World Executive Digest | 8 Ways to Improve Laptop Security for Small Businesses |Did you know that there are 582 million entrepreneurs in the world? Are you a business owner who is trying to figure out whether or not you need to improve laptop security?
Being an entrepreneur, you find yourself on your laptop all day, and you need it to work in your favor, and securely. In this article, find out the top ways to improve laptop security. Read on to explore these top ways and know that you’re protecting your laptop from cyber attacks.
Different Types of Malware
Malware is a malicious code on the internet that can infect and interact with your computer. They can attack personal computers, small businesses, large businesses, etc.
Worms
One example of a type of malware is what’s known as a worm. This is a standalone software that will replicate itself. They normally go after your operating system files.
Trojan Horses
Trojan horses are another type of malware. It’ll look like a trustworthy program but isn’t. It allows attackers to get into your infected computer.
They can see information such as your banking information, IP addresses, and passwords. They’re considered one of the most dangerous since they can steal your sensitive information from the computer.
Rootkits
Rootkits allow malicious programs to gain access to the information on your system. They’re commonly used by hackers, and infect your system.
They’re difficult to find and remove. Sometimes the only way to remove it is by reinstalling the operating systems onto your computer.
Spyware
Spyware is a way for hackers to spy on your system and see who uses it. They can access and sell your personal data. It’s easy to remove.
Malware With No Files
Malware with no files works by infecting without having to use file systems. It spreads within your memory. They’ll spread out to other locations by using registry keys, APIs, etc.
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Have a Password on Your Screen Saver
Whenever you leave your laptop, never leave it open for anyone to use. Before leaving, make sure that you have a screen saver with a password required to enter it. You’ll want the screen saver to start automatically.
Doing this will help you avoid common cyber threats. To do this from Windows, go to your Windows key. Type in to change the screen saver, and press enter.
After this, choose the display logon screen. Make sure that you click apply before ok.
For Macs, you’ll need to choose system preferences, and then security & privacy. Once you’re there, choose general. Choose require password, and then you can choose how often it occurs.
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Have a Good Firewall
A firewall is a way to ensure that suspicious items stay away from your computer. When you receive a modem and router, ensure that it has a firewall.
You can upgrade and have a firewall installed onto your system as well. You can watch here how to upgrade your RAM on a MAC.
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Improve Browser Settings
In your browser, you might have the option to fix your level of security and privacy. Doing so can decrease the chance of malware infections. Certain browsers will even let you block cookies.
You can choose to add another form of protection by installing an anti-tracking browser such as Disconnect. Whether your browser is Edge, Firefox, or Safari, there should be an option to disable tracking.
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Install Antivirus Software
Whenever you have a computer or laptop, it’s connected to the internet, so is vulnerable. These attacks can be Trojan, ransomware, or malware. While an antivirus software won’t fully protect you, it’ll definitely help.
If you choose a free option, it won’t have as many options as a paid option. The paid options won’t cost too much, and you’ll have the option to choose the type of spyware that will protect you.
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Install a VPN
A VPN stands for a Virtual Private Network. This is a way for you to increase your security while you’re online.
When you use a VPN, your internet traffic will be encrypted. This means it hides your IP address and shows a different one.
With a VPN, you can also choose the server location. You can unlock geo-locked content, or get faster speeds.
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Have a Backup
Even with all of the above, there’s still the potential of a cyber attack. Your best bet is to protect your data by keeping it secure in an online backup service.
To use your Windows backup system, go to your Windows Control Panel, and then choose backup and restore. In this location, you can choose an automatic backup.
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Let’s Encrypt
You’ll want to encrypt your hard drive which will protect your files. Especially if you have a laptop, you’ll want this feature.
BitLocker is one type of encryption tool that’s free. You can use it on newer Windows operating systems.
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Don’t Click on Links You Don’t Know
Never click on a link you’re not sure about. Sometimes suspicious links can come from friends who have been hacked.
You can first hover the mouse over the link to see if it’s a trustworthy site. If when you hover over it, and it says something different than what it claims, don’t click on it. It’s cybercriminals or malware that are trying to access your data.
Exploring Ways To Improve Laptop Security
Now that you’ve explored ways to improve laptop security for your business, you should be well on your way to having a safer computer. Would you like to learn more about everything tech? For everything from signing a document on your computer, to starting a career in tech, check out our other articles today.
