Make sure you have the latest updates. Install updates and security patches on all servers, desktops and notebooks.
- For the latest updates for your operating system Windows software and hardware, visit Microsoft Update (U.S.). It scans your computer to determine which updates you need and you can download all or part of them.
- To improve security and stability of Microsoft Office to go to Office Update (U.S.) and follow the link Check for Updates.
If you use Windows XP Professional, there is an even easier way to get updates. Simply activate the Automatic Updates feature, which allows its PC automatically notify you important updates as they become available.
Reduce the risk of viruses. It's many things you can do to protect your computer and your network against viruses. Use antivirus software and keep it updated is the first step but there are other things you can do:
- Use the default security settings in Office 2003, which is the most secure version of Office published to date
- Visit the Office Update (U.S.) site updates and the latest patches
- Never open suspicious emails or attachments, to use the prior art junk mail filter in Outlook 2003 to send suspicious messages directly your junk mail folder
Using Windows Security Center to manage your settings. Get a clear view of the security settings on your PC using the unique vantage point and unified under the Windows Security Center. As necessary to adapt security level that is comfortable. Parameters that protects your PC is automatically applied to files and content delivered via the Internet, help us to protect the confidentiality of company data.
Encrypt sensitive information on your laptop. If you travel business and use a laptop with Windows 2000 Professional or Windows XP Professional, protection against data theft. Using the Encrypting File System (EFS) to encrypt sensitive files and records. If the laptop is stolen, files and folders are protected because only those with a special decryption key can access to encrypted files.
Download files from the Internet, only trusted sources. If you are not sure whether the files to download are safe, consider downloading on a separate disk from your hard drive as a CD or floppy. Then you can scan the files with your scanner viruses.
Use password encryption to protect Office files. Encryption technology has improved strengthened password security in Word 2003 and Excel 2003 and extends the encryption password PowerPoint 2003. Look in the Tools menu in each of these three programs to activate the password protection password. It is an effective way to limit access to confidential business information.
Clean the hard drive before discarding a computer. If you get a new PC or laptop and your old man is being discharged, be sure to remove any sensitive business or information staff before letting you go. This does not mean simply deleting files and emptying the Recycle Bin. Your options include reformatting the hard disk or software acquisition clean cleaning.
Use a firewall. If your company is always on broadband Internet connection, install a server security as a basic line of defense against outside intruders. There are two basic types: 1) a firewall software such as Microsoft Internet Connection Firewall which includes Windows XP Professional protects the computer running, and 2) a hardware firewall that blocks all traffic between the Internet and its network of everything except for traffic from senders which are particularly reliable.
Never surf the Web from a server. In the command center for your entire network, a server usually stores critical business information. If your server is compromised, putting all this data and your entire network at risk.
Sea smart about passwords. Always use strong passwords that are at least eight characters and a combination of uppercase and higher numbers and symbols. Do not use the same password on multiple times and make it a point to change your password. If you have trouble remembering passwords, you can use a phrase in passing that you can do in Windows 2000 and Windows XP. A pass phrase could be something like "I had pizza for lunch on Tuesday.
For more tips on safe computing tour title = "Guide for PC Microsoft SMB workgroup"> Guide for Microsoft SMB PC users in the workplace.
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Article Source: ArticlesBase.com – Tips for Safe Computing – Microsoft Small Business Centre
