5 Steps for Safe Computing

Step 1: Turn On Your Firewall

A Firewall is a piece of hardware or software that blocks unauthorized users from accessing your computer while you are connected to the Internet.  Firewalls are an important first step in protecting your computer.  Windows XP and Vista include a free firewall.

• Windows XP/2003/Vista - Turning on the Windows Firewall

Step 2: Update Your Operating System

Microsoft is constantly improving their software and fixing known security flaws and exploits.  Macintosh often has updates as well.  These updates are critical to protecting your computer against newly discovered problems that can compromise your security. 

• Windows Update
  
  • Turning on automatic updates
  • Learning to use Windows Security Center
  • 5 steps to speed up your system
• Macintosh Updates

Step 3: Scan Your Computer For Problems

Viruses and Spyware are two types of malicious software often referred to as "malware." Since new types of malware are found each day, it is important to keep your software up to date. TOAST.net recommends Microsoft Security Essentials for home computers and Vipre for businesses. 

• Install Microsoft Security Essentials
• Learn more about Vipre for business-class protection

4: Keep Your Children Safe

Treat the Internet like any other public place - keep your children safe and monitor their Internet habits.  TOAST.net provides tools so you can filter out inappropriate content and log their activity, yet allow you to access the web-sites you want to.  Read this MSNBC article.

    Block Inappropriate Content

• Turn on K9 Web Protection for Windows XP/2000/Vista/Mac OSX (free)
• Households with multiple computers and broadband connections can use FamilyShield DNS to automatically filter inappropriate content.

    Beware of Sexual Predators

• Read the FBI's 'A Parents Guide to Internet Safety' and PC Magazine's 'Resources for Parents.'
• Learn Chat and IM slang used in chat rooms, on instant messaging programs, and by mobile phone text messages.
• Get some tips from the TeenAngles website.
• Use monitoring software to keep track of where your child surfs and what he/she has typed, like Spector Pro ($100).
• Kid's can learn about Internet safety from Disney's Safety Tips.

Step 5: Educate Yourself on Internet Scams

The old adage is true:  "If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is."  Con artists use the Internet to scam you out of money and your private information.  Knowing how to spot a scam can go a long way in protecting yourself, your family, and your computer.

• Read these articles on ID Theft and Phishing.
• Enable your TOAST.net spam filters to reduce the amount of scam email.
• Use GetNetWise.org and OnGuardOnline.gov for education and reference.