Moved into Dorms want to protect computer

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  1. Posts : 80
    Windows 7 x64
       #1

    Moved into Dorms want to protect computer


    Hi everyone i just moved into dorm style apartments, and i want to protect my computer. i used to live in a house where i utilized a router, now i am just plugged directly into the wall at these apartments. i want to make sure that i am protected, and i'm still fairly new at win7. I open the action center and check the securities tab and i notice that the network firewall is on. is there anything else i can do to protect myself? I also use Noscript, and scan my computer with Malware bytes. any suggestions for being safe? thanks for helping!
      My Computer


  2. Posts : 8,476
    Windows® 8 Pro (64-bit)
       #2

    Use a good antivirus. Enable password protection wherever possible.
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  3. Posts : 833
    Windows 7 x64 HP, Windows 7 HP, Windows 7 Ult
       #3

    I second what Dinesh said. There are a number of free antivirus solutions available.

    Also, if you're using the Windows 7 firewall, look into adding the firewall controller - Windows 7 Firewall Control : Sphinx Software - the free one will help you control outbound connections without having to tweak the firewall policies themselves.

    (A slightly more expensive solution would be to buy your own router, a bit of overkill for a single system, but it may prove to be a good investment if you get extra gear, like a networked printer or network storage drive or want to play LAN games with friends.)
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  4. Posts : 31,242
    Windows 11 Pro x64 [Latest Release and Release Preview]
       #4

    Check with your provider at the dorm as to what systems are already in place.
    run a decent resident Anti-virus
    Run a decent personal firewall ( I include the windows one as long as it is configured well)
    Keep UAC on

    Practice safe Surfing

    Safe Hex - safe computing tips to defend against viruses, worms, trojans, and other malware.
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  5. Posts : 29
    windows 7
       #5

    use a non-administrator user account on your computer
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  6. Posts : 8,476
    Windows® 8 Pro (64-bit)
       #6

    netguysc said:
    use a non-administrator user account on your computer
    And what sense would it make?
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  7. Posts : 31,242
    Windows 11 Pro x64 [Latest Release and Release Preview]
       #7

    As a non admin user any malware that did take over the computer would only have the abilities of the standard user - it would be unable to access and alter any system settings

    Using the UAC will also provide this protection when set at it's highest level
    Last edited by Barman58; 20 Sep 2009 at 19:19. Reason: Add UAC note
      My Computers


  8. Posts : 80
    Windows 7 x64
    Thread Starter
       #8

    thank you for all of the advice, can anyone recommend a decent router? something in the 20-40$ range?
      My Computer


  9. Posts : 31,242
    Windows 11 Pro x64 [Latest Release and Release Preview]
       #9

    Can't give specific advice for your market in US but you should be able to find something from the major manufacturers - Linksys, Belkin or d-Link
      My Computers


  10. Posts : 833
    Windows 7 x64 HP, Windows 7 HP, Windows 7 Ult
       #10

    I just checked Pricewatch, Networking Router on Pricewatch.com, and they have a number in your price range, from all of the major manufacturers. I have a Linksys, have had d-Link and Belkin. I don't recall a lot of difference between the major brands. Different features mostly.

    I like and can recommend Linksys, a Cisco company now I believe.
      My Computer


 
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