Protecting Your Computer

Simple Steps That Make a Big Difference

Why Your Computer Matters in Cybersecurity

Your computer is the place where:

• You log into accounts

• You store files

• You read emails

• You make decisions

If your computer is compromised, even strong passwords and MFA can be undermined.

Protecting your computer is about reducing opportunities for attackers.

The Most Important Protection: Updates

Why Updates Matter So Much

Updates exist to:

• Fix security holes

• Patch known weaknesses

• Improve stability

Attackers actively look for computers that:

• Haven’t been updated

• Are running old software

Delaying updates leaves known doors unlocked.

Best Practice

• Enable automatic updates

• Restart when prompted

• Keep your operating system current

This one habit stops many attacks.

Antivirus and Built-In Security Tools

Modern operating systems already include strong protection.

Examples:

• Windows Security (Windows Defender)

• macOS built-in protections

These tools:

• Scan for malware

• Block known threats

• Run quietly in the background

Third-party antivirus can help, but it’s not always necessary.

What Antivirus Can and Can’t Do

Antivirus:

• Detects known threats

• Blocks suspicious behavior

Antivirus cannot:

• Stop phishing on its own

• Prevent poor decisions

• Fix outdated software

It’s a safety net — not a replacement for awareness.

Firewalls (Explained Simply)

A firewall:

Controls what traffic is allowed in and out of your computer.

Think of it as a digital gatekeeper.

Firewalls:

• Block unwanted connections

• Are usually enabled by default

• Require little maintenance

Keep them turned on.

User Accounts and Admin Access

Using an admin account all the time increases risk.

Best practice:

• Use a standard user account for daily activities

• Reserve admin access for installations and changes

This limits what malware can do.

Safe Software Habits

Reduce risk by:

• Downloading software from trusted sources

• Avoiding pirated or “cracked” programs

• Uninstalling software you don’t use

• Being cautious with browser extensions

Every extra program increases attack surface.

Browser Security Basics

Your browser is your main gateway to the internet.

Protect it by:

• Keeping it updated

• Limiting extensions

• Avoiding unknown downloads

• Using built-in security warnings

If your browser warns you, pay attention.

Physical Security Still Matters

Protect your computer physically:

• Lock your screen when away

• Don’t leave devices unattended in public

• Use full-disk encryption (often enabled by default)

Cybersecurity includes the real world.

Signs Your Computer May Be Compromised

Watch for:

• Sudden slowdowns

• Unexpected pop-ups

• New programs you didn’t install

• Strange account behavior

One sign doesn’t always mean danger — patterns do.

Key Takeaways

• Updates are the most important protection

• Built-in security tools are effective

• Firewalls should stay enabled

• Use standard accounts for daily use

• Safe habits reduce risk more than tools

Quick Checklist

• Automatic updates enabled

• Antivirus active

• Firewall turned on

• Browser up to date

• Screen lock enabled

Small checks make a big difference.

Up Next

Next, we’ll look at mobile device security — how to protect your phone and tablet, which often hold even more personal data than computers.