Open Ports

I had the following posted in the Software forum and there were 20 views but no answers, so I think I am now posting it in the Networking forum and hopefully will get some advise.

I found a site called "Shields Up" about a year ago and occasionally run through the Internet security tests they provide. I've always come through with flying colors. I went there last night and discover I now have four ports that are not in stealth mode. They are shown as open. Previously all ports were stealth. The open ports are 21, 22, 23 and 80. The information given says it is crucial to take care of port 23 because it is a "tele port" -- I think that's the way it was described. I have no idea what to do about these open ports or how to do it. I've been to Microsoft and went to their knowledge base but I'm not a technician and didn't fully understand anything I read. If there is someone out there who can help me I would sure appreciate it. I'm worried about this as I do a lot of shopping and bill paying online.

Information:
Dell Dimension 4600
Windows XP SP2
I.E. 7
AVG Anti-virus w/firewall
SpySweeper
a2 Squared
Win Patrol
80 GB hard drive
2GB RAM

Thank you,
Nikilet

 

It would help if you would explain what is the type of conncetion that you have and how your system is connected.

If you have cable or DSL and you do not have a Cable/DSL Router then as a first step get one.

 

Sorry about that. I have a DSL connection.