Microsoft MN-130 - Manual (Page 33)

Chapter 4: Network Tasks 29
Secure Your Network
Protecting the data and programs on your network computers from
security threats, such as computer viruses and hackers, is very
important. The following sections provide general information about
steps you can take to protect your network.
Protect Your Network from Computer Viruses
Even with a base station (gateway or router) installed, your network
is still vulnerable to viruses.
To avoid having a problem with viruses on your network, consider
the following suggestions:
O Educate yourself about how viruses are commonly spread so
that you do not spread one yourself.
• Do not load a program from an untrustworthy source on one
of your network computers. E-mail attachments from people
you don’t know or files from the Internet or online bulletin
boards are particularly risky.
• Never open e-mail attachments that you are not expecting.
• Scan all floppy disks before copying or opening files from
them, or before starting your computer from them.
O Install an antivirus program on each computer on your network
and use it regularly to check your computers for viruses.
Remember to update the antivirus program on a regular basis.
O Learn the common signs of viruses: unusual messages that
appear on your screen, decreased system performance, missing
data, and inability to access your hard drive. If you notice any of
these problems on your computer, run your antivirus software
immediately to minimize the chances of losing data.
Important
Because Windows XP Internet
Connection Firewall (ICF) will
interfere with file and printer
sharing, do not enable ICF on
virtual private network (VPN)
connection or on client
computers.