Using antivirus software

When you use your Slate to access email, a network, or the Internet, you potentially expose your Slate to computer viruses, spyware, and other online threats. Antivirus software (purchased separately) can detect most viruses, destroy them, and in most cases, repair damage they have caused. To provide ongoing protection against newly discovered viruses, antivirus software must be kept up to date. For more information about computer viruses, type viruses in the Search box in Help and Support.

Using firewall software

Firewalls are designed to prevent unauthorized access to a system or network. A firewall can be software you install on your Slate and/or network, or it can be a combination of both hardware and software.

There are two types of firewalls to consider:

Host-based firewalls—Software that protects only the computer it is installed on.

Network-based firewalls—Installed between your DSL or cable modem and your home network to protect all the computers on the network.

When a firewall is installed on a system, all data sent to and from the system is monitored and compared with a set of user-defined security criteria. Any data that does not meet those criteria is blocked.

Managing Internet privacy

To manage Internet privacy settings, follow these steps:

1.Tap Start, and then tap Control Panel.

2.Tap Network and Internet, and then tap Internet Options to define the level of security your Slate should use.

3.Tap the Privacy tab to determine which embedded programs your browser should allow.

Installing software updates

HP, Microsoft Windows, and third-party software installed on your Slate should be regularly updated to correct security problems and improve software performance.

Securing your Slate and information 51