There is no way to know if a computer is safe with one look. It takes several steps or even software to determine if the computer is secure. However, there is a definite way to answer whether the computer is safe or not through a set of questions and software.

The questions are relatively simple, and it targets the computer user. For example, one of the questions pertains to clicking unknown links. If the user answers no, then the computer is safe. Additionally, if the user does not go to a sketchy website, connect to an unsafe network, and update their system, it is more likely that their computer is safe. However, it is not 100% accurate. There are instances where a computer has a flaw, and the only answer is mitigation. Solving problems with temporary fix are often done by a professional. Ordinary people have no way of fixing issues. In conclusion, asking users questions might not be accurate to tell if a computer is safe, but it’s an excellent way to assume if a computer is secure.

Softwares are easy; just a click and done. Software like Norton would notify its user if there were an attack on the user’s computer. They check each file and track incoming and outgoing traffic. In doing so, they are checking if a known attack will happen. Most of the attacks have signatures on them. A file containing an exploit would be read but not executed. It’s usually the hash and the file’s code to determine if the file is malicious. Known attack hash and signatures are kept in a database and compared to the user’s file hash or code and decide whether it’s harmful. In doing so, the software can prevent attacks on the user’s computer. They also detect worms and malware that are potentially dangerous and notify the users if the file is dangerous. Therefore, antivirus software is the best tool to prevent potential computer attacks and know that a computer is safe.