Check to see if your Port 135 is open!

After trying several times and failing to install an Earthlink upgrade, I contacted them and gave them my failure message. They directed me to http://grc.com/dcom/

This site has a free vulnerability check and enable/disable feature for Microsoft's DCOM security patch. DCOMbobulator's header reads, "Microsoft's DCOM security patch leaves DCOM running, open, and waiting for the next malicious exploit."

Apparently Microsoft's patch "continues to defiantly leave the whole DCOM system exposed and enabled...and waiting for the next vulnerability to be discovered." And "allows pieces of your computer to be remotely activated and used from across a network..even by any stranger across the Internet."

DCOMbobulator claims to "effortlessly tames windows dangerous DCOM facility." The Port 135 can be safely kept closed without compromising any Internet features, but when left open, leaves your system compromised.

I downloaded their freeware and checked my system. Luckily, I had my Port 135 closed, but...by doing so had kept my Earthlink upgrade from downloading properly. So, that was an easy fix.

Just wanted to pass on this info to others to take or leave as they see fit.