What Five Steps to Securing Your Windows XP Home Computer?

Most people are aware that there are always security issues with the Windows operating system and other Microsoft programs. However, most people don't realize how easy it is to significantly improve your computer's security and reduce the likelihood of falling victim to the increasingly sophisticated threats lurking on the Internet. These steps should take less than a few hours to complete and shouldn't break your wallet. 1) Windows Update - The first critical step you need to take to make sure all your Microsoft applications have all the latest product updates installed. These updates or "patches" address security vulnerabilities and other issues. Microsoft typically releases these updates on a monthly cycle. Visit the Microsoft website or turn on automatic updates from the Windows Control Panel. Even if your "new" computer is second-hand, it's still a critical first step. If you buy a used Windows XP computer, make sure Service Pack 2 or SP2 is installed. 2) Strong Passwords – People often overlook this, but well-thought-out passwords are an important part of keeping your computer secure. A strong password should contain at least 8 characters with a combination of text, symbols and numbers. At a minimum, you need to make sure that the most vulnerable services have a strong login password. These services include your bank, credit card, other financial services like PayPal, your email address, and any other services like Ebay that hackers can use to make a profit. 3) Antivirus Protection – While it is fair to say that the threat of a computer virus has receded over the past few years, it can still cause serious damage to your computer. One of the reasons the threat has decreased is that computer manufacturers are now more likely to bundle anti-virus packages with their new computers. For example, last year my new Dell came with a 90-day trial version of the McAfee Internet Security Suite. It is best to purchase a security package here that includes at least a firewall and anti-virus software. Top brands include McAfee and Symantec Norton products. However, Microsoft recently entered the market with its "OneCare" offering, which is very aggressively priced. 4) Firewall – If you are using broadband then a firewall is a definite requirement to control the traffic flowing between your computer and the internet. A firewall monitors incoming Internet traffic passing through your computer's ports. Better products also monitor outgoing traffic from your computer to the Internet. As mentioned above, your best bet here is to purchase a firewall application as part of the security package that most vendors offer as standard. If a hardware firewall is included in your router package, you don't need anything else. A company called Zone Labs offers a great free firewall product called Zone Alarm that should be used as a minimum. Windows XP now comes with a free firewall, but the product doesn't monitor outgoing traffic, so I don't think it offers enough protection. 5) Anti Spyware Tool – this software is the last part of your basic internet security setup. This tool helps fight against spyware and adware. There is a good mix of free and paid versions on offer. Good free software includes Microsoft Windows Defender, Spybot S&D or Ewido Anti-Malware. Ewido Anti-Malware is often recommended on computer help forums. Be careful if you decide to purchase a solution. There are a number of rogue sellers who aggressively push products that offer you little value. Stick with trusted names like Webroot's Spy Sweeper or PC Tool's Spyware Doctor. These products always come out well in independent tests.