Laptop Security

Going Mobile

A mobile computer lets you get more things done. It helps organize your notes on the bus, update your schedule on the fly, listen to music on the go, do research at lunchtime, communicate in real time, and finish your assignments just in time.

Lock Up Your Laptop

Your laptop is an expensive, highly portable device — and an awfully appealing target for thieves. Even if your computer is physically safe, the data may be at risk if your wireless connections aren’t secure. These simple safeguards can help protect your computer and your data:

• Protect your laptop with passwords, locks, and labels.
• Protect your network with by setting encryption standards.
• Protect your files with encryption and passwords.
• Restrict personal data to wired connections.
• Keep alert to threats to your laptop or data.

Nail Down Your Network

Your signals may reach beyond your walls or property line, and without certain safeguards, your neighbors (or even a hacker parked on the street) could log in. One low-tech solution is to move your wireless router far from outer walls. You can also set up your network to block out any unrecognized computers. Essentially, you set up a guest list. Any device that can’t show proper ID shouldn’t get in.

Safeguard Your Signals

When you connect to wireless hotspots at school, in the library, or at coffee shops, you can safeguard your transmissions through encryption. Encryption is like talking in code — It makes it harder for hackers to make sense of your wireless transmissions. All the encoding and deciphering happens in the background, so you can use all your software and connect to your favorite Web sites, as before.

Other Precautions

Wireless connections are great for research, Web browsing, and chatting with friends, but you should stick to old-fashioned land lines for transmitting addresses, phone numbers, Social Security numbers, medical information, or financial data. If you store any of these types of information on your computer, you should encrypt the files. If you’re viewing private information, be sure to shield your screen when other people are around.

If you have to walk away from your computer, be sure your system requires a login code of at least eight letters, numbers, and symbols that will be difficult for others to guess. $T@y_Saf3 out there!