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Computer Security
The Internet is a giant network of computers located all over the world. When a computer is connected to
the Internet, it can exchange information with any other computer on the Internet. This allows a computer
user to send e-mail, surf the World Wide Web, download files, and buy products and services online, but it
also makes the computer vulnerable to attack from persons intent on doing harm. Unless access to the
computer is controlled, someone on the Internet can access the information on the computer and steal,
damage, or destroy that information.
Actiontec recommends securing your computer from unwanted intrusion. Security is ultimately the end
user’s responsibility. Please secure your computer, and don’t be a victim.
Comparing DSL Service with a Dial-Up Modem
With a dial-up modem, a computer user makes an Internet connection by dialing a telephone number, surfs
the Internet for a period of time, and then disconnects the dial-up modem. No one on the Internet can access
a computer not connected to the Internet.
Unlike a dial-up modem,
DSL
service is “always connected.” The connection is always available – there is
no need to dial a phone number to access the Internet. The computer can be connected to the Internet all the
time.
With both types of Internet connections, access to the computer must be controlled to make sure someone
on the Internet doesn’t access the information on the computer. The longer the computer is connected to the
Internet, the easier it is for someone on the Internet to find the computer and attempt to access it without
permission.
DSL
service also provides fast Internet connections. This not only improves Internet
performance, it also improves Internet performance for anyone attempting to access the computer.
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Actiontec 54 Mbps Wireless DSL Gateway User Manual
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Gateway Security
Be sure to provide the Gateway with an administrative password. If a password is not set, someone on the
Internet can access the Gateway and change its configuration or steal information from your computers. For
instructions on setting the password, see page 35.
Computer Security
To protect the valuable information on the computer, review the following topics. These topics cover
software programs and operating system features affecting the security of the computer’s data.
Anti-Virus Programs
The computer should have an anti-virus program, and the virus definitions should be updated on a regular
basis – at least once a month.
