It’s common knowledge at this point that technology plays a central role in our lives. From smart homes, smart phones, computers, laptops – it seems that our entire life is assisted with technology. There’s simply no excuse to not understand your technology or how to use every-day tech items like a smartphone. Still working on figuring out the ropes of technology? Have no fear! Here are 5 tips to help you navigate the technical waters of the future.
1. Update your Internet Browser
There always seems to be another update of an Internet browser every week, but it’s for good reason. If you are using an outdated version of Internet Explorer, you are putting your computer at risk. This is because some older versions no longer receive updates. This can mean that if you visit an unprotected website, it might be able to read your files and even damage them. Your passwords are also more likely to be stolen with an older browser version, and a computer with an older browser is more likely to crash and not work. Updating your browser and make sure you have the most current version will protect you, and takes a couple of minutes out of your busy day to do. There’s no reason not to update your browser!
2. Keep Your Operating System Up to Date
Most computer operating systems today are designed to update automatically. Hackers are so complex these days that they are making it a necessity that operating systems are kept as current as possible, with automatic updating required to be sure the latest patches, updates and drivers are installed to avoid the latest security threats. Occasionally, an update can cause a widespread glitch, so it is advised to do this when you are not in the midst of a big project. Glitches do not typically happen but our experts will tell you the risk not to update regularly your Operating System is far greater than keeping it set to automatically update. Check to see if your OS is up to date today and make sure the latest security patches are applied.
3. Use Antivirus Software
Even if you have a Mac, your computer is vulnerable to viruses. It is imperative that you have an antivirus software like Malwarebytes, Sophos, or Norton Anti- Virus. These applications protect your machine from malicious hackers and other missteps that can happen while surfing the web. If you think you do not need to protect your machine from viruses and would rather take care of it after the virus strikes, you are in for a world of stress, excess money being spent, and, risking your technological safety. There’s no downside to having anti-virus software on your computer, except that you get to see just how many viruses it protects you from, when you thought you did not need it in the first place. Speak with an analyst today about the best anti-virus software for your needs today.
4. Automatic Back Ups Regularly
Automated backups are not as complicated as they used to be. Now a days, computers and software, along with portable hard drives or the cloud, can do all the work for you when it comes to back ups. We hear horror stories from callers asking if we can back up their big project, and sometimes, because the user doesn’t practice automated backups, we were unable to recover their document. It’s our number one recommendation for all users to back up your machine as often as you possibly can to avoid these disasters.
5. Store Your Passwords on a Piece of Paper
Write all of your passwords down on a piece of paper with a pen. Put this sheet of paper in a safe or safety deposit box, and keep it available for you to update on an as-needed basis. This is vital, because if something were ever to happen to you, your significant other, or other heirs will need access to your accounts. They will also need access to your smartphone, your computer and any other device that requires a password. Consider this a gift to those grieving your loss, as one less thing to worry about. Morbid, yes, but it truly will protect you as well as benefit those you love without putting you at risk for hacking.
Do you want to step up your technology expertise? Call us at Rush Tech Support to speak with an expert analyst that can help you learn about your technology today at 844-881-7874 or +18448817874.
