The Dos and Don'ts of Choosing Cybersecurity Software
Read this article to know how to take care of your cybersecurity in this year 2020. Know what all you need to put on your Mac to protect your privacy, data and keep unwanted threats away from your Mac.
According to Norton, over four billion records suffered in data breaches during 2019. From smartphones to entire corporate networks, no device can hide from determined cybercriminals. They take every chance they can to exploit weak passwords and connections. There are plenty of ways how they can gain access to personal and financial data.
With 2020 being around the corner, it's safe to say that users can no longer rely on luck to protect them from cyberattacks. The best way to stay safe from hackers in 2020 is to use cybersecurity software. Everyone should use VPNs, antivirus, and antimalware programs, firewalls, and password managers to keep themselves safe.
But there are hundreds of security software providers out there. It makes it challenging to choose the right ones. Take a look at this brief guide that will help you find the right security software for your devices.Tips For Choosing the Right Cybersecurity Software
#1 Do Your Research First
Before you jump into your browser and search for the most popular security software, consider what exactly you need.
For instance, if you want to increase your privacy when browsing online, you should look for a VPN for Mac. If you use plenty of devices in your household, make it a VPN that offers support for router-based multiple connections. More information you can find here: https://nordvpn.com/download/mac/
If you want to keep your device clean from any malware and unwanted threats, look for a reliable antivirus program and a malware scanner. Password managers can help you increase online security and strengthen your login credentials. While you might be looking for a specific software right now, keep in mind that a combination of each security measure will provide even more excellent protection for your data and devices.#2 Do Check the Pros and Cons
Every security software takes pride in offering that one particular feature that puts them above the competitors. It can be exceptional speed, stronger encryption protocols, or a more thorough scanning system. Either way, make sure the strengths of software match your needs.
Keep in mind that there are always pros and cons to every option. For instance, a service that offers exceptional malware scanning systems can be a lot more expensive than its alternatives. In the end, the features must meet your specific needs.#3 Don't Settle for Free Options
Some cybersecurity software, such as VPNs and password managers, keep logs of users' data. It brings you to something that you should never do when choosing a cybersecurity tool – never settle for a free service.
Sure, free services might sound tempting and convenient. But they often don't offer enough features or reliable protection. When they do, it should raise another red flag. How do they make money if their services are free? It may be by selling your data.
Free software tools often keep track of users' data. It means your information would not be 100% secure. Thus, stay away from free solutions and look more toward the popular paid versions of the service.#4 Don't Forget to Check for Device Compatibility
Before you go any further, it is vital to check whether the security service you're interested in is compatible with your device. You can use many cybersecurity software on multiple computers or smartphones. That's why you need to make sure the service offers a wide range of compatibility options.
Most software supports leading platforms, including Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and iOS. But not all services support each of these platforms. Thus, if you need a useful security tool for Mac, look for the best Mac software before buying. Some antivirus programs operate more efficiently if they are designed for one type of device.#5 Do Look for a User-Friendly Interface
If you're not a tech-savvy user, you might find it difficult to navigate through complex cybersecurity tool interfaces. Meanwhile, some security tool providers make it easy to use their services. They offer intuitive platforms where you don't need much experience to figure things out.
Before you go on and make a purchase, make sure to check whether the service you're looking at has a simple and user-friendly interface. After all, you don't want to bother with learning a complex software interface when you don't have to.#6 Don't Forget to Check the Payment Options
Speaking of buying, make sure the service provider offers your preferred payment option. The most common payment options include PayPal, credit card payment, and Bitcoin. But not all cybersecurity tool providers provide all these options.
Make sure to check whether you can pay for the service the way you usually pay for things online. You should already be familiar with the payment process and the used gateway to avoid any financial issues along the way. When it comes to privacy tools, for example, VPNs, the best payment option is Bitcoin. After all, if you want to stay anonymous online, it might as well start from the moment you buy the privacy software.#7 Do Test the Customer Service
Last but not least, it is always best to check whether the chosen cybersecurity tool or service has a proper customer support team in place. You should opt for service providers who offer 24/7 support, as well as live chat support service as their go-to way of communicating with customers.
While you're at it, check whether the provider offers a money-back guarantee. It is not a mandatory feature, but it is always good to know that you can have your money back if you're not satisfied with the service.#8 Do Consider Hands-on vs. Automated
Each cybersecurity site offers different levels of automation designed for various levels of cybersecurity expertise. While some services include a hands-on approach to malware removal, companies like SiteLock offer automated options to ease a user's involvement. If you're familiar with malware removal and want to monitor potential threats yourself, hands-on software might be a good option. On the flip side, if you don't have the time or comfort level to monitor each threat, you might consider an automated service that not only scans and defends against malicious content but also removes threats immediately without user involvement.
Each option has its pros and cons depending on your comfort level and knowledge of malware. Take some time to assess each cybersecurity service's options to see which fits best with your cybersecurity needs. After all, with so many cybersecurity options, your software should complement your network security habits.Time to Make Your Choice
Now that you've gone through all seven steps of this brief guide, you know enough to make the right decision when choosing a secure cybersecurity tool. Most programs offer free trial plans and startup plans at low costs. It allows you to test the service out before investing more money into it. In the end, cybersecurity tools are going to be one of the best investments going into 2020. After all, the amount of cybersecurity threats is only going to increase.
