Stop Relying on Antivirus Software, it isn’t Enough

I used to (and probably you too) think that our duty to secure PC ends after installing Antivirus software. However, that is partially true. One should not rely on single type of defense but multiple layer of security considering how dreadful malware have become.

Blog article on Dealarious suggest that security starts right from building your Computer. Starting from hardware components I mean. Here is a 8 step checklist list published on how to secure PC completely:

1. Install Windows 8 as operating system

It is the latest version from Microsoft and will have a benefit of continued support and updates. This include regular patches and fixes to the vulnerabilities found in the system architecture.

2. Use Motherboard that supports SecureBoot

SecureBoot is a component of Windows 8 operating system to help prevent malicious software applications and “unauthorized” operating systems from loading during the system start-up process.

There are concerns that you won’t be able to install Linux as dual OS with SecureBoot. But then, it is a step taken to restrict malware from loading not Linux.

3. Do not Use Admin user regularly

When you are logged in as administrator, you have escalated privileges to make changes to system files. So, it is recommended to use another user with standard privileges so that even if malware tries to attack, it will be locked down due to lack of administrator privileges.

Learn how to sign in as different user on Windows 8

4. Keep Software programs which are required

Uninstall all the crap and unused stuff from your Computer. Not only this will save space but also prevent infection from spreading through them if any. Check out these 6 tools to clean up Windows and uninstall unused.

5. Stay up-to-date on all Software programs

Keep track of outdated software programs installed for they maybe more vulnerable to attacks.

6. Keep User Account Control to always Active

Whenever a program tries to modify system files, User Account Control makes sure these changes are made only with approval from the administrator. So, you get a popup notification whether it should be allowed or not.

If you think that the application asking for permission is not legit, it wont be given further access to make any sort of changes.

7. Stop Using Duplicate and Simple Passwords

I know it is difficult to remember unique passwords for each and every site you register. So, I personally recommend using LastPass to do this task for you. Also, you may opt for using a secure password generator website if you want to remember them by yourself.

8. Use Antivirus

Well, you already know why you need this 🙂