Internet / Network Security: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Transfer Windows XP Activation
Since the introduction of product activation in Microsoft products many people have complained. They don't want to have to activate online, or over the phone just to make the product work. I have never had much problem, even when reinstalling. The activation process usually works in a snap. But, for those who dread having to activate the product again with Microsoft just because they reinstall the software, this tip will show you how to transfer the activation data over.
Since the introduction of product activation in Microsoft products many people have complained. They don't want to have to activate online, or over the phone just to make the product work. I have never had much problem, even when reinstalling. The activation process usually works in a snap. But, for those who dread having to activate the product again with Microsoft just because they reinstall the software, this tip will show you how to transfer the activation data over.
Free Packet Sniffer Software
Links to free packet sniffer software to capture and analyze network traffic on your network
Links to free packet sniffer software to capture and analyze network traffic on your network
Free Anti-Spyware Tools
Free spyware removal tools and utilities to help you block, or at least detect and remove spyware and adware that can infest your computer and bog it down severely and may even perform malicious functions like capturing your passwords.
Free spyware removal tools and utilities to help you block, or at least detect and remove spyware and adware that can infest your computer and bog it down severely and may even perform malicious functions like capturing your passwords.
Free Port Scanner Software
Links to free port scanner software to analyze your system for open ports to help you secure it
Links to free port scanner software to analyze your system for open ports to help you secure it
Free Antivirus
Free software to help you detect and block viruses, trojans, worms and other malware and also to clean-up any infections that may slip into your computer system.
Free software to help you detect and block viruses, trojans, worms and other malware and also to clean-up any infections that may slip into your computer system.
Free Network Monitoring
Links to free network monitoring tools & software to analyze network performance and functionality
Links to free network monitoring tools & software to analyze network performance and functionality
Spyware Removal Top Picks
Spyware and adware have quickly rocketed to the top of many users' security concerns. To augment my article, How To Protect Yourself From Spyware in 5 Easy Steps, and the Free Spyware and Adware Removal Utilities section of the site I have created this Top Picks list to highlight what I feel are the best spyware / adware detection and removal tools
Spyware and adware have quickly rocketed to the top of many users' security concerns. To augment my article, How To Protect Yourself From Spyware in 5 Easy Steps, and the Free Spyware and Adware Removal Utilities section of the site I have created this Top Picks list to highlight what I feel are the best spyware / adware detection and removal tools
Free Wireless Security Tools
Free tools to monitor and protect your wireless connection or test your WEP encryption. There are wireless IDS (intrusion detection systems), wireless scanners that detect hidden networks and access points and more.
Free tools to monitor and protect your wireless connection or test your WEP encryption. There are wireless IDS (intrusion detection systems), wireless scanners that detect hidden networks and access points and more.
Ethereal Packet Sniffer
A profile of Ethereal, the popular and powerful open source network protocol analyzer, or "packet sniffer". The profile provides a brief overview of the features and functions of the application.
A profile of Ethereal, the popular and powerful open source network protocol analyzer, or "packet sniffer". The profile provides a brief overview of the features and functions of the application.
Windows XP SafeMode
A brief quick tip article on starting Windows XP in SafeMode using the MSCONFIG utility rather than trying to press the F8 key at just the right time
A brief quick tip article on starting Windows XP in SafeMode using the MSCONFIG utility rather than trying to press the F8 key at just the right time
Enable Wireless Encryption
It is great to be able to transmit data back and forth from your wireless device to your wireless router or access point, but what if someone else intercepts those airwaves as well? You can protect your wireless data by enabling encryption.
It is great to be able to transmit data back and forth from your wireless device to your wireless router or access point, but what if someone else intercepts those airwaves as well? You can protect your wireless data by enabling encryption.
Disable DHCP
Most home routers, wireless or wired, provide some form of DHCP which automatically assigns IP addresses to devices as they connect. To reduce the possibility of an unauthorized party accessing your network, you can disable DHCP and manually assign static IP addresses to your devices
Most home routers, wireless or wired, provide some form of DHCP which automatically assigns IP addresses to devices as they connect. To reduce the possibility of an unauthorized party accessing your network, you can disable DHCP and manually assign static IP addresses to your devices
VPN's: IPSec vs. SSL
VPN's: IPSec vs. SSL is an article comparing and contrasting internet protocol security (IPSec) virtual private networks (VPN) with secure sockets layer (SSL) VPN's from your About.com Guide for Internet / Network Security, Tony Bradley
VPN's: IPSec vs. SSL is an article comparing and contrasting internet protocol security (IPSec) virtual private networks (VPN) with secure sockets layer (SSL) VPN's from your About.com Guide for Internet / Network Security, Tony Bradley
5 Steps Secure WinXP Home
Windows XP Home, like most Windows products for home users, is sorely lacking in security. It is better than past Windows operating systems for home users, but there are still some things you need to do. These are 5 quick steps you can take to make your Windows XP Home operating system more secure
Windows XP Home, like most Windows products for home users, is sorely lacking in security. It is better than past Windows operating systems for home users, but there are still some things you need to do. These are 5 quick steps you can take to make your Windows XP Home operating system more secure
Introduction Packet Sniffing
A brief article introducing the concepts of packet sniffing- how it works, what information can be gathered, what you can do to protect yourself and how you might use packet sniffing information to help protect or secure your network
A brief article introducing the concepts of packet sniffing- how it works, what information can be gathered, what you can do to protect yourself and how you might use packet sniffing information to help protect or secure your network
Intro to Wireless Security
A short article to provide you with the basics you should know about securing a simple wireless network.
A short article to provide you with the basics you should know about securing a simple wireless network.
Erase Your Page File
A quick tip illustrating how to configure Windows XP to automatically erase the page file when Windows shuts down to remove any sensitive information
A quick tip illustrating how to configure Windows XP to automatically erase the page file when Windows shuts down to remove any sensitive information
What Is A Bot?
