Keep your computer up to date: To help keep the computers on your network
safer, turn on automatic updating on each computer. Windows can automatically
install important and recommended up dates, or important updates only. Important
updates provide significant benefits, such as improved security and reliability.Recommended updates can address non-critical problems and help enhance yourcomputing experience.Optional updates are not downloaded or installed
automatically.
Use a firewall: A firewall can help prevent hackers or malicious software (such as worms) from gaining access to your computer through a network or the Internet. A firewall can also help stop your computer from sending malicious software to other computers.
Run antivirus software on each computer: Firewalls help keep out worms and hackers, but they're not designed to protect against viruses, so you should install
and use antivirus software.
Viruses can come from attachments in e-mail messages, files on CDs or DVDs, or files downloaded from the Internet. Make sure that the antivirus software is up to date and set to scan your computer regularly. There are many antivirus programs available.
Microsoft offers Security Essentials,a free antivirus program you can download from the Microsoft Security Essentials website. You can also go to the Windows Security software website to find a third-party antivirus program.
Use a router to share an Internet connection: Consider using a router to share an Internet connection. These devices usually have built-in firewalls, network address translation (NAT), and other features that can help keep your network better protected against hackers.
Don't stay logged on as an administrator: When you're using programs that require Internet access, such as a web browser or an e-mail program, we recommend that you log on as a standard user account rather than an administrator account. That's because many viruses and worms can't be stored and run on yourcomputer unless you're logged on as an administrator.
Wireless network security recommendations: If you have a wireless network, there are some additional security precautions that you should take.Use a network security key: If you have a wireless network, you should set up a network security key, which turns on encryption. With encryption, people can't connect to your
network without the security key. Also, any information that's sent across your network is encrypted so that only computers that have the key to decrypt the information can read it. This can help avert attempts to access your network and files without your permission. Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA or WPA2) is the
recommended wireless network encryption method.
Change the default administrator name and password on your router or access point: If you have a router or access point, you probably used a default name and password to set up the equipment. Most manufacturers use the same default name and password for all of their equipment, which someone could use to
access your router or access point without your knowledge. To avoid that risk,
change the default administrator user name and password for your router. Check the information that came with your device for instructions about how to change the name and password.
Position your router or access point carefully: Wireless signals can transmit a few hundred feet, so the signal from your network could be broadcast outside of your home. You can help limit the area that your wireless signal reaches by positioning your router or access point close to the center of your home rather than
near an outside wall or window.