For those heading off to college, I offer some suggestions for ensuring that your laptop computer can be recovered if it is stolen, and for protecting files against theft, fire, and clumsiness. These tips apply to anyone who uses a computer, not just to college students.
First, be sure to record the model number and serial number of your laptop and all major accessories, and store them in a safe place. Now you have an accurate list if anything is ever stolen. Stick labels with your name and cell phone number inside various components so that you (or the police) can quickly identify your property.
Consider purchasing the theft-protection offered by www.lojackforlaptops.com. If your laptop is stolen, they’ll find it for you, or they can remotely instruct it to delete your files.
Configure your laptop to require you to log in, and configure the screen saver to lock up after a few minutes of inactivity. You will get used to it pretty quickly, and it will prevent curious roommates or visitors from snooping around in your files.
A good password should contain a mixture of upper- and lower-case letters, numbers, and punctuation characters. It should be at least eight characters long. Don’t use predictable words or strings of numbers (i.e., don’t use your pet’s name or your phone number).
For security, use a different password for every website where you are required to register. Don’t have the web browser remember your password for any site where you can spend money. It might be convenient to do so, but it is too dangerous. Anyone with physical access to your laptop can get into your bank account. Keep your information (website, login name, and password) in a password-protected document. Don’t tell anyone your passwords—not your parents, not your friends, not your roommates. If there is ever a situation where you have to tell someone, then change the password as soon as possible afterward. Change your most important passwords a couple of times per year. Remember to record them in your password file.
Enjoy your new laptop and your time in college.