IT Security Basics
Four topic blocks take you from basic understanding to a daily routine. Read them in order or jump straight to your topic.
Last updated: September 1, 2026
No single layer of protection is enough on its own
Good IT security consists of several layers stacked on top of each other. If one fails, the next one still protects you.
Protecting accounts and sign in
Access to your accounts is the first line of defense. These three measures have the biggest impact.
Secure passwords
Use long passphrases made of several words instead of short, complicated character strings. A sentence like "SevenBlueApplesFall" is long, easy to remember and hard to guess. Use a separate password for every account.
Password manager
A password manager stores all your passwords encrypted and fills them in automatically. You only need to remember one master password. That makes unique passwords for every account practically effortless.
Two factor sign in
Two factor sign in requires a second proof besides the password, for example a code from an app. Even a stolen password is then no longer enough to take over your account.
Recognizing threats
Most attacks work through deception, not technical tricks. Once you know the patterns, you'll spot the danger right away.
Recognizing phishing
Phishing messages create time pressure. They ask you to enter data or open links. Check the sender address carefully. Hover over links without clicking. Never enter login details through a link from an email.
Malware
Malware is malicious software that installs itself unnoticed and reads out data or remotely controls your device. It often reaches your device through attachments, fake downloads or manipulated ads. Up to date antivirus and caution with downloads lower the risk.
Ransomware
Ransomware encrypts your files and demands a ransom for their release. Don't pay, decryption is never guaranteed. The best protection is an up to date backup kept separate from your device.
Staying safe on the network
Every connection travels over a network. These basics protect your data on the way from your device to its destination.
HTTPS
HTTPS encrypts the connection between your browser and a website. Look for the padlock icon in the address bar before entering personal data.
Firewall
A firewall controls which connections your device is allowed to make. It's already active on modern systems and blocks unwanted access from outside.
Public Wi-Fi networks
Open Wi-Fi networks in cafés or at the airport can easily be intercepted. Avoid sensitive sign ins there or use a VPN for an encrypted connection.
VPN
A VPN routes your traffic encrypted through an additional server. This protects you especially on unfamiliar networks from eavesdroppers between you and the internet.
Prevention beats repair
An incident can't always be prevented. With good prevention, the damage stays limited.
Updates
Updates close known security holes. Install them promptly as soon as they're available. Automatic updates take this task off your hands.
Backups
Save important files regularly on external storage or in an encrypted cloud service. That way you won't lose important data after a hardware failure or an attack.
Privacy
Share personal data only when necessary. Check app permissions and privacy settings regularly. Remove access you no longer need.
Safe browsing
Only download software from official sources. Don't open unknown attachments. Keep your browser up to date. An ad blocker further reduces the risk from manipulated ads.
Still have questions about a specific topic?
The FAQ section has short answers to 19 key topics on this website.
Widespread misconceptions
Some assumptions about IT security stick around stubbornly, even though they're wrong. The Security Myths page sets 26 of them straight.