Expert Home Security Comparison Guide and Reviews

4 Straightforward Steps To Home Network Security Simplified

September 9th, 2007 Subscribe To Our Feed

The majority of us would never even think of going out of our homes while leaving the door’s Wide open. However, so many of us don’t even give a second thought about leaving our home networks totally unprotected, despite the fact that a hacker that is experienced can obtain access to enough information to defraud us out of our credit rating, money, and identity.

Home network security does not need to be expensive or difficult, and you don’t have to be a computer expert to keep a solid home security network. Just follow a few easy guidelines to discourage the majority of attempts at intrusion.

Use a Firewall

If your computer is attached to a broadband modem, it’s always in touch with the internet–that is, always on. A firewall provides home network security by regulating access between your network and any other networks that your network might be trying to interact with.

Most firewalls allow you to choose which networks you want to connect with and which networks you don’t. Disallowed networks will be “blocked.” Depending on your preferences, you may or may not get a message when an outside network is blocked from connecting with your computer.

Use Anti-Virus Software

Anti-virus software is exactly what it sounds like: it scans your computer for viruses and either removes or isolates them. (A virus, by the way, is a usually malicious program that copies itself to codes or documents on your computer any may email itself to people on your contact list as well).

New viruses are discovered almost daily, so to make sure your home network security against viruses, purchase a package that provides frequent updates.

Use Caution With Downloads

A few years ago, several people downloaded what they thought was a pretty waterfall screensaver. What they really downloaded, however, was a Trojan Horse–a malicious program that hides itself in a seemingly benign program–that caused their computers to crash.

You can enhance your home network security by avoiding downloading programs from the internet unless you are sure they are safe.

Most large business sites like Travelocity, Yahoo, Amazon, etc. go out of their way to make sure the downloads they offer are harmless. Be cautious, however, about downloading materials from small, private sites. Often, your firewall or antivirus software will warn you when you are about to download questionable material.

Don’t Fall for Phishing Scams

The general idea behind a phishing scam, you will get an e-mail from what looks like a reputable company (e.g. — eBay). The e-mail tells you that your information has either expired or been lost and point you in the direction to click a link to have your information updated before they end up closing your account.

When the link is then clicked on by you, it directs you to a fake site where any and all information you enter (e.g. — credit card numbers, passwords) can then be used to defraud you.

For most of us home network security is relatively a new concern. But it behooves you to protect and inform itself about the criminals that crash through your modem as opposed to your front door.