As we get deeper into fall and closer to holiday season, you might start to think about finding new tech gifts for your loved ones or … for yourself. Obviously, one of the most popular go-to tech items is a new laptop. Whether for personal or business use, laptops are an essential for most people. About 73 percent of adults in the United States own either a desktop or a laptop computer, according to Pew Research Center. If you’re one of the millions of computer owners thinking about purchasing a new laptop, security must be front-and-center in your mind.
What are some simple, common-sense ways to protect your new laptop?
PCWorld offers some crucial advice:
Install top-notch security software. They write that Internet use poses the greatest threat to laptop safety. While Mac and Windows devices come with their own built-in security protections, they suggest purchasing additional security systems. One example is Norton.
“Norton is an integral piece of the world’s largest civilian cyber intelligence network, allowing them to see and protect against advanced cyber threats,” the computer magazine writes. “Norton also has the Virus Protection Promise, and Norton is so confident in its protection that it’s guaranteed. If your PC or Mac gets a virus that Norton experts cannot remove, they’ll give you a refund.”
They also suggest using virtual private networks (VPN), which offer privacy by way of a private network when using public Internet connections.
Transportation is always key. If you plan on taking your laptop on trips, to coffee shops or business meetings, you’ll need to also purchase a secure bag for your computer. Make sure you get one with safe internal padding so that your computer doesn’t get damaged from all the jostling around that comes with travel. Also, pick a laptop bag with waterproof fabric on the outside in case you get caught in a rainstorm.
Always purchase insurance for your new computer in case it gets damaged or stolen.
Beyond all of this, discussions around computer security always come back to data. Back up your data on the cloud — like Apple’s iCloud — or use an external hard drive in case your computer either becomes compromised by a hack or gets damaged irreparably. Make sure your precious documents and data are stored and saved so you can retrieve them at a later time.