
Considering how computers are being used in a large majority of homes world-over today, it has led to the development of various types of hacking methods by the antisocial elements. The key pathway that serves as the ideal medium for such malware attacks is the World Wide Web.
There are several ways in which you can guard your PC/laptop against such security threats, including active use of an effective antivirus software, anti-spyware software, firewall installation and others. Furthermore, one method alone can’t be termed as enough to completely secure your computer. The more defense layers you build on top of your computer, the more difficult it would be for the hackers to reach it.
Let’s take you through the 4 simple steps through which you can guard your PC/laptop against such security threats:
Antivirus software
Such type of software serves as an effective means for protecting your computer from any unwanted programs or codes that can compromise your system’s security. The unauthorized software can come in any form such as Trojans, keyloggers, viruses etc. These programs can slow down your system and extract data from your personal files. You must keep an effective antivirus program running at all times on your system to prevent any such virus attacks.
Antivirus software plays a significant role in providing real-time protection to your PC/laptop as they detect threats in real time too. Many such advanced level antivirus program updates on their own, further guarding your system against the latest created viruses.
Anti-spyware software
As evident from its name, spyware is a type of software program which collects personal or organizational data without any approval. The information extracted is then sent to a third-party website for possible misuse.
Anti-spyware software is designed in a manner that they can’t be removed easily. They are created specifically for these kinds of malicious programs. Same as antivirus software, the anti-spyware software also comes with real-time protection. They constantly scan every incoming information into the computer and block potential threats, as soon as they are detected.
Firewall installation
A system firewall functions as a security guard for the computer. You can install two different types of firewalls – a hardware firewall and a software firewall. Both serve similar yet distinct purposes. A firewall is, in fact, the first level of security for any computer. It instantly creates a barrier between any unauthorized programs (from the Internet) and the computer. Anyone using a computer from home environment must keep its firewall permanently turned on. Here are three keys to effective management of firewalls for better system security.
Regularly check the browser security settings
There are various kinds of privacy and security settings built into the web browsers that can be reviewed and set at a level required by the user. The new age browsers also enable the users to tell different websites to not track their movements, thereby increasing their security and privacy level. Another option is to use Virtual Private Network which will hide your identity and make you secure from any possible cyber threats.