Features

Securing your computer

By LEROY MCLEAN, Contributor

Vol 10:12

TODAY I WILL talk to you about practices to ensure that you are working in a more secure environment at home or in the office.

Install and maintain antivirus software:

By keeping antivirus software up-to-date you will be protected from nearly all known attacks on Office applications and documents.

Apply security updates:

Always apply the latest security updates to any application that you use on your network, including Internet Explorer and Office.

Do not install software that will not be used:

Do not install applications on computers if they will not be used. For example, if a user will be using only Microsoft Word and Outlook, do not install Microsoft PowerPoint and Microsoft Excel on his computer. This will increase the potential attack surface of the computer. Passwords that prevent an attacker from booting a laptop or desktop, even temporarily, will increase security and the information stored on a stolen computer.

Install and configure personal firewall applications:

For users who will be connecting to untrusted (WiFi) networks, install Windows XP or a personal firewall application to prevent an attacker from compromising the computer. Make sure that you understand how to use the application.

Finally I wanted to share some tips on creating a secure password in Windows XP operating system or any other O/S you might be using now.

Guidelines for creating strong passwords include:

Avoid using common or clever misspellings of words, and foreign words.

Avoid incrementing passwords with a digit.

Avoid using passwords that others can easily guess by looking at your desk (such as names of pets, sports teams, and family members).

Avoid using words from popular culture.

Avoid thinking of passwords as words per se - think secret codes.

Use passwords that require you to type with both hands on the keyboard.

Use uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols in all passwords.

Use space characters and characters that can be produced only by pressing the Alt key.

Send your comments or suggestions tothestartech@yahoo.com. You can also write to StarTech c/o The Gleaner Company, 7 North Street, Kingston.