Gateway GT704 user manual Computer Security, Comparing DSL Service with a Dial-Up Modem

Computer Security c

The Internet is a giant network of computers located all over the world. When a computer is connected to the Internet, it can exchange information with any other computer on the Internet. This allows a computer user to send E-mail, surf the World Wide Web, download files, and buy products and services online, but it also makes the computer vulnerable to attack from persons intent on doing harm. Unless access to the computer is controlled, someone on the Internet can access the information on the computer and steal, damage, or destroy that information.

Actiontec recommends securing your computer from unwanted intrusion. Security is ultimately the end user’s responsibility. Please secure your computer, and don’t be a victim.

Comparing DSL Service with a Dial-Up Modem

With a dial-up modem, a computer user makes an Internet connection by dialing a telephone number, surfs the Internet for a period of time, and then disconnects the dial-up modem. No one on the Internet can access a computer not connected to the Internet.

Unlike a dial-up modem, DSL service is “always connected.” The connection is always available – there is no need to dial a phone number to access the Internet. The computer can be connected to the Internet all the time.

With both types of Internet connections, access to the computer must be con- trolled to make sure someone on the Internet doesn’t access the information on the computer. The longer the computer is connected to the Internet, the easier it is for someone on the Internet to find the computer and attempt to access it with- out permission. DSL service also provides fast Internet connections. This not only improves Internet performance, it also improves Internet performance for anyone attempting to access the computer.

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