Network security for dummies

[dookie1481]

I know we have a lot of IT/geek types on here so I will pose this question:

What is the MINIMUM level of security you suggest for the average home PC user who does things like use online banking and engages in ecommerce? I have to have at least one box with Windows (school stuff).

Thanks in advance.

[5pins]

Are you using wired or wireless connection? Banking and ecommerce sights should be using a secured connection. If you are using IE then you should see a little padlock at the bottom right corner. Make sure you have a antivirus and malware program running. I like malwarebytes and MS security essentials.

[chadbag]

Since it sounds like you can have more than one PC, use the windows one for schoolwork only and run requisite malware detection and removal sw and anti virus software on it. Run behind a router with nat and a firewall. Probably the built-in windows firewall as well.

Do your commerce and banking from your non windows PCs or other (Linux PC , Mac, iPad, etc).

Don't surf from the Windows PC either. Just your schoolwork, games, etc that are Windows PC oriented.