Maintaining the security of your devices is becoming an increasingly important concern in the face of a virtual onslaught of malware, spyware, viruses and other malicious files. But protecting your brand-new device from the evils of the internet isn’t as difficult as you may think.
It all comes down to a three-step process that encompasses your security settings, software and app protection, and your physical hardware security.
1. Sign-in and security settings
Securing your new device starts from the moment you take it out of the box. Begin by logging in with your secure Microsoft account, then run all Windows updates to ensure your operating system is taking advantage of Microsoft’s up-to-the-minute security features.
Next, it’s time to configure your security settings. Ensure your system is set up so you are required to enter a password every time the device is turned on or taken out of sleep mode. Turn on device encryption in the Windows ‘Update and Security’ menu and encrypt your hard drive with BitLocker (find it in the ‘System and Security’ menu in Control Panel).
You’ll also need to secure the network the device is connected to. Enable Windows Defender to establish a firewall that will provide a barrier against malware and other malicious files. Or consider using a VPN service when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks – you can find connection wizards in the Windows ‘Network and Sharing Center’.
2. Software and apps
The first thing to remember when it comes to securing your software and apps is to never download anything from an unsecured website and ensure all your software login passwords are up to scratch (that means no generic 1234p@ssw0rds).
You’ll also want to keep all your software and apps updated to ensure any known security vulnerabilities have been patched, and you should set an administrator password that is required every time a new download is requested.
Antivirus and anti-spyware software is also a must to identify malware or other potentially malicious downloads, and ensure your preferred browser is configured to block cookies, which will help prevent hackers tracking your movements.
3. Hardware security
Security isn’t just a software problem – your physical hardware can also play an important role. Look for devices that have built-in security features such as the ultraslim HP EliteBook x360 830. It puts an end to screen spies with optional HP Sure View Gen31 that makes your screen unreadable when viewed from the side, and it’s worth opting for the optional HP Fingerprint Sensor2 to improve login security.
The HP EliteBook 800 series are built on a secure foundation – with self-healing and manageable hardware-enforced security features such as HP Sure Start Gen53 and HP Sure Click.4
If you frequently use your device in public, think about investing in a cable lock to protect against theft. And if you’re running Windows 10, be sure to enable the ‘Find My Device’ function that can pinpoint the location of a lost or stolen device.
Take a little time to properly secure your device, and you’ll be ready to work and play with peace of mind.
1 HP Sure View Gen3 integrated privacy screen is an optional feature that must be configured at purchase and is designed to function in landscape orientation.
2 HP Fingerprint Sensor sold separately or as an optional feature.
3 HP Sure Start Gen5 is available on select HP PCs with Intel processors. See product specifications for availability.
4 HP Sure Click is available on select HP platforms and supports Microsoft Internet Explorer, Google Chrome™, and Chromium™. Supported attachments include Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and PDF files in read only mode, when Microsoft Office or Adobe Acrobat are installed.
Brad Schumacher, Roberts and Morrow Technology | www.rmt.net.au
- 3 simple ways to secure your new device - 21 August 2019
