It's Time to Update Your Internet Security Arsenal.

The article offers ideas on protecting a personal computer (PC) from Internet-borne attacks. Users should keep Windows and all other software updated, use a safe browser, and make sure the antivirus software is properly configured, regularly updated and certified effective. One also need a bidirectional firewall program, as well as at least one anti-spyware program. Because it is easy to forget to update a software, many programs include an automatic-update mechanism. To enable automatic updates in Windows XP with Service Pack 2, right-click My Computer, click Properties-Automatic, set a time for the updates, and click Ok. Most antivirus programs also update automatically--all one have to do is provide an Internet connection and keep automatic updates enabled in the program. A virus, worm, or Trojan horse can enter a PC in several different ways, but e-mail is the most common means of infection. To avoid ActiveX dangers, install an Internet Explorer alternative--it would not be vulnerable to ActiveX attacks--and set it as a default browser. Firewalls keep the bad guys out of a computer by shutting the thousands of doorways the machine opens through one's Internet connection. Windows XP's firewall monitors only inbound connections, offering no protection from malware already on a PC.