8 Steps to Secure a Computer

Practice safe computing by securing a computer, backing up important files, and following the best practices to avoid scams. Any computer connected to the network is vulnerable to attack. Follow these 8 steps to minimize risk and make a computer safer. 

1. UPDATE OPERATING SYSTEM

Learn how to get Mac OS X updates or Windows updates. Most security issues are related to vulnerabilities in the operating system. As these flaws are discovered, software companies release patches and updates to protect your computer from the security holes. College-owned computers are configured to automatically update their operating system. 

2. INSTALL AND UPDATE ANTI-VIRUS SOFTWARE

Download Symantec Endpoint Protection (SEP). Computer viruses and malware are some of the largest risks to a network. An infected computer can spread a virus quickly to other computers over the network. Anti-virus software is critical to practice safe computing. College-owned computers have anti-viurs software installed and are configured to automatically update.

3. USE STRONG PASSWORDS

Learn how to create a strong password. The keys to password strength are length, complexity and time to refresh—especially length. An ideal password is long (at least 8 characters) and has letters, punctuation, symbols, and numbers. Do not use single words, pet names, birthdays, etc. Never share passwords and do not let browsers remember passwords. Use a different password for each online account. It’s okay to write down passwords; just keep them protected just like credit cards. 

4. PROTECT SENSITIVE INFORMATION

Learn how to identify and store sensitive information. Never store information of a confidential nature or that can be used to steal an identity in an insecure location. Be particularly careful of names in combination with one or more of the following: Social Security Number, bank account or credit/debit card numbers, driver’s license or state ID, passport number. 

5. BACK UP IMPORTANT FILES

Learn about back-up solutions. No system is completely secure. If important files are stored on a computer, copy them to a secure network location or to another removable drive or disc and store them in a different location from the computer.

6. ENABLE FIREWALL PROTECTION

Learn how to set up a firewall for Mac OS X or firewall for Windows 7. Firewall software can help protect a computer against hackers and other security attacks. The latest versions of Windows and the Macintosh operating systems have built in firewalls. It is sufficient to only use this built in firewall. College-owned computers are configured with this firewall turned on. 

7. STAY SAFE ONLINE

Follow general tips for safe computing and online privacy and Google’s Good to Know. For any college community computers and mobile devices are primary tools in educational, administrative, and social life. Students, faculty and staff use the Internet for homework, research, social networking, business transactions, online purchases, and more. 

8. ENABLE SCREEN SAVER PASSWORDS

Learn how to lock Mac OS X computer screen  or lock Windows computer screen. When away from a computer, lock the screen or set a screen saver password. This will prevent someone from using a computer when you are away from your desk. This feature is set by default on all College-owned computers.