What kinds of “access doors” are open on your device, and which kind of viruses can pass through? Practically none, as long as you have activated a firewall and installed antivirus software.
The most important points to remember:
- Use antivirus software and activate its automatic update function.
- You should periodically check your device for virus infections by running a complete system check.
- Activate the firewall that comes with your Windows or macOS before you connect your device to the Internet or another network.
How to proceed
Use antivirus software and a firewall, which is continuously kept updated with automated updates so that you are always protected against the latest risks.
Windows 10 and Windows 11 are supplied with a firewall, and their “Windows Defender” antivirus software is activated by default. This ensures you are perfectly protected.
To use additional protective functions, such as a parental control content filter, you can also use any of the following list of products (which is not comprehensive), sometimes even free of charge:
Further information for those interested
Malware infection - what now?
Should you suspect your device is infected with malware or if your antivirus software notifies you of such an infection, you can find additional information on what you can do here.
Firewall?
When users are surfing the Internet on their computer, tablet or smartphone, invisible “access doors” (ports) are opened on their devices to communicate. These offer a target for attackers from the Internet. A firewall installed will close these doors as much as possible and will monitor all data traffic between your devices and the Internet. Your firewall will alert you if it discovers any “suspicious” network traffic.
