The Best Solution for Computer Security

Computer security has now become the most important concern to the PC users worldwide. Whenever the computer gets connected to the Internet, it is exposed to threats of diverse types. There are cyber criminals called as hackers who are always in search for computers with less or no security. So if you are ignorant regarding PC security, then you can easily become a victim of their attack and ultimately end up with loosing your important information and data. How to protect your computer? Well, here comes the importance of computer security service providers. Many computer services companies are there in the market that offer PC security support to the computer users so that they can enjoy secure computing.

Antivirus Software:
Antivirus software protects against maliciously coded programs. Viruses are often packaged with some programs that look innocent, and run in the background of the computer. Antivirus software prevents the malicious code from loading on computers; clean machines that already have viruses; and run scans that quarantine infected files. This security measure protects users from data loss, and prevents password and identity theft.

Firewall Software:
Firewalls differ from antivirus programs because they simply block incoming and outgoing communication with the Internet, protecting computers from spyware. Firewall applications are sometimes included in purchased antivirus programs or installed on routers purchased for home and office networks. Firewall software alerts the user that an application is attempting to access the Internet, which helps identify spyware applications. Spyware often uploads passwords and data to hackers who use the information to steal identities. Firewalls protect personal and company data.

Passwords:
With networks becoming commonplace for homes and offices, passwords are options on operating systems such as Windows, Linux and Unix. Users are urged to apply a strong password to log into the machine. The password prevents unauthorized access to hard drive files, either in person or via the local network or the Internet. Passwords should contain letters and numbers, and at least one special character for more security. Network administrators can create password rules so users are forced to enter strong passwords.

Email:
Phishing emails attempt to gain access to machines and private information by masquerading as being from an official institution. Users should never execute files from senders that are not recognized. Banking institutions never ask for a password online, so users should be cautious when receiving these communications. Avoid clicking links that claim to bring the reader to a banking institution. Instead, type the website URL into a browser to access the site. This security measure helps users avoid theft. Some common companies used by phishing emails are eBay, PayPal, banks and iTunes.

The Best Computer Security Programs Tips

PC Tools offers a total Internet security system that rates well among computer authorities. This system features their Spyware Doctor software and anti-spam and anti-phishing protection, plus a Firewall and other browsing security features. Internet Security has a Browser Defender website that runs in real-time to detect potentially harmful sites and warn computer users against suspicious links. Internet Security runs in real time for maximum protection rates.


Tips :

1: The first step towards a secure computer is to install a firewall and an anti-virus. It is very important to have both because they each have different tasks. A firewall will watch the data that is transferred between a computer and the world wide web and will notify the user, or take action, if it detects something abnormal. It may also keep an eye on what is happening between the different applications and services of the computer. For example, if a program tries to access the registry, a crucial part of a Windows operating system, the firewall can detect it, block it and advise the user.

2: An Anti-virus has other tasks. It checks the computer for any data that might constitute or be the result of a virus, a spybot, a trojan, etc. Instead of only blocking the actions, they will detect the problem and, if possible, remove it. It is important to schedule periodic scans, without what the software might be useless. All this might seem costly, but there are some free alternatives that do a similar job, if not sometimes better, than paid ones. I have used and personally recommend the following: For the antivirus, Avast is one of the good free ones you'll find. For the firewall, I'd suggest Comodo personnal firewall.

3: The second most important step is to keep your system updated. Operating systems and web browsers often have protocols in place to prevent viruses and hackers to access the computer. Anti-viruses and firewalls also have lists of data they have to block and delete. Unfortunately, malicious software evolve everyday and new ones emerge, not waiting for the old ones to go away. Most of the time, it's possible to set up automatic updates. If it's not the case for the software you are using, be sure to do it manually every now and then. An out-of-date anti-virus is almost as useless as not having any.

4: The final step is to back-up your data. The softwares mentioned above are not perfect and a day might come when something you don't want finds its way to your system. Having a second copy of your data is also good in the case of a hard drive technical problem. If a lot of files are created and work is done on a computer on a daily basis, it can be useful to have an automatic backup plan that takes action everyday. That may be a lot of hassle, so I'd suggest doing a weekly back-up of your data. A lot of software do recursive back-ups, meaning that they only copy the files and folders that have been created since the last time. To find the right software for you, you can check on Wikipedia. It has a list of both free and paid options.

Computer Security Authentication Methods

Spyware, malware, computer bots are just a few of the threats that can be named; which prompt the use of a secure computer authentication system. Various methods are used in the authentication processes. The stress has however always been towards a software approach for solving the purpose of authentication.

