Computer Security

The Wild West nature of the web being what it is, computer security has never been more important. Net The Big One can set you up with the basic tools needed to provide a safe and secure working environment.

We can answer common security questions like:

• Do I need to run antivirus software? Answer: Yes!

• Do I need to pay for the virus definition subscription and keep my antivirus software up to date? Answer: Yes!

• Do I need to run anti-spyware software? Answer: Yes!

• Do I need to pay for the spyware definition subscription and keep my spyware software up to date? Answer: Yes!

• Do I need to run regular sweeps of my computer with my updated spyware program? Answer: Yes!

• Do I need a hardware firewall? Answer: If you connect to the Internet with an always-on broadband connection, yes, you need a hardware firewall!

• Do I need a software firewall? Answer: Yes! If you connect to the Internet in any way you should run a software firewall, even if you have a hardware firewall.

• Are certain obscure Windows settings dangerous and do they need to be changed? Answer: Yes! Net The Big One can test your computer for these vulnerabilities.

• Do I need to keep Windows up to date? Answer: Yes! While this is getting difficult to do at dial-up speeds it still must be done (even if it means doing the downloads during the night).

• Can Outlook and Outlook Express users get a web bug by simply viewing photos or graphics that may be in their email? Answer: Yes! You should turn the Preview pane off and open mail only from trusted sources. Even then...

• I use a Mac. Do I need to worry about this stuff? Answer: The threat to Mac users is much less than that of Windows users, however, it is not nonexistent. Furthermore, we foresee more threats to Mac and Linux users in the future.

• Is this a comprehensive list of everything I need to do to have a safe and secure computing environment? Answer: No!, but it's a good start.

To be clear, we are not security experts. The service we provide is to make sure you and your employees are taking well established security precautions. We can also recommend some additional precautions that are not so well know, except to hackers.

If you're computer savvy, following the suggestions on this page may be all you need to be safe. However, if you would like Net The Big One to set things up for you and make sure everything is in proper running order, we're here to help.

Note: Some of the security solutions we recommend may involve additional charges (like purchasing a firewall).

Legal Stuff: Net The Big One security services are provided on an as is basis only. Ultimately, security is up to you. Even if you follow all of our instructions and procedures it is still possible, however unlikely, for a determined hacker or virus to breach your security. Net The Big One cannot be held liable and/or responsible for any breach of security for any reason.