Simple steps to protect from viruses

Ensure you have the most up to date version of virus protection software on your computer. The full version of the software is recommended, as free or downloaded programs are usually not sufficient. Always use well-known software with a reputation for dependability and regular definition updates.

Anti-virus software definition updates ensure that your software scans for the latest viruses, and it is important to keep these up to date.

Open e-mail attachments with caution

Many viruses spread through the use of e-mail. This can be done without the sender’s awareness. Some viruses can also be sent to an address in the infected computer’s address book. If you receive an unsolicited e-mail attachment from an unknown e-mail address, the safest course of action is to delete the message without opening the attachment.

Set up a firewall

A firewall is a device that protects your computer against unauthorised intrusions. This is important as it protects the security of your data. A firewall allows data to be sent from your computer, but prevents unknown data coming into your computer.

Encrypt your network

If you are particularly concerned about the confidential nature of your documents you can encrypt the data on your network. Doing this will code the data that is sent among users on your network and will help you avoid unauthorised access.

Password protect your network

Since some viruses are able to infect shared files across your network, a shared folder or hard drive should be password protected. This password should be not be saved on your computer (or another computer).

Try to avoid sharing your entire hard drive; share only particular folders which need to be available on the network.

Keep Windows, Internet Explorer and other Software updated

Patches are constantly released by Microsoft and other software vendors which fixes known problems. You can update Windows by using the Windows Update service (go to Tools, Windows Updates in Internet Explorer).

Beware of Hoaxes

There are many false warnings about viruses on your computer circulating throughout the Internet. These hoaxes often contain information on how to remove the “virus” from your system. These instructions may involve deleting essential Windows files.

Before following any instructions to delete files on your system, it’s best to check whether these instructions are genuine or false. Check the current virus list by heading to http://www.symantec.com and clicking on Security Response.

Backup Your Data

Backups are vital if you want to recover undamaged data from a virus. Just visualise how you would feel waking up tomorrow morning to a total loss of everything on your computer.

The guidance and support of a trained technician is highly recommended to make certain your internal processes and systems are well protected.

Coral Computers provides a range of security solutions suitable for your business or home computer. If you would like us to assess your security risk, to set up a plan of support or you require further information, please contact Coral Computers on 02 9870 7777.