General Computer Security Tips
1) Use Windows XP with Service Pack 2 (SP2)
It is very important to use SP2. The main focus of SP2 was
security enhancements. A new computer without SP2 installed
and put on the Internet is usually infected with a virus within an hour. This happens without getting email attachments or any
other of the normal methods of infection, but just because you
are connected to the Internet makes you vulnerable to attacks.
2) Turn on "Windows Update"
New security issues are found all the time and Windows XP
has a way to send you updates automatically. To make sure
this is turned on go to:
a) Click on Windows Start button
b) Click on Control Panel
c) Click on Security Center
d) Click on Automatic Updates and set
it on to the setting you would prefer
3) Turn on the "Windows Firewall"
Firewalls create a protective wall between your computer and
the outside world. They work by filtering out unauthorized or
potentially dangerous types of data from the Internet, while
still allowing other (good) data to reach your computer.
a) Click on Windows Start button
b) Click on Control Panel
c) Click on Security Center
d) Click on Windows Firewall and set it to on
4) Use Antivirus software.
There are many packages available. You will have to pay a yearly subscription fee to receive updates for new viruses that the software can detect.
The above four items are pretty much mandatory. Below are some more other general tips.
1. Don't open emails or attachments from unknown sources. Be
suspicious of any unexpected email attachments even if they
appear to be from someone you know.
2. Use hard-to-guess passwords. Mix upper case, lower case,
numbers, or other characters not easy to find in a dictionary,
and make sure they are at least eight characters long.
3. Back-up your computer data on disks or CDs regularly. Backup
your reports using the HomeGauge Gold service.
4. Dont install file sharing or other free utilities software.
This software is often full of spyware/adware that can
junk up a computer very fast.
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