5 steps for a complete Internet security and Internet privacy

Once you buy a computer, you are usually provided instructions on plugging in a few wires into the computer after which you can start the computer. You will also have a short setup routine to go through when you first use Windows OS, where you may at the most be asked if you want Automatic Updates.

However, you will not be taught the means to secure your computer and the Internet connection it is logged into. Basically, PC companies have to provide all computer owners with these five tips that help secure any PC and its Internet network.

Installing a NAT router

The first step is the installation of a cheap and easy to use NAT (Network Address Translation) router. Although you may have a firewall, when your computer is connected to the Internet you are visible to others on the web. However, with the router, the Internet access address of the computer is translated into something private that others on the web cannot see.

The second step to take is to change the pre-configured login and password of the router. The actual login and password is well known and can be found on the Internet. Although a hacker cannot get this information from outside, if your computer gets infected by some other virus or malware, the hacker will be able to change things and send you anywhere he wants.

Turn on automatic updates

Though most computers come with Internet protection software like Norton Internet Security, it is better to install the latest and best software on your computer. This is the third step to remember, and to ensure that the software is updated regularly, preferably automatically.

The fourth step is to opt for automatic updates. If you haven’t done this at the beginning it is important that you do so now.

aware surfing And the last step to follow is to learn and use safe computer methods, like avoiding exposing yourself by surfing on potentially dangerous sites, having a specialized tool for cleaning your browser cookies and registry entries, using licensed applications and being updated on the safe usage of your email account. This is because the best security tools will never offer protection to you if have a habit of clicking pop-ups, opening all emails you receive, clicking on random links and generally all forms of unsafe surfing.