What is an antivirus?

An antivirus is a software program that helps protect your computer against viruses and other malicious software. Antiviruses are available for both Windows and Mac computers. There are many different types of antiviruses, but they all work to do the same thing: protect your computer from harm. Some antiviruses are free, while others require a subscription.

There are many different factors to consider when choosing an antivirus, such as price, features, and compatibility. If you are not sure which antivirus is right for you, it is best to consult with a computer expert or read reviews online before making a decision.

The Different Types of Antiviruses

Free Antivirus Software:

There are many free antivirus software programs available on the internet. However, the quality of these programs can vary greatly. Some free antiviruses may be very good at detecting and removing viruses, while others may not be as effective.

Subscription Antivirus Software:

Subscription antivirus software is usually more expensive than free antivirus software. However, it usually provides better protection against viruses and other malware

Enterprise Antivirus Software:

Enterprise antivirus software is used by businesses to protect their networks and computers from viruses and other malware. This type of software is usually more expensive than subscription antivirus software.

Cloud-Based Antivirus Software:

Cloud-based antivirus software is a newer type of antivirus that uses the cloud to provide protection against viruses and other malware. This type of software is usually more expensive than subscription antivirus software.free antivirus software, but it can offer better protection against viruses and other malware. In addition, subscription antiviruses often provide automatic updates to keep your computer protected against the latest threats.

Pros and Cons of a Free Antivirus

There are a number of antivirus software programs available on the market today. Some are free, while others require a subscription in order to use them. So, which is the best option for you? Here, we take a look at the pros and cons of both free and subscription antivirus programs in order to help you decide which is right for you.

PROS OF A FREE ANTIVIRUS

1. Cost – The most obvious advantage of a free antivirus program is that it doesn’t cost anything to use it. This can be a big saving if you need to protect multiple devices, as the cost of subscribing to multiple antivirus programs can quickly add up.

2. Ease of use – Free antivirus programs are generally very easy to install and use, meaning that even those with little technical knowledge can get them up and running without any problems.

3. Regular updates – Most free antivirus programs receive regular updates from their developers, ensuring that they are always up-to-date and effective against the latest threats.

CONS OF A FREE ANTIVIRUS

1. Limited features – Free antivirus programs usually have fewer features than their paid-for counterparts. This means that they may not offer as much protection as you’d like, or may not include certain features that you consider essential (such as a firewall).

2. Slower scanning speeds – Many free antivirus programs also tend to be slower than their paid-for counterparts when scanning your devices for malware. This can be frustrating if you have a lot of devices to scan or if you only have a limited amount of time to do so.

3. Potentially intrusive – Some free antivirus programs display advertising or other intrusive content in order to generate revenue. This can be annoying and may even slow down your device while the ads are being displayed.

PROS OF A PAID ANTIVIRUS

1. Comprehensive protection – Paid antivirus programs offer much more comprehensive protection than their free counterparts. This means that you can be confident that your devices are well protected against the latest threats.

2. Faster scanning speeds – Paid antivirus programs also tend to scan your devices much faster than free programs, meaning that you can get on with using your devices sooner rather than later.

3. No ads or other intrusions – Unlike some free antivirus programs, paid programs do not display advertising or any other intrusive content. This ensures that your experience of using the program is as smooth and seamless as possible.

CONS OF A PAID ANTIVIRUS

1. Cost – The main downside of a paid

Pros and Cons of a Subscription Antivirus

There are a number of different subscription antivirus options available on the market today. Which one is the best for you depends on a number of factors, including your budget and your level of comfort with technology? Here are some pros and cons of subscription antivirus programs to help you make a decision:

PROS:

1. You get comprehensive protection.

When you subscribe to an antivirus program, you can be confident that you’re getting comprehensive protection against all types of malware, including viruses, Trojans, worms, spyware, and adware. This is in contrast to free antivirus programs, which may only offer basic protection against viruses.

2. You get regular updates.

One of the biggest advantages of subscription antivirus programs is that they automatically update their virus definitions on a regular basis. This means that you’ll always be protected against the latest threats, even if you don’t have time to manually update your program yourself. Free antivirus programs typically don’t offer this automatic updating feature.

3. You get expert support.

Another advantage of subscription antivirus programs is that they usually come with access to expert support staff who can help you if you run into any problems using the software or dealing with malware infections. Free antivirus programs typically don’t offer this kind of support.

