PC Tips & Tricks

Many people ask me about computer security – How do viruses work? Why people make viruses? How can I protect against online threats?

The answer for the last question is the most important for average users. I’ll try to write some “best practices” for a safer computer experience and to give you few links to free (for home use) security software.

1. Never, ever, use a computer without an anti-virus software installed and kept up-to-date. At home I use AVG Free Edition. It only needs a small amount of system memory, so it doesn’t slow the system down noticeably.
2. Use anti-spyware software. You can try Spybot-S&D or Ad-aware.
3. Use a firewall. If your operating system doesn’t include one, get a separate software firewall. My personal favorite is Comodo.
4. Keep you operating system up to date. Install security patches provided by your operating system’s manufacturer.
5. Do not send sensitive information as a result from an unsolicited mail from your bank, service provider or government. So you will not become a phishing victim.

This are only basic things to do (or not to do) regarding online security. Feel free to post your best practices and what you consider to be important about online security.

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