10 Important computer security practices you should follow
- Use antivirus
- Leave User Account Control enabled
- Leave the firewall enabled and configured correctly
- Uninstall Java
- Keep your software updated – automatically if possible
- Be careful about programs you download and run
- Avoid pirated and cracked software
- Beware phishing and social engineering
- Don’t reuse passwords
- Use secure passwords
Excerpted from 10 Important Computer Security Practices You Should Follow
Use a Virtual Private Network on public wifi.
What is a VPN?
When you connect your computer (or another device, such as a smartphone or tablet) to a VPN, the computer acts as if it’s on the same local network as the VPN. All your network traffic is sent over a secure connection to the VPN. Because your computer behaves as if it’s on the network, this allows you to securely access local network resources even when you’re on the other side of the world. You’ll also be able to use the Internet as if you were present at the VPN’s location, which has some benefits if you’re using pubic Wi-Fi or want to access geo-blocked websites.
When you browse the web while connected to a VPN, your computer contacts the website through the encrypted VPN connection. The VPN forwards the request for you and forwards the response from the website back through the secure connection. If you’re using a USA-based VPN to access Netflix, Netflix will see your connection as coming from within the USA.
Excerpted from What is a VPN