A malware refers to malicious software and this also includes a virus. It is specifically written to harm and infect its host. Adware, spyware, worms, virus, Trojan, and ransomware are all forms of malware. This thing is pretty sneaking about entering a computer. It enters via web links, toolbars, games, pop-up ads and anything free that you download from the internet. Once it successfully enters your system, it can steal anything starting from your personal information, music list to even login passwords and bank account numbers
Signs that your computer is affected by a malware
Here are some common signs that indicate a malware has attacked your network/system:
- When you suddenly start seeing excessive pop-up ads
- Your computer’s OS is slowing down
- The number of spam emails in your inbox is increasing
- When you are unable to access the antivirus program on your system
- When your system crashes completely
Since you are here, you would want to know how you can prevent your network and computers from the malware attack. Take a look at the following to find that out:
- Install a firewall
All computers within the company must have a firewall installed. It will keep a barrier between the PC and any unauthorized program that tries to enter through the internet. Keep the firewall turned on all the time to do its work. You might have a firewall already but remember that firewalls alone are not the best malware protection.
- Use a windows malware app
Of course, those who have Windows 10 think Windows Defender, the built-in anti-malware program, would be enough to protect them. Yes, it may be enough if it’s a PC you are using at home but organizations need some best Windows 10 malware apps to provide advance level to security and protection.
- Don’t permit user-owned devices to connect to the router or Wi-Fi
A malware can enter from anyone’s device and attack the network. If the malware gets into the router, it can change its settings and point the router’s DNS at a malicious server. Strict policies have to be in place to prevent damages.
- Use secure and complex passwords
All the passwords used should be complex. They should have at least 8 characters and they should be a combination of numbers letters, special characters and uppercase and lowercase letters.
- Patch the end points
Patching the end-points in the network helps eliminate all the vulnerabilities that make the malware attacks possible in the first place. Along with that, the break-ins through the network should be protected. If a network based instruction prevention system is in place, it will detect and block any attempts made by a malware to exploit the vulnerabilities.
- Keep on monitoring the network
Even if you have all the antivirus and firewalls in place, you should regularly monitor the network for malware detection.
With these preventive measures in place and constant monitoring, you can prevent the malware from attacking your network. Keep on learning about new ways to make your network secure.
