What Are the Main Key Elements in Computer Operating System Security?

Without additional tools and without making certain precautions a matter of habit, you can expose your computer operating system (and therefore your data) to several kinds of threats. Protecting your operating system involves putting the rights tools and behaviors in place.

Passwords

Ideally, you do not want your operating system (OS) to go directly to your desktop when you start your computer. It is better to go to a login screen where the user has to enter a password.

Password Strength

Not all passwords are created equal. You don't want to use relatively easy to guess password that contains things like middle names, street addresses, birthdays, phone numbers, zip codes, or any other public information tied to you.

Encryption

Encryption scrambles your data so that it can only be read when you provide a password. You can encrypt individual files and folders or entire storage device "volumes" with software such as PGP or TrueCrypt.

Malware Protection

Viruses, Trojan horses, worms and keyloggers are collectively known as "malware." An antivirus scanner from Symantec, McAfee or Kaspersky can help protect your computer from these threats.

Risky Behavior

These scanners cannot detect 100 percent of all threats. Exercise caution when navigating to a questionable website or opening an email attachment. Beware of scam emails that try to get you to divulge sensitive personal information.

References

• US-cert.gov: Internet security tips
• Microsoft.com: creating strong passwords
• Netaction.org: data encryption