These are computer security authentication methods:-

Passwords

Passwords are the easiest and most common authentication process that are used, not only on desktop computers but also at the network level. However certain rules should be followed when setting a password for your computer or network. Do not use easily predictable words for your passwords; they don't even require a hacker to access the system through your account. Use passwords that are unpredictable. Set long passwords and use numbers and special characters when setting your password. Remember your passwords; don't write it down anywhere. Hackers use various tools to know your passwords, but a long password with a number of special characters, indeed gives them a lot of trouble.

Digital Certificates

Using a certain algorithm, computer administrator combine your personal details with other user credentials to generate a public key. This public key or digital certificate is used for the authentication purpose in the network.

Smart Cards

Smart Cards are among the very few hardware authentication processes in which a simple card with an embedded circuitry is used for accessing the network. Each valid card for a particular network, when inserted into the circuitry it has been made for, gives an output which decides whether you will be allowed to enter into the network or not. The programming logic inserted into each card is different and it is one of the safest methods of authentication.

Fingerprint detection

Almost available in all laptops that are manufactured today; fingerprint detection is another safe method of computer security authentication. Everyone knows that even the iris pattern of two people may even match, but fingerprints can never match.

Face recognition systems

Face recognition system, may amuse you, but of late many people working in the field of security have questioned its user friendly nature and the security it can provide. A simple dimension calculation of the face is done by the computer and the logic used in doing so, has been often found to be prone to errors.

Biometrics

Biometrics is often considered as a far more secure way of authentication than passwords or digital certificates. It is even safer than smart cards, which may be misplaced. The physical and behavioral traits of a person are taken into consideration in this type of authentication.

Captcha Keys

This is the process of authentication that is used to verify whether a human or a computer bot has logged into the system. Captcha keys are randomly generated alphabets and numericals presented in such a form, that only a human can recognise.


Now, let's come down to the normal computer security authentical processes that we can do at the local level. Setting up a BIOS password for your computer may not be the ultimate security authentication. Removing the BIOS battery from the computer system for 30 seconds, deactivates this security feature. Setting up the administrator password is of utmost necessity. If the administrator password is not set, then any user can log into the computer irrespective of the fact whether he has an account in that computer or not.

The above listed methods are just a few of the widely used authentication methods. Infact, the measures that we take for safeguarding our computer or network are more important than the method itself. Many of us have a habit of naming our networks after the protagonist from our favourite movie. This should be avoided and networks should have sensible names that cannot be easily determined. If you are a network administrator in charge of a closed secure network, then it is always desirable to set your network visibility status to the invisible mode.

Read more: http://goo.gl/PlA7X

The Best Practices for Computer Security

Computer security protects against unauthorized access, including hackers attempting to penetrate computer defenses via the Internet. New viruses and malware are created each day, but some basic security features keep machines safe from data theft.

Antivirus Software


Antivirus software protects against maliciously coded programs. Viruses are often packaged with some programs that look innocent, and run in the background of the computer. Antivirus software prevents the malicious code from loading on computers; clean machines that already have viruses; and run scans that quarantine infected files. This security measure protects users from data loss, and prevents password and identity theft.

Firewall Software

Firewalls differ from antivirus programs because they simply block incoming and outgoing communication with the Internet, protecting computers from spyware. Firewall applications are sometimes included in purchased antivirus programs or installed on routers purchased for home and office networks. Firewall software alerts the user that an application is attempting to access the Internet, which helps identify spyware applications. Spyware often uploads passwords and data to hackers who use the information to steal identities. Firewalls protect personal and company data.

Passwords

Passwords protect computer files.

With networks becoming commonplace for homes and offices, passwords are options on operating systems such as Windows, Linux and Unix. Users are urged to apply a strong password to log into the machine. The password prevents unauthorized access to hard drive files, either in person or via the local network or the Internet. Passwords should contain letters and numbers, and at least one special character for more security. Network administrators can create password rules so users are forced to enter strong passwords.


Read more: http://goo.gl/ftEQC

How to Repair PC Security After a Virus Attack ?

A virus attack can be very devastating to your computer if it is not caught quickly. Computer Viruses change many different settings on your computer so that the virus can hide information and download some additional files to your system. Once the virus has been disabled and deleted, the settings need to be restored to their original configuration to get the computer running normally again. Repairing your PC’s security after a virus attack needs to be a top priority to prevent further virus attack and infection.

