Malware is an abbreviation for malicious software. Malware is a type of software that tries to get access to your computer or network without your knowledge or permission. Malware can be used to steal private information, spy on users, take control over computers and networks, encrypt files and hold them hostage until payment is made. Viruses are one example, they can be considered the most common form of malware.
Malware is increasing at a fast pace so it is important to understand how they work and what you can do to protect your network from these threats.
One of the most effective ways of preventing malware or virus infections is implementing security patches on all your devices that have an internet connection.
Step 1: Install Antivirus Software
You can’t protect your computer from malware and viruses without antivirus software. And the many types of antivirus programs available make it no surprise that deciding which one to use is a difficult task. You will probably want to choose an antivirus program that offers real-time protection, automatic updates, and an on-demand scanner. Furthermore, some antivirus software also includes anti-spam, anti-phishing, and web filtering capabilities.
Step 2: Keep your Antivirus Software Up to Date
Just installing the antivirus software is not enough to protect you from viruses. You will have to keep its virus definitions up to date. Virus definitions are files that the software uses to recognize computer viruses and malware. New viruses surface daily, so you need to make sure your software is using the latest virus definition files at all times.
Step 3: Create Backups of Your Important Data
If your computer does fall victim to a virus or other type of malware and none of your antivirus software can remove it, you will have to format your hard drive to rid yourself of the nasty infection. Before you go ahead with this method though, you should create backups of your important data so that you don’t lose any of it.
Step 4: Install Anti-spam Software
You don’t want junk mail cluttering up your inbox, but you need to make sure that legitimate emails are actually getting through to your inbox. Ask your IT Company if they offer spam filtering as part of their services or consider using anti-spam software on your own. You can find some good spam filtering programs for free online.
Step 5: Install Anti-phishing Software
Many of the emails sent from spammers and marketers contain links to websites that are meant to steal your personal information. So-called anti-phishing software will block these types of malicious websites from ever loading on your computer, which is a great way to make sure your data remains safe.
Step 6: Use a Firewall
You can also protect yourself from hackers by using a firewall. A firewall is an excellent way to secure your computer network because it will prevent outside users from accessing any of your private information. Most routers come with built-in firewalls, but you should consider investing in an external firewall if you want the best possible protection for your network.