ActionTec Wireless DSL Gateway GT704WG-QW04, User Manual

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Actiontec DSL Modem User Manual
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Appendix c Computer Security
Network Applications
Network applications (such as software programs) that allow remote access to the
computer also make the computer vulnerable to access by other people on the
Internet. If using a network application that allows remote access, consider install-
ing a firewall.
Electronic Security
Here are two methods to secure your computer electronically.
Network Address Translation
If a local area network and a
PPP
connection to the
ISP
using dynamic
IP
addresses
through a
DHCP
server are being used, Network Address Translation (
NAT
) is
being used.
NAT
provides a very basic level of security.
Firewalls
The safest way to prevent attacks on the computer is through a firewall – a hard-
ware device or software program that protects the computer from unauthorized
access by controlling who can access your computer and monitoring the transmis-
sions between the computer and the Internet
Windows
XP
has a built-in firewall. For more information, select
Help and
Support Center
from the Help menu. Search for
Internet Connection Firewall
.
If Windows
98 SE
, Me,
NT 4.0
, or
2000
is running on the computer, consider install-
ing a firewall. Hardware and software firewall products are changing rapidly as
more homes and businesses establish high-speed digital connections between their
local area networks and the Internet.