76 - Internet and online security
I
NTERNET
AND
ONLINE
SECURITY
First steps on the net
Protecting your computer
It is vital to protect your computer from viruses and attacks over
the internet (
see Internet security software on page 80
A comprehensive internet security program is offered when you
first start your computer. You should activate this protection as
soon as possible, certainly before you connect to the internet.
Choose an Internet Service Provider
Using the internet has become a natural part of
daily computing. Just a few simple steps can
connect you to a vast collection of knowledge and
communication tools. To accomplish these steps
you should first select an
Internet Service Provider
(ISP), which supplies the connection between your
computer and the internet. You should research
the ISPs available in your region, not forgetting to talk to friends
and family about their experiences or to check reviews and
consumer reports. The ISP you select will provide instructions on
how to connect to the internet (you may need additional software
or a special ‘box’ that connects to your phone line).
Connection types
Depending on your computer model, your location and your
communication needs, you have several ways to connect to the
internet.
Dial-up
Some computers include a telephone dial-up (‘modem’)
connector. This allows you to connect to the internet using your
telephone line. With a dial-up connection, you cannot use the
