In the days before the web, it was nearly impossible for an average user to get around any kind of system security. By design, your computer had to be accessed by an authorized user, who needed to know your login and password. After logging in, the user could access only those programs that the system administrator had given them access to. If an intruder had obtained your login or password, the most they could do was browse the Web and search for potential programs to install or run on your computer.
Today’s user is much more savvy. On the Internet, you can access all kinds of programs and download them directly from the Web. Programs like the Microsoft Office suite, Acrobat Reader, the Adobe Reader, and even a tool to automatically remove malware can be downloaded and installed from the Web without a hitch. This means that an intruder can easily get access to your computer and install programs to do nasty things, like access your financial information and email, steal your identity, and steal your data.
What’s more, unlike when you had to access your system by using a web browser, in today’s system, if an intruder compromises your system, they can do a lot more damage than just viewing Web pages. They can run programs, install software, and even change your system settings to compromise your privacy and security.
How to Protect Your System
If you want to keep your computer safe from intruders, there are several things you can do.
First, make sure to lock down your system so that any unauthorized user cannot even log in. This is accomplished by requiring a login and password.
Second, keep your computer updated. Although security updates can be automatic, many organizations prefer to control the update process and make sure that custom patches onlinethey can verify that the update is legitimate. Updating your operating system should be done on a regular basis.
Third, keep your computer running antivirus software. As a minimum, you should keep your operating system updated and running antivirus software. It will scan your computer for any viruses and potentially identify malware before it can cause any damage.
Fourth, consider using a firewall. Although firewalls can be a little intimidating, they are a vital part of keeping your computer safe. A firewall is a program that is installed on your computer. The firewall has access to all the programs and files on your computer, and it scans your computer for any of these programs or files that might be potentially dangerous. The firewall also allows you to allow or deny access to any of these programs or files. It is an effective way to protect your system.
Finally, don’t be a victim! Keep your system updated. Keep your computer running antivirus software. Use a firewall. And always be careful about the programs and files that you download.
