Keeping your computer safe
By Bryan Goodland
Whether working from an office or out of your home, cybersecurity is important. Cybersecurity, usually a corporate term, is used when discussing how to protect computer systems and networks, but it is just as important for the individual user to protect technology from digital hacks.
The first thing to know is which operating system you use on your computer. The big three are Microsoft, Apple and Google. Each works in a slightly different way when it comes to security.
Microsoft uses Microsoft Defender Antivirus as its onboard defense against attacks. Microsoft will also push software and security updates to users. Windows Hello is another security tool that allows you to use the camera or fingerprint scanner for biometric access. Add a secure cloud storage feature and a “find my device,” and the modern Windows offers a variety of security options.
Apple products offer a similar suite of security options. Some current Apple computers come equipped with T2 security chips that start as the hardware base for their security. They also offer biometric access, secure cloud storage, tracking if the device is lost, and security updates. The Mac OS includes a suite of built-in antivirus and malware detection software as well.
Google Chromebooks use automatic updates since they operate with a web-based system. When surfing the web, Chromebooks use a technique called sandboxing, so if something should be detected, it’s isolated in a virtual sandbox so as not to infect the machine. Chromebooks also use secured cloud options, data encryption and a recovery mode to go back to the last “good” version of the OS.
Aside from the built-in security that comes standard with the various operating systems, there is a wide variety of third-party software available. There are free versions available that offer various paid options and all offer a way to get acclimated to the world of cybersecurity.
Avira, Avast and Norton are used for overall virus protection. Malware Bytes seeks out and gets rid of any malware that sneaks into your computer. Another option for clearing up your internet cache is CC Cleaner. All of these options have been around for years and are frequently updated to stay current against new attack methods.
Cybersecurity doesn’t have to be complicated, but it is necessary to avoid potential problems, and is easy to make part of a daily routine. The internet offers endless information, but like the world at large, be aware of where you’re going.
