It seems like every time we turn on the news there’s a story about valuable data being compromised. We can all be vulnerable to hackers and viruses if we don’t take proper precautions to protect our computers- both personal, and work-related.

National Computer Security Awareness day started in 1988 when companies began to collect and store valuable data electronically. In light of Computer Security Awareness day on November 30th, we’re sharing the 3 most effective methods to assure your PC is 100% secure.

Step 1: Install AVG anti virus

The AVG software performs periodic scans, checking for any viruses on your computer. It also scans each email sent to your inbox and on messaging apps, like Facebook. When dealing with an exclusive AVG retailer, such as Altair, you or your business will receive dedicated, ongoing support with any problems that may arise.

Step 2- Keep your operating system updated

Both Microsoft and Apple release updates on a weekly or bi-weekly basis. Most times they are just small adjustments, but they play an important part in protecting your computer from malware and viruses, but especially hackers. Often times when hackers are successful, it’s because they’ve found a gateway through your computer’s own security features. Therefore if your operating system isn’t updated, your odds of being hacked increase.

We recommend adjusting your system preferences to automatically update. We all know how easy it is to ignore notifications.

Step 3: Educate yourself

Buying your first computer isn’t like buying your first car. You don’t need a license to own a computer, but what if you did?

Being educated about computer security is just as important as having a license in our opinion. With all of the sharing that occurs today online, we are more vulnerable than ever to malware and hackers. It’s important to understand how vulnerable you really are by grasping the fundamentals of how a computer is protected, or not protected.

There are several computer security courses online, but instead we’re suggesting something a little less heavy- YouTube.