The Internet is a giant network of computers all over the world. When a computer is connected to the Internet, it can exchange information with any other computer on the Internet. This lets the user send e-mail, surf the World Wide Web, download files, and buy products and services online, but it also makes the computer vulner- able to attack from persons intent on doing malicious mischief. Unless access to the computer is controlled, someone on the Internet can access the information on the computer, and they can damage or destroy that information.
Securing the Gateway and Computer
The Qwest DSL web site explains how to secure your computer and modem from attack. Go to
http://www.qwest.com/dsl/
then click Security.
The topics featured include:
Modem security
Computer operating system security
Physical system security
The following sections briefly discuss some major security concerns and explain the risks involved. Please go to the Qwest DSL web site for full explanations and instructions.
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 (maybe a few minutes, maybe all day), and then disconnects the dial-up modem. No one on the Internet can access a computer that is not connected to the Internet.
Unlike a dial-up modem, DSL service is “always on.” 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.