Most computer users know that they need to use antivirus software on their home PC. However, many times the software and hardware that they use has other issues. Exactly what are these issues and what can you do to protect yourself from unwanted viruses?

Different types of servers are attacked by computer viruses including e-mail, ftp, file, and web servers. Other computer devices that are attacked are home PCs, network files and hardware, and routers.

A server is much the same as a home PC except that it has more disk room, more memory, and more processors. A web server will contain programs and web pages that are used by Internet users while an e-mail server will send, receive, and store e-mail. Ftp and file servers allow the distribution and storage of all types of files for other computer systems. A router is a computer that is specifically used with operating systems that are proprietary and for moving the traffic on a network.

Most servers will operate in a way similar to a PC system and are also prone to the same types of virus attacks. This means that most servers can be protected in the same way through the use of reliable and regular antivirus software. They can also be guarded with a firewall to limit entry from some sites on the Internet.

So what else can you do for virus protection?

Routers and servers are attacked often simply because they bring service to many user systems. Administrators can get help from users who keep their own computer system as clean as possible and who avoid passing viruses on to other users. Administrators should avoid using servers for personal uses such as word processing programs, e-mail clients, and as browsers for the Internet.

Users can be helpful in combating virus attacks by being more cautious when it comes to which browser they use and how they configure it. Some users could benefit from education about how they can lessen the target area for computer hackers through the simple task of changing the setting of their browser. Computer experts and PC users have made big strides when it comes to expressing concern over Internet Explorer security. When users start to use other browsers the message will be heard much louder.

Both administrators and users should stop using DVDs and CDs that are bootable and that haven’t been scanned for viruses after they have been burned with certain files and software. Just as floppy disks disk did a few years ago, DVDs and CDs can be propagated with viruses during the burning process.

FTP servers, which are used to receive, send, and store files across networks, need to become extinct. Passwords for ftp aren’t secure since they are sent unencrypted over networks where they can be detected by sniffers. A sniffer is a software or hardware program that can be used to spy on networks. Users should use ftp versions that are secure.

Users need to be proactive in asking administrators to keep their computer system locked down. Security is often way down on the priority list for administrators who usually do a good job when it comes to the resources and time they have. Users who show that they are interested in security can change their security measures. Not many servers have a complete check by a security expert in their lifetime. This would be different if users weren’t passive and assume that default settings will keep them secure.

In the Future

Microsoft and other distributors are making leaps and bounds when it comes to software and hardware development that offers better security protection. For example, a virus exploit that is common is known as a “buffer overrun”. Programs use memory that is divided into smaller portions that are called “buffers”.

Some hackers use a technique that creates harmful programming instructions for what is called the “overflow” for the buffers. The technique provides the buffers with more accessibility than the program originally intended. Many fixes for security involving the securing of the buffers. Some developers of operating systems and hardware are managing this problem by creating the buffer overrun and redesigning it.

There are other security ideas in the development stage which will soon benefit all computer users.

[tags]Antivirus,Internet Security,PC Security[/tags]