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For many users, PC security is a topic that gets somewhat secondary treatment. Because often you get the impression that you can’t protect yourself anyway or that the whole thing is too complicated. However, this does not correspond to reality: If you take a few tips to heart, you can directly ward off a large number of dangers and optimally protect your computer. Some of the measures run in the background, so you don’t have to be active at all.
Set up virus scanner
A virus scanner should actually be the basic requirement for optimal protection on every PC. We present you with three options to activate your PC protection:
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: This antivirus scanner is installed on your Windows computer by default – but it doesn’t give you comprehensive security. Third-party antivirus programs give you more effective virus protection. Nevertheless, you should run Defender as a minimum of virus protection if you don’t want to install any other antivirus program. : This is one of the most popular antivirus programs, which is also developed in Germany. First, there’s a free version here that gives you protection against phishing, ransomware, as well as the basic function of scanning new files for viruses. With this software you are already very well secured. And that without having to pay a cent. However, there are also paid versions: Here you purchase a license for one year. In addition, you get protection for your other devices and when banking and shopping online. Otherwise, it is mainly advertised with acceleration of the computer performance, for which you do not necessarily need a paid antivirus software. : The software is chargeable, but you can try it out as a free trial for 30 days first. For one year and use on three devices you pay 59,99 Euro. One of the most interesting features besides the normal virus protection is the WLAN security advisor. It provides you with additional protection when you surf public networks, for example in the
Cafe or hotel.
Finally, we recommend the great test of antivirus software from AV-Test, which presents even more options. In general, it can be said about the optimal virus protection that your pre-installed Windows Defender is rather insufficient. With the free Avira Antivirus you are already very well protected. BitDefender is a very good option if you want to use paid software.
Create backup
If your PC does become infected, a new installation may be necessary. In order not to lose any data in such a case, you should make a backup of your computer once a day. In Windows 10, this is stored as a function, so it is not absolutely necessary to resort to the software of other manufacturers here. At the same time, of course, files stored in the cloud (like via Dropbox) are secured in case of data loss.
Use user account
The account you create during the initial setup is usually the admin account. This account has access to all files, is allowed to install software etc. For everyday use of your computer, you should now create a user account without admin rights. This way, you have to enter the admin password every time you want to install software, but it makes it harder for malware to get onto your computer.
Detect phishing e-mails
Unfortunately, phishing mails have become better and better in recent years and sometimes look very authentic. To be on the safe side, check the sender email address: If it does not match the alleged sender, it is a pishing email. Additionally, you can be sure that account information will never be requested from you via email. And if you still have doubts whether the mail is real, contact the support or log on to the website. However, it is important that you never follow links in suspicious mails: Often you will find a replicated page that looks like the real one. Always look for the SSL certificate in the address bar of your browser.
Apply updates
Operating systems (not only on the PC, but also on other devices such as routers, smartphones, etc.) are important.) often offer weaknesses that usually only become apparent over time. In such cases, the manufacturers react sometimes more, sometimes less quickly: They provide an update so that you can work with the device safely again. So don’t wait when a new update is ready, initiate the download directly.
Secure downloads
Always download software from the app store at best, as downloads are checked here. Possible malware is quickly unmasked here by user reviews. However, you won’t find every software in an app store. Then you should ideally always download from the manufacturer’s site. Websites that also offer free software downloads from other vendors often work with modified software. After installation, they can only display advertisements in the best case and ruin your PC in the worst case. If you have doubts, try to evaluate the seriousness of the download source first.
You should also make sure that plugins and extensions for your browser have received sufficient positive user reviews. Or be from known developers, so that you do not invite malware to your computer this way.
Tip: Please never download browser bars: They usually do not bring any real added value and slow down the performance of the browser and computer. They also like to install other software with promotional offers.
Protect your router
Another gateway for malware is an unsecured router. Hackers can access private data here. Preset network keys for the router can, but do not have to, be insecure. If you want to be sure, assign a new network key for your router.
Conclusion
As you can see, about 30 minutes is enough to secure your computer against most attacks from the net. If you then still move with reason through the net, your PC should remain safe.