How to Protect Your PC

Hackers and computer geeks out there are constantly writing and programming viruses that can damage your computer. Here are a few ways you can protect your PC from these malicious software threats.

Instructions 

Step 1

Have a firewall on at all times. This is a compulsory safety tool that will help filter incoming content to your PC and help block outside invaders from gaining access to your system. All recent Windows operating systems come with a built-in firewall that you can adjust via the Control Panel.

Step 2

Just having a firewall usually isn't enough. Try downloading a virus scanner and an adware/spyware remover. These programs are programmed to search for malicious software and remove if from your system. AVG is a great virus protection program that can be downloaded for free from download.com . Ad-aware is also a good program for removing ad/spyware from your system. It is also available for download from download.com .

Step 3

Configure your programs to frequently scan your system at a certain time daily or weekly. This will make sure on-going and current protection. Most programs have a readout of programs found and provide you the option to quarantine or delete them.

Step 4

If you are connected to a wireless network, get a knowledgeable friend or find a website that explains how to lock/encrypt your network. A hacker within range of your network can connect with no trouble at all and send you a virus that could destroy your system and its files.

Step 5

More and more people are subscribed to broadband internet. This type of internet connection is usually on 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If you want to help protect your computer even further from threats, you can unplug your Ethernet (internet) cable from the back of your computer when it isn't in use. Without being connected to the internet, your computer is safe from outside attackers.