If your computer uses either the Windows 2000 or Windows XP operating system, it is crucial that you download and install security updates from Microsoft. This month, the company issued eight updates that it deemed to be “critical.”

Critical is the software giant’s highest threat level for security updates. Without downloading and installing these important updates, your computer will be vulnerable to attacks that could let hackers have complete control of your system.

The security updates affect not only the operating systems, but also important software such as Microsoft’s Internet Explorer, media player, and instant messaging program. If you haven’t downloaded and installed the security updates, or if you are unsure whether you have or not, visit Microsoft’s Security Page. (http://www.microsoft.com/security/default.mspx) At this site, you can also get information on setting your computer to automatically receive updates in the future.

Downloading and installing these and other updates are only one layer in the defenses you need to protect your computer from a wide range of threats from the Internet. Besides regular updates from Microsoft, it is important to install virus protection software and receive regular updates to the software to prevent attacks from emerging computer bugs. Internet firewalls are useful for dial-up users and crucial if you use high-speed access. Firewalls help prevent hackers from having unauthorized access to computers over the Internet. The always-on connection provided by high-speed Internet makes an inviting target for would-be hackers looking for personal information. With a firewall, the chances of intrusion by a hacker are greatly reduced.

If you have any questions regarding security updates, virus protection, firewalls, or any other Internet security related issue, please contact our tech support team. We can be reached at 533-5777 or 1-888-491-9115. You can also send us an e-mail at techsupport@huntel.net.
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