An overview of what a "bot" or "zombie" is from the perspective of computer or network security
An overview of what a "bot" or "zombie" is from the perspective of computer or network security
Wipe Hard Drive
Deleting data, or even formatting a hard drive before selling or disposing of it is not good enough. The data can still be recovered. This Quick Tip describes the steps you need to take before getting rid of a hard drive
Deleting data, or even formatting a hard drive before selling or disposing of it is not good enough. The data can still be recovered. This Quick Tip describes the steps you need to take before getting rid of a hard drive
Use 'Run As' Option
Most security experts recommend that you log into your computer system as a regular user instead of Administrator. By using the 'Run As' option in Microsoft Windows, you can still execute programs with Administrator privileges even when you are logged in as a regular user.
Most security experts recommend that you log into your computer system as a regular user instead of Administrator. By using the 'Run As' option in Microsoft Windows, you can still execute programs with Administrator privileges even when you are logged in as a regular user.
Free IDS/IPS Tools
Free intrusion detection (IDS) and prevention (IPS) software to help you identify and respond to malicious or suspicious network activity on your network and stop any hackers, viruses, trojans or other malware from spreading
Free intrusion detection (IDS) and prevention (IPS) software to help you identify and respond to malicious or suspicious network activity on your network and stop any hackers, viruses, trojans or other malware from spreading
Introduction to Port Scanning
Introduction to Port Scanning is a basic overview of TCP/IP port scanning - how to do it and what the results will or won't tell you- from your About.com Guide for Internet / Network Security, Tony Bradley
Introduction to Port Scanning is a basic overview of TCP/IP port scanning - how to do it and what the results will or won't tell you- from your About.com Guide for Internet / Network Security, Tony Bradley
Vista Security Gadgets
One of the semi-frivilous new features of Vista is the Sidebar, which can hold a variety of "Gadgets". There are gadgets to display the time, the local weather, your calendar, and a wide variety of third-party gadgets for monitoring all aspects of your computer system. These are the top picks for security-related Gadgets for the Sidebar.
One of the semi-frivilous new features of Vista is the Sidebar, which can hold a variety of "Gadgets". There are gadgets to display the time, the local weather, your calendar, and a wide variety of third-party gadgets for monitoring all aspects of your computer system. These are the top picks for security-related Gadgets for the Sidebar.
Profile: Nmap
Nmap is a powerful open source utility. It is a port scanner, security audit tool and, as the name implies, network mapper. It is very versatile and is a tool that network and security administrators should be familiar with.
Nmap is a powerful open source utility. It is a port scanner, security audit tool and, as the name implies, network mapper. It is very versatile and is a tool that network and security administrators should be familiar with.
Email Encryption
A brief article describing why you should encrypt your email communications and some tips on how to do it
A brief article describing why you should encrypt your email communications and some tips on how to do it
Change Default Password
To secure your wireless access point or router you need to change the default username and password used to access the administration screen and change the configuration settings
To secure your wireless access point or router you need to change the default username and password used to access the administration screen and change the configuration settings
Password Security
Article on password security. Passwords need to be long enough and complicated enough to protect you, but not so complicated you forget them. Also, due to password cracking algorithms and the format of the encrypted password hash, sometimes a shorter password can be better than a longer password
Article on password security. Passwords need to be long enough and complicated enough to protect you, but not so complicated you forget them. Also, due to password cracking algorithms and the format of the encrypted password hash, sometimes a shorter password can be better than a longer password
Disable AutoComplete Passwords
The Internet Explorer AutoComplete feature can remember Web addresses you have typed and form information such as your address. It can also remember your username and password for various sites. This may seem convenient, but it is also a huge security concern. Anyone who sits down at your computer is able to access your personal sites and information. This Quick Tip will show you how to turn off the AutoComplete feature, or at least disable the storage of usernames and passwords
The Internet Explorer AutoComplete feature can remember Web addresses you have typed and form information such as your address. It can also remember your username and password for various sites. This may seem convenient, but it is also a huge security concern. Anyone who sits down at your computer is able to access your personal sites and information. This Quick Tip will show you how to turn off the AutoComplete feature, or at least disable the storage of usernames and passwords
Introduction to IDS
A brief article introducing the concepts of Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS)- how they work, what sorts of things they monitor for, what the results mean to you and how you might use an IDS to monitor for and detect suspicious or malicious activity on your network and alert you so that you can respond
A brief article introducing the concepts of Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS)- how they work, what sorts of things they monitor for, what the results mean to you and how you might use an IDS to monitor for and detect suspicious or malicious activity on your network and alert you so that you can respond
Free Encryption Software
Links to free tools to help you encrypt your data to secure it from prying eyes
Links to free tools to help you encrypt your data to secure it from prying eyes
Windows Vista Backup
A visual, step-by-step tutorial to illustrate how to backup and restore data in Microsoft Windows Vista
A visual, step-by-step tutorial to illustrate how to backup and restore data in Microsoft Windows Vista
P2P Security
A tutorial article providing tips to use peer-to-peer (p2p) networking sites such as BitTorrent or eMule safely and securely.
A tutorial article providing tips to use peer-to-peer (p2p) networking sites such as BitTorrent or eMule safely and securely.
NetStumbler
A profile of NetStumbler, a beggarware software utility to locate and identify wireless access points
A profile of NetStumbler, a beggarware software utility to locate and identify wireless access points
ZA Force Field
Zone Alarm, a division of Checkpoint, has released a new tool designed to protect users from malicious web sites. Zone Alarm Force Field provides a toolbar and some simple tools to help users surf the Web safely.
Zone Alarm, a division of Checkpoint, has released a new tool designed to protect users from malicious web sites. Zone Alarm Force Field provides a toolbar and some simple tools to help users surf the Web safely.
