5 steps to help protect your new computer before you go online

If you ever want to succeed on the web, you need to get your machine well equip to handle attacks and problems it might encounter on the Web.

Heroes Happen here for architects
For those of you asking me about Bob Familiar blog, Here is the link to his Blog.

You can also download Heroes Happen Here Architects zip file.

Download the Zip file here

I lifted this Zip file from Bob Familiar web blog. For those of you who does not know Bob, he is one of Microsoft’s developer Evangelist. I love the way he speak, he is a good teacher. And once you’re connected, it’s equally important to update the operating system and antivirus software on a regular basis.

Today we’ll be discussing the

5 Major steps to help protect your new computer

before you go online.

The following steps will help you set up your new computer with the latest security tools available.

Step 1: Verify the firewall on your computer

If you’re running Windows Vista or Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2), you should already have Windows Firewall running, and you can proceed to Step 2.

To see what operating system your computer is running, click Start, My Computer, and then click View system information to open the System Properties window. This information is listed on the General tab under System.

System Properties window

Tip: With Windows Vista or Windows XP SP2 installed, you can manage Windows Firewall and other security settings in one place to help protect your computer. If you don’t have SP2 installed or do not wish to install it, see How to Enable Internet Connection Firewall in Windows XP.

You can use our recommended software below to check you systems now.

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Step 2: Get software updates on your computer

•	Turn on Automatic Updates.
•	Plug in your modem or network cable for Internet access.
•	Click Start and point to Control Panel. Select Network Connections in the Control Panel.
•	Choose Create a new connection to start the Network Connection Wizard.
•	After you’re connected, allow Microsoft Update to install the latest security and software updates.

After all updates are installed and your settings are defined, you’re ready to surf the Internet.
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Just remember that it’s important to be diligent with computer security technologies, so run Microsoft Update regularly, check the latest downloads and product updates, keep Automatic Updates turned on, and be aware of the latest security threats.

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Step 3: Download antivirus software

Review the inventory or packing list that came with your computer to make sure the hard disk has all the listed software installed and the original installation CDs are there. This bundle typically includes security software from a recognized computer security company.

In most cases, a trial version of this software should have been preinstalled on the computer or included on a disk. If it wasn’t, contact the computer manufacturer for a replacement.

If security software wasn’t included with the original order, you should obtain and install antivirus software before continuing.

Microsoft offers Windows Live OneCare, a comprehensive service that helps protect your computer from many different kinds of threats, inlcuding viruses.

Step 4: Download antispyware software

After you’ve confirmed that you have antivirus software, you should confirm that you have antispyware software. To find out why you need both, see What’s the difference between spyware and a virus?

Microsoft offers Windows Defender to help protect against spyware and other unwanted software. If your computer is running Windows Vista, you already have Windows Defender. If your computer is running Windows XP, you can download Windows Defender for free.

Step 5: Record system information

It’s a good idea to record your computer’s system information in case a technician needs it later. To do so:

•	Click Start, then Run, and type “msinfo32″ in the text field. Click OK to open the System Information window.

System Information window

•	In the window, on theFile menu, click Export.
•	Name the file and save it to an external storage device such as a blank CD or thumb drive, and store it in a safe place.Note: Windows Live OneCare also offers easy file backup and restore.You should also keep the Windows installation CDs and related product key handy.

The most important aspect of setting up a new computer is to ensure your system has the latest updates and security software installed.

Make sure these are downloaded and installed to help defend against viruses and other potential threats before you connect to the Internet.