Protecting Your Data

Although your computer can store a huge amount on its hard drive, you can still experience data loss due to power failure, virus attack, system failure or hacking.

To ensure effective protection for your data, you need to take some simple protective measures.

Backup your data

You should keep backup copies of your data so that even if your data is erased or lost, you can still recover it from the backup storage. You can use CDs or DVDs as well as use online service providers who offer secure remote data storage for your personal data. Norton 360 provides this option for the users.

Preventing virus attacks and data theft

Viruses and other harmful programs can erase your data from the hard drive.

Some programs like spyware or malware work like spies in your computer and provides your personal data to hackers your private information to steal from your bank account or take out loans in your name.

Use an updated anti-virus program in your system to protect your data from such incidents. Norton, Kaspersky and McAfee offer top class anti-virus software and software that can protect your PC against hackers who try to steal your private information.

Online protection

Your personal information may become extremely vulnerable while browsing through the Internet. Often websites ask for personal information like your credit card number or social security number. Remember to check the legitimacy of the site before giving this information as the site may be run by hackers.

Also avoid following links which come through e-mails as they may direct you to a counterfeit site run by hacker who can steal your personal information. This is called phishing.

Use diagnostic programs with caution

Diagnostic programs try to fix data files, but they can sometimes make things worse by damaging or corrupting the data, even if the file previously worked perfectly. So use diagnostic software carefully and restrict diagnostics from repairing important files unless they are damaged.

Data protection during power failure

You can easily prevent data loss due to power failure by simply developing the habit of saving your work frequently. Some programs such as Microsoft Office provide an auto save option, which reduces the possibility of data loss due to power failure. You can also use a UPS which will provide you emergency power supply if the electricity goes out suddenly, giving you the time to save data and shut down your computer properly.

Password protection

Using a password on your PC restricts other people from using it without your permission. This ensures the privacy of your confidential information. You can also lock individual folders which prevents other users having access to your data when they are using your computer.

By: ahmed jubair

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Jubair Ahmed is a senior writer/analyst for Discounted Software, an online retailer of software, factory direct from Symantec, Roxio and Parallels. Discounted Software also provides helpful PC tips, and information and overviews of leading utilities.