gigatech-2-novConnecting an unprotected computer to the internet these days is dangerous. Even visiting the wrong website once can mean a compromised computer. Here is a step by step guide to protecting a computer from the dangers of the internet:

Antivirus

The first step is to make sure to install a virus scanner, or in the case of Windows 10, use Windows Defender. It is the most capable free virus scanner available and in future will use AI to detect threats as they happen.

Firewall

The next step is to secure the computer with a firewall. Again, every OS now comes with a built-in firewall. Just ensure that everything except the ports and applications you use is open. There are detailed guides for setting up a personal firewall.

Browsers

Google Chrome is currently the most secure browser. In addition, there are add-ons that will prevent popups and other links from opening in the background. There are also other plugins that block trackers and ad networks.

Updates

This is one of the most annoying for users but is also the most important. Keeping the computer up to date will ensure that malware that relies on older vulnerabilities will be negated. Update both the operating system and all the applications.

Networks

In the case of laptops and phones, only connect to known wireless networks. Especially when it comes to coffee shops and hotels. Make sure you are connecting to the right network as there are rogue networks meant to intercept your data as it goes through


gigatech-1-novMost people rely on a simple wireless router to provide wireless internet access at home. When they require wider coverage, the solution is to add an extender in areas that need the coverage. The problem here is that the router that comes with the connection is likely to have weak wireless coverage and each extender loses half of the available bandwidth for each extension. This causes a lack of bandwidth when there are more users and devices. As services like Netflix need more and more bandwidth for 4K and HDR streams, the network will eventually choke. Here are some steps to set it up differently.

Step one – First replace the router that comes with the connection. Alternatively, disable the wireless on that router and connect a dedicated access point for wireless.

Step two – Extend the network using same brand hardware. Normal extenders lose bandwidth, however, there are protocols used by some manufacturers that use their own mesh networks for inter-access point communication.

Step three – Whenever possible use Ethernet (network) cable to connect devices. Desktop computers close to an access point or router should be connected with a cable. Even when there are no nearby ports, use an access point as a bridge and connect to that physically.

Step four – Finally connect any devices that have a wired option direct to the network. For example, the Google Chromecast is connected to the network wirelessly. However, there is a separate wired network adaptor which can be purchased. For any device, this provides a more stable connection with additional bandwidth.