Your computer helps you perform all kinds of tasks and holds all your data. With your computer, you can access your email, bank, investments, social media, and much more. Keeping your machine secure is critical in the digital age when a breach of security or privacy can turn your world upside down.
For example, a hacker with the login details to your bank accounts can steal your money in the blink of an eye. Likewise, a cybercriminal can use your social media to manipulate your family and friends into sending a loan in a fake emergency before they realize what’s happening.
That’s why you need the following technologies to protect your computer:
#1 Firewall
Your computer’s firewall is a network security system designed to keep an eye on incoming network traffic based on the rules you’ve set. Essentially, it’s a network barrier that blocks malicious elements from accessing your computer. You can usually customize a firewall to allow new programs to use the Internet. For example, if a new video game needs to go online, your firewall will ask you if you’d like to grant the software temporary or permanent access.
You likely have two firewalls you can use immediately. The first is your operating system’s firewall. Whether you have a PC or a Mac, you should activate your computer’s firewall immediately. Your router may also have a firewall, which you can use for additional security.
#2 Virtual Private Network (VPN)
A virtual private network service creates a private network for you by connecting you to the Internet through an encrypted tunnel via a VPN server. Using a VPN is easy. You can start by subscribing to a well-reviewed VPN service and downloading their VPN client. Next, use the VPN client to connect to the VPN server, and you’re ready. Remember, most credible VPN services offer a trial so you can get a feel for the service before you buy.
Please don’t be tempted by free VPNs, as they’re known to spy on users, throttle their Internet speeds, and even sell their bandwidth. Most free VPNs are counterproductive to use because they don’t have the budget to use the latest technology and have security holes.
Visit the platform of a cybersecurity expert if you have further questions such as: what is VPN protection and what are the benefits of signing up for a VPN service?
#3 Advanced Antivirus Software
Although the security tools on your Mac or PC are adequate to protect your computer from proven malware threats such as viruses, they’re not sophisticated enough to shield your computer from emerging malware such as spyware, stalkerware, ransomware, exploits, rootkits, etc.
It would help if you had advanced antivirus software with cutting-edge anti-malware technology that proactively shields your computer from the many new types of malicious software discovered every day. A good antivirus solution should also supplement your default cybersecurity tools.
Aside from a network firewall, a VPN, advanced antivirus software, you must update your operating system regularly and avoid deceitful websites, emails, and links to keep your computer safe and secure from online threats.
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