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05:40
By Frankline Bell


For many of us, our computer is one of our most important possessions. We use it for work. We store family photos on the computer. We have important financial information and other crucial facts stored on this piece of equipment. While no system is ever 100% secure (think Target), there are definitely ways to substantially lower your computer security risk.

One essential item is anti-virus software, and sometimes your operating system will have software built in. You also can purchase anti-virus software and update to that instead. You only need one type of anti-virus software running at any one time, though, as more isn't better, it's just more hassles for you. It can be irritating to have the program ask you to make updates or to approve a source, but it's far worse to deal with a virus so those two or three minutes a day you might spend dealing with anti-virus software are definitely worth the time. Be sure to make all the updates, as these do improve security.

You might think that anti-virus software and firewalls are the same, but you need both. A firewall protects your network or your personal computer from being accessed by an outside source. Anti-virus software scans for malware and viruses. Your router and computer both need a firewall, and your operating system probably already has a firewall. Often, the router and modem come equipped with a firewall from your internet service provider, but you can update to a stronger firewall if you like.

Generally every day your computer prompts you to make some type of update. Sometimes a browser wants you to make an update or perhaps the operating system needs to make updates. It takes a minute or so, but these updates are essential steps toward tighter security. They also tend to fix little problems or bugs, so it's worth it to allow these updates.

These are three good strategies for better security, but how you surf the net also affects your level of security. For instance, if an email from a contact comes in with an odd subject line or just says for you to click on a "fun" or "interesting" link, trash the email and don't click on the link. It's probably malware, and when you click on it not only will it end up on your computer, it will send out emails with the same dangerous link to all of your contacts. Don't download software off the internet unless you have done some research and are sure it is from a trustworthy source. Be password savvy, which means you need a different password for any company or financial institution that has your information. Keep your passwords complex with characters, capitals and numbers and don't store them on your computer.

If your computer already has been compromised by a virus or another type of malware or it just seems to be running strangely or slowly, it is a good idea to call in an expert to clean up your computer. The staff at GeeksAKnockin' offers all types of computer repair and computer support for all operating systems. They can remove any malware and spyware and then provide you with some helpful tips to keep your computer running its best. A staff member can come directly to your home or business and solve most problems in 90 minutes or less, but they also offer virtual house calls and can handle many support services remotely.




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