Securing an At-Risk Computer

If you are concerned about the security of your computer and you want to find the latest windows security updates, you can easily research and find windows updates online. Most new computers already include automatic update tools to protect you with the latest security updates without any intervention from you or a technical expert.

If your computer is under attack from a virus or spyware, your pre-installed virus scan is the first order of defense. But what if your computer is infected with something you cannot remove with your standard security software? What if a virus or malware script invades your windows security? 

If your virus software has identified the threat, write down the name of the threatening program for future reference. Your security software may not be able to contain or remove the threat but if you know the name you may be able to find out more about it online. 

If the computer is still functional and you can still access the internet you are in pretty good shape. Search for one of the major virus detection and protection software sites and look up the name of the threatening file or virus. These sites will often include information about how to clean your machine and remove these viruses.

If you are unable to get to the internet or if there is no available information or technique with which to remove the threatening file, you should re-set or ‘restore’ your computer to a date that precedes the installation of the threatening software or file. Use the restore utility on your computer to take your computer back in time to a date before you experienced the problem. You will not lose any files you have created but you will lose any software you installed after that date. You can reinstall the necessary software after your computer integrity has been restored.  

If you are unable to restore the integrity of your computer, you should shut down the machine and take it an expert. DO not turn it off and on because some viruses will do more damage every time you reboot the machine. Do not send email from this machine or use your email address list. You may transmit a virus to your friends and family. If you need to contact someone by email use a friend’s machine, or your handheld or a library computer to get in touch. Wait until your computer is restored before you use it again.  

Windows security is imperative to the safe and dependable operation of your computer. Be sure you are protected with the windows security updates and exercise common sense when you use your computer.