IT Security and Help Desk Practices

Smartphone Data Usage

• A user suspects an installed application is transmitting data in the background, causing high data usage.
• To address this, the user wants to be alerted when an application attempts to communicate with the internet.
• Firewall is the best solution to address this user's concern. It monitors and controls network traffic, alerting the user when applications try to access the internet.

Help Desk Ticketing

• When a user reports an issue, a technician should use a unique user identifier to ensure the ticket is associated with the correct user.
• This identifier helps track the user's specific issues and history within the help desk system.

SOHO Wireless Router Security

• A technician is configuring a ten-year-old SOHO wireless router for optimal security.
• WPA3 with AES-256 offers the most secure wireless network configuration for this scenario.
• WPA3 is the latest security standard, providing enhanced protection compared to older protocols.
• AES-256 encryption provides a higher level of data protection than AES-128.

Windows 10 Startup Programs

• A technician is troubleshooting excessive boot times caused by programs loading on startup in Windows 10.
• To selectively prevent programs from loading, the technician should use the Startup tab in the Task Manager to disable individual startup tasks.

Virus Infection and Pop-ups

• A user is experiencing pop-ups claiming their computer is infected, suggesting payment for removal.
• This is likely a scam targeting the user's web browser.
• To resolve this issue, deploy an ad-blocking extension to the browser and perform a browser reset.

Mobile Device Security

• A user's mobile phone was reset after malicious applications were discovered.
• The administrator installed MDM software and should take further steps to secure the device.
• Prevent a device root and block third-party application installation are effective measures to prevent future threats.
• These steps limit access to the device's core system and prevent unauthorized app downloads.

File Protection on Shared Drive

• A user wants to prevent accidental deletion of a file on a shared drive.
• File Explorer allows users to set file permissions, which can help control access and prevent accidental deletion.

Desktop PC Component Protection

• A technician is replacing a processor in a desktop computer and wants to protect internal components.
• Utilizing an ESD strap and disconnecting the computer from the power source are crucial safety procedures.
• An ESD strap prevents static electricity from damaging sensitive components, while power disconnection avoids electrical shocks.

Cryptocurrency Mining

• A company needs to update its policy due to an employee mining cryptocurrency on a work desktop.
• AUP (Acceptable Use Policy) should be updated to reflect this new requirement.
• The AUP clarifies acceptable use of company resources, prohibiting actions like cryptocurrency mining.

Data Center Access Security

• To secure physical access to a data center server room, combine multiple measures:
• Biometric lock, badge reader, locking rack, and access control vestibule are effective strategies.
• These measures restrict access to authorized personnel with appropriate credentials.
• Video surveillance can further enhance security by monitoring activity within the server room.

Troubleshooting Domain Login Issues

• A user cannot log in to the domain on a desktop PC, but a laptop on the same network works.
• The user can log in to the desktop PC with a local account but cannot access secure intranet sites.
• The most likely cause is a missing or incorrect domain profile , preventing access to domain resources.

Disk Partitioning in MacOS

• A technician needs to resize a partition on a macOS computer.
• Disk Utility is the dedicated tool within macOS for managing partitions, resizing, and formatting disks.

Email Attachment Security

• A user is concerned about the security of an email attachment.
• Scan the attachment with antivirus software to detect potential threats before opening it.
• Ensure the sender is known and trusted before engaging with the attachment.
• Do not open email attachments from unknown or suspicious sources as they can contain malware.
• Check the file extension of the attachment and be cautious with unfamiliar file types.
• Consider the purpose of the email and the attachment before opening it.

Wireless Router Configuration

• A technician configured a wireless router with the latest WPA3 security, but the user is having connection issues.
• Verify the Wi-Fi password is entered correctly, as incorrect passwords are a common cause for connection problems.
• Check if the correct SSID (network name) is selected in the user's device.
• Ensure the user's device supports WPA3 protocol.
• Restart the router and the user's device to see if it resolves the issue.
• Check for any other interference from other wireless devices or signals.
• Locate the router in a central location with minimal obstacles for optimal signal strength.
• Update the router's firmware to ensure it is running the latest version and resolving any known bugs.
• Use a wired connection temporarily to troubleshoot the wireless connection.

Virus Scan

• If a system exhibits unusual behavior or alerts regarding virus infection, perform a full scan with the company-provided antivirus software.
• This is a vital step to detect and remove existing threats.

Software Update

• In general, keeping operating system and software up to date is essential for security and stability.
• Regular updates patch vulnerabilities and enhance system performance.