Guide to Internet Security

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In the earlier days of the internet, user security wasn't as tight. There were fewer threats to users and those that existed tended to target businesses instead of individuals. Now, however, threats seem to be looming around each and every corner. As computer and internet use has proliferated in the past decade, so has the variety of viruses, malware, spyware, and other security threats. Understanding your computer's security risk, and actively working to protect it, has become a key element in responsible computing.
The Threats
Malware typically presents itself in several forms.
- Viruses - These are small programs that attach to other code and infect it. Viruses can change certain computer settings, corrupt files, or even crash your computer entirely.
- Spyware - This type of software is typically installed on your computer without your knowledge. Its intent is to gather personal information about you. Sometimes spyware may include a key-logger, which transcribes every key you type and compromises passwords, bank account numbers, credit card numbers, and anything else you might type out on your computer.
- Phishing scams - Scams are typically e-mails or websites, made to look legit, that ask you for your personal information or credit card information. The goal of these scams is obvious--to gain access to your personal information.
- Spam - Another threat that comes via e-mail, spam can contain spyware hidden in messages that will install itself on your computer.
How to Protect Yourself
Your first line of defense against malware is a firewall. Firewalls monitor all in and out computer traffic and prevent unauthorized communications. While computers typically come with firewalls installed, they are sometimes not as effective as commercial firewalls.
Another crucial defense is to install anti-virus software on your computer. While some anti-virus software is free, this is one area that you don't want to skimp on. If you install a free anti-virus program and your computer is attacked by something that slipped through the cracks, you will end up paying to fix or replace your computer anyway. It is always better to avoid the headache and ensure that your computer is receiving the best security from the get-go. Anti-key-logging and anti-spyware software are also excellent tools to use in conjunction with an anti-virus.
Spam blockers are useful for preventing spam, malicious or not, from entering your inbox. The only down side to spam blockers is that they can sometimes mistake normal e-mails for spam and filter them accordingly. If you are using a spam blocker, it is helpful to check in the box on occasion to be sure that everything is sorted correctly.
Also, on shared computers, always make sure your data is password protected. People often underestimate the security threat posed by others that have direct access to your computer. If you have information that you would not want to make readily available to other users, be sure to password-protect it with a strong password.
Useful Tips

• Ensure that every computer you own that accesses the internet has a virus protection program installed and running.
• Don't open attachments from unknown sources.
• Make your passwords complicated and difficult for others to figure out. Strong passwords make use of numbers, letters, and symbols.
• Avoid sending too much personal information, particularly credit card numbers and bank account numbers, over the internet. If you use a credit card to pay for something online, be sure that the payment system is trustworthy and secure.

Imaging Network Technology is a computer support service that specializes in computer security, 24/7 tech support, and network infrastructure. Visit Imaging Network Technology. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Crystal_Schubert

Security Computer Programs - Why Security is Crucial

One thing everybody should be aware of in thinking about security computer programs is how the Internet and its technologies work. This will give you a means of using the Internet more safely and responsibly.
Human nature, being what it is, is heavily reliant on trust. The Internet was built on trust. Connecting computers in the 1960's was a very straightforward thing, relying on everybody playing by the rules. A lot has changed since those days. The way we use computers has changed and a lot more people have access to a computer. The Internet has literally exploded since the days that just a few researchers tried to connect their very slow PC's together.
Let's make a comparison. When you receive a landmail, most letters contain a sender's address. Did you ever stop and wonder if these addresses are really valid. How would you go about finding out if the return address was valid? Most people wouldn't bother, I think.
Here comes the - now so popular - email message, how are you to know where it comes from? An intruder can easily fake the return address, which is called spoofing. Not only can email messages be forged, the information packets that contain data and get sent all over the Internet are susceptible to forgery as well.
What does this mean for you and why should you be concerned? Think about it. It means that you should never unconditionally open an email from which you do not know the sender. You should never trust any information from an unknown source. Paranoia big destroyer, like the Kinks worded it in one of their songs. Better to be safe than sorry while using the Internet.
If you click on a link in an email message that turns out to have some harmful virus or Trojan attached to it, you are not only putting yourself at risk, but possible also all the people in your address book. That is a serious responsibility and that is also why you should care about your computer's security.
There is no need for paranoia, but being a bit critical and cautious will surely not do any harm while using the Internet.

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Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Peter_D.

Network Security a Top Concern - Computer Security Can Be Yours With Satellite Internet Services

Network security is a top concern for computer users. With all the sensitive data and personal information passed through online communications, it's no wonder concerns regarding network security are now at an all-time high.
When internet users look for service deals, price is typically the top priority. However; making security your main consideration could be the smartest, and ultimately the most cost-effective, reason to select the right internet provider.
Satellite internet has proven to be highly safe. For users who shop and frequently share information pertaining to personal identification and financial resources, you could protect both your assets and identity with the aid of satellite internet's security systems.
While effective encryption of data was initially a concern with satellite transmissions, developments have been made to address and rectify any technological short-comings, resulting in greater peace of mind for users. Satellite providers continue to advance encryption standards.
Transmission Control Protocol/ Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) now transpires within an expedient time frame that does not compromise computer security. TCP Acceleration is a newer protocol that uses compression and packet management to speed delivery and reception of information sent via satellite internet connections. It in turn decreases the latency that once adversely affected bandwidth.
Another helpful development is a process referred to as pre-fetching or pipeline cache works. It works by separating objects (graphics or HTML code, for example) so systems can request these objects first and allow them more time to load. As a result web pages can load faster.
Of course, common sense and thoughtful consideration should always be given to any information you share online. Even with the safest of systems and reasonable precautions, putting data out for public consumption carries something of an inherent risk. Always be sure that you're giving your personal details to a trustworthy source.
With recent developments and ongoing improvements in satellite technology, there's no reason to fear satellite internet services. Now you can experience the computer security that you demand, along with the convenience of always-on connections and the web access you need even in remote and rural locales.

S. L. Robertson has published hundreds of articles on the topic of evolving internet technologies and regularly informs consumers about what to look for when considering high speed Internet in their homes. Robertson is considered an expert in the field of satellite Internet developments. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=S._L._Robertson