7 most important steps to keep your computer secure?

Here are the 7 most important steps to keep your computer secure:

1. Use a firewall: Windows has a firewall already built in and automatically turned on. This helps protect your computer from unauthorized access by hackers. The Private firewall is for your home network, the Domain profile is for your work connection and the Public profile is for accessing the internet.
2. Keep all software up to date: Make sure to turn on automatic updates in Windows Update to keep Windows, Microsoft Office, and other Microsoft applications up to date. Turn on automatic updates for non-Microsoft software as well, especially browsers, Adobe Acrobat Reader, and other apps you regularly use. Apple also releases regular updates for MacOS and IOS on your iPhone. Make sure you check for updates and apply them regularly.
3. Use antivirus software and keep it current: If you run Windows, you have Windows Security or Windows Defender Security Center already installed on your device. Make sure to keep it up to date. If you’re a Microsoft 365 Family or Personal subscriber, you get Microsoft Defender included with your subscription at no extra charge. It helps protect all your devices – Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. Third party tools like MalwareBytes and Bitdefender are also excellent.
4. Make sure your passwords are well-chosen and protected: Use strong passwords that are difficult to guess and avoid using the same password for multiple accounts. You can also use a password manager to help you create and store strong passwords.
5. Don’t open suspicious attachments or click unusual links in messages: They can appear in email, tweets, posts, online ads, messages, or attachments, and sometimes disguise themselves as known and trusted sources.
6. Browse the web safely: Avoid visiting sites that offer potentially illicit content. Many of these sites install malware on the fly or offer downloads that contain malware. Use a modern browser like Microsoft Edge, which can help block malicious websites and prevent malicious code from running on your computer.
7. Stay away from pirated material: Avoid streaming or downloading movies, music, books, or applications that do not come from trusted sources. They may contain malware.

If you need help with the above list or securing your personal computer, contact us today.