This article was published in 2011 and updated in October 2026.
Online threats are everywhere, and any computer connected to the internet is a potential target. You don’t need to become a security expert, though. These four steps give every computer the minimum protection it needs — and most of them are free and built into your operating system.
1. Lock your computer — and encrypt it
The simplest protection is still often ignored: always protect your computer with a login password, PIN or fingerprint/face recognition, even if you’re the only person using it. Laptops get lost and stolen, and without a lock anyone can access your files and accounts. Turn on device encryption too (BitLocker or Device Encryption on Windows, FileVault on a Mac): without it, a thief can remove the drive and read your data even without your password. Set the screen to lock automatically after a few minutes.
2. Keep the built-in security switched on
In 2011 we recommended installing separate antivirus, firewall and anti-spyware programs. Today Windows includes all three in Windows Security: Microsoft Defender Antivirus (which also detects spyware), the Windows Firewall and protection against malicious websites and apps. For most home users this is enough — just make sure it is switched on and up to date. macOS has comparable protection built in. If you prefer a third-party security suite, choose one from a well-known vendor, and don’t run two antivirus programs at the same time.
3. Update everything, automatically
New security holes are discovered every day, and updates close them. Turn on automatic updates for your operating system, browser and apps. Software that no longer receives security updates — such as Windows 10 without extended security updates — is a risk on any computer connected to the internet.
4. Back up your files
Even the best protection can fail. A regular backup to an external drive or cloud service means ransomware, a stolen laptop or a dead hard drive won’t cost you your photos and documents. Keep at least one backup copy disconnected from your computer.
Want to go further?
Use a password manager and two-factor authentication for your online accounts, and learn to recognise phishing messages. Our guide on how to improve your internet security explains these steps in more detail.
A. Tatum Jr
Jul 25. 2011
I think these are things most people overlook. Norton comes on most computers in the U.S. and I wouldn’t use it for nothing..to intrusive.
admin
Jul 25. 2011
Thanks for the comment … 🙂
Ashvin
Jul 26. 2011
Thanks for the comment. Most pre-installed virus software have this problem, including Norton and McAfee. It’s without doubt better to remove these and download better ones.
karan
Jul 26. 2011
ya agree with all of these
Ifham khan
Jul 26. 2011
All points are necessary to protect ones computer
Priyangshu
Aug 04. 2011
Nice one bro !!! Internet security is very much essential for an internet user !!!
Ashvin
Aug 05. 2011
Thanks mate!
miami prostate cancer
Oct 14. 2011
I’ve been following your blog lately and it’s always advisable to have an antivirus. What is the best Free Anti virus available to the public? I would like to hear your expert opinion. Thank you and i look forward to your response.
admin
Oct 14. 2011
Avira antivirus is the best one IMO
Ashvin
Oct 14. 2011
Avira and Avast are both excellent free options.
Jim
Jan 25. 2012
Hi Admin,
Based on my experience the best protection you get when you use a paid antivirus system with online protection. Last time, I use free anti-virus, anti malware & anti spyware, but my pc got infected and my websites all got infected with iframe injection. One the symptom that your pc got infected is that when your pc cpu usage is always high even though when your pc is in idle mode and you will notice that there is a lot out going traffic from your pc to the internet.
admin
Jan 25. 2012
Yep .. paid is always better than free
Ashvin
Jan 25. 2012
Paid is obviously better, but a lot of people don’t feel like paying for things they can get for free. 🙂