We are currently in an almost entirely digital age and with that computer equipment is an integral part of our daily lives, which is why we must keep our safe computer, free of malware or other types of software.
We use computers to work, communicate and entertain ourselves. However, with the increase in online threats, protecting our information and maintaining a secure computer is essential. In this post, we will provide you with 10 valuable tips to keep your safe computer.
Update your Operating System
Keeping your operating system up to date is crucial to ensuring a safe computer. Software manufacturers regularly release updates to fix vulnerabilities and improve protection against threats, so you should always keep your computers up to date.
Keep in mind that pirated software with illegal licenses usually does not receive updates, which is why we recommend using software with an original license, this way you also avoid being infected by illegal licenses or software.
Configure Automatic Updates
Enable automatic updates for your operating system. This way, you will receive the latest security updates without having to do it manually.
The Windows operating system is a strainer of viruses, luckily its security support advances almost at the same speed as the viruses that are newly created (well, at least that’s what they make us believe), so it is always good to have Windows updates enabled. Windows and also use the latest versions of Windows to keep a safe computer.
Use Reliable Antivirus Software
You should always have an antivirus installed and updated . This will help you detect and remove potential threats before they can harm your computer.
There are many antiviruses on the market, free and paid, among the free ones we highlight 2 antiviruses:
– Avast Antivirus for all types of malware on the computer, it also includes a web shield.
– Amir Antivirus for viruses that specifically affect removable or USB drives, it also shows your files hidden by viruses.
With the two previous antiviruses you will have a good reinforcement of your security to keep a safe computer.
Regular Scans
Schedule regular scans to make sure your antivirus is up to date with the latest threats.
Many times it is not necessary to do manual scans, since antiviruses work in real time , which is why it is important to keep them updated, but we do recommend performing a manual scan once a month to keep your safe computer.
Secure Passwords
Use strong, unique passwords for your online accounts. Avoid obvious passwords like “123456” or “password” . Consider using a password manager to manage your passwords securely.
Two-Factor Authentication
Enable two-factor authentication whenever possible. This adds an extra layer of security to your accounts and you can have a secure computer free of Phishing.
Protected Accounts
Never have your accounts with their passwords saved on Google Drive , One Drive or others. These applications do not have security levels to view them, for example if someone steals your cell phone and unlocks it, they can have access to your accounts.
It is advisable to use other encrypted services to save your accounts such as Proton Pass , which saves your passwords encrypted and you can only see it through a different PIN code from your other passwords, this guarantees an extra layer to keep your safe computer.
Keep Your Programs Updated to Keep Your Safe Computer
You should not only keep the operating system updated. You should also keep all the programs and applications you use, such as web browsers , media players, and productivity software, up to date.
Uninstall what you don’t need
Uninstall programs and applications that you no longer use to reduce possible points of vulnerability.
Uninstall Pirated or Illegal Software
Although some licenses are highly expensive, today there are thousands of free applications that can fulfill the functions you need, it is advisable to use free applications instead of “cracked” or illegal licenses, so you will always keep your updates and a computer up to date.
You can also opt for OEM licenses (Enterprise Volume Licenses) that are very economical and easy to purchase on the web. You can first choose to purchase an OEM license for your Windows operating system instead of purchasing a single license that has a cost. elderly.
Secure browsing
When browsing the Internet, be careful with the websites you access and the links you follow. Avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading files from untrustworthy sources.
Use of Safe Browsers
Use updated web browsers and keep extensions up to date. Some browsers have additional security features.
We recommend browsers such as Google Chrome or Firefox with extensions that are ad blockers such as AdblockPLUS to avoid malicious or misleading advertising on certain web pages, thus adding another layer to your security to have a safe computer.
Avoid clicking on dubious links
If you receive emails, SMS , messaging messages such as WhatsApp or Telegram , avoid clicking on links that you have not requested or that have come to you with some type of invitation, they normally contain malicious files that can damage your computer and many times the antivirus will not detect them.
Firewall and Network Protection for a Secure Computer
Set up a firewall on your computer to control incoming and outgoing network traffic. This helps block unauthorized connections.
Currently Windows already has a good firewall with Microsoft Defender and if you use another antivirus, they also already have their Firewall.
