How do I know if my computer is safe and secure? 4 things you should do to test your security - all FREE.

How do I know if my computer is safe and secure?

By now, most people have taken reasonable step to secure their computers: antivirus software and firewalls are installed and accounts are password-protected. But how do you know if its working? There is no way to be certain but there are some tests that should help to either reassure or else highlight problems.

1. The first is from (surprisingly enough) Microsoft! MS have made available their MS Baseline Security Analyzer. It checks your system not just for any missing updates but also for common configuration problems. Download and run the program and it will give your system an MOT and tell you what you need to do to make it more secure.

2. The second thing you can do is go to go to the ‘Shields Up’ site and check your “File Sharing” and “Common Ports” weaknesses. The site will attempt to access your system and give you a report. Links and instructions are on my site.

3. The Baseline Security Analyzer checks your Microsoft software for security flaws but what about your other programs? I recommend Secunia. Download and run the program and it will identify any insecure programs installed on your computer and give you links to the solutions.

4. The last recommendation I have is to check the quality of your passwords. For this, go to CertainKey.com and it will tell you how long it takes to crack your password - you’ll be surprised.

All these products are FREE. Please contact me if you need further help.

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