PROTECT YOUR PC

9 STEPS TO PROTECT YOUR PC

1. Upgrade your operating system

The newest version of any operating system is generally the safest.

	Ideally you should run Microsoft Windows Vista or Windows XP with Service Pack 2.
	Windows 2000 is good.
	Windows 95, 98, ME or NT should be upgraded.

2. Get a firewall

A firewall protects you against bad hackers, some viruses and some spyware. It can also stop your computer being hijacked and used to infect other machines or send spam emails.

	In Windows XP, switch on Windows Firewall.
	If you use a broadband internet connection, consider getting a router that has a built-in firewall.
	For older operating systems, get a commercial firewall from a reputable company.

3. Use anti-virus software

Anti-virus software continually scans your computer for viruses. It also checks incoming email and web sites for viruses. It is not included in your operating system so you will need to get and install a copy.

Anti-virus companies include Symantec and McAfee. Microsoft publishes a complete list of compatible software.

	Make sure your anti-virus software is automatically updated to identify new threats as they emerge.
	Keep your subscription current. An out-of-date virus scanner is no use at all.
	Don’t open attachments in emails from people you don’t know.

4. Stay up-to-date

Because the bad guys discover new ways to attack computers on a regular basis you also need to update your computer’s operating system (the Windows software which makes it work). This helps stop worms attacking your computer but can also deliver other performance and security improvements.

	Go to Microsoft's Windows Update site and install all the recommended patches.
	In particular, install Windows XP Service Pack 2 if you don’t have it already.
	Regularly visit www.officeupdate.com to update Microsoft Office applications.
	Keep anti-virus software and other applications up-to-date.

5. Prevent spyware

In most cases a firewall and anti-virus software will not prevent spyware. You need additional software to keep it at bay.

	Be careful about programs you download and install. Are you certain that they won't harbour unwanted extra programs or advertisements?
	Don’t install software from an unknown or untrustworthy source.
	Be careful about which websites you visit. Are they trusted? Are they reputable?
	Get an anti-spyware program and keep it up to date. Products include: Microsoft Anti-spyware, Spyware Blaster, Spy Sweeper, Spybot Search and Destroy and AdAware.

6. Secure your wireless network

If you have a Wi-Fi (wireless) network, check the instructions that came with it and do the following:

	Rename the network (the SSID) and switch off SSID broadcast so people can’t easily find your network.
	Use MAC filtering to restrict access to trusted computers.
	Switch on the built-in WPA or WEP encryption to prevent casual eavesdropping.

7. Filter out unwanted 'spam' email

There are a number of tactics which can reduce the volume of spam you receive.

	Don’t click on anything in a spam email, even to “unsubscribe.” If possible, don’t even open it.
	Use a throwaway email address for trivial online registrations.
	Consider using an email client with a built-in spam filter or buying an add-in spam filter program.
	Don’t fall for online hoaxes, check suspicious claims on Hoaxbusters.

8. Backups

Make a regular backup of your important data, store it in a different location and check that it is actually backing up the right data by doing a trial restore from time to time.

9. Physical security

	Security mark your computers and other valuables.
	Keep a note of all the serial numbers.
	Think about locks, window locks, alarms and so on to make your home safer.
	Don’t leave discarded computer boxes outside your home – it’s an advert to burglars.
	Use a security lock for laptops.
	Keep laptops in a nondescript but padded bag.