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bridging the digital divide... |
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Computer Security
Questions answered in this section:
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Is my computer secure?Your computer is at its most vulnerable when it is connected to a network. Your computer is vulnerable to attack from any of the other network users. So when you are connected to the internet, regardless of how you are connected, you always need to be careful.
A broadband connection to the internet is no less secure than a dial-up connection. The only difference is that with a broadband connection you are likely to be connected for long periods and are therefore more vulnerable.
To overcome this you must use a Firewall, this can be either of the software or hardware variety. The firewall when properly installed and configured prevents an outside attack on your computer. However, the firewall does not protect your computer from all viruses and trojans, you must use a virus scanner to protect your computer.
The your operating system is Windows XP, Apple OSX or Linux then they come with a built in firewall. If you have one of these operating systems then you should turn on the firewall when you get connected.
How to turn on XP's built in firewall
If you are running an older version of Windows or something else entirely then you'll need to get hold of a "Personal Firewall".
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