Sub7 Trojan / Backdoor
A brief description of the capabilities of the Sub7 Trojan horse hacker utility software
A brief description of the capabilities of the Sub7 Trojan horse hacker utility software
5 Steps To Block Spyware
A quick, down and dirty hit list of the 5 easy steps you can take to protect your computer system or network from being infiltrated by spyware and adware
A quick, down and dirty hit list of the 5 easy steps you can take to protect your computer system or network from being infiltrated by spyware and adware
Prevx Home IPS
A review of the Prevx Home edition IPS (Intrusion Prevention Software) available free for personal use to prevent spyware, viruses, worms and other malware and even zero-day attacks against unknown vulnerabilities
A review of the Prevx Home edition IPS (Intrusion Prevention Software) available free for personal use to prevent spyware, viruses, worms and other malware and even zero-day attacks against unknown vulnerabilities
Windows XP SP2 Firewall
With the release of Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2) Microsoft has improved the capabilities of the built-in firewall by leaps and bounds. Is the new firewall sufficient? Should you replace your 3rd-party personal firewall with the built-in Windows firewall?
With the release of Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2) Microsoft has improved the capabilities of the built-in firewall by leaps and bounds. Is the new firewall sufficient? Should you replace your 3rd-party personal firewall with the built-in Windows firewall?
Profile: Sub7
While there are slicker and more expensive backdoor or Trojan programs that can be used to monitor and control remote systems, Sub7, a.k.a. Backdoor-G, remains one of the most powerful and widely used. This profile offers a look at some of the functionality built into this tool.
While there are slicker and more expensive backdoor or Trojan programs that can be used to monitor and control remote systems, Sub7, a.k.a. Backdoor-G, remains one of the most powerful and widely used. This profile offers a look at some of the functionality built into this tool.
Security Basics At Home
a short article describing basic computer and network security steps for home users and small office home office (SOHO) users
a short article describing basic computer and network security steps for home users and small office home office (SOHO) users
Reset Passwords
If you can't remember your Windows XP password and even the password hint isn't helping, you can use an account with Administrator rights to reset the password so you can once again access your account.
If you can't remember your Windows XP password and even the password hint isn't helping, you can use an account with Administrator rights to reset the password so you can once again access your account.
IP Sniffer
A profile of IP Sniffer, a free protocol analyzer or packet sniffer by Erwan's Lab
A profile of IP Sniffer, a free protocol analyzer or packet sniffer by Erwan's Lab
Change Default SSID
The SSID is one of the pieces of information needed for a wireless device to attach to your wireless network. You should change the default SSID to something unique, but not something identifiable like your last name. This step-by-step guide will walk you through how to do that on a Linksys wireless router.
The SSID is one of the pieces of information needed for a wireless device to attach to your wireless network. You should change the default SSID to something unique, but not something identifiable like your last name. This step-by-step guide will walk you through how to do that on a Linksys wireless router.
Free Vulnerability Scanners
Free software and tools to perform vulnerability scans and proactively find the holes in your systems before an attacker or malware does.
Free software and tools to perform vulnerability scans and proactively find the holes in your systems before an attacker or malware does.
Stop Pop-Ups
Tips and tools to help you block pop-up ads while browsing the Web. Using these techniques can help you to reduce or eliminate pop-up ads and other Web-surfing annoyances.
Tips and tools to help you block pop-up ads while browsing the Web. Using these techniques can help you to reduce or eliminate pop-up ads and other Web-surfing annoyances.
Laptop Airplane Security
Many travelers these days carry a laptop whether for business or personal reasons. These tips will help you secure and protect it so that both it, and the data it contains, arrive at the destination safely.
Many travelers these days carry a laptop whether for business or personal reasons. These tips will help you secure and protect it so that both it, and the data it contains, arrive at the destination safely.
Windows Live OneCare
A review of Microsoft's comprehensive security and PC health suite, Windows Live OneCare
A review of Microsoft's comprehensive security and PC health suite, Windows Live OneCare
CISSP Study Tips
This is part of an article I wrote for CertCities.com describing my top 10 tips to help people study for and pass the CISSP certification exam. Excerpted from CertCities.com with permission
This is part of an article I wrote for CertCities.com describing my top 10 tips to help people study for and pass the CISSP certification exam. Excerpted from CertCities.com with permission
Enable Security Auditing in...
A how-to tutorial for enabling security auditing and logging in Windows XP Professional
A how-to tutorial for enabling security auditing and logging in Windows XP Professional
Intro to Vulnerability Scans
A brief article introducing the concepts of vulnerability scanning- how it works, what sorts of things it checks for, what the results mean to you and how you might use a vulnerability scanner to detect weaknesses in your network and fix them before they are used against you
A brief article introducing the concepts of vulnerability scanning- how it works, what sorts of things it checks for, what the results mean to you and how you might use a vulnerability scanner to detect weaknesses in your network and fix them before they are used against you
WinXP SP2 Firewall
The Windows XP SP2 firewall may not offer the best protection, but it offers better protection than no firewall at all and it is built-in to Windows XP systems. This tip will show you how to configure the Windows XP SP2 firewall.
The Windows XP SP2 firewall may not offer the best protection, but it offers better protection than no firewall at all and it is built-in to Windows XP systems. This tip will show you how to configure the Windows XP SP2 firewall.
Free Security Software
Free tools to help you secure and protect your network from the following categories: firewalls, antivirus, virus removal, miscellaneous security, email spam blocking, spyware removal, pop-up and messenger spam blocking, vulnerability scanning, intrusion detection (IDS), packet sniffer, port scanner, encryption, enumeration, network monitoring and wireless network security.
Free tools to help you secure and protect your network from the following categories: firewalls, antivirus, virus removal, miscellaneous security, email spam blocking, spyware removal, pop-up and messenger spam blocking, vulnerability scanning, intrusion detection (IDS), packet sniffer, port scanner, encryption, enumeration, network monitoring and wireless network security.
