Robert Vamosi wrote: |
With the wide availability of broadband Internet connections and inexpensive, fast desktop computers and printers, setting up a home office where you can truly be productive has never been easier. But there are significant security tradeoffs to working at home.
One benefit of working in a cubicle is that your company's IT department takes care of your network security: Your computer sits behind a firewall and runs an antivirus app that's always up-to-date. Most companies also use antivirus software for the network gateway, filter content, and employ an Intrusion Detection System (IDS)--all of which block malicious code. At home, with an always-on DSL or cable modem Net connection, you're pretty vulnerable. While some companies require their remote workers to install antivirus and firewall software before being allowed access to the company VPN, most do not. There's some great software out there that can help those of you who work at home--full-time or just occasionally--safeguard your systems and data. If you are employed by a company, and work at home only occasionally, I suggest you talk to your IT department about your home setup to make sure it's secure. They should be able to give you all the help you need. However, if you're in business for yourself, I recommend installing [url=reviews-zdnet.com.com/PC_cillin_2003/4505-3514_16-20722940.html]Trend Micro's PC-cillin 2003[/url] or [url=reviews-zdnet.com.com/McAfee_VirusScan_Home_Edition_7_0/4505-3514_16-20288840.html]McAfee VirusScan[/url] on all your systems. Both offer good antivirus systems plus decent built-in firewalls. For a few bucks more, you can get a full-strength firewall such as [url=reviews-zdnet.com.com/ZoneAlarm_Pro_4_0/4505-3514_16-21131904.html]ZoneAlarm Pro 4.0[/url]. While not directly related to security, another app that's useful for at-home workers is [url=reviews-zdnet.com.com/Norton_SystemWorks_2003/4505-3514_16-20186122.html]Norton SystemWorks 2003[/url]. It'll defrag your hard drives and clean out your registry files to keep your computers in good working condition. <snip> IF ALL YOU WANT is encryption, there's always [url=reviews-zdnet.com.com/PGP_Personal_for_Windows_8_0/4505-3514_16-20756518.html]PGP for Windows[/url], the de facto app for encrypting all your sensitive data. The latest version works with MS Outlook, Lotus Notes, and other e-mail clients. Whether you run a business from home, work remotely now and then, or are just borrowing a company laptop, you should take some time to think about how to stay secure and maintain your privacy. A little forethought and planning could save you from a disaster down the road. |
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