Top Tips
1. Firstly, always run a good quality antivirus program
2. Keep your antivirus up to date at all times and scan your files regularly
3. Windows Update, ensure automatic updates are turned on.
4. Use a hardware firewall or at least install a software firewall
5. Check that the firewall is working by visiting the Shields-Up website.
6. Prevent spyware with Microsoft's Defender - keep it up to date
7. Before downloading emails, use a spam filter like MailWasher
8. Always check attachments with your antivirus software before opening them.
Firewall
The next vital thing you will need is a good firewall. WindowsXP does come with a built in firewall, but it's not fool proof. If you have a router instead of a modem to connect to the internet, many good quality routers have built-in hardware firewalls. If you don't have a router, then a good software firewall is essential.
Ever growing arrays of different types of threats are used to steal information from you, your computer and to cause you and other people harm.
You will hear words like Virus, Trojan, Spyware, Adware, Keyloggers, Rootkits, phishing, bots, port probes, dos attacks... these are just a few of the things you need to be aware of. There are new and inventive ways of doing damage and getting information from you being discovered everyday. So one of the main things is to be prepared and try to keep one step ahead at all times.
Virus
A virus is one of the most common threats on the internet. Usually (but not exclusively) they spread through email attachments and files you download from messenger type programs from friends. So, the first thing you will need in the war against these threats is a good anti-virus program. There are many anti-virus programs available, some are free like AVG and Avast or you can pay for others. Virus programs should offer hourly updates (remember viruses are being discovered every day), should not hog too many resources and be easy to use and understand. It runs in the background checking everything you do. If an email comes in with a known virus attachment, it will alert you and ask you to take action to protect yourself. The really important thing to remember with ANY anti virus software is you must keep it up to date. Also scan your complete system regularly.
The Information Technology Department continues to keep pace with the continuously changing world of computer and Internet-based technologies, providing
an innovative mix of modern programs and courses
for our students.
Whatever tomorrow's "Hot" IT technology is,
Huntershill will be here providing high quality
technical education for the future of our school!
