From the moment we connect to the Internet we are exposed. At any time, a security breach , a computer attack, a virus or any other malicious element can put our computer and all our data at risk, and the impact of that can be catastrophic. One of the essential tips to prevent this from happening, and to be even a little more secure is to install the latest security patches for the operating system, and the programs, as soon as possible. However, there are times when this is not possible.
Why don’t we update Windows?
The reasons why our PC may be out of date are many. For example, it may happen that we are using a version of Windows that is not supported (such as XP or Windows 7). It can also happen that the latest security patches give problems with our PC, and even that we cannot download them with our Internet connection because it is unstable or slow.
It is always recommended to have a modern operating system , with support, and to receive updates on a regular basis. But if this is not possible, these tips will help us to be, even if it is, a little more secure.
Tips to be safe
Use a good antivirus
Generally, attacking an outdated operating system requires the use of an exploit or a virus. Therefore, if we have a good antivirus , with a firewall, that is capable of detecting and blocking these attacks, then we can be a little more secure. Antiviruses run in the background while we use the PC and analyze everything that runs or passes through our PC.
If an exploit or virus tries to sneak into the PC, the antivirus will detect it. At least in most cases.
Apply unofficial patches with 0patch
If you don’t want, or can, update Windows, there is a very interesting alternative: 0patch . This program allows us to apply patches to our system to block the main vulnerabilities that exist for the operating system. This tool does not modify Windows files as normal updates do, but rather takes care of applying the necessary corrections directly to memory, protecting us without altering the integrity of the system (and without generating errors).
0Patch is, without a doubt, that layer of security that we lack when using a Windows without updating.
Avoid connecting to the Internet
The main dangers we face when using an outdated system are online. Therefore, if we do not connect to the Internet, we will avoid falling into the clutches of hackers. We can download documents and programs from another PC and install them on ours through a USB, or go back to the origins, as computers were used 10 years ago.
Unfortunately, to be honest, a computer without Internet today is “lame”, incomplete. Therefore, if we have no choice but to connect to the Internet, the best we can do is do it as long as necessary. If we are going to download a program, or read an email, we must go directly to it, avoiding detours and visiting websites of dubious reliability.
In addition, we must always connect to safe and reliable networks . If we have a Windows without updating we must always avoid public networks from which they can attack us. And if we connect through a VPN, so much the better.
Use legal and up-to-date software
Even if we don’t update Windows, we can reduce the likelihood of a cyber attack by keeping all software up-to-date. Many of the vulnerabilities through which they endanger our PC are found in the browser, in multimedia players and in other frequently used software. Therefore, if these programs are up to date, we will be a little safer.
The programs must always be downloaded from official websites, or from reliable download pages, not from websites that download strange installers full of adware. And, of course, avoid the use of piated software that allows us to have free programs that are paid. These programs are indeed full of threats that can endanger our entire PC.