HijackThis Logs
HijackThis is a free and powerful tool you can use to analyze your computers Registry and files on the hard drive to identify components of spyware or browser hijackers. This How To, which is the official tutorial from the HijackThis web site (http://www.spywareinfo.com/%7Emerijn/htlogtutorial.html), will show you how to interpret the information generated in the HijackThis log file.
HijackThis is a free and powerful tool you can use to analyze your computers Registry and files on the hard drive to identify components of spyware or browser hijackers. This How To, which is the official tutorial from the HijackThis web site (http://www.spywareinfo.com/%7Emerijn/htlogtutorial.html), will show you how to interpret the information generated in the HijackThis log file.
Wireless Networking Protocols
Quick Tip covering wireless networking protocols such as bluetooth, 802.11b, 802.11a, 802.11g and more
Quick Tip covering wireless networking protocols such as bluetooth, 802.11b, 802.11a, 802.11g and more
Ad-Aware SE Personal Edition
A product review of Lavasoft's latest version of Ad-Aware available free for personal use. Ad-Aware SE Personal Edition has a long list of improvements from the previous versions and remains as an industry-leader in detecting and removing spyware.
A product review of Lavasoft's latest version of Ad-Aware available free for personal use. Ad-Aware SE Personal Edition has a long list of improvements from the previous versions and remains as an industry-leader in detecting and removing spyware.
SnoopAnalyzer Standard
A brief overview of the freeware protocol analyzer (packet sniffer) SnoopAnalyzer Standard.
A brief overview of the freeware protocol analyzer (packet sniffer) SnoopAnalyzer Standard.
Disable Remote Access
A quick step-by-step guide to show how to disable Remote Desktop and/or Remote Assistance. If the services are not being used, they are just another door for an attacker to access your system.
A quick step-by-step guide to show how to disable Remote Desktop and/or Remote Assistance. If the services are not being used, they are just another door for an attacker to access your system.
Disable SSID Broadcast
Wireless network equipment generally has a beacon which broadcasts information, part of which usually includes the SSID, about the wireless network every few milliseconds. Disable the SSID broadcast so that random wireless devices won't have it announced to them.
Wireless network equipment generally has a beacon which broadcasts information, part of which usually includes the SSID, about the wireless network every few milliseconds. Disable the SSID broadcast so that random wireless devices won't have it announced to them.
Foundstone Vision
A profile of Foundstone's free Vision utility, a host-based computer forensics tool for the Windows platform.
A profile of Foundstone's free Vision utility, a host-based computer forensics tool for the Windows platform.
Profile: Nessus
profile of freely available Nessus open source vulnerability scanner from your About.com Guide for Internet / Network Security, Tony Bradley
profile of freely available Nessus open source vulnerability scanner from your About.com Guide for Internet / Network Security, Tony Bradley
Intro to Firewalls
An article on the basics of firewalls- what is it? how does it work? Talks about firewalls as the first line of perimeter network security to restrict access to your network.
An article on the basics of firewalls- what is it? how does it work? Talks about firewalls as the first line of perimeter network security to restrict access to your network.
Filter MAC Addresses
One way to protect your wireless network is to establish MAC address filtering. By only allowing the devices with the MAC addresses you identify to connect to your network you greatly reduce the ability for an attacker to gain unauthorized access.
One way to protect your wireless network is to establish MAC address filtering. By only allowing the devices with the MAC addresses you identify to connect to your network you greatly reduce the ability for an attacker to gain unauthorized access.
Protected Mode
A brief overview of the new Protected Mode of Internet Explorer in Vista ad how it helps to protect your computer
A brief overview of the new Protected Mode of Internet Explorer in Vista ad how it helps to protect your computer
Network Probe
A profile and overview of the free Network Probe network protocol analyzer (packet sniffer) program.
A profile and overview of the free Network Probe network protocol analyzer (packet sniffer) program.
Configure UAC in Vista Home
Configure or disable UAC (User Account Control) in Vista Home or Vista Home Premium. The home versions lack the Local Security Policy console for configuring these settings, so users of these operating systems have to dig deeper and edit the registry to make changes.
Configure or disable UAC (User Account Control) in Vista Home or Vista Home Premium. The home versions lack the Local Security Policy console for configuring these settings, so users of these operating systems have to dig deeper and edit the registry to make changes.
What Is A Rootkit?
A frequently asked questions (FAQ) entry describing what a rootkit is and how they are used legitimately and maliciously to control computer systems.
A frequently asked questions (FAQ) entry describing what a rootkit is and how they are used legitimately and maliciously to control computer systems.
Configure Internet Explorer...
How-to configure Internet Explorer Security will walk through a tutorial of basic steps required to configure security settings in the Internet Explorer web browser
How-to configure Internet Explorer Security will walk through a tutorial of basic steps required to configure security settings in the Internet Explorer web browser
Free Spam-Blocking
According to MessageLabs spam accounts for more than 60% of all email traffic. These free tools and utilities can help you to reduce and eliminate unsolicited spam email from your computer system.
According to MessageLabs spam accounts for more than 60% of all email traffic. These free tools and utilities can help you to reduce and eliminate unsolicited spam email from your computer system.
Computer Security 101
computer security 101 lessons introduce basic computer and network security concepts, technology and terminology
computer security 101 lessons introduce basic computer and network security concepts, technology and terminology
What Is A BHO?
A frequently asked question (faq) explainin what a BHO (browser helper object) is and how they can be used to attack your computer system.
A frequently asked question (faq) explainin what a BHO (browser helper object) is and how they can be used to attack your computer system.
Unix / Linux File Permissions
A brief overview of file and directory access rights in Unix and Linux operating systems and using the chmod command to alter or modify file and directory permissions.
A brief overview of file and directory access rights in Unix and Linux operating systems and using the chmod command to alter or modify file and directory permissions.
