The following are general recommendations you can take to help improve security of end user systems.

• Disable file and printer sharing in Windows 95/98/NT. If you want to share files/printers, password protect these resources.
• Do not install and run remote access software such as FTP servers, Telnet servers and PC Anywhere unless you are knowledgeable in the use of data encryption.
• Check out security sites to evaluate the vulnerability of your system.
• Switch off your computer (or DSL/cable modem) when not using the system for extended periods (e.g., overnight)
• Install and regularly update operating system upgrade patches and anti-virus software.
• Exercise care when downloading and running any attachments sent by email. Make sure it is from a trusted source and that you scan attachments with your virus software.
• Use of intrusion detection systems and firewalls can detect intrusion attempts and network misuse in real time and instantly respond to unauthorized or suspicious activity automatically by logging, recording, or terminating actions. Intrusion detection systems are only designed to detect known attacks; they can breached by newer types of attacks that are not in the predefined database. Constant updates are required to keep up with current alerts and patches.
• The products used for monitoring a network can also be used to detect some incorrectly configured equipment in the network.There are several classes of products available that can be used in protecting users and networks from malicious attacks. The major types are listed below.The products used for monitoring a network can also be used to detect some incorrectly configured equipment in the network.

  Personal Firewall Software/Hardware: Firewalls allow users to control and filter network traffic coming into or out of their PCs by stipulating certain rules and filtering packets for connections such as TCP/IP, HTTP and SMTP. The better firewall products also include intrusion detection and logging to capture break-in attempts by malicious users. Firewalls come in the form of software, hardware, or a combination of both. Software firewalls only protect the computer they are installed on, while hardware firewalls provide greater protection for multiple computers on a local area network. Consumer firewall products typically range from $29 to $250 for Windows 95/98/NT. They can be found at our online store.

  Encryption Software: Users who wish to have more privacy can encrypt files, folders, or confidential information on their computer hard disk, as well as any data they send over the network. Sending and receiving encrypted email prevents data sniffers or man-in-middle attacks. Encryption is also used in virtual private networks (VPNs) for end to end secure communication. Encryption software is widely available at low or no cost.

  Virus Detection Software: Firewalls can protect against certain types of attacks, but they typically cannot detect viruses that are sent as attachments to files. There are many virus detection programs available which can monitor all files, inputs and outputs, downloads, program executions, email communications, and other system-related activities. When a virus is detected, the program usually notifies the user and gives his the option to clean or delete the infected file before further damage can occur.