In our global economy many businesses travel expensively to maintain client relations and to take part in conferences on the “latest and greatest” technology for your field of expertise. While the ease of travel is wonderful, your laptop is at risk every time you go mobile. Here are a few ways to protect not only your hardware but software as well.
- To prevent physical damage or theft, use a sturdy, weatherproof, padded bag that doesn’t necessarily look like a computer bag. Backpacks are exceptionally good at hiding technology and the have added room for power cords and other needs when traveling by plane.
- Always keep your laptop in view and in your possession. Just a few seconds and you could be missing a lot of data and your means of working while you travel.
- Use passcodes and authentication passwords so that you are the only one that can use the device.
- Before each trip back up the files that are currently on your laptop. Use password-locking programs and encryption programs.
- Make sure your virus protection is up-to-date.
- Avoid checking your laptop as baggage, rather use it as your carry on piece. Keep it nearby either in your lap or below your feet. Let your laptop go through the x-ray machine but keep an eye on it while it does.
- When using WiFi while traveling attempt to use secured locations rather than public Wi-Fi hotspots.
- Avoid having your laptop stay in an area that is very cold or very hot for too long. That includes cars and trunks of cars while traveling.
- After you return from your trip update files and data and have a test done to be sure you have not picked up any unwanted viruses.