About
Subscribe

Netbooks need security too

Jacob Nthoiwa
By Jacob Nthoiwa, ITWeb journalist.
Johannesburg, 08 Dec 2010

A serious mistake that most netbook users do is going without online , according to sales director at specialist distributor Phoenix , Jason Phillips.

He says the Web is a major source of malware, and that malware runs perfectly well on the Windows XP that runs the large majority of netbooks.

Netbooks, dubbed the 'low fuss, low cost' alternative to notebooks, are selling in ever greater numbers as people appreciate their versatility and portability, he points out. “However, with the limited software loaded on these computers, and especially in a cost-conscious market, many netbook users are going without online protection, he says.

"Netbooks are often used to surf the and many people may not be aware of precautions they need to take to protect themselves against online threats," Phillips says.

“Low computing power also means savvy netbook users may shut down critical security programs to boost speed.”

Many people don't realise there are security programs that run in the background, providing comprehensive, up-to-date protection against online threats without slowing down the system, he points out.

One needs a security solution, which stops a netbook from being slowed down by cybercriminals, and delivers unsurpassed online safety while protecting files, music and photos from hackers, he says.

“The program should offer a number of protection technologies to address the latest online threats to keep a netbook running smoothly and customise protection according to your activities.”

The solution, he says, should be optimised to work with netbooks that have lower resolution screens, and it offers high performance, even on low-end ultra-portable PCs. “But it should provides premium security online for Web and e-mail and offers identity theft protection, among other features.”

Phillips says it should also be conveniently offered on a USB memory stick for easy installation as most netbooks have no optical drive.

Share