Best practices in a network

If your computer is not part of a network then you don't have to worry much. But if your computer is part of a network then the mistakes you do will affect the whole network not simply your computer. Ever heard of the phrase, 'the strength of a chain lies in its weakest link'? Likewise even if one computer user does not use follow best practices then it will affect the whole network.

Listed below are the best practices that every network computer user should follow:

1. Do not give your network computer's password to anyone. Not even to your network system administrator.
   
2. Change the passwords often
   
3. Always keep a difficult to guess password. For example do not keep your wife's name, child's name, husband's name or your birth date etc.
   
4. Do not write and keep your password everywhere. Don't keep your password stored in a file in your computer. Just remember it in your mind.
   
5. Do not leave the computer unattended while it is on. If you shutdown before you leave it saves power as well as prevent unauthorised people from logging in to your computer.
   
6. If there is a need for someone else to use your computer then logoff from the computer and leave him to use.
   
7. If anything goes wrong in your computer get help from your network administrator.
   
8. Do not store your personal files in your 'home' directory in the network.
   
9. If you need to share an important file with your colleague do not make your whole home directory as 'shared' folder. Copy those files in to a common folder and share that folder only. After the colleague copies the file immediately delete that folder.
   
10. In any circumstance, do not leave important files in common folders.
    
11. Without your system administrator's knowledge do not install any application in your computer. Do not download programs from internet or copy programs from CDs
    
12. Do not download unnecessary audio, video, images from internet. These are the common route for viruses.
    
13. During working hours avoid using Yahoo messenger, MSN messenger or any other instant messengers to chat with unofficial persons. You may however use them to communicate for official needs.
    
14. Avoid using your personal emails during office hours except your office mails.
    
15. Do not send unwanted mails to others in the network.
    
16. Do not send emails with big attachments. If you need to send a big file to many colleagues copy it to a network folder and then ask your colleagues to view it from there.
    
17. Do not use your office email address to join mailing lists and newsgroups. Doing so may increase the possibility of SPAM mails.
    
18. Do not open email attachments from unknown persons. Always use a good anti virus software in your computer.
    
19. Do not reply to SPAM emails and do not click on unsubscribe link in these mails. Delete them immediately.
    
20. Refrain yourself from chain emails.
    
21. Do not enter to directories and folders that are not designated to you in the network.