, and sensitive information such as credit card numbers safe, be sure to install and update your antispyware software. 6
References
- 6 Steps to help secure your brand new PC. Kim Komando. 1.Retrieved on 2007-11-09.
- Choosing a Firewall: Harware vs. Software. 2. Retrieved on 2007-10-09.
- Set up a Firewall. 3. Retrieved on 2007-13-09.
- Just Between Peers 4. Computing at Missouri State: Fall 2007. Retrieved on 2007-28-07.
- A Short History of Computer Viruses and Attacks 5. Retrieved on 2007-08-31.
- Spyware. 6. Retrieved on 2007-09-04.