Checklist for Types of
Computer Security Needed

You most likely expect the below-listed default security to be in-place and actively protecting your computer system and its valuable data. But is it?

Most often, and more likely, your computer was sold to you in an "open" state, meaning no security. How much security is necessary?

At a minimum, you should have the following bases covered. If not, you're vulnerable, and once victimized it's often too late.

• Security when you're "on" your computer
• Security when you're "off" your computer
• Security when you're "away" from your computer
• Security when you're "connected" (your computer attaches to the internet, another network, or device (wireless, local area network, etc.)

Consider this as a checklist:

1. A security logon prompt to gain access to your computer
   [without a logon prompt (username & password required), anyone can 'power on' & gain access to your computer, its resources, & your valuable data]


2. Security while you're on your computer (machine powered on)
   [to protect your computing activities and keep your system safe]


3. Security while your computer is connected to the internet
   [background security layers to protect against viruses, hackers, eavesdroppers, harmful files or unsafe programs]
   - Security while you surf the web/browse internet web sites
   - Security when you access your emails (scan incoming/outbound email)
   - Security against harmful file downloads, files received, & files opened
   - Security when you connect to another network


4. Security when you're away from your computer (machine is unattended)
   [when you're logged on but have stepped away, potential of someone to begin using your computer in your absence]


5. Security when your computer is off
   [case lock with key, cable lockdown, etc. to protect physical machine security]


6. Security of your valuable data on your hard drive(s) & backup disks
   [trouble can strike when you least expect it: e.g. hard drive data neither backed up nor secured properly; or backup disks with non-encrypted data; or data theft as a result of malicious activity]


7. Security to monitor & protect against malicious software installs
   [malware software, or malicious programs seemingly disguised as legitimate software, can be downloaded & installed in the background unbeknownst to the user]