Internet Security

Computer Security consists of three distinct layers, namely machine-level security, network security, and Internet security.

The term machine-level security describes all the actions you take, in order to, keep your information on your computer safe. In terms of machine-level security, it is not necessary to be connected to a network rather a standalone computer might be considered as a potential aim for attackers. Moreover, this type of security particularly refers to all steps you follow to physically protect your information from potential threats, such as someone trying to break into your computer system by cracking your password.

What I already do:

ñ  using a strong password

ñ  back up my data

ñ  encrypt email messages

What I need to do:

ñ  change my password on a regular basis

ñ  should back up all my data more often than just every few months

ñ  store my back ups on one device, not several

ñ  if stored on a external device, keep it separate from the computer

ñ  maybe should store my information online to keep better track of it and have it at one place, easily accessible

ñ  make multiple copies of very important files, not just one

 

The second layer of computer security is network security which includes all safety measurements, in order to keep your data safe while connected to a network. This type of security offers several ways to secure your information, for instance permissions which can give you special privileges.

What I already do:

ñ  run regular security updates on my computer

ñ  use a unique SSID(Service Set Identificatier) for my router

ñ  use a network security protocol – WPA 2.0(wireless) only members of the network have the security key

ñ  used random numbers and letters for my security key

ñ  disabled the auto-connect function of my router which prevents it from broadcasting its existence

ñ  use a router firewall

ñ  don't send sensitive data over my network

What I need to do:

ñ  set my router to only connect to SSID's of my computers

ñ  be careful when logging into a network outside home – ensure it is a safe network

ñ  should not connect to unknown access points – I often catch myself connecting to unknown access points when being away from home, which can be very harmful in terms of security

Last, Internet security covers the third point of computer security which includes all the threats you might face while being connected to the Internet.

What I already do:

ñ  use a firewall

ñ  installed anti-virus software on my computer

ñ  run regular automated anti-virus software updates

ñ  checked my brower's security settings – set my 'Internet zone' settings to high

ñ  I don't open emails or attachments of unknown origin

ñ  don't run unknown programs

ñ  I don't safe my passwords online – I always make sure that the 'Remember Me' button is disabled

ñ  I run regular Windows updates

What I need to do:

ñ  I should not follow random links on the Web – often catch myself following links because of curiosity

ñ  I should disable hidden file extensions

ñ  I should always safely log out when exiting my online accounts, e.g facebook – this is one of my weakest points; I often catch myself just closing the site without logging off

ñ  install anti-spyware programs

ñ  I should change my passwords more often

ñ  I could scan my computer for potential viruses more often