Chapter 2: Get started
What about security?
Having a high-speed, always-on connection to the Internet requires a certain amount of
responsibility to other Internet users — including the need to maintain a reasonably secure
system. While no system is 100% secure, you can use the following tips to enhance your
system's security:
■
Keep the operating system of your computer updated with the latest security patches.
Run the system update utility at least weekly.
■
Keep your email program updated with the latest security patches. In addition, avoid
opening email containing attachments, or opening files sent through chat rooms,
whenever possible.
■
Install a virus checker and keep it updated.
■
Avoid providing web or file-sharing services over your Telephony Modem. Besides
certain vulnerability problems, most service providers prohibit running servers on
consumer-level accounts and may suspend your account for violating your terms of
service.
■
Use the service provider’s mail servers for sending email.
■
Avoid using proxy software unless you are certain that it is not open for abuse by other
Internet users (some are shipped open by default). Criminals can take advantage of open
proxies to hide their identity when breaking into other computers or sending spam. If
you have an open proxy, your service provider may suspend your account to protect the
rest of the network.
Ethernet
Ethernet is a standard method of connecting two or more computers into a Local Area
Network (LAN). You can use the Ethernet connection if your computer has built-in Ethernet
hardware.
Note:
To connect more than four computers to the TM804 through the Ethernet
ports, you need an Ethernet hub (available at computer retailers).
The Telephony Modem package comes with one Ethernet cable (the connectors look like
wide telephone connectors); you can purchase more cables if necessary at a computer
retailer. If you are connecting the Telephony Modem directly to a computer, or to an
Ethernet hub with a cross-over switch, ask for Category 6 (CAT6) straight-through cable.
CAT6 cable is required for best Ethernet performance. Regular CAT5 or CAT5e cable may not
allow full-speed Ethernet operation.
Touchstone TM804 Telephony Modem User Guide STANDARD Revision 1.2
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