The Internet is a shared resource which provides both tremendous benefits and an element of risk. Accessing the Internet through a power line network is as secure as other access methods, but you should take proper precautions to maintain the security of your computer and the privacy of information stored on it. The following are recommended practices to ensure that your computer remains secure while using CURRENT Broadband ® :
File and Print Sharing
Computer security is strengthened when file and print sharing is disabled. We recommend that you disable the file and print sharing feature on your personal computer. For more information, please refer to Disabling File and Print Sharing for Windows®.
NOTE: If you decide to keep file and print sharing enabled, please consider using password protection.
Anti-Virus, Anti-Spam, Anti-Spyware and Firewall Software
Another important step in ensuring the safety of your personal computer is to install security software.
CURRENT Communications is now providing its CURRENT Broadband customers with free anti-virus, anti-spam, anti-spyware and firewall software from CA. Click here for more information and to sign-up for the free CA Internet Security Suite.
Anti-Virus Software
If you are using anti-virus software from other vendors, be sure you are always running the latest version by downloading updates, usually available from the vendor's website.
Anti-virus software runs in the background to continuously keep your computer safe from viruses that might be introduced by e-mail attachments, downloaded Internet files, floppy diskettes, software programs, etc. We recommend that you do not open file attachments received by e-mail unless you know the sender or the origin of the file.
Once you have installed an anti-virus software program, we recommend that you configure the software to do the following:
- Scan all files and memory on all of your hard disks.
- Set the program to run everytime your computer starts.
- Set the program to run in the background.
- Set the program to scan floppy disks and downloaded files.
- Update the software once a month.
Anti-Spam Software
Unwanted e-mail that you receive is known as “spam.” Spam can disrupt e-mail delivery, degrade system performance and is often used to spread computer viruses.
Anti-spam software filters e-mail and blocks or segregates messages that appear to be spam.
Anti-Spyware Software Spyware includes a wide variety of applications that are typically loaded onto a user’s PC without their knowledge. Spyware can steal your personal information, switch your home page, re-direct your web searches, display annoying ads, slow your PC, or even control it remotely. Spyware comes in many shapes and sizes; some are simply an annoyance, while others threaten security.
Spyware can enter your PC through everyday web browsing, unauthorized software downloads, peer-to-peer file swapping,
e-mail attachments, instant messaging and chat sessions.
Anti-spyware software allows you to scan your PC to identify and remove spyware, enabling you to safeguard your information and keep your system operating at peak efficiency.
Firewall Software
A software firewall is an electronic barrier that filters network traffic and prevents unauthorized access to your personal computer. A firewall keeps hackers from changing, stealing or adding files to your hard disk and keeps out unwanted network traffic and in some cases, spam.
If you use firewall software from another vendor, be sure it is configured to provide adequate protection and regularly check for program updates, usually available from the vendor's website.
A hardware firewall serves the same function as a software firewall in filtering network traffic and helping to prevent unauthorized access to your personal computer. A combination of personal firewall software or networking software with firewall features plus, a hardware router with firewall features is possible. If you choose a hardware router with firewall features, make sure it supports Network Address Translation (NAT). This particular feature masks your computer's address from Internet detection. More information about securing your personal computer can be found at the following websites*:
Microsoft’s Protect Your PC – steps to help ensure your PC is protected.
CERT Coordination Center Home Computer Security
The Home PC Firewall Guide.
SecureMac.com – Macintosh Security
*The above websites are not affiliated with or controlled by CURRENT Communications, and CURRENT Communications has no control over their content.
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