To get a handle on computer security, start by securing each User Account with a password. Set a screen saver to engage after 15 minutes of inactivity and make sure it requires a password. Turn your system(s) off at night.

Install security utilities and uninstall any outdated or unused security programs. You will need three types of utilities; Anti Virus, Anti MalWare and a Registry Scanner.

A great Anti Virus that offers real-time protection is AVG. It's free, it updates automatically and it even offers real-time protection for Social Media sites.

MalWare is designed to cause real damage. In it's free capacity, SuperAntiSpyware is a great tool for detecting and removing MalWare. If you opt for the paid version, you can add real-time protection as well.

Your computer's registry is a great place to hide malicious code that could either obliterate you operating system, steal your personal and financial details or anything in between. For free registry scanning and repairs, Glary Registry Repair does the trick. Run it anytime you install or uninstall software, after any deep system scan.

Establish a routine for regular system maintenance. Remove unused programs, check for system updates, update definition files for all utilities and run full scans.

In the next installment, we will look at Beware-ness.

Even though computer viruses spread through cyberspace even more adeptly than their terrestrial counterparts, defending your computer against them is not as difficult as you might think. While there is no 'Silver Bullet' to provide complete protection, you can employ a successful strategy using some familiar principles.

With so many new threats and schemes emerging each day, effective protection requires a comprehensive strategy which includes Infrastructure, Be-wareness and Recovery. In this series of articles, we will discuss each of these principles and how they can be utilized for maximum effect in your security efforts.

We begin with Infrastructure. You might be surprised to learn that the most critical piece of hardware in your network isn't your computer. It's your router! Most people never take the time to secure their routers when they set up their networks.

There are numerous security settings that can help keep your network closed to offending software and hackers, and configuring these for optimal safety is a critical first step to securing your infrastructure.

Follow the manufacturer's instructions to secure your router and then you can focus on getting your computer(s) in shape.