6 Quick Tips To Keep Your Computer Safe

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Not a week goes by without at least one client/friend/family member asking how to steer clear of viruses on the net.

So here are some quick tips (for Windows users):

  1. Antivirus Software.  Get it, install it and maintain it.  Our favorite is Norton Internet Security, but even the free antivirus programs will work.
     
  2. When browsing the Internet, use Firefox, Chrome or Safari for Windows as your browser.  Microsoft’s IE (Internet Explorer) is simply too tied to the operating system (Microsoft Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8) of the computer and has too many weaknesses. Our favorite: FireFox.
     
  3. For Windows Vista and later versions, don’t use the default administrator account as your regular user’s account.  Create a new regular user and use that account.  This helps prevent unwanted software/viruses/malware from being installed on your computer without your knowledge.
     
  4. Get to know Windows System Restore.
     
  5. Back-Up your data. Just do it.
     
  6. Oh and did we mention to back-up your data?  AND back-up to ANOTHER computer or DVD or USB Key or portable hard-drive.  If your computer crashes and your only back-ups are on that computer, you are up the river without a paddle.

PS: While Apple products and linux operating systems aren’t as big a target as Windows, hackers are getting more and more skilled each and every day. So whatever you use to browse the web; computer, iPad, iPhone, Android phone, etc… Please back-up your data.