Tighten Microsoft Windows to
Improve Security
Windows has security
holes. Microsoft Windows XP Service
Pack 2 (released in August 2004) is much more secure than Windows
XP-SP1, XP, 2000, ME, 98 or 95. Windows XP Service Pack 3 adds more
features. For an introduction to Internet security
for home and SOHO end users, see our Overview
page. For this week's top Internet security and privacy topics,
see our Newsletter
page.
Step #1 --
Backup your files at least weekly including
documents, music, photos...
Step #2 -- If you are using a dial-up Internet connection,
consider moving to DSL or cable to make it easier and faster to use the
automatic update features of Windows, antivirus software, and other security and
privacy software. Also consider signing up with an ISP and/or email service
that provides online spam, virus and content filters for two levels
of protection, see our
Secure
Website & Email Hosting page.
Step #3 -- Upgrade to Windows XP
Service Pack 3 or Vista. Turn on automatic updates and turn on the Windows
firewall (until you replace it with a better one). Turn off file and
printer sharing if you do not use these features. If you want or need to
do a clean install, see our Installation
page.
Step #4 -- Use
Firefox
instead of Internet Explorer and a more secure email client like
Thunderbird
instead of Outlook Express.
Step #5 -- Turn off the Windows XP firewall and replace it with
software and hardware firewalls for two levels of protection, see our
firewall software,
wired and
wireless router pages. Be sure
to test them after installation, see our testing
page.
Step #6 -- Install anti-virus and
anti-spyware software. Also consider using
anti-trojan, anti-spam,
anti-phishing privacy,
and zero-day protection software. Turn on automatic updating and/or check
for updates of malware definition files yourself
at least once a week.
Step #7 -- Tighten Windows
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