Dav/Devs
Hey folks, it’s Davina with another tech tip. This time, it’s about 3 essential software applications to have installed on your laptop or desktop.
They are:
- Antivirus:
- Free: AVG, Avast, Avira
- Paid: Kaspersky, BitDefender, Norton
- VPN (Virtual Private Network):
- Free: PrivadoVPN, Proton VPN
- Paid: ExpressVPN, NordVPN, Surfshark
- Password Manager:
- Free: BitWarden, LastPass, NordPass
- Paid: Dashlane, 1Password, Sticky Password
Why is an antivirus necessary?
Antivirus is crucial because it protects your device from harmful software like viruses and malware, which can steal personal information, damage files, and slow down your system. It also enhances online security by blocking malicious websites and preventing phishing attacks. Additionally, an antivirus safeguards against ransomware, which can lock you out of your files until a ransom is paid. Overall, it helps maintain your device’s smooth performance by preventing infections and ensuring that your data remains secure.
Why is a Virtual Private Network (VPN) necessary?
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is essential because it secures your internet connection by encrypting your data, making it nearly impossible for hackers to intercept and steal your personal information. It also hides your IP address, which helps protect your online privacy and allows you to browse the web anonymously. This is especially useful when using public Wi-Fi, as it prevents others on the same network from accessing your data. Additionally, a VPN can bypass geo-restrictions, enabling you to access content that may be blocked in your region, such as streaming services or websites.
Why is a password manager important?
A password manager is crucial because it securely stores and manages all your passwords in one place, so you only need to remember one master password. This means you can use strong, unique passwords for each account without remembering them all, greatly enhancing your online security. It also helps prevent password reuse, which is a common security risk. Additionally, password managers can automatically fill in login details for you, saving time and reducing the risk of entering passwords on fake websites (phishing). This makes your online experience more secure and convenient.
Examples and explanations are courtesy of ChatGPT, and grammatical corrections are made using Grammarly.