Don't Forget About Security
Copyright 2003 Jason Anderson
What would you do if your computer was
stolen?
When people talk about security and computers,
they usually talk about firewalls, anti-virus
software, and so on. And don't get me wrong - all
of these things are important.
But few people think about the physical security
of their computer.
If you run your own Internet business, you
should think about it seriously.
After all, your computer is probably the most
important asset for your Internet business (after
your mailing list). It stores all your documents,
email, purchased ebooks and software, etc.
If you haven't thought about security of your
home before, perhaps you should before it's too
late.
The first and most obvious thing to consider is
locks on your doors and windows. In particular,
deadlocks for your external doors. And remember to
lock them whenever you go out - even if it's just
to the shop 2 minutes down the road! Thieves only
need a minute to break in and steal your
valuables.
Having the privacy of tall bushes and high
fences around your home is great. But if no one can
see into your yard, it means thieves can spend as
much time as they want trying to break in. So
consider removing (or at least trimming) those high
bushes.
When you are going out, be sure to make your
home seem occupied. Leave the TV or radio on, and
if it is night (or you won't be returning until
dark), draw the curtains and turn the lights
on.
Think about getting an alarm system for your
home. It's true; they can be expensive if you get
everything at once. A cheaper option is to buy a
basic system that can be expanded later, and only
put sensors in the most important areas to start
with (lounge room, home office, main bedroom
etc).
Most computers can have some sort of security
cable fitted to them. Laptops usually have a
security port in them, as do some desktop
computers. If not, there are several products you
can get to secure your computer to your desk.
Finally, make sure you keep backups of all your
data. Computers (and other items) can all be
replaced - your documents can't. And don't just
keep the backups on a second hard drive next to
your computer - thieves will probably take that as
well! Be sure to keep some backups off site (at a
friend's house for example), and keep them up to
date.
Don't leave it until it's too late to think
about home security. If you're trying to build up
your home business, the last thing you want is the
setback of having all your equipment and data
stolen.
---
Jason is the editor of Achieve Net Profits,
where he interviews successful Internet marketers
each week. Save yourself time and money and learn
marketing directly from the pros! --> http://www.AchieveNetProfits.com/
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