Chapter 2: Get started
What about security?
Having a high-speed, always-on connection to the Internet requires a certain amount of
responsibility to other Internet users — including the need to maintain a reasonably secure
system. While no system is 100% secure, you can use the following tips to enhance your
system's security:
■
Keep the operating system of your computer updated with the latest security patches.
Run the system update utility at least weekly.
■
Keep your email program updated with the latest security patches. In addition, avoid
opening email containing attachments, or opening files sent through chat rooms,
whenever possible.
■
Install a virus checker and keep it updated.
■
Avoid providing web or file-sharing services over your Data Gateway. Besides certain
vulnerability problems, most service providers prohibit running servers on consumer-
level accounts and may suspend your account for violating your terms of service.
■
Use the service provider’s mail servers for sending email.
■
Avoid using proxy software unless you are certain that it is not open for abuse by other
Internet users (some are shipped open by default). Criminals can take advantage of
open proxies to hide their identity when breaking into other computers or sending
spam. If you have an open proxy, your service provider may suspend your account to
protect the rest of the network.
■
The DG9450 ships with wireless LAN security set by default (for the same reasons that
you should run only secured proxies). See the security label on your product for the
factory security settings.
■
Set up a strong password for both your Wi-Fi access and your web administration login.
Change the password regularly, every three months or so.
Ethernet or wireless?
There are two ways to connect your computer (or other equipment) to the Data Gateway.
Ethernet
Ethernet is a standard method of connecting two or more computers into a Local Area
Network (LAN). You can use the Ethernet connection if your computer has built-in Ethernet
hardware.
Ethernet connections are slightly more secure than wireless connections, making it harder
for unauthorized users to “eavesdrop” on communications between the router and the
connected device. However, Ethernet connections are not as convenient or easy to install as
wireless connections.
Note:
To connect more than two computers to the DG9450 through the Ethernet
ports, you need an Ethernet hub (available at computer retailers).
Touchstone DG9450 Data Gateway User Guide STANDARD Revision 1.2
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