Top 100 Security Tools
Fyodor, creator of NMap, polled the readers of the NMap-Hackers mailing list for their favorite or most useful tools. With 3,243 readers responding, the Top 100 Security Tools list has been created.
Fyodor, creator of NMap, polled the readers of the NMap-Hackers mailing list for their favorite or most useful tools. With 3,243 readers responding, the Top 100 Security Tools list has been created.
Foundstone FPort
A brief profile of the FPort port scanning utility available for free from Foundstone, a division of McAfee
A brief profile of the FPort port scanning utility available for free from Foundstone, a division of McAfee
AnalogX Packetmon
A brief profile of the freeware AnalogX Packetmon protocol analyzer (packet sniffer)
A brief profile of the freeware AnalogX Packetmon protocol analyzer (packet sniffer)
April Fool's Day Pranks
An article about the many jokes and pranks people pull on each other's computers on April Fool's Day each year.
An article about the many jokes and pranks people pull on each other's computers on April Fool's Day each year.
Vista Security Programs
Microsoft's latest operating system, Windows Vista, is the most secure version of the flagship operating system yet, it still requires protection from malware and other threats by antivirus and other computer security software. This is a quick look at some of the first security products available for Vista
Microsoft's latest operating system, Windows Vista, is the most secure version of the flagship operating system yet, it still requires protection from malware and other threats by antivirus and other computer security software. This is a quick look at some of the first security products available for Vista
Secure Password Storage
This article examines the challenge of trying to remember the passwords and usernames to a wide variety of sites and applications and discusses the tools available to help users securely store and remember their passwords
This article examines the challenge of trying to remember the passwords and usernames to a wide variety of sites and applications and discusses the tools available to help users securely store and remember their passwords
Prevent Identity Theft
It seems like almost weekly a major security breach is announced involving the compromise of hundreds of thousands or even millions of customer's personal information. Some look to network security as the solution. Some look to legislation and penalties as the solution. The reality is that most identity theft is actually very low-tech and it is up to you to guard your own identity. These ten tips will help you protect yourself from identity theft.
It seems like almost weekly a major security breach is announced involving the compromise of hundreds of thousands or even millions of customer's personal information. Some look to network security as the solution. Some look to legislation and penalties as the solution. The reality is that most identity theft is actually very low-tech and it is up to you to guard your own identity. These ten tips will help you protect yourself from identity theft.
Windows 2003 Settings - 1
In this two-part article, we’ll look at how the out-of-the-box server differs in its defaults from previous versions and how the new defaults make the OS more secure (while at the same time causing frustration for some admins and users who find themselves unable to gain access that was available without any reconfiguration in earlier operating systems). In Part 1, we’ll focus on how the default permissions have changed, changes to the membership of the Everyone group, and ownership of objects.
In this two-part article, we’ll look at how the out-of-the-box server differs in its defaults from previous versions and how the new defaults make the OS more secure (while at the same time causing frustration for some admins and users who find themselves unable to gain access that was available without any reconfiguration in earlier operating systems). In Part 1, we’ll focus on how the default permissions have changed, changes to the membership of the Everyone group, and ownership of objects.
Free Personal Firewalls
Free personal firewall software to help protect your computer and shield it from unwanted or unauthorized traffic.
Free personal firewall software to help protect your computer and shield it from unwanted or unauthorized traffic.
Wireshark Packet Sniffer
A profile of Wireshark, a fork of Ethereal, maintained and developed by the creator and core development team from Ethereal. The profile provides a brief overview of the features and functions of the application.
A profile of Wireshark, a fork of Ethereal, maintained and developed by the creator and core development team from Ethereal. The profile provides a brief overview of the features and functions of the application.
Free Pop-Up Blocking
Free software and utilities to block pop-up advertising including blocking the Windows Messenger Service spam that pops up even when you are not browsing the Web.
Free software and utilities to block pop-up advertising including blocking the Windows Messenger Service spam that pops up even when you are not browsing the Web.
Windows Password Policies
A step-by-step walking through the password policy configuration options available in Microsoft Windows and explaining what how the different settings affect your system.
A step-by-step walking through the password policy configuration options available in Microsoft Windows and explaining what how the different settings affect your system.
Internet / Network Security - QuickTips
An index of QuickTips for the Internet / Network Security guide site.
An index of QuickTips for the Internet / Network Security guide site.
Closing Pop-Up Windows
Pop-Up windows often appear to look like normal message windows. Users may feel that simply clicking "No" or "Close" or clicking on the "X" in the upper corner of the box are sufficient to make it go away. But, doing so may unwittingly download the very malware you are trying to avoid.
Pop-Up windows often appear to look like normal message windows. Users may feel that simply clicking "No" or "Close" or clicking on the "X" in the upper corner of the box are sufficient to make it go away. But, doing so may unwittingly download the very malware you are trying to avoid.
Help! I Think I've Been Hacked
An article on incident response when you think you've been hacked. how do you collect clues and evidence of your perpetrator- when they attacked? what they did? How do you restore your system and how do you protect yourself from future occurrences??
An article on incident response when you think you've been hacked. how do you collect clues and evidence of your perpetrator- when they attacked? what they did? How do you restore your system and how do you protect yourself from future occurrences??
Plastic Sniffer
A profile of the small, fast protocol analyzer (packet sniffer) Plastic Sniffer.
A profile of the small, fast protocol analyzer (packet sniffer) Plastic Sniffer.
