surfing with more security

does using a limited user account for web surfing offer more protection than a power user or admin account in winxp?
I would think since this account cannot change much or have as much access
it would be the best way to visit "questionable" sites.
I never see this listed as a possible security feature though.
Whatcha think?
thanks

 

Hi and welcome to MajorGeeks

Whilst using restricted accounts wherever possible might be a good idea it doesn't stop everything.

I suggest you read this thread on how to protect yourself from malware

Matt

 

Using a browser other then Internet Explorer can help if your worried about Malware and Spyware. For example, Firefox or Opera.

 

My personal preference is using a restricted account for internet surfing. The only problem I've had with this arrangement is that occasionally when I click a link that has been re-directed to an eastern european site, I'll get an error about a certain DLL file that failed to install. There is also a message indicating that my account doesn't have enough priveledge to install this DLL. Believe me TMR, I take great satisfaction in this. I sometimes even HOOT. That's a personal preference too.

 

Nah, it is Not really much better since the System folder, Network components are used by all accounts, and they are usually the one who are infected.

If you are in a situation that real danger is a reality, a much better idea is the install Microsoft VPC, it is free,

http://www.microsoft.com/windows/virtualpc/downloads/sp1.mspx (do not pay attention to the name, SP1, it is the full product, download and use in good health).

Once installed run a separate Browser virtual Machine.

Host computer and virtual computer should be protected; there are many free good protection applications.

Examples here, http://www.ezlan.net/security.html

 

I agree with cat5e, that dedicated security measures are imperative. Microsoft security does get trashed on a regular basis. But when it does, it attracts international attention and a fix is usually in the wind. However, that accounts for 0.01% of the virus and trojan infections. The other 99.99% are allowed to occur by negligent and ill-informed computer users. We are our own worst enemies when it comes to the automatic "click me" reflex. Hey - I've done it. We've all done it!. To get yourself into the group that is vulnerable to 0.01% of worldwide attacks and out of the group that is vulnerable to 99.99% of the attacks, you will be much better off using a restricted account. The restricted account will only have "read" access to the System folder, and the restricted account will only have "read" access to the Network components. Under restricted priviledge you cannot add files or overwrite files in the System folder, so if any other program ( using your credentials) attempts this operation, it will be blocked as well. Remember - that's 99.99% blocking, and 0.01% vulnerability when you use restricted accounts. If your operating system allows the creation of restricted accounts - use them! Somewhere down the line, you'll be glad you did.