4 Simple Things Can Protect the Security of Your PC

security of your PCAs time progresses, hackers just keep on getting better and smarter at what they do. Unfortunately, this means that, as PC owners, we have to get smarter and better at protecting our computers. If you’re trying to figure out how to keep your computer safe and secure in this wild world, here are four suggestions to help you out:

1. Update your web browser

Older versions of popular web browsers like Internet Explorer, Chrome, and Firefox simply aren’t as adept at protecting your computer against malware. Updating your web browser of choice to its latest version is absolutely essential. In fact, Internet Explorer 6 is probably the least safe web browser to use, but the latest version of Internet Explorer (IE 9) is considered one of the best web browsers to use if you want to keep your computer secure. The latest versions of web browsers will be equipped with the latest and most relevant security features.

2. Get AVG LinkScanner

In case you haven’t noticed, there are a lot of links around the web. There are probably links in most of the web content you come across. Sometimes the content you’re reading or viewing will compel you to click on a link, and where that link leads you won’t necessarily be a safe site. Quite a few links will actually lead you to sites that try to get you to download software that will harm your computer. It’s a good idea to avoid those sites altogether and install a program like AVG LinkScanner, which will help you avoid accidentally surfing to sites that are known to distribute malware.

3. Regularly run and update your anti-virus software

This may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s actually something that many people neglect to do on a regular basis. Your computer probably gets slowed down a little bit when anti-virus software is running, and running it may not be your favorite thing to do. However, it’s absolutely essential that you do run it when your computer reminds you to. This kind of software will detect any malware or other harmful programs that may have accidentally been installed on your computer. Additionally, regularly updating your anti-virus software will help you ensure that you have the latest technology on your side when it comes to protecting the security of your PC.

4. Be smart about your internet habits

Just as you wouldn’t walk in a dark alley in a big city at night, you should generally avoid making decisions that will put your computer at risk while you’re surfing the web. So, avoid opening emails from senders you don’t know, avoid downloading things from sites that you’re not familiar with, and be careful about who give your passwords out to. There’s a lot of harm that can be done to your computer, but you have the power to keep your computer as secure as possible.

Silvia Brooks is a security expert and blogger who primarily writes about advances in security technology for security-related sites like homesecurity.org. Please leave questions and comments for Silvia below. She appreciates your feedback!

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