Wireless Security
article regarding wireless network security for the home including ssid, essid, wep, wpa, firewalls, passwords, firmware updates and more from your About.com Guide for Internet / Network Security, Tony Bradley
article regarding wireless network security for the home including ssid, essid, wep, wpa, firewalls, passwords, firmware updates and more from your About.com Guide for Internet / Network Security, Tony Bradley
Little Black Book - 2nd ed
A review of the 2nd edition of Joel Dubin's Little Black Book of Computer Security. This pamphlet-sized book is packed with checklist style outlines to help you properly implement information security
A review of the 2nd edition of Joel Dubin's Little Black Book of Computer Security. This pamphlet-sized book is packed with checklist style outlines to help you properly implement information security
Windows XP Security "Flaw"
article about windows xp security "flaw" allowing a user to bypass password security requirements by using the windows 2000 installation disc to boot a windows xp computer system
article about windows xp security "flaw" allowing a user to bypass password security requirements by using the windows 2000 installation disc to boot a windows xp computer system
Microsoft Windows Security 101
quick overview of basic steps to take to secure your microsoft windows computer system including using strong passwords and a firewall
quick overview of basic steps to take to secure your microsoft windows computer system including using strong passwords and a firewall
Use NTFS
While Windows XP is capable of using FAT, FAT32 or NTFS as the file system on hard drives, only NTFS natively supports encryption, compression and superior security such as the ability to protect individual files and folders. If you aren't already using NTFS you should be and this tip will show you how.
While Windows XP is capable of using FAT, FAT32 or NTFS as the file system on hard drives, only NTFS natively supports encryption, compression and superior security such as the ability to protect individual files and folders. If you aren't already using NTFS you should be and this tip will show you how.
Comp Security 101 (tm)
A series of articles on computer security for home users. Computer Security 101 (tm) is a 10-part series of lessons about basic computer, network and Internet security. Lesson 1 introduces hosts, IP addresses, DNS, ISP and backbone.
A series of articles on computer security for home users. Computer Security 101 (tm) is a 10-part series of lessons about basic computer, network and Internet security. Lesson 1 introduces hosts, IP addresses, DNS, ISP and backbone.
Sniphere
A short profile of the Sniphere protocol analyzer (packet sniffer) program.
A short profile of the Sniphere protocol analyzer (packet sniffer) program.
Port Knocking
Port knocking is all the rage these days. As with almost anything in computers- what can be used to provide a convenience or feature can also be turned against you. Both good guys and bad guys are discovering new ways to use port knocking.
Port knocking is all the rage these days. As with almost anything in computers- what can be used to provide a convenience or feature can also be turned against you. Both good guys and bad guys are discovering new ways to use port knocking.
WiFi Security 101
free class on wireless network security including 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11x, wep, wpa and other things you need to know to secure your wireless lan from your About.com Guide for Internet / Network Security, Tony Bradley
free class on wireless network security including 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11x, wep, wpa and other things you need to know to secure your wireless lan from your About.com Guide for Internet / Network Security, Tony Bradley
Computer and Network Securi...
A list of top Computer and Network Security books from your Guide, Tony Bradley
A list of top Computer and Network Security books from your Guide, Tony Bradley
Personal Firewall Top Picks
A listing of my top choices for personal firewall software you can employ on your system to restrict unauthorized traffic and protect it from malicious network activity.
A listing of my top choices for personal firewall software you can employ on your system to restrict unauthorized traffic and protect it from malicious network activity.
Windows XP SP2
A preview of the upcoming Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2), particularly to review the security updates and Security Center features.
A preview of the upcoming Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2), particularly to review the security updates and Security Center features.
Spector Pro 6.0
review of Spectorsoft Spector Pro 6.0 monitoring software. Spector Pro 6.0 captures keystrokes, screenshots, instant messages, email, and more, stealthily, to allow a parent or employer to monitor a computer system and control how and when it is used.
review of Spectorsoft Spector Pro 6.0 monitoring software. Spector Pro 6.0 captures keystrokes, screenshots, instant messages, email, and more, stealthily, to allow a parent or employer to monitor a computer system and control how and when it is used.
Disable ActiveX
A step-by-step guide, with screenshots for visual aid, for disabling active scripting in the Internet Explorer web browser. Turning off ActiveX can protect your computer from malicious JavaScript, VBScript and other Active Scripting malware.
A step-by-step guide, with screenshots for visual aid, for disabling active scripting in the Internet Explorer web browser. Turning off ActiveX can protect your computer from malicious JavaScript, VBScript and other Active Scripting malware.
What Is UAC?
UAC is the most controversial and maligned feature of the Windows Vista operating system. It is also one of the most misunderstood. Learn what UAC is and what it isn't so you can understand why it works the way it works.
UAC is the most controversial and maligned feature of the Windows Vista operating system. It is also one of the most misunderstood. Learn what UAC is and what it isn't so you can understand why it works the way it works.
Encrypt MS Office Files
Short of encrypting or securing every single file on the system, you can also use the built-in encryption capabilities of Microsoft Office to protect specific files.
Short of encrypting or securing every single file on the system, you can also use the built-in encryption capabilities of Microsoft Office to protect specific files.
Using EFS
Windows EFS (Encrypted File System) can help you add extra security and protection for your files to make sure that unauthorized users are unable to view or use them.
Windows EFS (Encrypted File System) can help you add extra security and protection for your files to make sure that unauthorized users are unable to view or use them.
Security Certification Prep...
top books for preparing for security certification exams like Security+, CISSP, TICSA, SSCP, GSEC, SANS GIAC and others
top books for preparing for security certification exams like Security+, CISSP, TICSA, SSCP, GSEC, SANS GIAC and others
Zonet Wi-Fi Camera
A review of the Zonet ZVC7630W wireless IP camera with 2-way audio communications and night vision. Monitor inside or outside of your home and communicate with visitors using the audio capabilities of the camera.
A review of the Zonet ZVC7630W wireless IP camera with 2-way audio communications and night vision. Monitor inside or outside of your home and communicate with visitors using the audio capabilities of the camera.
Firefox 3 Security
This article provides a step-by-step look at the security features of the Firefix 3 web browser, with screen shots.
