Very New to Router, Networking - Have security question

confused Hello there!

I am a novice/intermediate on my desktop, but when it comes to routers and laptops - I am a complete NOOOB!

Well, we now have a router and another computer in the house. My S/O just got hooked up via the router today (they are VERY helpful at Linksys!). There is no firewall with his XP - I thought it was included. He has Home Edition, could that be why? I have the Comodo on mine with WIN2K - Much better than XP. Anyway, is a firewall needed on his computer?

Also, I guess he will need an AV, is that right? I use AVG with no problems; that, along with Spyware Blaster, PG, and Adaware.

When I was installing the router, I skipped right over the Norton part for the computer, primarily because it is only a trial, and I didn't like it when I put it on a computer a while back. It was a bitch to get rid of! So, I'm not really sure what, if any, security the router itself has.

First off, we downloaded Firefox and made it default, got the Adaware which showed up 13 Critical Objects and umpteen million negligible risks and we got rid of them.

So, it all boils down to this - what do we need to set up his computer to be secure?

Thanks so much for your help,
u2btrfly

 

Regarding the firewall, he will have to go to windows update (windowsupdate.com) and download service pack 2. While that is recommended, the firewall it comes with sucks, and there are plenty of free ones here

AVG is pretty good, I use it and haven't had any problems. You can get that here too. I'd also recommend Spybot S&D in addition to the other programs you mentioned.

Most routers have a firewall, but that doesn't help you if someone on your local network, like the hacker kid next door, gets on your network. I'd recommend using a firewall on the computer, and limiting access to the router. I don't use a linksys, but I'd imagine that most routers can filter by MAC address, that's the number on the back or bottom of the network card. You can also set a password using either WEP or WPA, depending on if your computer and router support them. Most do.

Just remember not to install more than 1 anti-virus program at any time. If you use AVG, you can't use McAfee or Norton(would you want to?)

 

May be this can Help.


Basic Protection for Broadband Internet Installation.

Assemble a Freeware Security suit for Internet Connection Protection.]

 

Oh you just really so helpful, thanks!

I agree about the XP firewall, it sucks, and as I said - I don't like Norton. We just completed installing the AV from AVG and I'm glad you suggested the AVG. I didn't know that they had come out with an entire suite, so a good idea would be to install their suite on his computer, yes? And would that be in addition to Spybot S&D, Adaware, and Spyware Blaster?

It looks like a lot of overkill to me, but then again I'm new at this and you guys aren't !

I've looked at programs like Sandboxie, Arovax Shield, and Gentle Security. What's your take on them? Don't they block outgoing info too?

Thanks so much for your help.

u2btrfly

 

Hello again,
Just a note to say "thanks" once again. Seems I had only skimmed through the pages in the links. Went over them again and found my answers there, so really, thanks again for the links. All settled in now!


u2btrfly