HP Compaq 320 Notebook-PC - Manual (Page 121)

Using antivirus software
When you use the computer to access e-mail, a network, or the Internet, you expose the computer to
computer viruses. Computer viruses can disable the operating system, programs, or utilities, or cause
them to function abnormally.
Antivirus software can detect most viruses, destroy them, and in most cases, repair any damage they
have caused. To provide ongoing protection against newly discovered viruses, antivirus software
must be kept up to date.
An antivirus program may be preinstalled on your computer and may include a trial offer. It is strongly
recommended that you upgrade the trial offer or purchase the antivirus program of your choice in
order to fully protect your computer.
For more information about computer viruses, type viruses in the Search box in Help and Support.
Using firewall software
Firewalls are designed to prevent unauthorized access to a system or network. A firewall can be a
software program you install on your computer and/or network, or it can be a solution made up of
both hardware and software.
There are two types of firewalls to consider:
● Host-based firewalls—software that protects only the computer it is installed on.
● Network-based firewalls—installed between your DSL or cable modem and your home network
to protect all the computers on the network.
When a firewall is installed on a system, all data sent to and from the system is monitored and
compared with a set of user-defined security criteria. Any data that does not meet those criteria is
blocked.
Your computer or networking equipment may already have a firewall installed. If not, firewall software
solutions are available.
NOTE: Under some circumstances a firewall can block access to Internet games, interfere with
printer or file sharing on a network, or block authorized e-mail attachments. To temporarily resolve the
problem, disable the firewall, perform the task that you want to perform, and then reenable the
firewall. To permanently resolve the problem, reconfigure the firewall as necessary, and adjust the
policies and settings of other intrusion detection systems. For additional information, contact your
network administrator or IT department.
Using antivirus software 109