Broadband Security
It quiet obvious that one confuses oneself with the various technical jargons related to broadband security. Some knowledge about what it really means and how to protect it from security issues leaves you tension free.
Broadband security as an issue
Since internet is a place where unlimited information is available, there is a high risk from viruses and hackers. Accessing information from the internet is possible while at the same time your personal details can be easily tracked down as internet is a open portal. This practise is quite normal for those who use broadband as it is an always on connection, whereby others can use your details when you are not surfing the internet.
Some common terms
Cookies – Cookies act as a marker on your hard drive so that you will be remembered by certain websites which you visit. This is used for websites which one uses often so that you will be relived from remembering the password and this is harmless for that matter. A perfect example is MSN Messenger.
Firewall - Firewall refers to a boundary or a system of boundaries within the computer and the internet-borne viruses that is susceptible to. It offers a defence mechanism whereby it blocks out known viruses and recognises the weakness of the system. This allows you to repair the whole thing.
Spam – Junk mails send by unknown senders who tell you something is referred to as spam. They could be a miracle for hair lose or solution for a problem and so on. Spam also comes with good news like you have won a competition which you never had entered.
Spy ware – There is a programme which is able to keep an eye on the user and tell exactly the websites visited and traces the personal details. This is called as Spy ware.
Viruses – Virus can be very destructive and harmful as it infects programmes existing in your computer with a copied version of itself. This results in the theft of private information and it is transferred to your computer when you try to download from unauthorized websites.
Wireless Broadband Security – This is one of the most talked about issue and is nowadays related to home wireless broadband. Thus securing your wireless network becomes very important as it can pave way to hacking your personal details if not protected.
Hackers who are indulged in the wireless network security flaws are known as ‘war drivers’ and they carry out ‘war driving’. This can be prevented if the user enters a “WEP” key (WEP is short for ‘Wired Equivalent Privacy’ and acts as a password) when setting up home wireless network. While setting up a wireless network take guidance it read the instruction manual properly.
In order to secure your computers privacy you will need to invest in internet security software and set up your wireless network properly. For combating new viruses more reputed software packages are available. The ones produced by companies such as McAfee and Norton which include features such as anti-virus, anti-spyware and firewall are popular at the same time very productive. While setting up wireless network with your wireless router and software instruction should be followed carefully.
Security software is available with pre installed in computer; otherwise you can always contact your broadband ISP for a security package. AOL provides you with free McAfee security software when you go for their broadband packages and some others have their own security software such as Virgin Media’s PCGuard software.
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