Basic steps for securing PC

The few simple steps outlined below can provide a good measure of security for your computer in very little time without even spending anything.

1. Use anti-virus program
This is a must for every computer and make sure you update the virus definition file regularly. My favourite one is AVG Anti-Virus Free Edition from grisoft.

2. Install a personal firewall
Personal firewall can provide some degree of protection to your computer since all incoming and outging traffic are being monitored. Try installing one from ZoneAlarm or Sygate.

3. Spyware removal tool
I would recommend Ad-aware personal SE from Lavasoft as your anti-spyware scanner. For double protection, you can even install SpywareBlaster.

4. Windows update
To combat worms and Windows vulnerabilities, make sure all necessary security patches are installed. Windows vulnerabilities are constantly being discovered. Visit the Windows Update Center weekly to ensure you have all the critical patches.

5. Turn Off File-Sharing
File sharing would allow you to share your files across network. However, this ability to share files can be used to infect your computer with a virus or for a hacker to look at the files on your computer. So, unless you really need this ability, make sure you turn off file-sharing.
Turn off file sharing in Windows 98
Turn off file sharing in Windows XP

6. E-mails attachments
Use care when reading e-mail with attachments. NEVER open attachment from an unknown sender with file types that are often virus carriers. These include EXE, COM, PIF, SCR, VBS, SHS, CHM and BAT file types. The safest approach is to immediately delete e-mail from unknown sources, without opening the email. Consider using secondary e-mail address (hotmail, yahoo, etc.) when registering or subscribing anything from the web.

7. Downloding and installing programs
Before you download and install any programs especially freeware, make sure the program comes from a legitimate source. Learn as much about the program and never download software from un-trusted sites.

8. Consider switching your browser
There are quite a significant number of vulnerabilities in Internet Explorer. You can possibly reduce exposure to these vulnerabilities by using a different web browser. Try using firefox, mozilla or opera for a change.

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