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Just as you lock the doors of your house, it’s important to put systems in place that protect your network. Network security is an essential part of building a network, but it’s not difficult. Here’s a list of some of the most practical, effective things that you can do to help keep your network secure. |
 | | Security Steps for All Networks |
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Perform these steps as soon as you've set up your home network.
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Use Your Router's Features
Your first line of defense for network security is your router. The router can prevent unwanted and unsolicited Internet traffic from intruding into your network. It also secures your wireless network and helps prevent access by unauthorized devices such as your neighbors’ computers. Make sure your router’s security settings are enabled.
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Set Up a Firewall
A firewall is a software package that runs on your computers to help keep intruders out. Firewalls provide additional protection, but because no one thing can detect or stop all attacks, it’s important to use firewalls in conjunction with other security methods.
Windows 7 offers a feature called Action Center, a central place to view alerts and take actions on security and maintenance settings that need attention. Action Center includes Windows Defender, an antispyware software that, when turned on, can help keep spyware from infecting your computer through alerts and scanning options. |
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Equip Virus and Spyware Protection Software
Even with your best efforts, you never know what’s going to get through your firewall, so be sure to keep your spyware detection, antivirus and security software current on all computers on your network. Many software packages support automatic updates, so be sure to approve these updates when prompted.
Even your PC's operating system can help by being your first line of defense. Windows 7 offers a feature called Action Center, a central place to view alerts and take actions on security and maintenance settings that need attention. Action Center includes Windows Defender, an antispyware software that, when turned on, can help keep spyware from infecting your computer through alerts and scanning options.
If you need any help installing security software or removing a virus from your PC, Dell's expert technicians can help. |
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Knowledge is power. Make sure all of the users on your network understand these simple policies for protecting against intrusion and infection. For more information on how to protect your family online, visit the Family Safety Learning Center.
 | | Don't Open Email from Strangers
If you wouldn’t eat their candy, you shouldn’t open their email attachments. Before opening any attachments, be sure you know who sent the message. Be careful even if the email originated from a familiar address. For example, the Melissa virus used personal address books to send out malicious executable programs. Email robot viruses can mask the true source of the message.
If you’re bound and determined to open an attachment of questionable origin, you’re taking your chances. At least take these precautions:
- Make sure your virus definitions are up-to-date
- Save the file to your hard disk
- Scan the file using your antivirus software
- Disconnect your computer's network connection
- Open the file
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 | | Don’t Run Programs of Unknown Origin
It’s not really safe to click on attachments that come in email, unless you know exactly where the message came from and that it is safe.
Some malicious viruses, called Trojan horse programs, hide executable files in email. You don’t want to open one. And, you certainly don't want to be responsible for sending them to your friends or coworkers. |
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Perform these practices on a regular basis to safeguard your systems and data.
 | | Keep Patches Current
Patches are created by manufacturers to fix vulnerabilities, or holes, in their software. Many applications will automatically check for available updates, and many vendors offer automatic update notification through their mailing lists. When a patch is necessary, you can usually download it from the manufacturer’s website. |
 | | Back It Up
Keep copies of important files on removable media such as CDs, DVDs, USB or network attached storage (NAS). Use software backup tools if available, and store the backups away from the computer. In fact, it may be preferable to store your backup someplace not in your home. Dell offers DataSafe online backup, which can make this entire process easy.
If you're a Windows 7 user, take advantage of built-in features such in the Backup and Restore Center that allow you to schedule automatic backups of your files and data. Handy features include the option to choose the specific files you want to backup more frequently. |
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