Using antivirus software

When you use the computer for e-mail, network, or Internet access, you expose it to computer viruses. Computer viruses can disable the operating system, software programs, or utilities, or cause them to function abnormally.

Antivirus software can detect most viruses, destroy them, and in most cases repair any damage that viruses may have caused. To provide ongoing protection against newly discovered viruses, antivirus software must be kept up to date.

The Norton Internet Security program, which is preinstalled on the computer, includes antivirus and firewall components. The software includes a free update period. It is strongly recommended that you protect the computer against new viruses beyond the free period by purchasing extended update service. Instructions for using and updating Norton Internet Security software, and for purchasing extended update service, are provided within the program.

To open and access Norton Internet Security:

1Click the Windows Start Button on the taskbar.

2Click All Programs.

3Click Norton Internet Security, and then click Norton Internet Security in the list.

See “Using the Norton Internet Security Antivirus Software” for more information about using the Norton antivirus software.

For more information about computer viruses, type viruses into the Search Help box in the Help and Support Center.

Using firewall software

When you use the computer for e-mail, network, or Internet access, unauthorized persons may be able to gain access to information about you, the computer, and your data. To protect your privacy, use firewall software. Microsoft Windows Vista includes firewall software preinstalled on the computer. Also, Norton Internet Security, which is preinstalled on the computer, includes a firewall program.

Firewall features include logging, reporting, and automatic alarms to monitor all incoming and outgoing communications.

To open and access Norton Internet Security:

1Click the Windows Start Button on the taskbar.

2Click All Programs.

3Click Norton Internet Security, and then click Norton Internet Security in the list.

Under some circumstances, a firewall can block access to Internet games, interfere with printer or file sharing on a network, or block authorized e-mail attachments. To solve the problem temporarily, disable the firewall, perform the task that you want to perform, and then enable the firewall again. To resolve the problem permanently, reconfigure the firewall.

52Getting Started (features vary by model)