Notebook Essentials - Windows 7

4 Notebook Essentials
Chapter 2: What's next?
Protecting your privacy
When you use the computer for e-mail, network, or Internet access, it is possible for
unauthorized persons to obtain information about you or the computer.
To optimize the computers privacy protection features, follow these guidelines:
■ Keep the operating system and software updated. Many software updates contain
security enhancements.
■ Use a firewall. Firewall software monitors incoming traffic on the computer to block
messages that do not meet specific security criteria. Some firewalls also monitor
outgoing traffic.
Protecting the computer from power surges
To protect the computer from the power surges that may be caused by an uncertain power
supply or an electrical storm, observe these practices:
■ Plug the computer power cord into an optional, high-quality surge protector. Surge
protectors are available from most computer or electronics retailers.
■ During an electrical storm, either run the computer on battery power or shut down the
computer and unplug the power cord.
■ If applicable to your location, provide surge protection on the modem cable that
connects the modem to a telephone line. Telephone line surge protectors are commonly
available from computer or electronics retailers in many regions.