CSM: Windows Software, Security & Information

Windows Software, Security & Information Links

Windows OS Updates: Automatic (requires Internet Explorer) Microsoft Windows Software updates are available at: http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com.
If you are looking for a specific update, cannot find what you are looking for at the automatic site, or do not have Internet Explorer, go to: http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/
Microsoft Office Software updates are available at: http://officeupdate.microsoft.com
Microsoft Security Notification Service: See: http://microsoft.com/technet/security/notify.asp or send an email message to microsoft_security-subscribe-request@announce.microsoft.com and then respond to the verification return-email.
Microsoft Security Tools: See: http://www.microsoft.com/technet/security/tools.asp
Microsoft Internet Explorer Security: See: http://www.microsoft.com/windows/ie/security/
Windows 2000 Compatability Tool: http://www.microsoft.com/windows2000/downloads/deployment/readiness/
Windows Troubleshooting Help: See: http://support.microsoft.com/support/tshoot/
Anti-Virus: CSM has a site license for Symantec AntiVirus software. For information, see the CSM AntiVirus web page or go to the Computing Commons Front Desk (CTLM 156A).
For other virus information see the CSM Virus Information page.
Security Check: If you are a Windows (NT/98/95) user and you'd like to (1) determine whether your cable, DSL, dial-up or any other connection to the network allows outsiders to connect to your machine; and (2) block unwanted connections from outsiders using a step-by-step guide, check out the following link: http://grc.com and then click the ShieldsUP! icon.
[NOTE: A "pass" with this security check does not necessarily mean your computer is completely safe. For instance, trojan horse programs and virii can get on your computer via e-mail attachments and be activated if you open or run the attachments.]
Windows Firewalls: If you are concerned about users gaining unauthorized access to your computer, firewalls can be an effective means to block or limit all incoming traffic (outgoing can be filtered too). For most home or office computers, there is no reason for anyone other than the computers owner to be remotely accessing the machine. A well designed firewall, can help make it appear that your computer does not exist, except to select computers (Home <==> Office). This can protect you from many forms of internet attack. You can learn more at: http://grc.com/su-firewalls.htm
We are watching for freeware firewalls, but some inexpensive firewalls reviewed on the above page are available from:

AtGuarg http://www.atguard.com/

BackICE Defender http://www.networkice.com/

ConSeal PC Firewall http://www.signal9.com/

SyShield http://www.sygate.com/
Securing Windows NT: For some guidelines for securing Windows NT, see the NSA (National Security Agency) Windows NT Security Guidelines page at: http://www.trustedsystems.com/NSAGuide.htm
Other Windows Security Links: A tool for detecting BackOrifice (and more) is available at: http://www.spiritone.com/~cbenson/current_projects/backorifice/backorif ice.htm
Ziff-Davis publications has a good article on NetBus removal at: http://www.zdnet.com/zdtv/cybercrime/features/jump/0,3698,2143511,00.html

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Thursday, 13-Sep-2007 09:48:20 MDT