User's Manual

Using Internet security software
When you use your tablet to access email, a network, or the Internet, you potentially expose your
tablet to tablet viruses, spyware, and other online threats. An antivirus program may be preinstalled
on your tablet. It is strongly recommended that you use an antivirus program of your choice in order
to fully protect your tablet.
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.
For more information about viruses, from the Start screen, type h, and then select Help and Support.
Using firewall software
Firewalls are designed to prevent unauthorized access to a system or network. A firewall can be
software you install on your tablet and/or network, or it can be a combination of both hardware and
software.
There are two types of firewalls to consider:
●
Host-based firewalls—Software that protects only the computer it is installed on.
●
Network-based firewalls—Installed between your DSL or cable modem and your home network
to protect all the computers on the network.
When a firewall is installed on a system, all data sent to and from the system is monitored and
compared with a set of user-defined security criteria. Any data that does not meet those criteria is
blocked.
Installing software updates
HP, Microsoft Windows, and third-party software installed on your tablet should be regularly updated
to correct security problems and improve software performance. For more information, see
Updating
programs and drivers on page 53.
Installing Windows updates
Updates to the operating system and other software may have become available after the tablet left
the factory. Microsoft sends out alerts regarding critical updates. To protect the tablet from security
breaches and viruses, install all critical updates from Microsoft as soon as you receive an alert.
To be sure that all available updates are installed on the tablet, observe these guidelines:
●
Run Windows Update as soon as possible after you set up your tablet. From the Start screen,
type u, select Settings, and then select Windows Update.
●
Run Windows Update monthly thereafter.
●
Obtain updates to Windows and other Microsoft programs, as they are released, from the
Microsoft website and through the updates link in Help and Support.
58 Chapter 9 Securing your tablet and information