Securing Work Documents and Files by Art Gib

Computers today are very different than they were in the past. They are used for everything from keeping budgets in spreadsheets, homework and work assignments, maintaining contact information, storing pictures, blogging, music storage, burning discs, making slideshows, and the uses could continue for pages. Software helps create and store the files, but sometimes, the operating systems used by the software can become compromised. There are hackers in the world who maliciously attack computers and can cause files and information to be lost forever.

Computer security is vital to maintain a computer's integrity, as well as to protect the information it has stored on its drives. Using passwords and secure log in information is important to keep a computer safe. Also, each computer should have anti-virus software installed that updates and scans the computer for any possible viruses.

Some viruses are latent and are there to collect information such as passwords. Other viruses can destroy the hard drive or freeze the computer. No matter what it can do, there are ways to keep a computer safe. One has already been mentioned, using anti-virus software. Some can be downloaded for free, while others can be bought and installed.

Also, if a person uses the internet, have a firewall installed. If the internet has wireless router access, secure the wireless internet to assure that only people that know the password can use it. This will keep people from using the internet that should not be and will help keep personal information secure.

When creating a password, make sure that it is unique and also memorable. It is not good to have a password that is hard to remember. Passwords should be long with a combination of numbers, words, letters or symbols. Have a secure place to keep this information so that it can be used in case a password is forgotten. In case something happens to an individual, this will help the family have access if they need it. Passwords should be kept private and sharing them should only occur when is absolutely necessary.

Keeping a computer safe and secure is vital. Regular updates should be done and computers should be scanned to assure that there are no viruses or malicious spyware installed that can be passed from computer to computer. In the end, the computer and its information is only as safe as the owner keeps it. Do what is necessary to keep personal passwords and other vital information secure.