Windows is the operating system designed by Microsoft, to effectively run the programs and applications on a Personal Computer or Desktop. The initial version was launched 35 years ago, as an extension to the Disk Operating System.
Over the years, there have been developments made on the Windows Operating System (OS), with each version equipped with a different Graphics User Interface (GUI) from the rest, and the later versions having in-built improvements.
Timeline of Windows OS Development
The latest Windows version, Windows 10, was released in 2015, barely two years after Windows 8.1, which was a minor upgrade in comparison to Windows 8.
So far, the Microsoft team has stuck to a bi-yearly upgrade system, where all the latest discovered problems to Windows 10 will be addressed and be available for download. As such, there are no plans to release Windows 11 Operating System.
The Windows Operating systems have made it onto the list of top 10 most secure operating systems. On the flip side, the Windows OS’s install base is pretty small and this makes it a regular target for hackers.
Although the Windows’ security team is pretty efficient, here are some risks a Windows PC user is likely to face:
Risks Facing PC Users
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Malware
This is a form of destructive software that scrambles, destroys or steals the information contained on the memory of the victim’s device. In some instances, depending on the degree of damage, the device could be destroyed. Statistics published by dataprot.net in 2019 shows that there were almost a billion active malware programs out in the world.
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Hackers
Hackers can get access to a device through any number of ways, either through a compromised website, or a poorly guarded Wi-Fi connection. Their main goal is to steal data and intellectual property contained on the device.
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Viruses
These are codes that attach themselves to legitimate programs, then duplicate themselves on several other programs on the device. Viruses have the sole purpose of destroying system programs and preventing other applications from being installed.
How Users Can Protect their Windows Devices
Knowing the potential risks which you as a PC user face, the following are helpful tips to help you secure your device and its contents:
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Anti-Viruses
To prevent the dangers that viruses pose, users should install anti-viruses that prevent viruses from getting onto the device. This anti-virus software should also carry out scheduled scans and checks to determine threats and deal with them accordingly.
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Avoid Unverified Sources
Besides the use of anti-viruses, another way to prevent your PC from corruption is to screen the host of the content you want to get. Scanning flash-drives, steering clear of untrusted websites, and avoiding suspicious links can help you protect your device from possible risks.
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VPNs
To ensure your safety while on the internet, you can install a VPN for PC that encrypts your connection, preventing hackers from attaching themselves to your network and snooping on your private data.
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Updates
It is important to update your Microsoft OS regularly as the latest updates come with added layers of security measures for recently discovered issues.
Conclusion
There are several risks associated with using a personal computer, but the above points can help you protect your devices from any form of attack.
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