Windows Security

1. Install a reputable anti-virus program:

For example, Microsoft offers Microsoft Security Essentials, which will protect against viruses and spyware.
Students can download this software free from the Microsoft website by clicking on the link above.

2. Passwords:

Do not use something you can find in a dictionary (in any language or jargon).
Do not use a name (including that of a spouse, parent, child, pet, fantasy character, famous person and location) or any variation of your personal or account name.
Do not use accessible information about you (such as your phone number, license plate, or social security number) or your environment.
Do not use a birthday or a simple pattern (such as backwards, followed by a digit, or preceded by a digit. Instead, use a mixture of upper and lower case letters, as well as digits or punctuation.
When choosing a new password, make sure it´s unrelated to any previous password.
Use long passwords (say 8 characters long). You might use a word pair with punctuation inserted, a passphrase (an understandable sequence of words), or the first letter of each word in a passphrase.

3. Scan downloaded files for viruses.

Many internet browsers scan for viruses upon download. Your anti-virus program should also do this automatically.

4. Do not download programs or open attachments from sources you do not know.

5. Do not use peer-to-peer file sharing software.

This software not only facilitates the downloading of copyrighted files, but also spreads viruses and other malware.

6. Consider using an alternative operating system, such as Mac OS X or Linux.

These operating systems are much less susceptible to viruses based on how they operate.