Follow the Instructions:


Step1: Open your antivirus software and update it by clicking on the "Update" button on the start page.


Step2. Disconnect your computer from the Internet once the update is completed. You don't want your computer to be infected with another virus through your modem while your security settings are still compromised.


Step3. Restart your computer and hold down F6 to activate Safe Mode. Scan the system again in Safe Mode. Restoring security settings will do no good if there is still a virus lurking on your system. Delete any hazardous files that are found.


Step4. Restart your computer normally and access your security settings through the Control Panel in the Start menu. Click on the Security Center and click on the Firewall to make sure it is enabled.


Step5. Reconnect your system to the Internet and update your Internet browser to make sure you have the most recent browser that has closed previous security breaches.

Read more: http://goo.gl/WjJ59

The Top 10 Computer Protection Programs

Modern Internet users concerned about viruses, security and identity protection can invest in computer protection software. This list of top computer protection programs is based on recommendations from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire and the Business Knowledge Source website. The software is presented in no particular order.

Symantec Norton Antivirus

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This software distinguishes and wipes out computer viruses and blocks worms. Norton offers both the downloadable version and package versions of their software.


McAfee VirusScan

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This software offers cutting-edge virus protection. Besides VirusScan, McAfee provides other protection software such as anti-spyware, personal firewalls, spam killer and privacy services. McAfee software comes in both downloadable and package forms.


AVG Anti-Viral

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This free anti-viral software provides computer security at no cost. AVG also offers increased protection, anti-spam, firewall and identity protection in their paid software package.



Panda Antivirus

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This software has a user-friendly interface with high-quality antivirus protection. Panda's Antivirus Pro provides a firewall and a safe search browser. Panda also offers downloadable free trial software.

Computer Associates Inoculate IT

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This software appeals to business because it uses identity verification to ensure proper access for computers and networks that have multiple users with different levels of security permission.



Kapersky Antivirus

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This software adds extra defense to traditional Internet security. It protects against, "viruses, spyware, spam, trojans, worms, [and] bots". The free 30-day trial has the same features as the paid software. Prices vary for different types of computers and levels of protection.



F-Secure Antivirus

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This software offers advanced protection against viruses, malware, spam and cyber-crime. F-Secure offers a free 30-day trial.



Shield Deluxe

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This software double-guarantees customer security. The software is easy to install and set up. Shield Deluxe offers free trial software.



Trend Micro PC-cillin

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Trend Micro provides "deep security" for home users, home offices, small- to medium-sized businesses and enterprises.


BitDefender

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This software program adapts to viruses as they are introduced to the internet. BitDefender has free tools and paid software packages.


Read more: http://www.ehow.com/list_7176423_top-10-computer-protection-programs.html#ixzz1Rb2lc6qt

Give the best antivirus protection for your PC

Since some days, I was quite annoyed because of the strange behavior of my system. My computer was taking much time in opening and saving files and applications were taking much longer in launching - hard disk was also inaccessible.

One of my friends suggested that you should install any best antivirus software and keep regularly updating the antivirus software for experiencing the more enhanced protection against the newly released dangerous threats. After reading and analyzing the reviews on the Internet and from several people, I arrived on a decision to install antivirus on my Windows XP based PC.

Features

Norton Antivirus can detect viruses, Trojans, and worms, adware, spyware, hack tools, remote access programs, etc. available in your system and can remove all of them. This software program supports many e-mail programs, like Microsoft Outlook Express version 4, 5, or 6, Microsoft Outlook 97/98/2000/XP, Netscape Messenger version 4, Netscape Mail version 6, Eudora Light version 3, Eudora Pro version 4, Eudora version 5, etc.

You can install Norton antivirus by following these easy steps:

STEP 1: Start your computer, and insert the installation CD of Norton antivirus 2004 into the CD-ROM drive.

STEP 2: Click on “Install Norton Antivirus 2004” in the Installation wizard.

STEP 3: Click on “Next” in the Welcome screen.

STEP 4: Read the License Agreement, click on “I accept the License Agreement”.

STEP 5: Type the product key when prompted.

STEP 6: Select the folder where you want to install Norton Antivirus.

STEP 7: Click Next-> Next -> Finish.

STEP 8: Restart your computer when prompted.

You should install a genuine copy of Norton antivirus on your system for experiencing the best and complete protection against several computer security threats.

Limitations

Norton Antivirus can show error messages during the process of installation and also can slow down your computer while you are performing a virus scan.