CONS:

1. They can be expensive.

One downside of subscription antivirus programs is that they can be relatively expensive

What is the Best Antivirus for you?

There are many different types of antivirus software on the market, and it can be difficult to determine which one is right for you. Some factors to consider include your budget, the level of protection you need, and whether you want a subscription-based or free program.

If you’re looking for a free antivirus program, Avast Free Antivirus and AVG AntiVirus Free are both excellent options. However, if you’re willing to pay for a subscription, Norton Security Deluxe provides more comprehensive protection against malware and other online threats.

Ultimately, the best antivirus program for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Be sure to do your research before making a decision, as there are many great options available.

Conclusion

There are many different factors to consider when choosing an antivirus program, but ultimately it boils down to personal preference. Some people prefer free programs because they don’t want to have to worry about paying for a subscription, while others feel that subscription programs offer better protection. Whichever route you choose, be sure to do your research so that you can select the best option for your needs.

Contact KP Computer for help

If you are looking for help with your computer, you can contact Kp computer for help. Kp computer is a computer support and services company that can help you with any computer problem you may have. They offer support for both Windows and Mac computers and can help you with any software or hardware issue you may be having. They also offer a variety of other services, such as data recovery, virus removal, and more.

Office 365 Flexibility, productivity, and streamlined communication are vital to the success of any business. Having the tools to hand that make all of this possible – wherever you are working from – gives businesses competitive edge and helps them grow.

Office 365 is the productivity suite from Microsoft. It features applications such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, SharePoint, Teams and Outlook, all of which can be accessed anytime, anywhere from any device that’s online.

Let’s take a look at six of the top benefits for businesses of using Office 365.

1. Empowers the remote working generation With Office 365

Providing you’re online, you and your team can work from anywhere, whenever you like. Office 365 is fully cloud-based, which means you can access your files, documents, emails and all your Office applications from any device.

For the remote working generation, this flexibility is especially empowering. Productivity benefits considerably, because the workforce is no longer tethered to the office.

2. Reassures with security and reliability

Working with Office 365 means working in a completely secure environment. Naturally, as a business, you will be concerned about data protection and confidentiality, but you can rest assured it’s all taken care of with Office 365, because Microsoft has it covered.

Cloud backups and disaster recovery are all in place ready to keep your business running should an issue arise, and with Office 365 you’ll enjoy a host of built-in security features designed to keep your data safeguarded. Depending on the plan you choose, you’ll be able to take advantage of things like encrypted email, data loss prevention, mobile device management and Advanced Threat Analytics, amongst others.

The mobile device management feature is particularly useful when it comes to protecting company data, allowing you to delete all the data on a device remotely should it be lost or stolen. Advanced Threat Analytics proactively scans systems to detect suspicious behaviour, scanning emails for malicious attachments and preventing them from penetrating your network.

Exchange Online Protection and Multi-Factor Authentication are some of the other benefits designed to keep your organisation secure at all times.

3. Simplifies your outgoings

Because Office 365 is a subscription-based service, you get to pay a low monthly fee per-user, rather than a large capital outlay upfront. This is a good way of managing cash flow and budgeting. There’s also the added benefit of being able to scale up or down depending on your needs, switching off anything you’re not using and saving money in the process.

Office 365 offers a range of plans so you can choose the one that best suits you. Upgrades are included, so there are no unexpected costs.

4. Streamlines communications

Collaboration is a huge driver for success in any business, and the features packed into Office 365 make this possible in a powerful way. Team members are able to edit, comment on or contribute to documents, spreadsheets and presentations in real time.

Skype for Business and Teams allow you to hold conference calls and virtual meetings anywhere across the globe, with Teams offering the added benefit of collaboration and document co-authoring, again in real time. Staff can be kept up to date using the internal networking features of Yammer, with the ability to post to selective channels so communications stay relevant.

5. Provides access to all the latest software applications

With Office 365, gone are the days of paying to upgrade to the latest versions of Office. Your subscription provides access to the latest releases, without any additional charges.

This means that when certain versions reach their support end of life, something that’s set to happen with Office 2010 in October 2020, there is no need to worry about the potential security issues that could arise.

6. Offers complete flexibility

With the mix and match plans offered by Office 365, you won’t need to compromise. In fact, you can take precisely the features and applications you need from the seven plans on offer.

This is an incredibly cost-effective way of working, with no wasted funds laid out for features that just aren’t needed.