A good Antivirus with a good FIrewall is a huge security wall to keep a safe computer.
Wi-Fi Network Security
Make sure your Wi-Fi network is protected with a strong password . Change your router’s default password to prevent intrusions.
Never leave your Wi-Fi connection without a password!
Copias de Seguridad Regulares
Make regular backups of your important data on external devices or in the cloud. This ensures that you can recover your information in the event of an attack or hardware failure, especially if you have several GIGAS of information on (old) hard drives.
Restoration Tests
Perform periodic restore tests to ensure that your backups are effective.
Automatic Backup Software
If you want to have your files always available without fear of losing them or having them modified by malware, it is recommended to use automatic backup software such as Cobian Backup that performs automatic backups on other internal or external hard drives.
When making a backup it is recommended to do it both on a local disk and in the cloud, you could choose to use Google Drive , this way your files will be kept on your PC and in the cloud for any bad situation that may happen, with this you not only keep your safe computer but also your files.
Google Drive only gives you 15GB of storage, you could opt for a larger plan to get more storage.
Cyber Security Education
Stay informed on the latest online threats and cybersecurity techniques . Constant education is key to protecting your computer.
You could save this link to our website where we constantly upload news related to computer security:
https://amirantivirus.com/en/blog/
User Training
If you have family members or coworkers who use the same computer, make sure they are also informed about security practices so they can maintain a safe computer.
Courses on Security Policies
You could enroll in a course on security policies or watch free online videos on computer security, not only to keep your safe computer, but also to keep all your devices such as your cell phone safe, thus preventing your personal accounts such as emails from being stolen, bank accounts, etc.
Avoid Unsolicited Downloads and Emails
Do not download attachments or click on links in unsolicited emails (Email) or from unknown senders . These may contain malware or you may fall for phishing.
Email Filtering
Use an effective email filter to help identify and block unwanted emails.
For your business emails, you could consult with your hosting provider so that it has an adequate Spam filter and prevents most malicious emails from reaching your inbox, this will help keep your safe computer.
Antivirus with Anti-Spam filter
Currently, most antiviruses have an Anti-Spam filter , but make sure yours has it.
Monitor your computer regularly
Finally, regularly monitor your computer activity. Look for signs of suspicious activity, such as slow performance or configuration changes.
Event Logs
Review your system event logs for potential security issues.
One way to check the events on your computer is in the Windows “Task Manager” in the “Startup” tab , you can view all the programs that run when Windows starts.
Always check the processes running in the Windows “Task Manager”.
Conclusion
The security of your computer is essential to protect your privacy , data and loss of information . By following these 10 tips, you can significantly strengthen your computer’s security and reduce the risk of cyber threats . Remember that online safety is a shared responsibility, so share these tips with your friends and family to help create a safer digital environment for everyone.
Protect your computer and keep your data safe!
References
Of course, here are some references to blogs and websites dedicated to computer security that can be useful to stay up to date and have a safe computer:
- Krebs on Security : Brian Krebs is a leading security journalist who covers in-depth cybersecurity news and analysis on his website Krebs on Security .
- The Hacker News : The Hacker News is an online news resource that provides real-time coverage of security events, vulnerabilities, and cyberattacks.
- Dark Reading : Dark Reading is a source of information security and cybersecurity news, analysis and opinion.
- Schneier on Security – Bruce Schneier is a renowned security expert and his blog Schneier on Security offers articles and commentary on various security topics.
- Threatpost – Threatpost is a cybersecurity news site that provides coverage of current events and analysis on cyber threats.
- SecurityWeek – SecurityWeek is a resource covering security news, cybersecurity events, and analysis.
- InfoSec Resources – InfoSec Resources is a website that offers a variety of resources, including blogs, tutorials, and videos related to cybersecurity.
- SANS Internet Storm Center : The SANS Internet Storm Center is a valuable source for cyber threat information, incident reports, and malware analysis.
- The CyberWire : The CyberWire is a podcast and website providing daily cybersecurity news and analysis.
- Naked Security by Sophos : Naked Security is the blog of Sophos, a security company, offering news and advice on computer security.
These resources can help you stay up to date on the latest trends and developments in the field of cybersecurity. Always remember to verify the authenticity and reliability of the source of information before making decisions based on it.
