Basic steps to optimize your Internet security
After watching many people complain about their weak Internet security, I decided to write down a few things that will help you improve your Internet security.
First, here are some tips to make Windows more secure:
Once a month, use Windows Update so you can get the latest compacts.
When downloading software from the Internet, be sure to download it from the original website.
Always run anti-Trojan and antivirus software.
Even if you don't use it, you should make your Internet Explorer as secure as possible.
Internet Explorer contains several security vulnerabilities. You should make it as secure as possible or change your default browser to an alternative. You will have to configure some options from Manage Add-ons in Internet Options. You will see a list of plugins that can be turned on or off. If you see any unusual entries, just disable them to make sure you don't have a Trojan / worm.
In Internet Options -> Security -> Internet -> you will see the Editing level. You should set it to high to disable most security threats.
Your web browser should be fine now.
Because it is built into their Windows system, many users like to use Outlook Express to send emails. But it is a fact that it contains many security vulnerabilities, so I advise you to use alternatives. If you use web-based email (you can browse your email with your web browser), you can remove viruses even if you don't download them to your PC.
Make sure you have installed an antivirus for 100% virus protection. One that I found very good and that I was never disappointed is the AVG antivirus. If you take the time to update it regularly, you will be safe enough with it.
Many people install firewalls because they believe that their Internet security will be better. I personally do not agree. If you don't know how to best configure it, and you have to know a lot about the technology behind it to do it, it will only make your PC slow and the software not working. You can use the Windows XP SP2 firewall for basic security.
All of these tips should make your PC more secure. I have been surfing the internet every day for some time and they worked great for me. I have not come across a virus / worm in some time.