Office 365 from KP Computer

At KP Computer, we offer a full setup service for Office 365. Why not take advantage of the many benefits this platform offers? It really is the perfect all-in-one solution packed with innovative features that have the power to transform the way your business operates.

To learn more and for a quote for an Office 365 plan that suits your specific needs, you are welcome to get in touch.

But when it comes to remote working, the importance of having the right technology to hand cannot be over-emphasised. A streamlined transition from onsite working to working from home is vital so that workers can feel as comfortable and confident working remotely as they do in the office.

One piece of technology that has been making that transition nice and smooth for many workers is Windows Virtual Desktop. This is a remote working tool that allows familiar desktop infrastructure to be delivered to all employees, regardless of where they are working, or what device they are working on.

If you are looking to switch to remote working, or improve the way you already offer home working to your workforce, read on to discover the benefits that Windows Virtual Desktop can bring to businesses of all sizes.

What is Windows Virtual Desktop?

Windows Virtual Desktop is a cloud-based service provided by Microsoft and powered by Azure. It delivers the same desktop experience workers are familiar with in the office, to any internet connected device, anywhere, any time.

Security and compliance features are built-in for complete reassurance, meaning this service is able to provide a secure virtual desktop to all the end users in an organisation.

Why is a virtual desktop so important for remote working?

Virtual desktop platforms are transforming how people work. They provide a streamlined way to access all the apps, data and documents that are vital to their roles.

But more than that, from a company perspective, a virtual desktop offers a flexible and scalable way to operate from wherever happens to be most convenient at any given time. In addition, because it is a subscription based service, Windows Virtual Desktop has the ability to considerably reduce capital outlay and operational costs.

What are the benefits of Windows Virtual Desktop?

There are a number of key benefits offered by Windows Virtual Desktop:

1. Data is secure

Virtual desktops help to create an additional layer of security when accessing company networks over an internet connection. Instead of relying on the security of the hardware, which if a worker is using their own device could be questionable, Windows Virtual Desktop works via a private cloud network, making it a great deal safer, and negating the need for employees to access data locally.

Hosted in Microsoft Azure, Windows Virtual Desktop provides a secure, trusted platform backed by Microsoft’s robust security infrastructure.

2. Easier to control

Virtual desktop integration allows IT managers to install fully controlled, policy-based applications on any linked workstation, so there is no need for any individual hardware installations, and everything can be centrally controlled.

In addition, if a worker’s hardware fails, it is straightforward for them to login to the virtual desktop using another device, so there will be no loss in productivity.

3. Geographical freedom

Working remotely, backed by the robust technology offered by Windows Virtual Desktop, means you won’t ever have to consider geographical location again when hiring new people. It means you can take on the very best personnel for the job, regardless of where they are based.

This will significantly increase your available talent pool, and could help you grow your business and become more competitive.

This freedom of course also extends to existing employees, who are now free to relocate if they so desire, as well as work flexibly. All factors that can boost morale, and therefore productivity.

4. Reduced costs

A virtual desktop reduces costs in many ways. Firstly, there is a considerably lowered capital outlay. With virtual desktops forming the core of your IT infrastructure, hardware investment drops significantly. Instead of on premise servers, you are using a cloud based service. Not only is this less costly, it’s also a risk-reducing way to work. All the latest software releases come as standard, which means no more software licensing costs. Long term maintenance and hardware replacement fees all become a think of the past too.

Windows Virtual Desktop from KP Computer

At KP Computer, we offer a full installation service for Windows Virtual Desktop, getting your business up and running and ready for the most secure and streamlined way to work remotely.

To learn more, and for a quote for Windows Virtual Desktop plan that suits your individual business needs, you are welcome to get in touch.

What are software and system updates?

Updates perform a variety of tasks. Some are specific to particular software applications, whilst others are for our operating systems. There are updates that sweep up features that are out of date, whilst others install new and improved ones for improved efficiency and added functionality. Some updates put new drivers in place, whilst others fix frustrating bugs. But perhaps the most important updates are the ones that handle security flaws.

What are security flaws?

Security flaws are vulnerabilities in the integrity of an operating system or software application. Hackers know just how to exploit these vulnerabilities. They do this using malware, a type of code that’s installed on your PC when you click on a link or download something.

Once malware has infected your PC, it has the ability to compromise data, take control of your PC or use software differently to how it should be.

