Computer hackers and viruses are on the rise and protecting your computer with a firewall is a must when it comes to using the Internet. Using a firewall will protect you from hackers and viruses and also protect important data you have on your computer. These attacks are frustrating and can be stressful but rest assured, it’s easy to avoid.

The type of firewall required for your computer should be ascertained since there is a wide variety available including those from major corporations such as Microsoft. If you already have a computer that came installed with the Microsoft XP or Vista operating system, then chances are that your firewall is already set up and ready to be used. However, you do need to make sure that it is turned on and working properly.

Your own software needs to be purchased if you do not have one of these later operating systems. You may want to purchase separate software to complement Microsoft XP as its version of firewall doesn’t get great reviews.

There are many products available, including as the most popular - Norton, AVG, and McAfee and you can either visit a store that sells computer software or download a firewall product through the Internet. There are plenty of low cost versions available, even from the big name companies, with prices varying according to the sophistication of the software.

Prior to the installation of your firewall, a few things must be taken into consideration. The program must not stop you using the functions that you need, such as file and printing sharing. You will normally learn how to do this during the installation or by using its documentation to change the settings once the program is installed.

Access to certain parts of the Internet is limited by a firewall. It is important that you are familiar with how you connect because this can happen if you use a local area network or a router. It is difficult to access secured networks when you have installed a firewall.

Check with your IT department before installing firewall software to a computer connected to a network. You may need specific settings to be able to connect to that network.

Everyone has downloaded a file from the internet, and the majority of the time the file is form a trusted source. But when it isn’t and turns out to be something unexpected like a virus, worm, or spyware, you are in danger if becoming a victim of identity theft.

Preventing attacks online is relatively simple and involves keeping the security settings on your PC up to date and using caution when downloading files from the internet.

The newer operating systems such as Vista, Windows XP, Windows 2000 and ME have options for automatically updating security systems. The older systems must be updated using Microsoft updates.

Be sure and update your system often and scan your computer after you have updated it for potential viruses and other security risks such as unwanted programs. Thieves can use these programs to gather personal data for identity theft purposes.

Utilizing a firewall can also protect you and your computer from unknown dangers. It is also a good idea to program your anti-virus software to scan incoming email attachments. You can also block unwanted emails by using a spam blocker to reduce the possibility of receiving unwanted items. And of course, never open an email from someone you don’t know or download an attachment.

If your computer becomes infected with a virus or spyware, it is important to remove it as soon as possible. The longer your computer is compromised, the higher your chances of your personal information being compromised. Some programs on your computer can help you remove viruses and spyware. But if you are unable to do this yourself, seek out the help of computer technician.

So to stay protected online, update your security settings often, run system scans for potentially harmful programs regularly, don’t open emails or files from unknown people or source.

Only download files from trusted sources on the Internet. Do all these things to protect yourself from identity theft and other potential online dangers.

Shred all documents that contain your personal information. Personal information is still gathered from the trash by thieves, so take caution and shred your credit card statements, bank statements, medical bills, etc.

Guard your mail box and retrieve your received mail as soon as possible. Personal documents can be taken from your mail box by thieves. Consider a PO Box or, for added security, a lockable mail box. Also, never mail bills or letters containing personal checks from your home, as they can be stolen easily.

Keep your social security number safe. Don’t carry your social security card around with you or any other card that has your number on it. Don’t use your number on checks or bills that can be stolen.

Consider a lock box or safety deposit box for your social security card. Burglars often steal personal information and use it for identity theft in the future.

Keep track of your bank, ATM, and store receipts. If you’ve used a credit card to pay for something, your receipt contains information that could be used for identity theft.

Never let your credit card out of your site. It is becoming increasingly common for employees of stores and restaurants to make copies of cards while they are away form their owners. If you can’t keep track of your card pay with cash or check, or at restaurants pay the bill yourself instead of giving your car an employee.

Don’t give your personal information over the telephone. If someone calls you, inquire about their reason for calling and ask what company they represent, even if it’s a call from your bank or financial institution. Return their call at a number you know is legitimate to verify the call before giving them the information.

Ask to be removed from junk mail lists. The inconvenience of receiving hundreds of junk mail offers will be removed, and you will be saved the potential problem of having credit card offers stolen from your mail box.