You just purchased the latest DELL computer, which comes pre-installed with Windows 7, McAfee
antivirus software and a host of other applications. You want to connect Ethernet wire to your
cable modem and start using the computer immediately. Windows is dangerously insecure when
unpacked from the box, and there are a few things that you must do before you use it.
A.
New installation of Windows should be patched by installing the latest service packs and
hotfixes
B.
Key applications such as Adobe Acrobat, Macromedia Flash, Java, Winzip etc., must have the
latest security patches installed
C.
Install a personal firewall and lock down unused ports from connecting to your computer
D.
Install the latest signatures for Antivirus software
E.
Configure “Windows Update” to automatic
F.
Create a non-admin user with a complex password and logon to this account
G.
You can start using your computer as vendors such as DELL, HP and IBM would have already
installed the latest service packs.