How to protect your computer

You need to do four things to protect your computer.

Here's How:

1. Anti-Virus Program
   You need to have an Anti-Virus program installed in your computer. You can download the Symantec Anti-Virus program free from the university website. Here is the link:
   http://antivirus.gmu.edu.
   
   
2. Firewall
   A firewall makes your computer "invisible" to attack from the outside.
   Since a broadband connection (cable or DSL), is always connected to the internet whenever the computer is on, you must have this, in addition to an antivirus program.
   To make sure it's turned on, go to Start | Control Panel |Security Center.
   Now look for the "Windows Firewall" icon:

   

   Make sure it's turned on.
   
   
3. Automatic Updates
   To make sure it's turned on, go to Start | Control Panel |Security Center.
   Look for the Automatic Update icon in the Control Panel:

   

   Double-click it. The Windows XP "automatic update" setting, should be turned on. The "default" setting is "Every day at 3:00AM (change this to a time when your computer will be on). Click "Apply" and OK.

   
   
4. Anti-spyware
   
   

   You can use Windows Defender from Microsoft to protect your computer from spywares, pop-ups and slow performance.

   Disclaimer: All downloads should meet the IT policy standards of George Mason University.