Which two basic security practices should users follow when using internet-connected computers?

Which two basic security practices should users follow when using internet-connected computers?

• A. Use strong, unique passwords and enable software updates
• B. Use simple passwords and disable updates
• C. Share passwords with coworkers
• D. Disable two-factor authentication

Answer: (A)

Strong authentication and keeping software up to date are fundamental ways to protect internet-connected computers. A strong, unique password for each service makes it hard for someone to guess or crack access, and using different passwords prevents a breach on one site from compromising others. Enabling software updates ensures your operating system and applications receive security patches that fix known vulnerabilities attackers could exploit. Together, these practices reduce the chances of unauthorized access and malware infections. The other options undermine security: simple passwords are easily cracked; sharing passwords creates a single point of failure; and disabling updates leaves your system exposed to known weaknesses.

Strong authentication and keeping software up to date are fundamental ways to protect internet-connected computers. A strong, unique password for each service makes it hard for someone to guess or crack access, and using different passwords prevents a breach on one site from compromising others. Enabling software updates ensures your operating system and applications receive security patches that fix known vulnerabilities attackers could exploit. Together, these practices reduce the chances of unauthorized access and malware infections.

The other options undermine security: simple passwords are easily cracked; sharing passwords creates a single point of failure; and disabling updates leaves your system exposed to known weaknesses.