24 Feb Computer Security: Three Essentials
Computers and smartphones are integral to almost everyone’s lives, and they are an important part of businesses today; so it is vital that steps are taken to protect valuable data and other information. Whenever a connection to the Internet is established, files are shared, or e-mails are sent, there is an opportunity for computer criminals to hack into a network’s server. If a hacker can break into a network, he can steal valuable business information, as well as personal information about employees; and can even download malicious software into a server that can cause serious damage.
The team of professionals at the IT support Miami-based company, Telx Computers, can help provide businesses with the needed security programs that will best protect their valuable business information. Firewalls, antivirus programs, and antispyware software are three essential ways in which businesses can protect their network servers from malicious attacks.
FIREWALLS
One of the first steps that can be taken is to install an effective firewall. An Internet firewall is a security program that is designed to hinder the intrusion of any unwanted programs or data. Firewalls also inspect incoming connections for known attack methods and prevent these attacks from impacting internal network devices. They are designed to shut off access to operating systems or to other computers that are connected to a business’s network. They will automatically refuse and decrypt the unwanted information through the network, helping to save data from the hands of hackers.
Firewalls are highly valued by businesses for their ability to keep private information secure. Identity theft is a growing crime; firewalls are a good defense against online predators. Personal electronic information can also be kept private. Not only is privacy important for a competitive perspective, but also to maintain good business. Businesses have a duty to provide their customers with online business transactions that are as safe and as private as possible.
ANTIVIRUS PROGRAMS
Viruses, worms, and Trojans are programs created by hackers that use the Internet to infect vulnerable computers and networks. Viruses and worms can replicate themselves from computer to computer in order to travel through a network, while Trojans enter a computer by hiding inside an otherwise legitimate program, such as a screen saver. Destructive viruses, worms, and Trojans can erase information from a hard disk or completely disable a computer. Others may not cause as much direct damage, but can still worsen a computer’s performance and stability.
Antivirus programs scan e-mails and other files on a computer for these malicious viruses, worms, and Trojans. If one is found, the antivirus program will either isolate it or destroy it entirely before files are damaged or the computer is corrupted. It is important to make sure to keep an antivirus program up to date. When the program is updated, it adds new viruses to its list of things to check for, helping to better protect computers from attacks.
ANTISPYWARE
Spyware is software that can display advertisements, collect information, or change settings on a computer, generally without obtaining consent. Spyware can install unwanted toolbars, links, or favorites in a web browser, change a default homepage, or display pop-up ads frequently. Some spyware software doesn’t do anything visible; instead, it secretly travels through a server system collecting information. Most spyware is installed through free software that is downloaded. Antispyware programs help to protect computers from these unwanted programs.
Using these security programs and the IT services offered by the computer support Miami company Telx Computers is one of the most effective things a business can do to protect its valuable information.