Computer Security Guide

We've often seen it in movies and in commercials; the distressed owner of an infected PC would call for some hired help who'd work miracles and clear up whatever bugs that may have gotten to the PC, charge a bomb and then drive away. Well, instead of being that distressed person, why not learn the basics of computer security so that you can tackle problems while they're small instead of letting become big issues that will burn holes in your pocket?

First you must know what you'd be up against when something hits you. Years ago, the only thing that could hit you would be a virus, but now there are more than 140,000 malwares that can hit your computer and it will cause more harm and damage than you could ever imagine. There are viruses and worms, which will affect the codes of your system and replicates then the little replicas, would attack your files by deleting them, corrupting them, altering your computer settings, manipulating system codes or worse, leaving your computer in a state that makes it unusable. Worms are just the same, only they are self replicating and don't need to attach themselves to your system, but they too can leave your computer in ruins.

Then there are adware, spyware and key loggers, all of which install themselves onto your PC without your knowledge or approval. Adware is usually in the form of advertisements that are attractive and interesting, coaxing you to install fun toolbars and whatnots that is free, while spyware just attaches itself to your web and tracks your web movements. There is also phishing which is a clever trick to lure innocent web users to participate in fake contest or associations and give out their confidential banking details and so on. This is usually done through email, hence why many people have tons of junk mail and also why you shouldn't open mail from names you aren't familiar with. In addition to all that, there is also spam which many people regard as online 'trash' but it can be harmful as well because it contains web bugs that can destroy your PC the exact same way spyware does.

With so much out there, you need to get protected and see that you stay protected so that your computer doesn't fail you when you need it the most. To do this, you'd need to invest in a good and reliable antivirus program that can help block and remove all foreign objects that can destroy your files and PC. Hit the stores, pick up an antivirus software kit and get one that has antispyware and can work with all sorts of malwares. You should install it immediately, scan your PC and check that it's free from viruses and bugs. Also, when you receive notification to update your antivirus, don't ignore it but always make sure you update it and perform regular scans as well.

Another thing you can do is to install firewalls on your PC which acts as a barrier or a shell that protects your web from threats and danger. If it detects a website you'd like to enter has bugs, your firewall will block out the site and save you from a whole lot of trouble. Learn your PC and understand it, because if you remain ignorant the price to fix it would leave you with lots of regrets.

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