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Protecting your business on the internet

rule 1: install a virus scanner

A virus is a computer program that enters your system through emails the web or removable media such as CDs. It can exploit weaknesses in applications and the computer operating system to cause damage and to propagate itself to other computers your system is aware of. Computer viruses attract a lot of media attention but still people do not take adequate steps to protect themselves until a virus has already infected their system. By the time this occurs the damage has already been done to the owners system and most probably passed on to all the people that the user has contacted since the virus appeared. A very common and unfortunate way of finding out that your system possesses a virus is to have a friend or customer phone up and ask you why you are sending them infected messages or files. A virus scanner application will monitor all files entering your system and scan them for known viruses. You can obtain virus protection software from many High Street and online retail outlets. Some of the common virus protection companies are listed below.
McAffee www.mcafee.com
Symantec www.symantec.com

rule 2: keep the virus scanner up to date

Purchasing a Virus scanner is just the beginning; in order to be effective the scanner must have access to the latest information on virus threats. These are usually held in data files (DAT files) that are downloaded from the supplier's web site. Virus scanners can usually be configured to automatically download these files at regular intervals. If you are always online then the automatic option will work fine but if you dial up at irregular intervals then manually check for updates with your virus scanner application. Not keeping your virus scanner up to date is just as bad as not having a virus scanner installed.

rule 3: use the "windows update" service.

Computer viruses try and exploit the weaknesses of applications and the underlying operating system. When a software manufacturer detects a security problem they usually post a security fix or application update on their support web site. Microsoft manufactures the most widespread software applications and operating systems in the world so the reminder of this section will deal with this company's products. For Windows 98, ME and 2000 users you may have noticed the Windows Update entry at the top of the Start menu. This service provided by Microsoft scans your machine and informs you of any Critical Updates that are available and allows you to download and hence close the security breaches in your system. The Windows Update service also informs you of other software updates and features that can be downloaded such as new versions of Internet Explorer. It is very important to use this service to stop viruses exploiting your systems weaknesses. Microsoft as part of the service allow you to download a Critical Updates Notification tool that will automatically check and inform you when an update is required for your computer.

rule 4: install a "firewall"

When you are online your computer becomes part of the Internet and therefore can be accessed by any other computer connected to the Internet. Obviously this is what makes the Internet the powerful business and information tool it is today. It does however allow malicious users to attempt to access your computer illegally. A Firewall is a computer application that acts as a gateway between your computer and the Internet only allowing through Internet traffic to the applications you select. Firewalls usually place your computer into a "stealth" mode so it becomes invisible to potential attackers. It also protects your system from being taken over by a type of virus called a "Trojan". If a Trojan virus has managed to get onto your machine it will listen for commands every time you go on the Internet. This allows damage to be caused to your computer as well as your files to be read by others. The following is a list of common Firewall applications.

rule 5: back up your files

Make sure that in case of emergency your important files have been backed-up to removable media. Losing your customer list, order or product details will no doubt be disastrous to your business. Files can be backed up to removable media such as floppy disks, CD-R or tapes etc. It is also possible to use online companies that allow you to store your files securely on there servers.

rule 6: protect against power "surges" and failure

Power surges and failures can damage your computer and the files held on it, again affecting your capacity to do business on the Internet. In order to protect against the effects of power "surges" it is necessary to purchase "surge" protector plugs that are available at many electrical or DIY high outlets. The ultimate power disruption device is a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) this not only protects your computer from power surges but also continues to supply power to your computer and monitor after the power is disrupted completely. This gives you a chance to save your work and shutdown the computer safely. Depending upon your computer system a UPS can power your computer for 30 minutes before needing to shut it down.

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