pc security

We all have important information stored on our computer. From family photos and work documents to tax forms and medical files, much of our data may be at risk if it somehow goes missing either from a malware attack or a failing hard drive. While Windows provides a variety of options for restore points through its backup tool, there’s more you can do to secure your files.

We all know small businesses try to squeeze the last ounce of utility out of everything they buy. But a recent report indicating most small businesses are running Windows versions more than 10 years old was still a bit shocking. If you are a small business running an older version of Windows such as Windows 7 or earlier, it’s time to upgrade because you’re risking the security and viability of your business. Yes, we can relate to those old adages “it’s cheaper to keep her,” and “if it ain’t broke don’t fix it.” But if you knew that clinging to your old operating system could hinder operational efficiency, cause you to lose potential customers and lead to cyberattacks, would it be worth it?

If you’re looking to increase the security of your network, a firewall is one of the first lines of defense you can utilize. Besides limiting access attempts to certain networks, modern firewalls have evolved to limit the ability of malicious attackers to steal sensitive information across a range of devices. Despite being an older security technology, firewalls are as important as ever - especially as new smart devices come online during the Internet of Things (IoT) revolution. Below, we’ll dive into how firewalls function and how they can be deployed to protect your network and bolster security.

If you don’t want outsiders to see your private information, encryption is a must. The good news is that you don’t need to be a tech genius to do it. It’s easy to learn to encrypt your files with this step-by-step guide. From emails between friends to top-secret business plans, anyone can protect their data and keep it safe from prying eyes.

Although you might not have experienced any issues sending emails containing sensitive information like your bank account number or login credentials, it’s still an operation that can make you vulnerable to hackers. Emails sent over an open network can be intercepted and malicious actors can see email contents, attachments, or even take over your account.

From infiltrating secure data systems to stealing confidential information, hackers stationed all around the world are always ready to aim and fire their next cyber attack onto unsuspecting web users.

In an age where our technology gets smarter and smarter by the month, we often overlook the integral machinery that makes our computers so intuitive. Each and every time you press your PC’s power button, the BIOS is the first operation to load your operating system and all of the personal settings that make your computer your own.

Your computer’s BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) software is an essential part of keeping all your systems running smoothly. Updating it can help resolve bugs and fix hardware issues. But before you make any updates to your BIOS, it’s important to know exactly when and how to update it. Making an unnecessary change could harm your computer instead of help if not done properly.

When you’re on the road, the last thing you want to worry about is whether your favorite laptop and its data will be lost or stolen. Traveling with your laptop, you’re often using various IP addresses and unsecured networks, which makes it much easier for your information to fall into the wrong hands. Left unguarded, your laptop's data can be pirated from various sources and the physical device may not be fully protected in a hotel room. This leaves no immediate alternative other than lugging your laptop around with you everywhere. Luckily, HP® offers an array of laptop security solutions.