Give it to him antivirus ai firewallpassing through the encryption… Users have a lot at their disposal free solutions to protect yourself and your devices. Even if they often don’t know it.
On the one hand, operating systems are equipped with cybersecurity features installed by default within the individual devices. This is the case, for example, of Windows con Microsoft Defender: a complete solution, equipped with antivirus, firewall and many other additional services.
As is the case with macOSwhich focuses on a privacy control particularly advanced. And on different systems encryption to prevent unwanted access to sensitive data.
Furthermore, anyone who wants to take advantage of more targeted services can opt for software developed by third parties. And even in this case there are different ones free solutions on which to direct one’s interest.
Pre-installed programs to protect Windows PCs
I Windows PC owners they don’t necessarily have to go hunting for free programs dedicated to device protection, made by third parties. The Microsoft operating system is in fact equipped with a package of cybersecurity solutions installed by default.
The software in question is called Microsoft Defender and is available, completely free of charge, in all Windows PCs. Although to access all its features you need to activate a Microsoft 365 subscription (Family or Personal).
Microsoft Defender contains in itself different features: starting from the scan antivirus. Until you get to the settings firewall and many other computer security tips.
Microsoft Defender antivirus is constantly updated so identify any malware in good time: harmful software, which could cause damage damage to the device. Or that they even could compromise sensitive information saved inside it.
Microsoft Defender is a security solution installed on Windows PCs, equipped with antivirus and firewall management
The execution of one security scan it is very intuitive. All the user has to do is select the volumes and drives to scan and wait for the software to complete the job. In case of files at riskMicrosoft Defender will independently propose some possible solutions.
Microsoft Defender is the software that also takes care ofactivation and the managementof firewalls: the digital walls that keep the network traffic of users.
Firewalls are responsible for analyze the various incoming and outgoing packets. Checking that they are equipped with all thenecessary authorizations to pass through the reference doors.
The user can manually intervene on the firewall settings: for example preventing access of packages from specific sources. But also authorizing access of packets, regardless of internal analysis.
Pre-installed programs to protect Macs
Devices with operating system macOS they are not equipped with a real antivirus: a program expressly dedicated to scan and searching of malicious programs.
At the same time they boast different cybersecurity solutions. Starting from the activation and management of firewall or of gatekeeper: a software that allows you to limit file downloads or programs on devices.
Added to this are the secure boot and secure storage features. L’Safe Boot allows you to retrieve information from recovery partitions if the device has installed risky programs.
The macOS operating system offers several free cybersecurity and privacy features
L’secure storage instead it has to do with the protection of the units of MacBooks. Apple resorts to a particular one encryption with hardware keys which may make forced data recovery impossible. Which is why users should always consider the possibility of make a backup of your data most important.
Apple’s cybersecurity control also expands on third parts that they want to develop dedicated software for macOS. For example all programs within the App Store owner must meet very strict criteria. And in parallel developers can resort to one file-level encryption to protect sensitive data.
Remaining on the topic of information protection, macOS also offers a particularly in-depth system of privacy control. In fact, users have the possibility to manage the different permissions which are granted to the various installed programs.
Other free programs to improve cybersecurity
All users who want to bring the IT security Of their PC Windows or theirs MacBook at a higher level they can consider downloading software developed by third parties.
Below is a short list of free solutionsor at least available in freemium mode with a free basic version. And with the possibility of performing a paid upgrade to take advantage of additional features.
Starting from antivirus it’s impossible not to mention Panda: first of all because it’s totally free. But above all because of his very high detection rates threats and malware.
Another free antivirus that is as efficient as it is appreciated Avira. Its flagship is a scan engine constantly updated. The limit is the small number of additional services.
Among the IT security solutions, possible ones should also be mentioned external firewall software. For example Zone alarm, a free firewall featuring a very intuitive interface. Or alternatively TinyWallanother security program that offers high-level performance even to users without advanced computer skills.
Then there is room for other programs that manage the Internet security in a more or less dedicated manner. Think in this sense about browser extensions like him adblocker, which prevent the display of unwelcome advertisements. But also to the software that detect tracking activities and that, more generally, protect online privacy of users.
To know more: Computer security: guide to safe browsing on the web