A particularly dangerous form of malware is ransomware. Ransomware has the ability to encrypt a victim’s files, rendering data inaccessible. The attacker then demands a ransom from the victim in exchange for restoring the data. Sometimes this ransom can be significant, often millions of pounds. The threat made is that failure to pay will result in systems being deleted and data sold online.

Malware and ransomware most often originate from phishing scams, emails prompting recipients to open an attachment or click on a link. Once downloaded or clicked, the malware is installed, taking over the PC.

Some forms of ransomware are particularly aggressive, infecting computers without the need to deceive users in this way. One such security vulnerability is BlueKeep, discovered in May 2019 to be affecting older versions of Microsoft Windows.

As soon as the BlueKeep threat was uncovered, Microsoft urged in the region of a million users to apply a security update. The warning was reinforced by the UK National Cyber Security Centre and the US National Security Agency. The trouble was that users running Windows 2003 or Windows XP would not have automatically received the updates, as those operating systems were ‘out of support’. We’ll take a look at the risk that poses a bit later on.

Why should I install software updates?

Once an update is released, hackers everywhere become aware there is a security flaw ready to compromise. As fast as software developers are devising methods to stop security attacks, so hackers are finding new routes in.

Your data and files remain at risk unless you have installed the latest updates. Everything you store digitally: images, videos, files and databases may all be potentially exposed to hackers.

Some strains of malware are able to totally wipe documents from a hard drive, or copy them to a remote server. The WannaCry epidemic that hit in 2017 will remain on people’s minds for some time. Huge amounts of personal data and documents were held hostage. In many cases, the compromised systems had not been kept up to date.

Keeping operating systems and software updated is vital if you want to avoid threats like these.

What does ‘out of support’ mean?

Microsoft only provides support for operating systems and software applications for a limited timeframe.

Support for Windows 7 for example came to an end on 14th January 2020. After this date, anyone running this operating system stopped receiving software or security updates, bug fixes or technical support. As a result, users became susceptible to a range of cyber threats, including malware and ransomware.

The recommendation by Microsoft is to upgrade to the latest version of Windows, or subscribe to Extended Security Updates.

In addition, from 13th October 2020, support for Office 2010 will come to an end. After this date, Microsoft will no longer provide technical support, security patches or bug fixes for its Office suite of products, such as Word, Excel and Outlook. This includes security updates that could protect a PC from viruses and malware. Software updates via Microsoft Update will also cease, there will be no more technical support, and most online help content will be retired.

The risk here is that there will be a heightened chance that malicious third parties will have discovered and exploited any security vulnerabilities, especially as more time passes. This could expose your files, users and potentially data to considerable cyber-security risks.

If your business is still using Office 2010 in any capacity, this is the ideal opportunity to switch to Microsoft 365. Not only will you unlock many new features and apps, you’ll also be protecting your business from security vulnerabilities.

Why update legacy systems?

Does your organisation still use legacy infrastructure, perhaps because a move to a modern system would involve a great deal of upheaval and cost?

The downside of using such systems is that, apart from lowered productivity, the exposure to cyber-security risks is worryingly high. Microsoft says that Windows XP for example is six times more likely to be infected with malware than more recent versions of Windows. Certain legacy systems can’t be security patched, or no patches are available at all.

Such risks have the potential for reputational damage, lowered profitability and reduced competitive edge. Legacy systems are also subject to costly maintenance. Upgrading is therefore the wisest option.

Stay up to date, stay safe

The importance of keeping your systems updated with all the latest operational and security patches cannot be stressed enough.

Switching on automatic Windows security updates is the best way to stay safe. Upgrading to the latest versions of an operating system and software will also ensure you have the best possible chance of reducing your business risk.

Ready to make the switch to Microsoft 365, or to move your legacy infrastructure to a modern system? Talk to KP Computer. We’ll assess your individual IT requirements, and then devise a solution that will serve you well into the future, keeping your systems and data as secure as possible.

According to security experts, not enough thought is being given to the security of the devices that control our homes. One such expert, Mikko Hypponen, chief research officer for Finland-based F-Secure, a digital security company, says that ‘if it’s smart, it’s also vulnerable’, warning that the more connectivity we furnish our lives with, the greater degree of vulnerability we create for ourselves.

What are the risks with IoT devices?

