Top5 Internet

Graham Roberts Home Computer Services

Reputable & reliable computer repairs and servicing for Barlborough, Clowne, Bolsover & surrounding villages.

My Top 5 Internet Security Tips

23 March 2007

Good computer security is vital if you want to keep your PC threat free and running smooth. Even new computers are not secure until they have the latest anti-virus and firewall software in use and up to date security patches.

1: Use anti-virus And Firewall software and keep it up-to-date.

	Anti-virus software protects you and your computer from viruses just like a flue jab will protect you from catching flue. With new viruses appearing daily, virus software quickly becomes useless if you don't update it.
	Firewall software put a barrier between your computer and the internet and make it more difficult for internet Hackers access your PC’s files and for viruses to get onto it.

The two antivirus programs that I personally use are and AVG UK

2: Use an anti-spyware program.

Spyware is often installed by downloading freeware programs and invade your privacy by transmitting your personal information, opening unwanted pop-ups and noticeably often slowing down your computer. Some of the “Free” removal tools that seem to be available on the internet for removing spyware could actually make matter worse an install Trojans on your PC. There are some good free products though and I would recommend the following three which I use myself on a regular basis.

	Spybot from http://www.safer-networking.org
	AdAware from http://www.lavasoft.com
	Windows Defender from http://www.microsoft.com

Pleads note that Windows defender will only run on XP and later and Microsoft will need to validate that your copy of Windows is genuine before allowing you to download the program.

3: Keep your operating system and other software up to date.

Keep your operating system (Windows) and any programs used to access the Internet (e.g. Outlook) up-to-date. When manufacturers find vulnerabilities that pose security risks, they create and distribute patches for the product. Make sure that your computer’s system is auto-updating and has the latest patches.

4. Do not download files from an unknown source.

Be careful of what you download and what you agree to when you click "yes" to prompts from installation or popup windows. Many programs do more than what they advertise.

5: Use hard-to-guess passwords and change them regularly.

Good passwords help keep your computer secure from external threats such as hackers. I recommend that you …

	Never have an account without a password.
	Use 12 characters or more whenever possible for your password and 5 at the very minimum.
	Use a mixture of character classes such as uppercase, lowercase, numbers.
	Don't use a password that is a dictionary word, is part of your name, or is easily associated with you.
	Use different passwords for your important computer accounts.
	Change your more important passwords at suitable intervals.
	If you have a wireless connection, make sure that the network is fully encrypted. (A form of network password protection).

There are other many other hints and tips that will help protect your computer from the threats of the internet, but as a start if you carry out some or all of the above, you will be well on your way.

Graham

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