The simplest answer to this question is obviously to run effective
antivirus software and keep all software and the operating system(s)
patched and up-to-date. However for the novice user what may seems
simple to Microsoft engineers (for example) is often a daunting task
that more often goes ignored. So for those that think a patch is only
something that helps you quit smoking keep reading, there are
effective alternatives.
Any computers security can be greatly improved by putting it behind an
inexpensive router/firewall. Many of the standard network equipment
vendors sell a device that connects to the Internet in place of your
computer that has additional ports to "pass through" the Internet
connection to the computer, or computers, using network cable(s).
These devices can be used on standard telephone dial-up access,
broadband cable and dsl, or virtually any other type of Internet
connection.
Using a router to keep the pc from being connected directly to the
Internet, along with an antivirus subscription that is updated
automatically and daily will protect even the most novice computer
user from virtually all dangers on the Internet.
Novice Windows XP users can stay directly connected to the Internet
and still be safe from even the latest network exploits by clicking
one check box using the built-in "Internet Connection Firewall" on
their dial-up connection or Ethernet advanced settings tab.
For non-microsoft users the same philosophies do apply. |