This article provides a step-by-step look at the security features of the Firefix 3 web browser, with screen shots.
Anonymizer 2004
A review of the Anonymizer 2004 product which is designed to shield your IP address and protect your computer from spam harvesting, hack attacks and other malicious or invasive technologies.
A review of the Anonymizer 2004 product which is designed to shield your IP address and protect your computer from spam harvesting, hack attacks and other malicious or invasive technologies.
Using System Restore
If antivirus, firewalls, anti-spyware and other protective measures don't work, you can simply go back in time to a point before your computer had problems by using System Restore.
If antivirus, firewalls, anti-spyware and other protective measures don't work, you can simply go back in time to a point before your computer had problems by using System Restore.
Windows 2003 Settings - 2
Microsoft has made a number of changes to the default settings in Windows 2003 to make it more secure “out of the box.” In Part 2, we’ll examine the changes that have been made to the default settings for common services and changes in the authentication process, and we’ll discuss some areas in which some believe that Server 2003’s defaults are still too open.
Microsoft has made a number of changes to the default settings in Windows 2003 to make it more secure “out of the box.” In Part 2, we’ll examine the changes that have been made to the default settings for common services and changes in the authentication process, and we’ll discuss some areas in which some believe that Server 2003’s defaults are still too open.
Secret Passage
Remote network access opens a backdoor or secret passage to the corporate network that is difficult, if not impossible to secure and protect.
Remote network access opens a backdoor or secret passage to the corporate network that is difficult, if not impossible to secure and protect.
Basics of Wireless Networking
A brief overview of the basics of wireless networking- the technology, terminology, protocols and equipment. This is provided as a beginning point before moving on to the concepts of securing wireless networks in the Free Wireless Network Security Class
A brief overview of the basics of wireless networking- the technology, terminology, protocols and equipment. This is provided as a beginning point before moving on to the concepts of securing wireless networks in the Free Wireless Network Security Class
Secure Your Wireless Network
Secure Your Wireless Network: Understanding the threats and how to protect your network against them
Secure Your Wireless Network: Understanding the threats and how to protect your network against them
Pop-Up Ad Blockers
A list of top picks for applications and utilities designed to block or control pop-up, pop-under and other advertisements on web sites from your About.com Guide, Tony Bradley
A list of top picks for applications and utilities designed to block or control pop-up, pop-under and other advertisements on web sites from your About.com Guide, Tony Bradley
ComSec 101 - Quiz 1
A short quiz to test how much you learned from the first lesson of the Free Computer Security 101 course.
A short quiz to test how much you learned from the first lesson of the Free Computer Security 101 course.
Wireless Networking Equipment
Quick tip or brief overview of the equipment or hardware required to establish a wireless network
Quick tip or brief overview of the equipment or hardware required to establish a wireless network
Step-By-Step McAfee AV
A step-by-step visual tutorial to help you configure and maintain McAfee antivirus in the McAfee Internet Security Suite 2005 (v 7.0).
A step-by-step visual tutorial to help you configure and maintain McAfee antivirus in the McAfee Internet Security Suite 2005 (v 7.0).
Analyzer
Profile of Analyzer, a free public domain protocol analyzer (packet sniffer) for Windows platforms.
Profile of Analyzer, a free public domain protocol analyzer (packet sniffer) for Windows platforms.
Vista Parental Controls
A visual step-by-step guide to configuring and using the Parental Controls features of Windows Vista
A visual step-by-step guide to configuring and using the Parental Controls features of Windows Vista
Remove Hidden Data
Microsoft Office retains a lot of data in the background hidden as metadata. The hidden data includes field comments, deleted data and other information which could be embarrassing or outright damaging if passed on to other people. This Quick Tip will show you how you can remove the hidden data from Microsoft Office files
Microsoft Office retains a lot of data in the background hidden as metadata. The hidden data includes field comments, deleted data and other information which could be embarrassing or outright damaging if passed on to other people. This Quick Tip will show you how you can remove the hidden data from Microsoft Office files
Introduction to Security Tools
Free Email Course On Computer and Network Security Tools and Technologies
Free Email Course On Computer and Network Security Tools and Technologies
Charter Hijacks Search Engine
Since installing Windows Vista, I have used the default Windows Live Search to do my web searches from the address bar of my Web browser. One day, instead of Windows Live Search results, I got Charter.net search results, 'powered by Yahoo!'
Since installing Windows Vista, I have used the default Windows Live Search to do my web searches from the address bar of my Web browser. One day, instead of Windows Live Search results, I got Charter.net search results, 'powered by Yahoo!'
Right Of Privacy
There is an assumed or implied Right Of Privacy in the United States. Many think it is rooted in the Constitution, but not without a good deal of interpretation. There are many statutes and regulations that guard personal information, but security and privacy generally come at the expense of freedom and convenience. It is up to you to make an educated choice about where you want the balance to be.
There is an assumed or implied Right Of Privacy in the United States. Many think it is rooted in the Constitution, but not without a good deal of interpretation. There are many statutes and regulations that guard personal information, but security and privacy generally come at the expense of freedom and convenience. It is up to you to make an educated choice about where you want the balance to be.
Hacker Defense Tools
This is a listing of software to help you secure and protect your computer from various sorts of malware or malicious hacking attempts.
This is a listing of software to help you secure and protect your computer from various sorts of malware or malicious hacking attempts.
Free Enumeration Software
Links to hacker enumeration tools. These tools will help list out valuable information about users, hosts, services, ports and more.
Links to hacker enumeration tools. These tools will help list out valuable information about users, hosts, services, ports and more.
Hack-Counter Hack Training
Product Review of Hack-Counter Hack Training Course by Ed Skoudis from your About.com Guide for Internet / Network Security, Tony Bradley
Product Review of Hack-Counter Hack Training Course by Ed Skoudis from your About.com Guide for Internet / Network Security, Tony Bradley
Ethereal Packet Sniffing
A review of the book Ethereal Packet Sniffing by Angela Orebaugh and the Ethereal development team from Syngress Publishing.