The main risk with smart home devices is that they can provide an in-road into home networks, allowing hackers to find their way into smartphones, computers and other devices. This in turn gets criminals a front row seat when it comes to viewing sensitive information, from credit cards details to all manner of account passwords.

Some of the weakest smart devices on a network are home appliances, such as fridge freezers and doorbell cameras. The big problem is that users rarely change the default password. This allows hackers to easily compromise a network, finding their way into other devices such as home computers and smartphones, opening malicious websites, launching spyware and creating spam emails, social posts and text messages. They can also suppress alarms, sensors and security cameras, rending properties at risk of intrusion.

What’s more, when voice assistants such as the Amazon Echo and Google Home are linked in to a smart home set-up, there is the added risk of attackers being able to open a door to a property, allowing intruders inside.

This problem has become so widespread that a surge in ransomware attacks has resulted. This is where hackers render devices inaccessible until the user gives in to their demand for a large sum of money. Remember Wannacry that brought NHS IT systems down in massive proportions in 2017? That was what was known as a Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attack. So you can see the potential here is very, very serious.

How to protect smart home devices from cyber-attacks?

There are a number of steps you can take to secure your smart home devices.

1. Secure your WiFi network

You can strengthen the security of your WiFi network by changing the network name, by using WPA2 encryption, by setting a secure password and by keeping the firmware up to date.

• Default WiFi network names give away the make and model of the router, which makes it easier for hackers to identify security flaws. This is why changing the network name will help to secure it.
• WPA2 (Wi-Fi Protected Access 2) is a network security technology used on wireless networks. When enabled with its strongest encryption option, anyone within range of the network might be able to view the traffic, but it will be encrypted so that any passwords or financial information won’t be readable.
• Password wise, it’s vital to follow best practice. Machine generated passwords are best according to the Government’s National Cyber Security Centre. These passwords are random and unique and therefore more secure than anything a user will come up with themselves. They also take away the risk of a hacker working out a password using the likes of surnames and dates of birth, as well as some of the more obvious choices. Machine generated passwords may be more difficult to recall, but using them alongside a password manager will remove the memory issue. Here are some of the best password managers for 2020, or you can ask your KP Computer contact for advice.
• Regarding firmware updates, some of the newer routers may have a firmware upgrade button which you can press and that’s everything done for you. Others will need you to go to the manufacturer’s website and download an update.

2. Secure your device

Once you’ve secured your Wi-Fi network, it’s time to turn your attention to the smart device itself.

Again, change the default password to something secure. Next, look at disabling features such as Universal Plug and Play (UPnP). UPnP helps you connect devices to your network quickly, without any need for manual configuration needed. The trouble is, it can also provide an in-road into your network for hackers, allowing them to undertake malicious activities.

Lastly, be sure to keep your device up to date. When you see that a software or firmware update is available, be sure to download and install it. More often than not, these updates include vital patches designed to close security flaws.

3. Switch off the always-on setting

If you use a voice assistant, switching off the always-on setting, or simply hitting ‘mute’, will reduce the security risk. This will make it more of a task to talk to your assistant though, so the best advice is to switch off when you are not at home. If you’re going to be away for a while, unplug the device and secure it in a safe or locked cupboard.

Need help securing your smart home?

If you benefit from some expert help with securing your smart home and setting up your connected devices so they don’t present a host of security flaws, talk to KP Computer. We look forward to being of assistance.

Many companies offer flexible working, where staff work from home occasionally or some even full time. Even for those who don’t officially work from home, a lot will naturally login to keep track of work emails or finish off the odd task they couldn’t manage in the office.

Remote working to some degree was already a reality for many businesses, but never perhaps on such a scale as when the coronavirus outbreak took hold. This is likely why, as a general rollout of remote working started to become the norm, businesses found they were not really prepared for the cyber threats that would quickly pose a huge challenge.

What are the cyber security threats associated with home working?

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a surge in phishing scams, many of them focusing on the uncertainty and fears surrounding the situation and taking advantage of people’s need to seek advice and reassurance on coronavirus related issues.

A recent report found there has been a 600% increase in reported phishing emails since the end of February, with many of them taking advantage of the uncertainty surrounding the pandemic.

Emails were intercepted impersonating the World Health Organization, asking victims to download a ‘safety measure’ by clicking a link. They were then prompted to verify their email by entering login details. Other scam emails appeared to be from HMRC and the Health and Safety Executive, all designed to harvest sensitive data and login details so that accounts could be compromised and used for unscrupulous gain by cyber criminals.

