6 Effective Tools To Inhance Online Security

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Computers and the internet are so integrated into our culture that it is nearly impossible to not use a computer.

Just like anything else, computers come with their own dangers, and there is always someone that is out to hurt you. From making your computer difficult to access to stealing your identity, the only way to effectively use the internet safely is to protect yourself.

Consider the following ways to make you and your computer safe.

Anti-Virus Software

A computer virus works the same way as a regular virus: by infecting your cells (various parts of your computer) and multiplying. And, just as a normal virus harms each cell it infects, a computer virus hurts your files, often making them impossible to open. Viruses also work to slow down your computer, log your keystrokes (so that people learn your passwords or other important information) or display unwanted messages.

Today, viruses are so integrated into the internet, you practically need anti-virus software just to us the net. Just make sure that when you install your virus software you update it frequently; the authors of computer viruses constantly create new ones or update old ones in an attempt to get past your software.

Anti-Malware Software

Malware, which is short for malicious software, are programs that do damage to a computer. Malware can be anything from a program that makes it difficult to use your computer to one designed to steal your personal information.

Extreme versions of malware can even give another person remote access to your computer (or even your entire network). Although computer viruses are sometimes classified as malware, the two are actually different entities-meaning that you need to have protection against both.

Anti-malware software provides protection two ways: real time and detection. Real time protection monitors your computer  when you are browsing to make sure that no malware is downloaded without your knowledge. Just like their name implies, detection software searches your computer for existing malware, isolates it and removes it.While malware may not be as a well-known term as computer viruses,  they are actually becoming more and more common.

Firewall

A firewall is your computer’s first line of defense against viruses, hackers and malware. Essentially, a firewall is a system designed to protect your computer from unauthorized access. Firewalls can be either hardware based (included in your router) or software based (a separate program that you run on your computer).

To get the most protection, you can combine the two systems by getting a router with a built-in firewall and purchasing a software based firewall (some operating systems such as certain versions of Windows come with built in firewalls, so check if you have one before making a purchase). Before surfing the net, make sure to turn the firewall on on each of your computers.

Content Filtering and Gateway Anti-Virus

Content filtering and gateway anti-virus software is designed to stop threats before they enter your network. It works by performing a virus scan before you download a file or install a piece of software, making it more difficult to accidentally download a virus. When used in conjunction with a firewall, content filtering and gateway anti-virus programs allow your computer to stop viruses before they can do any damage.

Virtual Private Networks

Virtual Private Networks, or VPNs, makes your private network a part of a larger network such as the internet. This essentially allows you to send and recieve files as if your computer is part of a private network such as one found at a large corporation or government entity. This gives you the benefit of extra security and makes it more difficult for outsiders to gain access into your system.

VPNs are a bit difficult to set up, so you may need to hire a professional to do so. When you can browse the internet and enter your credit card information when making online purchases without worry, however, a VPN is worth all the money you pay to have it installed.

Cryptocat

Cryptocat is a program designed to allow you to chat online without worrying about your conversation being monitored. Cryptocat is open source, meaning that you can get it for free on Windows, OS X or Linux. Cryptocat only works if both parties have it installed, so make sure that you both use it before logging on to chat.

This post has been added by Dusti moore. She sas produced this article to draw computer users’ attention to the importance of surfing anonymously and safely and how easy this can be thru using any of the above-mentioned layers of security.

dustimoore