Firewalls Don't Stop Dragons: A Step-By-Step Guide to Computer Security for Non-Techies

Just how secure is your computer right now? My guess is that you probably don’t really know. Computers and the Internet have revolutionized the modern world, but if you’re like most people, you have no clue how these things work or what the real threats are.

Protecting your computer is like defending a medieval castle. While moats, walls, drawbridges and castle guards can be effective, you’d go broke trying to build something dragon-proof. This book is not about protecting yourself from a targeted attack by the NSA; it’s about armoring yourself against common hackers and mass surveillance. There are dozens of no-brainer things we should all be doing to protect our computers and safeguard our data - just like wearing a seat belt, installing smoke alarms, and putting on sunscreen.

I’ve structured this book to give you maximum benefit with minimum effort. If you just want to know what to do, every chapter has a complete checklist with step-by-step instructions and pictures. The book contains well over 100 tips that are guaranteed to make you and your family safer!

Fully updated and expanded!

Added steps for Windows 10 and Mac OS X El Capitan
Over 30% more material
Expanded coverage on mobile device safety
Expanded coverage on safety for kids online


Contains well over 100 tips with complete step-by-step instructions and pictures! Topics include:


Choosing and managing passwords
Securely browsing the web and communicating with others
Securely setting up home networking
Shopping and banking online
Locking down social media accounts
Creating automated backups
Managing your home computers
Using your smart phone and tablet safely
Safeguarding your kids online