Keeping your software up to date and secure is the best approach in ensuring your IT systems run securely. It also ensures that your business cuts on the cost of operation as it prevents unnecessary costs like paying ransoms after the system is hacked.
Malware and hackers are always busy devising methods of attacking careless businesses through various cybercrimes. Therefore, having the right software and software updates will secure your systems as you concentrate on other issues. Read on to learn the best tips for keeping your software up to date and secure.
Update Your Operating System Regularly
Studies show that hackers learn the secrets of the existing operating systems and then use them to harm your machine if you don’t upgrade regularly. Therefore, for you to keep your system secure at all times, it is essential to keep updating your operating system whenever new versions become available. New operating systems come with security patches that protect your system from recent threats. You can always set your computer at auto-update to install itself without much effort.
Invest In Strong Anti-Virus and Malware Protection
As the saying goes, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”, and this applies in the software as much as anywhere. Investing in strong anti-virus and malware protection will see your system go a long way without interruptions. Some anti-viruses are expensive, but it is better than paying a hefty ransom to claim your data back, or allowing your all of your business data to be vulnerable to hackers.
However, before investing in suitable anti-virus protection, ensure that the vendors have adhered to set security rules or use the Techumen’s HIPAA security rule checklist. You can also reach out to the company’s support team for more security advice and services.
Update Your Drivers and Apps Regularly
Updating the operating system is often the best security decision for for a business. However, having the right OS without the best applications ad drivers is still a disservice to your systems. Therefore, as you update your OS, ensure you do the same to your software and drivers. You can purchase the latest software from your operating system providers or other vendors. The updated software will ensure that your system is safe from any instance of malware.
Buy Software from Genuine Vendors
Another factor to consider as you update your system is the source of your software. It is essential to avoid downloading free software and drivers from the internet, especially when you suspect the authenticity of the parent site. The best way to source genuine software is to buy it from the original manufacturer or another recommended vendor. Look for such vendors by searching the internet for reviews. You can also ask for recommendations from friends or IT experts.
Again, it is better to incur the cost of buying original software than become a victim of phishing. The best way to source free software is by visiting your operating system provider’s website. You can also use the AppStore and Android software if you are using a smartphones or tablet.
Use Secure Wi-Fi to Access the Internet
After taking care of the security issues like doing updates and obtaining anti-virus software, make sure your Wi-Fi is secure, as it can be a significant source for hackers in many organizations. Before connecting your device to the local Wi-Fi at the coffee shop or in the library, it is essential to ensure that the connection is secure.
If it is not secure, you are vulnerable to hackers who will steal your essential data like passwords. If you have to use the local government or private Wi-Fi, don’t log into your important accounts, such as bank accounts. Also, avoid sharing essential and confidential data using unsecured internet connections.
Bottom Line
Software security will go a long way toward keeping your business operations safe. Update your operating system regularly to install the new security patches. Invest in updated software and drivers to seal all the loopholes hackers use to attack your business. Use anti-virus and malware protection systems to defend your computer systems from any instances of malware. Ensure you source the software from genuine vendors to avoid instances of phishing.
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