How to Improve Your Computer's Security Colorado

Steps

1. Consider switching to Linux or BSD which are fundamentally more secure than Windows. Otherwise, read on.
2. Check Windows Update and Office Update regularly. You will need to have your Office CD to do this.
   • Windows Me, 2000, and XP users can configure automatic updates. Click on the Automatic Updates tab in the System control panel and choose the appropriate options.
3. If you are connecting to broadband internet such as DSL or Cable, use a router with a built-in firewall. This device sits between your Cable/DSL modem and your computer.
4. Use at least two user accounts. You need an administrator account for changing settings on the system and a restricted user account for day to day use. Running Windows in Restricted User mode prevents system settings from being changed. This makes it much more difficult for malware to install itself onto your computer. You can add users and change their permissions in the XP control panel User Accounts.
   • When installing software, you should log in as administrator, change your main account to be part of the administrator group, log on as the main user and install the software. After you run the software for the first time, go back into the User Accounts control panel and demote yourself back to Restricted User.
5. Install a personal firewall.
6. Install a spyware blocker.
7. Install a virutal encrypted drive system such as FreeOTFE to store your sensitive files on
8. Block pop-up spam messages in Windows NT, 2000, or XP by disabling the Windows Messenger service (this is unrelated to the instant messaging program). Open Control Panel then Administrative Tools then Services and you'll see Messenger. Right-click and go to Properties. Set Start-up Type to Disabled and press the Stop button.
9. Use strong passwords and change them periodically.
10. If you're using Outlook or Outlook Express, use the current version or one with the Outlook Security Update installed. The update and current versions patch numerous vulnerabilities.
11. Install antivirus software and keep it up to date.
12. If you have a wireless network, turn on the security features: use the encryption that comes with your wireless router. WPA2 or WPA are best, followed by WEP. Choose a strong key for the password, using uppercase, lowercase, numbers and special characters.
13. Be skeptical of things on the Internet. Don't assume that e-mail "From:" a particular person is actually from that person until you have further reason to believe it's that person. Don't assume that an attachment is what it says it is. Don't give out your password to anyone, even if that person claims to be from "support."

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