Aside from phishing attacks, the simple act of staff logging in to a company network has also been posing a major risk.

When staff use remote desktop protocol (RDP) to login to a network, this can pose a significant risk of ransomware attacks. Unless multi-factor authentication (MFA) is used to login, any unsecured network can act as an open gateway to hackers.

What is ransomware?

Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts a victim’s file, rendering data inaccessible. The attacker then demands a ransom from the victim in exchange for restoring the data. Ransomware often originates from phishing scams where attachments that appear trustworthy are emailed to a victim. Once downloaded and opened, they can take hold of the victim’s computer. Some of the more aggressive forms of ransomware exploit security holes in operating systems, infecting computers without the need to deceive users. An example of this is BlueKeep, discovered in May 2019 to be affecting older versions of Microsoft Windows.

So, now we know the cyber risks of working from home, it’s time to look at how to minimise them. How to protect your business and its data during the home working revolution? Here are our top tips.

1. Set a remote working policy

It’s vital to put a policy and guidance pack in place to manage the risks. Make staff aware of security protocol and you will be less likely to suffer a cyber breach. The policy should include:

• How to store devices securely when not in use
• The importance of creating and maintaining robust passwords
• Keeping software updated to the latest versions and installing security updates
• Acceptable use policy for visiting non-work related websites
• How to clear a browser cache to prevent login details being compromised
• Use of company devices in public places
• How to report the loss or theft of devices or a possible data compromise

It’s crucial that all staff are not only aware of threats to cyber-security, but also know how to deal with them.

2. Set up multi-layer authentication

Multi-factor authentication (MFA), also known as two-factor authentication, is a security enhancement that requires additional evidence to be entered before logging into an account. MFA helps prevent unauthorised access to the protected account should credentials become compromised.

According to Microsoft, enabling MFA can reduce account compromise up to 99.9 percent, bringing the chance of stolen credentials down to almost zero.

MFA adds additional account security that protects all employees from compromised credentials, protecting not only them, but also your business and its data too.

3. Use a virtual private network (VPN)

A VPN provides a secure, encrypted connection between your PC and an internet server. It is designed to prevent anyone from spying on what you’re doing, and also stops hackers getting in and seeing any data that you access over the connection.

A VPN is vital in regulated industries such as legal, finance and insurance, but is equally useful across any sector. Instead of allowing employees to access your company network via their own internet connection, the use of a VPN provides a secure in-road.

Here’s a list of the best VPN services for working from home, or just ask your KP Computer contact for advice.

4. Provide company devices

If you allow staff to work on their own devices, then you automatically lose control of cyber security. Devices used for social pastimes may well be susceptible to malware or viruses. How can you be sure your employees have installed decent firewalls and anti-virus software and are running regular scans?

Whilst it can be something of an investment, it is certainly a worthwhile one to know that staff are logging into your company network using devices that only connect through your VPN using multi-layer authentication. Devices that are installed with your company approved firewall and anti-virus and that are not used to browse unapproved websites.

5. Use a password manager

Cyber security experts suggest using a password manager. This is a platform that securely stores passwords and automatically fills them into login pages. They help protect all online accounts with a strong password. These are particularly useful if your staff are accessing various online platforms as part of their work, such as social media sites, client portals and content management systems.

The likes of LastPass, BitWarden, Dashlane, Keeper and 1Password are good examples of password managers. Web browsers including Safari, Chrome and Firefox also have built-in password controls.

Some password managers have features that inform you when a site has experienced a data breach. Others can tell you if the password you’re using has been found in a stockpile of stolen user data, as at least 555 million passwords have. Password managers also can help you find weak or reused passwords.

Need help with cyber security for your remote workforce? Talk to KP Computer.

If you could use some professional help with setting up your remote workforce for secure working, talk to the experts at KP Computer. We’re here to help, and look forward to being of assistance.

Are you labouring under a slow internet connection, or suffering from WiFi dead zones? If so, read on for our expert advice on how to boost a WiFi signal, improve your family’s online experience and boost home working productivity into the bargain.

First up – test your internet speed

There are plenty of tools you can use to test your internet speed. Too many people take their internet provider’s word for it and just assume their speed is what they’re told it is. But this isn’t always the case. So test it and see.

First make sure nothing’s streaming, uploading or downloading, and deactivate any VPN you’ve got running. This will isolate your test and give you a more accurate reading.

