Keep your laptop safe from malware, hackers and Mother Nature; these Microsoft tips will keep you out of trouble

If your work from home got extended, then it's time to check if you are using your laptop properly. Wondering how? Check these tips to keep your laptop safe.

You need to protect your laptop’s software as well as hardware while working at home. Do it this way. (Pixabay)

Pandemic has made work from home a necessity instead of a luxury! Work from home system has its own comforts, all made possible due to the technology involved- from laptops, PCs to the Internet. But while keeping your office essentials at home, it has become even more important to make sure that your gadgets are healthy and do not break down forcing you to go to the office or calling in a mechanic. Laptops and computers, from software to hardware, need extra care to make sure your work goes smoothly 24/7. So, to ensure you do not face any problems, know these Microsoft tips to make sure your laptop is secured from malware or hacking. You can also check other ways to keep your laptop's hardware healthy. Read on.

How to keep your computer secure at home

• While working from home, you need to keep your computer secure which helps you to avoid malware and direct hacking attempts which aim to steal your personal information.
• To reduce your online risk on a laptop at home, make sure you turn on automatic updates to keep all software up to date.
• Antivirus is important to block harmful online predators. Use antivirus software and make sure to get it renewed after its expiry period. If you run Windows, then you should have Windows Security or Windows Defender Security Center installed on your device.
• Use strong passwords for all your accounts and don't share them with anyone.
• Don't open suspicious attachments or click harmful links in messages or emails.
• Stay away from pirated content while downloading movies or music online.
• To avoid infection by malware and viruses, ensure that all external devices such as USBs or hard disks either belong to you or come from a reliable source.

How to take care of the laptop's hardware

• Not just malware and online risk, but your laptop should be secured otherwise too. That all depends on how you keep your laptop at home. Make sure that you don't keep your laptop or any computer system in a humid or smoky place. Do not let direct sunlight fall on the gadget.
• Once your work is completed, keep the laptop covered.
• It sounds obvious, but you should avoid using your laptop in outdoor space when it's extremely hot or raining.
• Make sure that all power plugs are properly connected. Pay special care to the wires, they should not frayed.