Using four simple tips from Scale, you can avoid computer viruses that may threaten the security and success of your business.
In order to maintain a successful and efficient business, you should always know how to avoid computer viruses. There are many nasty types of malware found on the Internet that can invade and infect your system and cause a variety of issues. These issues include your data and private information being compromised, your computer running slower and programs not running properly or even at all. It is absolutely essential to know how to avoid computer viruses in your business as there is so much more to lose on a broader scale. Here are a few good tips on protecting your network security and preventing viruses.
Avoid Clicking Links or Downloading Suspicious Attachments
First and foremost, you should never click on any link that appears suspicious. It is not uncommon to receive emails that contain spam. Often, these rogue emails include links or attachments that contain harmful content such as a Trojan horse that can spy on the computer’s network, viruses, or other types of malware that can install themselves on the system and cause major security issues. Remember not to forward the email to others, asking for their input about the email’s validity, as this could spread viruses faster than clicking on the virus itself. If an email is unsolicited and appears suspicious, it is wise to simply delete it immediately. Adjust the settings of your company’s email system to scan messages for viruses and place suspicious emails directly into a spam folder.
Restrict Administrative Access for Employees
Another wise move is to restrict your employees from installing hardware and software on computers within your company’s network. This can be controlled by restricting administrator privileges on all office computers to managerial staff members, which ensures that no rogue software gets onto the system through unknowing employees. It might be necessary to remind employees of why this is in effect, especially if questions arise during a meeting as to why they cannot download hardware or software.
Update Security System Regularly
Performing regular updates to the security system on your office’s network will ensure that the system is running with the latest software to protect from new viruses as they arise. This includes the virus definitions in any antivirus programs you have on the system and the latest fixes and patches for other types of software you have installed. All computers on your network work best if they utilize the same antivirus, as this consistency allows for a simplified method of restricting malicious software across the company rather than having to set different restrictions and updates across each different type of antivirus software.
Install and Maintain a Firewall
Your network should always be set up with a good firewall for all company computers. The purpose of a firewall is to monitor what users come in contact with when on a computer. It can block certain processes and software, which is great for preventing viruses and other malware from inhabiting your system. You can also customize your firewall to allow for or reject certain items. Make sure to monitor the firewalls on each company computer and verify that the system is up to date and functioning properly.
For more details on these and other ways to avoid computer viruses, contact Scale, an IT managed services provider in Central Arkansas, to help you manage the technology management needs for your company. When you utilize Scale’s business IT support and data protect services, your business can be assured complete protection against viruses and other forms of malware from entering into your computer network.
