If your computer has a firewall and a virus protection installed on it, then it can certainly alert you to the fact that it has been infected. At the same time, the protection software will swing into action to isolate the virus and keep it from harming your computer. Many of the latest computers – meaning the software installed on them – come with automatic protection and alert functions.
Windows XP has a Security Center that you can log into to find the security information and configurations of your PC. You need only click on Start and Control Panel, and then double-click on that little shield that is the Security Center icon. From there you will see a menu with Firewall, Automatic Updates and Virus Protection which should all be marked with a green On.
While the Firewall is a helpful tool, you do need added protection as it will not disarm or remove viruses or worms, though it does block some of them. Neither will it tell you not to open attachments that are dangerous, or block spam.
The Automatic Updates keeps your program current and running smoothly and helps to protect it against some security threats and viruses. The Virus Protection is misnamed to a degree in that it does not protect your computer against viruses, but only monitors the software that does. Its main function is to tell you if you don’t have any virus protection software. Once the proper software is installed it will alert you to the fact that it is there and working properly – just in case you didn’t know.
On the bottom right of your computer screen you will see certain icons relating to the security of your computer. If you cannot see them, click the button, “Show hidden icons.” Certain icons have specific meanings. A multi-colored square means that you can access security information by double clicking on it.
If you see a blue shield with a question mark on it, this means that your security settings are questionable and should be upgraded. A yellow shield that has an exclamation mark means adjust your security setting due to potential risk, while a green shield with a check on it means things now are pretty good. Take care if you see a red shield with an x on it. This means that your settings are really, truly risky and should be dealt with straight away.
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