Quick Start & Troubleshooting Guide
which may attempt to take control of your computer to install or re-distribute viruses or malicious
programs. Each connection to your computer is monitored - programs that attempt to receive information
without your permission are detected and the firewall will display an alert. You can then decide if you
will allow the connection, if the connection is to a program you are currently using then normally you
would allow it (i.e. a game connecting to a multi-player server or an encyclopaedia making a content
update).
Use a Personal Firewall
There is a wide variety of firewalls available, you can buy them from computer stores or download them
from the Internet. Windows XP has a built-in firewall that you can use straight away:
1. Click on Start > Control Panel > Network and Internet
Connection > Network Connections.
2. Select the Internet connection that you want to protect and
click on Change settings of this connection or right-click on the
Internet connection icon and select Properties.
3. On the properties screen click on the Advanced tab:
4. In the section
Internet Connection Firewall
you need to place a
tick in the box. Then click OK to turn on the firewall.
5. You will notice that your connection icon now has a small pad
lock icon to show that it is protected.
Adjust Internet Explorer Security Settings
Internet sites use small files called cookies to keep track of user preferences and information. You can
adjust your Internet browser's security settings to determine how much -or how little- information you
are willing to accept from a Website. Using the Medium security level allows safe surfing and is appro-
priate for most Internet sites.
To access Internet Explorer security settings:
1. In Internet Explorer, click on Tools > Internet Options.
2. Select the Security tab and move the slider to set a security level.
Prevent Spyware Infections
What is Spyware?
Spyware refers to generally unwanted programs that are downloaded onto your computer while
connected to the Internet, often without you knowing it. Once it has infected your computer, it can
snoop on your browsing activity, collect personal information, cause pop-up ads to appear, or even change
the configuration of your computer. Spyware consumes resources on your computer; it can slow down
your Internet connection or entire computer system, and even cause crashes.
Spyware is sometimes used by unscrupulous companies to monitor and track the sites you visit on the
Internet so as to determine your web-surfing habits and display targeted pop-up ads on your screen.
However, some kinds of spyware go beyond simple tracking and actually monitor keystrokes and capture
passwords and other functions which pose a definite security risk.
Download and Run Anti-spy Tools
Traditional antivirus programs and firewalls do not offer protection from such deceptive or unwanted
software; you will need to download special software to remove it from your computer.
You can download efficient anti-spy tools for free from many sources, including the Microsoft website.
These programs will help you detect and remove spyware applications, thus protecting your privacy and
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