Laptop Security: Making Mobility Safe for Your Family

Laptops and wireless Internet connectivity give your kids a leg up on their studies. They can conduct research and do class work from many different locations, and they're learning about technology that will help them succeed in many occupations.

Be sure they also learn about the importance of protecting their computers and wireless data. Remind your kids that portable computers and wireless networks require special precautions, because they are more accessible to people outside your household. But also assure them that with a few basic safeguards in place, you and your family can enjoy the benefits of mobile computing without compromising network and data security.

Lock Up the Computer

You can use simple cable systems to lock up your computer when you're on the go. You can also label your laptop with permanent ID stickers or use hidden software code to deter theft and aid recovery.

Of course, there's no substitute for paying attention. Encourage your kids to think in terms of keeping their laptops safe throughout the school day. Where will they be going? Can they lock up their computers during extracurricular activities? Teach your kids that, no matter what they do during the day, they should never walk away from an unsecured laptop.

Lock Up the Data

Even if your kids are constantly vigilant, you should set secure passwords to prevent unauthorized access to your laptop and home computers. Set each system so that rebooting brings up a login screen. Choose passwords with a combination of at least eight letters, numbers, and symbols that are difficult for others to guess.

Wireless connectivity requires its own set of safeguards.

You can safely trade e-mail messages, conduct research, or play games over wireless connections, but wired networks are more secure and more appropriate for accessing bank accounts, medical records or other sensitive information.

Next: Laptop Security: Firewalls and Encryption