Make computer secure by performing simple actions

Computer security was always a grand question. Every PC owner wants to make his machine private and secure. Many users do not know that computer security can be improved without installing additional software. Windows, Outlook and Internet Explorer have options that help protect PC. The defaults are not configured to protect the computer. After installing a fresh copy of Windows always modify security options. This article is to display user wholesome advice to make his computer system secure.

File and printer sharing

This option allows other users access your files and use your printer. Remember, if you want to use file and printer sharing, it is not necessary File and Printer Sharing option to be turned on.
File and Printer Sharing managing guide (Windows 98):

• Start -> Control panel -> Networks
• After Networks dialog box is opened, go to Configuration tab
• Press File and Print Sharing button
• Uncheck Other users must have access to my files and Other users must be able to print on my printers
• Click OK
• Click OK to close Networks dialog box

File and Printers Sharing managing guide (Windows XP):

• Start -> Control panel -> Network connections
• Right click Network connection and choose Properties
• Uncheck File and Printer Sharing for Microsoft networks

Firewall

Firewall is not supported by older than Windows XP operation system version. If you are using programs that have not been blocked by Firewall, data sources (files) that are being sent to those programs won't be blocked either. If you installed program unknown by Firewall, you will be asked to unblock or block specified program. There are Firewalls designed by other companies having more features and options and giving the computer stronger protection.
Firewall managing guide (windows XP)

• Start -> Control panel -> Network connections
• Right click Local Area Connection and choose Properties
• Click Settings on the Advanced tab
• On General tab choose On (recommended), Click OK
• Click OK

Windows Update

Programmers cannot fix all the mistakes before a new software is released. The same problem exists in Windows OS. Therefore, if you bought a new Windows OS version, there is a great chance that tomorrow you will detect some errors using OS, or security holes in it. That is why Windows designers create small programs called Windows Update to fix errors.
You can set your computer to automatic updates - it will periodically connect to internet and check for new updates or you can update OS manually every time you want. Windows Update supports Internet Explorer, Outlook Express and Windows Media Player as well.
Windows Update managing guide:

• Launch Internet Explorer
• Choose Tools -> Windows Update
• If a window asking for required software installation pops - click Install
• After installation is complete click Install Now
• On Keep your computer up to date page click Express. A search for latest updates will be proceeded
• After search is completed click Download and Install Now The Microsoft Windows Installer 3.1. It is the application installation and configuration service for Windows.
• After installation is complete, restart the computer.

Automatic windows update managing guide (windows XP)

• Start -> Control panel -> System
• Choose Automatic Updates tab
• Mark Automatic (recommended)
• Choose one of the options below up to your needs
• Click OK