Tips to Keep Your Computer Secure and Virus-Free

Computers are our connection to information and people throughout the world, at work and home. And the more sophisticated technology gets â€" the more daring and hazardous computer viruses become. No sooner do we have a "new and full proof" method of protection than another threat appears ready to infect as many computers as possible.

If a virus is residing within a file attached to an e-mail, once opened, the virus will infiltrate the computer's hard drive attaching itself to files. Sending e-mails from the infected computer is a sure way to pass them on to other computers. Infected files saved to a disk, CD, or USB drive become easy carriers capable of infecting alternate computers as well.

How can we protect ourselves? Here are a few guidelines to follow to prevent damage from viruses or spyware, and damage to hardware.

Viruses:
Computer viruses are programs created that infect files causing loss of data, or system crashes. For protection against computer viruses, there is a "vaccine" called anti-virus software. The anti-virus software when set up properly, will scan the entire hard drive, and all e-mails (coming and going) on a daily basis. NEVER open e-mails with attachments from people you don't know (i.e. joe@whatsamattayou.com). There are several free anti-virus versions easily downloadable from secure internet sites. AVG Anti-Virus, is one of the best free versions available, and can be found at grisoft.com.

Spyware:
What is spyware? Spyware is a malicious program that can steal personal and financial information, monitor internet usage, and deliver unwelcome advertising. Pop-ups are an example of unwanted advertising, those endless little windows that jump out when navigating the internet. The remedy â€" anti-spyware software! This specially programmed software stops the annoying pop-ups, blocks spyware, and other nasty programs. Once again, this particular software is available on the internet, and provides more than adequate protection. Lavasoft has a free version called Ad-Aware that is available at Lavasoft.

Firewall:
What is a firewall? A firewall is the equivalent of a locked door that keeps out trespassers, or a virtual wall between your computer, and outsiders. It will only permit authorized persons to enter, and will prevent other computers from viewing personal identification information. Software is available as part of a complete package (anti-virus, anti-spyware & firewall), or separately. Zone Alarm has a full Security Suite, and a free single firewall version available for downloading at Zone Alarm Free Version.

Passwords:
A secure password is like a coded lock, or the key to a lock. A strong password â€" an effective password â€" is usually long, random, and can only be created by the user. The strongest passwords contain letters and numbers; DO NOT use the names of relatives, friends, or pets. NEVER write your password down, and leave it hanging around for someone else to copy! Lastly, change your password at least every two to three months.

Surge Protectors:
To protect computers from electrical failures, there are devices called surge protectors. These devices have a dual function they serve as power strips (for multiple devices); and as protection against spikes in electricity caused by blasts from electrical storms, or power failures. A top-notch device will usually have at the very least, four electrical sockets, and provide computer, audio and video equipment with the protection needed to avoid major damage.

The final word on protection is to backup (save) all computer data, that is, save important files. This should be done each day without fail. I cannot stress this step enough! Once I almost lost EVERYTHING, because I did not take the time to backup files. I backup the entire hard drive once every two weeks, but save new files or updated files, and important e-mails each day. For added protection, store critical data in a safe deposit box at the bank, or at the house of family, or friends.

The steps discussed above when followed consistently can help to prevent major damage from viruses, spyware, or natural disasters. Make it a habit to check reputable sites such as PCWorld.com, CNET.com, and About.com for tips and updates on technology.