By Jeremy P Stanfords
Photo: popularmechanics.com
Every day, people use their computers to complete a number of functions. In fact, it seems that many spend more time behind the computer screen, and use their machines to complete a majority of their tasks, either business- or leisure-related. However, with the increased activity, one thing you have to consider is how secure your computer is. One wrong click could wipe out the hard drive if you download a virus or spyware. The virus removal process could get tricky, if not expensive. A few simple steps could keep you from having to endure a costly computer recovery process.
Proper Software
One of the best ways to keep your machine secure is with proper antivirus software. These programs not only shield the system against an attack, but they also scope out potentially dangerous sites that could cause irreversible damage. Nowadays, many free programs provide just as much security as ones you can purchase in the store. However, for businesses that use a network, purchasing software is probably the better option. Otherwise, downloading free software provides many benefits, as well as protection.
Computer Recovery
If your issues are more severe, i.e. a hard drive crash, you may have to consult a professional. A PC repair shop can assist you with cleaning up any extensive problems. In some cases, you can even have someone diagnose the issue without having to leave your home. Some PC repair shops offer online support where you log in to a site, and go from there. If Internet access is unavailable, you may have to take your machine to the shop or have somebody come to you.
Watch What You Click
Another easy way to avoid falling prey to malware is to simply watch what links you click. While software exists to detect rogue sites, some may slip below the radar. Not every site contains material that damages your computer; some actually go after banking information or even personal sites. One popular method involves social media profiles, where clicking a suspect link posted by a friend results in similar information being posted to your profile repeatedly.
One way to stop the latter from happening is by changing your password on a regular basis, i.e. once every six months. In addition, be sure to choose secure passwords, one featuring letters and numbers, as well as special characters like punctuation marks or capital letters. You do not want to use any common information such as your address or name, as it is very easy for hackers to guess.
Photo: popularmechanics.com
Every day, people use their computers to complete a number of functions. In fact, it seems that many spend more time behind the computer screen, and use their machines to complete a majority of their tasks, either business- or leisure-related. However, with the increased activity, one thing you have to consider is how secure your computer is. One wrong click could wipe out the hard drive if you download a virus or spyware. The virus removal process could get tricky, if not expensive. A few simple steps could keep you from having to endure a costly computer recovery process.
Proper Software
One of the best ways to keep your machine secure is with proper antivirus software. These programs not only shield the system against an attack, but they also scope out potentially dangerous sites that could cause irreversible damage. Nowadays, many free programs provide just as much security as ones you can purchase in the store. However, for businesses that use a network, purchasing software is probably the better option. Otherwise, downloading free software provides many benefits, as well as protection.
Computer Recovery
If your issues are more severe, i.e. a hard drive crash, you may have to consult a professional. A PC repair shop can assist you with cleaning up any extensive problems. In some cases, you can even have someone diagnose the issue without having to leave your home. Some PC repair shops offer online support where you log in to a site, and go from there. If Internet access is unavailable, you may have to take your machine to the shop or have somebody come to you.
Watch What You Click
Another easy way to avoid falling prey to malware is to simply watch what links you click. While software exists to detect rogue sites, some may slip below the radar. Not every site contains material that damages your computer; some actually go after banking information or even personal sites. One popular method involves social media profiles, where clicking a suspect link posted by a friend results in similar information being posted to your profile repeatedly.
One way to stop the latter from happening is by changing your password on a regular basis, i.e. once every six months. In addition, be sure to choose secure passwords, one featuring letters and numbers, as well as special characters like punctuation marks or capital letters. You do not want to use any common information such as your address or name, as it is very easy for hackers to guess.
Author writes about a variety of topics. If you would like more information about virus removal, visit http://www.geeksonsite.com/.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jeremy_P_Stanfords 
How to Avoid Viruses From Attacking Your Computer
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