Each year, we rely more heavily on technology. We use it to have our shopping delivered, redirect our mail, run our businesses, and even to transfer money, so when a computer virus slows down our technology, our day can be suddenly thrown out. Thankfully, here at Computer Man, we offer IT support and on-site same day virus removal in Cairns. However, if you would like to know how to prevent a virus, keep reading:
1. Antivirus software
The most important virus prevention method is to download antivirus software. One of the easiest to use and cheapest (it’s free!) is Avast. No matter the cost, all antivirus software has the ability to detect and eliminate potential risks before you even know about them.
2. Firewall
Having an antivirus alone does not automatically mean your computer has a firewall. Used alongside the antivirus, the firewall analyses the traffic travelling back and forth from your computer to the outside world using a set of predetermined security rules. This extra layer of protection is good back up if the antivirus doesn’t pick up everything.
3. Pop-up blocker
Specifically for browsers, pop-up blockers stop those strategically placed ads from jumping onto your screen. One wrong click on one of these ads and a hacker could infiltrate your computer and gain your details. While in theory, the firewall and antivirus should pick up on the danger, sometimes hackers are too quick for the system, this is where a pop-up blocker will save your computer.
4. Strong passwords
If a hacker somehow gets through the first three, having strong password combinations should protect the computer long enough for the antivirus to recognise the threat and eliminate it. Opt for a mix of numbers, letters and symbols in 8 characters for the strongest protection. And create different passwords for each set of login details.
Bonus tips:
1. Educate your staff, friends and family on the basic steps for avoiding viruses.
2. Backup all vital information on an external hard drive or on the cloud.
3. Become familiar with the signs of infection (unexpected shutdowns, extraordinarily slow computer, rapidly draining the battery, and new software you didn’t install on the desktop are the most common).
If you need more assistance, don’t forget to contact us for computer technicians, virus removal and IT support. Chat with us today about the range of computers we sell and how we can deliver and set them up for you.
