Chapter 18 : Computer & Network Security

Security Overview

Security pertains to the hardware, software, and data protection of computers. Technicians must be able to understand and explain all security concepts commonly used in all computers.

Malware Removal

Malware can slow down, lock, or even completely destroy a computer that it has infected and it is important to remove it as soon as possible. First, identify the malware issue and the location of this problem. Step 2, isolate the computer from the network so the malware cannot spread. Next, restore the system and update the anti-virus software and firewall protection and work to patch the hole that the malware originally entered, as well as patching future breaches.

Digital Security Certificates

Digital certificates are used when users send data back and forth, and uses a public and private key to encrypt information being sent. Browsers warn you when certificate issues arise with certain websites, and it is important to understand what these messages mean.

Firewalls

A firewall uses security measures to protect a network and computers from threats outside of the network. A firewall is installed on a computer via software or hardware and is designed to prevent outside attackers from making it into the system.

Whitelists and Blacklists

Whitelist: A list on the firewall of MAC addresses of devices that are allowed access through the firewall. Blacklist: A list on the firewall of MAC addresses of devices that are not allowed through the firewall. A demilitarized zone (DMZ) is an area set apart from the main network where guests on the network can reside and access the internet without being let past the firewall.

Guiding Questions

1. Booting into safe mode is important because it boots with only the drivers and applications necessary to run the computer, and can allow the user to identify the file or process where malware is located. Can sometimes be the only way to boot a computer infected with malware.
2. Windows Defender is the Windows 10 native antivirus. Windows Defender does not all of the features that other products, such as Norton Antivirus have, but it does come for free with Windows 10 and provides a basic defense that can stop some attacks on a computer.
3. Sites that curate malicious blacklists benefit society by exposing malicious websites and making people aware of dangerous website. Some negatives to this is that malicious website will know when they are exposed and will quickly change domains.