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OK
thought I'd give a quick update , ,
I always switch off at the modem when I am not actually online
I found a good AV and firewall package from AVG that was recommended by a computer-tech friend and have been having no probs with it.
Anyway, thanks all for your help, especially Smoodgie's son !
Windows 2000 is an operating system is one build for a business setting. The idea is that all the computers will be connected to a central router or server which deal with most security related issues, or not to be connected to internet at all-just to a local network. If your stuck using Windows 2000 though a good document is here;
[url]http://www.microsoft.com/athome/security/protect/windows2000/firewall.mspx[/url]
There are some firewalls listed on that page that run very well on Windows 2000. I've personaly tried McAfee and Symantec which I never had a problem with. Your other option, the better of the two in my opinion, is hardware. I have an Alpha Shield device which works very well. You can check out their site at [url]http://www.alphashield.com/[/url] and the product is available at most techy stores.
No matter what you do, a good idea with an always on connection is to unplug it when your not using it.
regards,
sweetie's son........
you're on XP, which has a built-in firewall, so using a router as firewall is not as "critical" as with Win2000
I still personally don't like computers connected directly to a cable or DSL modem..
sorta like leaving the front door unlocked but having a security guard in the foyer... ;) - having both is better
I have a hi-speed cable and can shut it off at the modem. Would I still need a router in this case...with Adware and Norton automatic live updates > ?
thanks....
since it's an "always on" scenario, it's a good idea to use a "router" (small box that allows you to share the high-speed connection between 4 or more computers), as they have a built-in firewall... fairly inexpensive nowadays, can probably get one for around $50 at Staples/Future Shop... had problems with a Linksys, no problems so far with a Netgear...
the most important part of an anti-virus package is making sure you frequently update (weekly at least) the definitions - these often require purchasing a yearly subscription (Norton and McAfee do).
you may also want to install some spy-ware detection software (adaware, spyware doctor, etc...)
finally, for whatever software package you chose there are some configuration tricks to make them work (i.e. Norton and some versions of Illustrator don't play nice out of the box, as Illy creates a temporary file that gets scanned, recreated, rescanned, computer slows to a crawl) - some Googling can usually find solutions
also check the website of your particular high-speed provider, some may offer deals on virus scan software or subscriptions...
I have always used Norton with XP on a hi-speed connection with no problems. :)