Tips To Keep Your Laptop Safe While On Vacation

As you may have already heard, a Ponemon Institute study found that over 10,000 laptops are stolen every week at US airports. 53% of those claiming the loss say that the laptop contains confidential company information, and 65% of those have done nothing to protect that information. It doesn't take a genius to figure out what you need to do - protect your laptop data by encrypting it.

It’s easier than you think to encrypt your data in Windows XP and Vista- these quick and simple steps will ensure that if your laptop does get stolen or lost, your data is secure.

1) Go to Start> Programs> Accessories >Windows Explorer.

2) Navigate to the folder you want to encrypt.

3) Right-click on the folder name and select “Properties”. At the bottom of the General tap, click “Advanced”

4) Check the box for “Encrypt contents to secure data”

If you do not normally login to your laptop, then follow these steps first:

1) Click Start> Run. Type “control userpasswords2″, then hit Enter. Click the box for “Users must enter a username and password to use this computer”, the click “Apply”

2) In the Automatic log on Windows, type the password you want to use, then retype it in the "Confirm Password" box.

3) Click Ok; Ok, to close the “User Accounts” window.

You can use the same steps to undo this when you get back, however, we suggest you always login.

Other suggestions for safe travel with your laptop include the following:

1) Never leave a laptop unattended.

2) Consider purchasing a security cable, available at most computer stores, to physically tie the laptop to an immovable object.

3) When taking your laptop through airport security, put your laptop bag in the first bin, your laptop by itself in the second, and your shoes, belt, etc in the last. This way your laptop is shielded both sides from other people’s bins.

4) If your laptop does unfortunately go missing at the airport, report it immediately. Unbelievably, 65% of lost laptops that are handed into airport security are not reclaimed!

Follow these tips, and you can enjoy your vacation and relax, knowing that your confidential data is safe.

This helpful information has been provided by Vancouver' s Foreverwarm Consulting. Foreverwarr offers proactive computer and network support and ideas. Our business is preventing computer and network failures in your business.