It seems like everyone thinks they’re an expert in some part of IT these days.
By simply Googling a term, a person becomes a genius and can recite the whole page they just read ten minutes prior and you wouldn’t know any different. Let’s stop that and listen to the real experts.
The Monkeys have compiled some of the best IT advice for you below.
- Install protective software and use secure connections.
There are a multitude of security softwares and firewalls you can download for free to protect you from viruses and malware. Once you’ve downloaded such software, make sure you update it regularly. Beyond downloading software, make sure you are using only secure connections. When you use free WiFi at stores and restaurants, you become vulnerable to other users on the same WiFi.
- Have a backup of important files.
I’m sure you’ve had that moment (if not, you’re lucky) where your computer has crashed, and there is absolutely no way of salvaging the files that were on your computer… too bad you don’t regularly backup your files like every IT guy has told you before. We’re not saying you need to back up every single file on your computer (though that’s not a terrible idea), but at least back up your most important files. Maybe those photos from your child’s first birthday or your company’s super-secret KPIs? The bottom line is backing up your files is a critical step that can save a lot of headache.
- Lock or turn off your computer.
If you’re just stepping away from your computer briefly, make sure you at least lock it. Locking your computer while you are away helps keep other friends, family members, coworkers, and pets from lurking around your files or posting on your social media sites. If you are going to be away from your computer for a longer period, turn it off. This will allow your computer to save energy and keeps your computer from being accessible from the Internet.
Have any other IT related advice consumers should stop ignoring? Share it with us in the comments below!