Updating your hardware and WiFi components is so important to remaining safe online!
Updating Hardware Components:
Did you know that besides running Windows updates you should also be updating the hardware components in your computer? Recently, a known Intel chip vulnerability, known as Intel CSME CPU Bug, was found that affects most Intel chips over the last 5 years. If you do not know what an intel chip is, it is the processing chip inside your computer that executes instructions that make up a computer program.
Updates are being released by your computer’s manufacturer but updating your BIOS firmware can be complicated and scary. Your computer's BIOS or Basic Input/Output System is a hardwired computer program that allows your operating system to communicate with the hardware attached to the computer. I always recommend having a backup of your documents, pictures and anything else that you deem important before doing a BIOS update. If you need help with doing this, SNL Tech Services can come to you and make sure you have a good backup. We can then do the BIOS update as well as any other firmware updates that your system might need.
Updating WiFi:
Another component most home users overlook is updating your WiFi router firmware and changing the passwords from the default login to something more secure.
The same goes for those wireless printers you have sitting in your home office; All of these, if left unattended can allow hackers to gain access to your network, your computer and your sensitive information.
This is not meant to scare you, but to help you remain vigilant. With more and more people working from home, these updates are even more important.
If you have concerns or questions, please feel free to reach out to us. No question or concern is too silly to ask when it comes to the security of your personal information.