The first activity I completed was testing my firewall using Gibson Research’s ShieldsUP! service. The topic centered around evaluating my computer’s firewall and ensuring that it was properly configured to prevent unauthorized access. I learned about the importance of checking firewall settings to identify any potential vulnerabilities. ShieldsUP! highlighted open ports and made me more aware of how easily a system can be exposed if firewalls are not configured correctly. This was a great reminder of the importance of regularly testing and maintaining security measures. I can apply this to my current environment by making it a habit to test my work laptop's firewall at regular intervals, ensuring that any potential vulnerabilities are addressed before they are exploited—especially important given the sensitive data I handle for Cars.
The second activity involved researching password managers and multi-factor authentication (MFA). This topic emphasized the importance of using complex, unique passwords and enhancing security with an additional layer of authentication. I learned that password managers not only store passwords securely but also help generate stronger passwords that I don’t need to remember. MFA adds an additional layer of security by verifying identity through methods such as SMS codes or authentication apps. For my work as a web developer, using a password manager is invaluable for managing credentials for different client accounts and services, while MFA gives an extra layer of protection, especially for admin-level access. This practice is something I’ve already begun applying to my personal accounts and will continue to do for work-related logins.
The third activity focused on using anti-malware software to scan the system and test malware detection. This activity provided insights into how malware detection works, including identifying malicious files and potential threats. I used a well-known anti-malware tool, and also experimented with the EICAR test file to understand how the detection process works. I learned how effective anti-malware tools can be in identifying and isolating potentially harmful software, but also that it’s crucial to keep these tools updated. Moving forward, I’ll be applying these learnings by conducting regular scans on my work laptop. Keeping my system free of malware ensures a stable environment for development, reducing the risk of interruptions due to malicious software—which is especially important when building and maintaining websites for clients.
Week 8 Slideshow