With easy access to Broadband and DSL the number of people using the internet has increased dramatically in recent years. Email, instant messaging and file sharing with other Internet users also provide a platform for faster distribution of viruses, Trojans and Spyware. Being online without proper protection is like walking in the rain without an umbrella - you will be wet no matter how fast you run.
With so many computers installed at home offices it is critical that home users install the latest Microsoft products when they become available. Older operating systems such as Windows 98, Windows Millennium, Windows 2000, or Windows XP before the Service Pack require the user to begin the process of checking security patches. Windows XP Service Pack 2 has changed this and the default settings now notify the user with automatically available updates. This has resulted in increased security in some areas, but there are also a large number of users and computers who do not incorporate the protection or warm-up patches provided by Microsoft.
When tracts become available Microsoft recommends installing them immediately. Depending on the level of user confidence this should be done immediately after the patch release. If the user has a few systems available it is recommended that they check the patches on the most important system first before updating all equipment. It is recommended one machine at a time to track things and be able to fix problems. For Windows XP it is recommended that you create a restore point first so that the system is restored to its original state before repairing. Home users should closely follow the media about viruses and updates. Waiting for a few days to attach a machine would make sense if some sensitive work was done on a computer with an important deadline that needed to be maintained. There is nothing more frustrating than fighting computer problems with limited time at hand. Speaking of time - never put pegs without having enough time nearby. Users should provide 60 minutes of time if possible. If something goes wrong pressing time is the last thing you want to deal with when solving a low machine problem.
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