User Guide - Windows 7
To set, change, or delete an administrator or power-on password in Setup Utility (BIOS):
1. To start Setup Utility (BIOS), turn on or restart the computer, quickly press esc, and then press f10.
2. Use the arrow keys to select Security, and then follow the on-screen instructions.
Your changes take eect when the computer restarts.
Using Internet security software
When you use your computer to access email, a network, or the Internet, you potentially expose your
computer to computer viruses, spyware, and other online threats. To help protect your computer, Internet
security software that includes antivirus and
rewall features may be preinstalled on your computer as a trial
oer. To provide ongoing protection against newly discovered viruses and other security risks, security
software must be kept up to date. It is strongly recommended that you upgrade the security software trial
oer or purchase the software of your choice in order to fully protect your computer.
Using antivirus software
Computer viruses can disable programs, utilities, or the operating system, or cause them to function
abnormally. Antivirus software can detect most viruses, destroy them, and in most cases, repair any damage
they have caused.
To provide ongoing protection against newly discovered viruses, antivirus software must be kept up to date.
An antivirus program may be preinstalled on your computer. It is strongly recommended that you use the
antivirus program of your choice in order to fully protect your computer.
For more information about computer viruses, type viruses in the Search box in Help and Support.
Using rewall software
Firewalls are designed to prevent unauthorized access to a system or network. A rewall can be software you
install on your computer and/or network, or it can be a combination of both hardware and software.
There are two types of rewalls to consider:
●
Host-based rewalls—Software that protects only the computer it is installed on.
●
Network-based rewalls—Installed between your DSL or cable modem and your home network to
protect all the computers on the network.
When a rewall is installed on a system, all data sent to and from the system is monitored and compared with
a set of user-dened security criteria. Any data that does not meet those criteria is blocked.
Installing software updates
HP, Windows, and third-party software installed on your computer should be regularly updated to correct
security problems and improve software performance. For more information, see Updating programs and
drivers on page 48.
Installing critical security updates
CAUTION: Microsoft sends out alerts regarding critical updates. To protect the computer from security
breaches and computer viruses, install all critical updates from Microsoft as soon as you receive an alert.
Using Internet security software 53