A really easy to use tool is https://fast.com/, this gives an instant reading of your speed. Or there’s the PCMag Speed Test which also works on mobile devices. Or just Google test my internet speed and you’ll see numerous other options.

Coming up slow? Here are some straightforward fixes you can try.

Check the location of your router

The location of your router can directly affect your WiFi coverage. Lots of people try to tuck it away out of sight, or leave it next to where the cable comes in. But hiding your router away or keeping it in a far end corner isn’t going to help your cause.

The prime position for a router is ideally in the centre of your property. This will allow the signal to reach all ends equally.

Wireless routers also depend on open spaces to work optimally. If you’ve got obstacles in the way, this could be affecting the router’s performance. So, give it some space, and try to keep it as far away from power-zapping appliances too as these can interfere with the signal.

If you’ve got one of those routers with antennae, angle them upright. Also try locating your router up high, such as on a top shelf.

Install a WiFi range extender

It’s not always possible to locate your router in a prime position of course, and for larger properties it’s always going to be a challenge to get that signal to reach every corner, and signals can only travel a limited distance. The answer? A WiFi range extender.

WiFi extenders work by picking up the existing wireless signal from the wireless router and rebroadcasting it. Placement of the extender is key to getting the most out of it. It needs to be close enough to the router to pick up the signal, but also in good proximity to the zones that are lacking signal.

You’ll need a power socket to plug the WiFi signal booster into, then it’s a simple set up process, usually via an app. The device doesn’t have to be the same make as your router, just make sure it’s compatible.

Here’s a list of PC Mag’s best wireless range extenders for 2020 detailing features and advice on how to choose the right one for your needs. Or just ask your KP Computer contact!

Update your router firmware

Device manufacturers often play around with their software in an attempt to improve it and iron out bugs, and that goes for routers too. There’s every chance your router may need its firmware updated. Sometimes this can be straightforward, other times you may need some expert help. It really depends on who it’s made by.

Some of the more recent router models may have a firmware upgrade button. Press this and it’s all done for you. Others though will need you to go to the manufacturer’s website and download an update. It takes a bit of time, but it’s well worth the effort if you’re going to enjoy faster speeds and more reliable WiFi.

Upgrade your hardware

If you’ve updated the router firmware and still no joy, it might be time to invest in a new router altogether, and you might need a more up to date wireless adapter for your PC too. This type of equipment is being improved all the time. Think about the tablet or smartphone you have 5 years ago and how they’ve been enhanced over time. The same goes for routers and adapters.

Older routers are slower routers, so better to go for something that’s got all the latest tech built in. And if your devices are older you may also need to attend to the WiFi adapter. A USB WiFi adapter is a good way to boost a WiFi signal on a laptop for example.

Here’s a helpful list of best buy routers for 2020 from Tech Advisor to help you compare and choose a new model. Or just ask your KP Computer contact!

Consider a mesh based WiFi system

Mesh based WiFi systems are designed specifically to resolve the issue of poor WiFi signal woes. They replace a router rather than just extending it.

Working by a ‘node’ system, one of the nodes connects directly to your modem, then the rest of the satellite nodes can be located around the home wherever you most need a reliable signal. An app guides you through setup, helping you make sure you choose the best place for each node.

Mesh based WiFi gives you blanket coverage throughout the home. But they’re not cheap, especially if you have a larger property to furnish with satellite nodes. But if you’re thinking about investing in a new router anyway, and were going to get an extender too, then it might be worth considering the extra value you could gain.

Here is Tech Radar’s guide to the best mesh WiFi routers, or just ask your KP Computer contact!

Get the experts in

There are a few more potential fixes for a weak WiFi signal or slow internet connection, but they aren’t necessarily straightforward unless you have a certain degree of technical knowledge of the network administrator interface.

Slow WiFi solutions such as a change of router frequency or channel can be highly effective in speeding things up, as can limiting the amount of bandwidth used by certain apps.

If in doubt, consult with your PC and networking expert. They’ll know precisely what to do to help you achieve faster speeds and a more reliable WiFi connection so that all of those frustrations you experience when working, teaching, learning, streaming, shopping or gaming can become a thing of the past.

Need help with your WiFi or internet? Talk to KP Computer.

If you could use some professional help with getting your internet up to speed, talk to the experts at KP Computer. We’re here to help, and look forward to being of assistance.