Protecting your computer from being infected with a virus, adware, spyware or malware requires very little effort and usually can be accomplished in under ½ an hour each week.  To assist our clients with implementing some basic security protection measures, we’ve developed this simple outline.  Following the suggested measures will vastly decrease the likelihood of your computer getting infected, but some risk still exist.

Steps to Consider:

1.      Use Firewall Software- Firewalls are software that when properly configured allow select programs and certain services running on your computer permission to access the internet.  I often refer to firewall programs as the “Door Man” between your computer and the internet.  During the installation procedure, you setup permissions to allow or deny access thereby vastly improving the security of your system.

2.      Use Antivirus Software- Antivirus programs are programs that once configured properly continuously scan incoming and outgoing files such as email for known parasites such as viruses.  Antivirus programs are usually good for a limited period of time (NORMALLY ONE YEAR) and are rendered useless after their subscription date expires.  Once the subscription date is reached, you lose the ability to download the latest virus definitions commonly referred to as a “dat” file.  I commonly use the comparison between using updated antivirus software with someone getting a flu shot.  You wouldn’t expect a flu shot from last year to adequately protect you this year, nor should you expect outdated antivirus software to work. Although there is a free software ware out there called AVG and is totally free for personal use. you can down load it at http://free.grisoft.com/freeweb.php/doc/2 this is the best free ware I have found.

3.      Update Windows- Regardless of which version of Microsoft Windows you’re using, updates are available that fix flaws and security issues within the windows operating system itself.  During the lifespan of an operating system, problems and issues arise that are often fixed by downloading an update directly from Microsoft.  The vast majority of updates recently have dealt with security related flaws that have allowed hackers the ability to remotely access your computer and the files you on it.  Furthermore, updating your operating system very often solves problems that cause error messages and compatibility issues. 

Click Here to Check for Windows Updates

If you need assistance implementing any of our suggestions, please call us at 620-663-7758 or visit our website at www.td-king.com