Any device you use to access the Internet is susceptible to viruses, malicious software, spyware, phishing scams, and hacking. This means it’s important to protect your computer in any way possible, and this includes any sensitive data that may be on an external hard drive that is connected to the computer.
There are several different ways you can do it, too. After all, there are several different things that can happen to your computer, including making sure your operating system has automatic updates switched on, using cloud-based storage, and installing an antivirus program to name but a few.
We’ll take a moment to talk about some of the different types of programs you want to use and we’ll take a look at which software programs are among the best of the best. You may be surprised just what you could (and should) be doing to protect your device, your hard drive, your data, and yourself from malware.
Available Cybersecurity Options
A firewall is the first method of protection when it comes to your device. A firewall is a system that actually helps your computer keep out the stuff you don’t want like malware. It scans through everything that you do and makes sure that nothing is happening that you don’t want or don’t know about.
For most people, the firewall is part of the router or the modem that you get when you sign up with an Internet provider. You don’t want to just rely on the firewall on your router, though. You’ll also want to take a look at the firewall on the specific device you’re using and make sure that it’s high quality.
Next up is the antivirus software on your computer. There are actually antivirus systems installed directly onto your computer from the start and can help protect against phishing scams and identity theft. They tend to come from the manufacturer of your device, such as the Microsoft Security Essentials system.
You’ll want to check for updates on any antivirus software that you may have and make sure it’s always up-to-date to keep you protected. Make sure you also check every device that you attach to your computer, such as flash drives or even external hard drives. You never know where something could pick up a virus and install it on your computer.
Keeping your computer updated is an important process, as well. That’s because your security systems and antivirus software are only valid on the latest version of your operating system. If you don’t update your computer, the antivirus software may not work. That means you’re at risk of getting a virus on your device. By following all of the updates, you’re going to be off to a good start, but there’s still more that you can do.
Your web browser should be one that has security and keeps your device protected. Using more popular systems that have high-quality security is important, especially if you’re using a network that is open to a lot of people.
If you’re out somewhere using public Wi-Fi you need even stronger security settings. Try to avoid using public Wi-Fi whenever possible, but if you absolutely have to use it look for strong security programs, antivirus software, and possibly even a VPN that keeps your information as private and encrypted as possible to protect against a brute-force attack.
The Security Software You Need
There are tons of great options when it comes to antivirus software. But which one is best for your computer? We’ve listed a couple of our favorites below and reviewed plenty more digital security sources to help you find the right antivirus program for you.
Norton Security Premium
Norton Security Premium is made by one of the companies best known for computer protection. This specific program is designed to keep your device entirely protected from any kind of virus. In fact, there’s a 100% guarantee that tells you they’re going to do everything possible to keep viruses out.
What’s really great is that you’re not limited to only your computer. You can actually use this program on any of your devices that use Android or iOS, as well. That’s definitely going to keep you better protected, no matter where you go or what you’re doing.
This program can actually track your devices as well, which means that if they are lost or stolen, you’ll be able to quickly and easily track them to a new location. You don’t get control over what your children are doing if you use any kind of Apple device but Windows computers and Android devices do have this kind of protection.
Kaspersky Total Security
Next up is something called Kaspersky Total Security. If you’re worried about what your child could be accessing on the Internet, you want to make sure you have complete control. With this program, you’re going to get all the control you need and you’ll be able to detect just about anything that happens on your devices.
What’s really nice, though, is that you can block websites that you don’t want your child to use or even set up specific times when they aren’t able to use the computer. When it comes to others using the devices, you get malware protection and you get shielding for all of your usernames and passwords to keep your information more secure.
The Cybersecurity Bottom Line
There are plenty of great features available for you to try out and plenty of systems that will help you and your family stay safer online. It’s all about looking at the options and seeing just how they’re going to work for your specific needs.
You need to research antivirus programs and make sure they have all the security options you want before installing them. And don’t discount any antivirus software just because it requires a small monthly subscription fee!
Many of the free antivirus for Mac and Windows don’t provide you with the extra layer of protection that you need, which means that you and your loved ones are still susceptible to being the victim of malicious hackers or even identity thieves.
Check out our reviews of the best antivirus programs of 2019 for more helpful info!