User Guide - Windows 8.1
Using antivirus software
When you use the computer to access e-mail, a network, or the Internet, you potentially expose it to
computer viruses. Computer viruses can disable the operating system, programs, or utilities, 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.
Windows Defender is preinstalled on your computer. It is strongly recommended that you continue to use an
antivirus program in order to fully protect your computer.
For more information about computer viruses, access HP Support Assistant. To access HP Support Assistant,
from the Start screen, select the HP Support Assistant app.
Using rewall software
Firewalls are designed to prevent unauthorized access to a system or network. A rewall can be a software
program you install on your computer and/or network, or it can be a solution made up 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.
Your computer or networking equipment may already have a rewall installed. If not, rewall software
solutions are available.
NOTE: Under some circumstances a rewall can block access to Internet games, interfere with printer or le
sharing on a network, or block authorized e-mail attachments. To temporarily resolve the problem, disable
the rewall, perform the task that you want to perform, and then reenable the rewall. To permanently
resolve the problem, recongure the rewall.
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.
You can choose whether updates are installed automatically. To change the settings, from the Start screen,
type control panel, and then select Control Panel. Select System and Security, select Windows Update,
select
Change settings, and then follow the on-screen instructions.
Using HP Client Security (select products only)
HP Client Security software is preinstalled on computer models. This software can be accessed through the
HP Client Security tile on the Start screen, the HP Client Security icon in the notication area at the far right of
the taskbar, or Windows Control Panel. It provides security features that help protect against unauthorized
access to the computer, networks, and critical data. For more information, see the HP Client Security software
Help.
62 Chapter 9 Security