2.11 - CompTIA A+ Core 2

Browser download/installation

Trusted sources

  • Trusted sources: Refers to using reputable websites or verified platforms to ensure that the software being downloaded is safe and free from malware.

  • Hashing: The process of creating an irreversible string of characters from a file - check that the hash installed matches the one provided by the trusted source to verify the integrity and authenticity of the downloaded software.

Untrusted sources

  • Untrusted sources: Refers to websites or platforms that may be dubious or unverified, increasing the risk of downloading malicious software or files that may compromise system security.

Browser patching

  • Browser patching: Refers to keeping browsers updated with the latest security features - this can be integrated within the OS itself or within the browser.

Extensions and plug-ins

  • Extensions and plug-ins: These are additional components that can enhance browser functionality but also present security risks if sourced from untrusted providers.

Trusted sources

  • Trusted sources (extensions): Official browser extension library, Chrome Web Store, Microsoft Store, App Store, or known-good websites.

Untrusted sources

  • Untrusted sources (extensions): Include random or unfamiliar websites - are a common vector for installing malware.

Password managers

  • Password managers: Software that stores all passwords in a centralized, secure location and allows creation of unique passwords across multiple websites.

Secure connections/sites-valid certificates

  • Secure connections/sites-valid certificates: Websites must have a valid digital certificate to verify their identity - if a certificate is invalid, check the certificate details - it may be expired, the wrong domain name, or the certificate may be improperly signed (wrong CA).

Settings

Pop-up blocker

  • Pop-up blocker: Software that blocks unwanted pop-ups. Install to remove the unwanted pop-up notifications while browsing.

Clearing browsing data

  • Clearing browsing data: This process involves deleting temporary files, cookies, and cache to improve browser performance and privacy. Regularly clearing this data is recommended for an optimal browsing experience.

Clearing cache

  • Clearing cache: This step helps to free up storage space, resolve loading issues, and ensure that you are viewing the most up-to-date versions of websites.

  • Cache: Parts of a website that are stored locally.

Private-browsing mode

  • Private-browsing mode: Browser mode that doesn’t store information from a browsing session (e.g., history, downloads). Useful for testing/troubleshooting.

Sign-in/browser data synchronization

  • Browser data synchronization: Used to share browsing data, preferences, and bookmarks across multiple devices - typically requires a user to sign in to a browser.

Ad blockers

  • Ad blockers: Software used to block advertisements from appearing on web pages. Some browsers have this automatically (Brave), but this isn’t always an option.

Proxy

  • Proxy: Software that sits between a client (user device) and an external network (internet). The client receives requests on the user’s behalf, receives a response, and sends responses to the client.

Secure DNS

  • Secure DNS: A method of enabling users to access websites securely by encrypting the DNS query between the client and the DNS resolver, thereby protecting against attacks such as DNS spoofing. Typically uses DNS over HTTPS (DoH).

Browser feature management

  • Browser feature management: The process of controlling and limiting the functionalities available in a web browser to enhance security and user experience. This includes enabling/disabling plugins, extensions, and features.

Enable/disable

  • Plug-ins

  • Extensions

  • Features