A lot has been written about how to best protect your computer and data, so much so that it can become confusing. We thought we would give you a simple guide how to best keep your individual computer or network safe. Consider it best practices for home computer security. At the end there are a few links to provide you with greater detail.

First let’s talk about a layered defense. When we use this term for the home user we are talking about multiple layers of defense that you can easily implement to maintain a secure profile. This means your AV/AS (AntiVirus/AntiSpyware) is one layer, your firewall is another layer to protect your perimeter and we recommend using a couple other programs like Secunia and Malwarebytes to strengthen your defenses.

Job 0: Pay attention. The Internet can be lots of fun and very informative it can also be more dangerous than walking in a minefield.

Job 1: Your antivirus and antispyware programs are properly configured and the signatures are up-to-date. This is vital. There are something like 70,000 new malicious applications released per day (that’s right per day). Make your security program is on the ball and loading signatures throughout the day.

Job 2: Make sure you have a firewall. Make sure it is configured properly and of up-dated-as necessary. You must protect your perimeter both with what goes in and what goes out.

Job 3: Keep your Operating System (Windows for the most of us) in running order by applying security updates when they come out. Don’t just think because everything is fine that you don’t need to update. You do – that is why they are called updates. Go to http://www.windowsupdate.com to check for updates regularly

Job 4: Update your applications with newer versions and any security patches. This is a must as the bad guys have been creeping in through holes in some software. Secunia does a great job at helping you keep your applications up-to- date. Their Personal Software Inspector is free.
http://www.sunbeltsecuritynews.com/53EM42/101110-Software-Inspector

Job 5: Put in additional layer of protection with a specialized anti-trojan product like Malwarebytes. Yes it is a bit of a bother as you have to run it manually once a week, but it is worth the effort and it’s free.
http://www.sunbeltsecuritynews.com/53EM42/101110-Malware-Bytes

Job 6: Stay alert part 2. For goodness sakes don’t download stuff from places and people unknown. Don’t fall for scams requesting your password or banking information or social security number. Stop. Look. Think Before You Click!

Job 7: Use strong passwords. In fact don’t use passwords at all! Use a ‘pass phrase’ (a whole sentence) to better secure your logins.

(http://www.sunbeltsecuritynews.com)