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WBM650 Wideband Modem User’s Guide
11
Safety
Getting Started
Installation
Usage
Troubleshooting
Glossary
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 fol-
lowing tips to enhance your system’s security:
• Keep your operating system 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 addi-
tion, 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 Wideband Modem.
Besides certain vulnerability problems, most cable companies prohibit run-
ning servers on consumer-level accounts and may suspend your account for
violating your terms of service.
• Use the cable company’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). Crimi-
nals 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 ca-
ble company may suspend your account to protect the rest of the network.
• If you connect your Wideband Modem to a wireless LAN, make sure you en-
able security and encryption on the wireless hub (for the same reason that
you should run only secured proxies). Consult the documentation and tech-
nical support of the wireless equipment provider for help.
