7 essential security tools

Unprotected computer or computer without any security tool is always vulnerable to cyber criminals, hackers, spammers and identity thieves. So, to avoid such security problems , you should always learn about security software such as antispyware, antivirus etc. or some features in your operating system that can protect that threats sush as firewall.

The following 5 essential security tools can help you to protect your identity, personal information and data on your computer, so learn how to use them and you'll worry free about computer threats.


1. Operating system firewall:

Firewall is essential to block the unauthorized access to your computer data. It monitors the inbound and outbound traffic from your computer to the internet and blocks any suspicious traffic. Operating system firewall is necessary to protect your operating system and your data. This security tool blocks any malicious software from causing damage to files in your core windows operating system. It also blocks entry of hard to remove spyware and protect your operating system from any damage.

To turn on Internet Connection Firewall (Windows) :

I. Go to Control Panel, double-click Network and Internet Connections, and then click Set up or change your home or small office network.

II. Follow the steps in the Network Setup Wizard to turn on the Internet Connection Firewall.

When you choose a configuration in the wizard that indicates that your computer is connected directly to the Internet, the Internet Connection Firewall is turned on.

2. Antivirus:

Antivirus is necessary to protect your computer from damages by viruses, worms and trojans. Viruses and worms spread from one computer to another either through e-mails or from files downloaded from internet. They can damaged data on your computer. So, to protect your data and your hard disk, you should always have updated antivirus program with the latest definition files.

For example of antivirus softwares are NOD (or ESET), Norton, McAfee, vScan, Trend Micro ect.

3. Antispyware:

Antispyware protects your computer from spywares and intruders to protect your personal information. Spywares get installed on your computer without your consent and take control of your computer, gather your personal data, information, web activities and web sites you visit and transmit that data to others.

For example of antivirus softwares are Spybot S&D, AdAware, Microsoft Windows Defender ect.

**Be careful that one computer can have only one antivirus and one antispyware installed.**

4. Real time updates:

Nothing can protect your computer if your software have only old database. Your computer, including antivirus, antispyware and windows security hotfix, should have latest updates or real time updates against viruses, spywares and any new possible attacks.

5. Anti Spam, Anti Phishing, Email protection:

Phishing is a scam, which looks like a correspondence from a bank or institution to gather your personal information or bank details. Sometime it's site that look alike and you should be careful before type your username, password or your creditcard number. Internet explorer 7 have Phishing filters that can help you. To setting it is click Tools > Phishing filter and then turn on it.

By the way, Instant messenger program is the best way threats come through. Must be careful when your friend send any URLs or files to you. Ask what it is before accept or click.