A review of the book Ethereal Packet Sniffing by Angela Orebaugh and the Ethereal development team from Syngress Publishing.
HIPS Checklist
A short list of features to look for when choosing a host-based intrusion prevention system application
A short list of features to look for when choosing a host-based intrusion prevention system application
Virus Hoax
A joke hoax email message that pokes fun at the spam chain letter hoaxes that go around and how gullible users are when they open attachments and follow the directions of such messages
A joke hoax email message that pokes fun at the spam chain letter hoaxes that go around and how gullible users are when they open attachments and follow the directions of such messages
Hack Proofing Your Wireless
book review of Hack Proofing Your Wireless Network by Christian Barnes, Tony Bautts, Donald Lloyd, Eric Oullet, Jeffrey Posluns, David Zendzian and Neal O'Farrell from your About.com Guide for Internet / Network Security, Tony Bradley
book review of Hack Proofing Your Wireless Network by Christian Barnes, Tony Bautts, Donald Lloyd, Eric Oullet, Jeffrey Posluns, David Zendzian and Neal O'Farrell from your About.com Guide for Internet / Network Security, Tony Bradley
Windows XP Hacks
Book review of Windows XP Hacks: 100 Industrial-Strength Tips & Tools by Preston Gralla from your About.com Guide for Internet / Network Security, Tony Bradley
Book review of Windows XP Hacks: 100 Industrial-Strength Tips & Tools by Preston Gralla from your About.com Guide for Internet / Network Security, Tony Bradley
Hacking Exposed - 5th Ed
A review of the 5th edition of the number one best-selling computer security book of all time, Hacking Exposed, updated with new hacker techniques and cutting edge attacks.
A review of the 5th edition of the number one best-selling computer security book of all time, Hacking Exposed, updated with new hacker techniques and cutting edge attacks.
Hacking For Dummies
A book review of the book Hacking For Dummies by Kevin Beaver, CISSP with a foreword by Stuart McClure, President and CTO of Foundstone and primary author of the best-selling Hacking Exposed.
A book review of the book Hacking For Dummies by Kevin Beaver, CISSP with a foreword by Stuart McClure, President and CTO of Foundstone and primary author of the best-selling Hacking Exposed.
McAfee Wireless Security
A review of McAfee Wireless Home Network Security 2006
A review of McAfee Wireless Home Network Security 2006
eBlaster 3.0
Product review of EBlaster 3.0 software from Spectorsoft. EBlaster monitors emails, chat sessions, instant messages, web sites visited and keystrokes. Reports can be sent to any email address on a periodic basis or each incoming and outgoing email can be forwarded instantly
Product review of EBlaster 3.0 software from Spectorsoft. EBlaster monitors emails, chat sessions, instant messages, web sites visited and keystrokes. Reports can be sent to any email address on a periodic basis or each incoming and outgoing email can be forwarded instantly
Packet Sniffing
A definition of the term packet sniffing
A definition of the term packet sniffing
Computer Security 101- Quiz 1
A quiz based on Lesson 1 of Computer Security 101 on the About.com Internet / Network Security site
A quiz based on Lesson 1 of Computer Security 101 on the About.com Internet / Network Security site
Virus Writing 101
The University of Calgary is offering a hotly debated course on malware and viruses. Part of the class will actually teach the students how to create their own viruses. Many in the security community fear this will just create the next generation of malicious code developers and is not necessary to teach defense and security.
The University of Calgary is offering a hotly debated course on malware and viruses. Part of the class will actually teach the students how to create their own viruses. Many in the security community fear this will just create the next generation of malicious code developers and is not necessary to teach defense and security.
Free Misc Security Tools
A listing of freeware that you can use for a variety of miscellaneous network security tasks.
A listing of freeware that you can use for a variety of miscellaneous network security tasks.
Myths of MP3's
There are many misperceptions and much confusion about where the legal and ethical line is for buying, downloading, sharing or copying music. This article addresses some common myths.
There are many misperceptions and much confusion about where the legal and ethical line is for buying, downloading, sharing or copying music. This article addresses some common myths.
Using Security Logging
An article on setting up auditing to log events on your computer or network. Having logs helps to detect and prevent intrusions as well as providing valuable forensic evidence after an intrusion occurs.
An article on setting up auditing to log events on your computer or network. Having logs helps to detect and prevent intrusions as well as providing valuable forensic evidence after an intrusion occurs.
MBSA
A review of the freely available Microsoft Baseline Security Analyzer (MBSA), based off of Shavlik's HFNetChk utility.
A review of the freely available Microsoft Baseline Security Analyzer (MBSA), based off of Shavlik's HFNetChk utility.
Microsoft's New Antivirus A...
An article on the newly formed Virus Information Alliance created by Microsoft with Network Asociates AVERT and Trend Micro TrendLabs to share and collaborate on virus research to be communicated on the Microsoft Virus Information Protection Strategies web site.
An article on the newly formed Virus Information Alliance created by Microsoft with Network Asociates AVERT and Trend Micro TrendLabs to share and collaborate on virus research to be communicated on the Microsoft Virus Information Protection Strategies web site.
Annoying Pop-Up Spam
An article on Windows Messenger Service pop-up spam by your Guide, Tony Bradley
An article on Windows Messenger Service pop-up spam by your Guide, Tony Bradley
Metasploit Framework
On April 7 the Metasploit Project released version 2 of the Metasploit Framework. Ostensibly designed for penetration testing to help administrators secure their systems and networks, the Metasploit Framework provides working active exploits for a variety of vulnerabilities. In the wrong hands it is a fairly powerful weapon rather than a useful security tool.
On April 7 the Metasploit Project released version 2 of the Metasploit Framework. Ostensibly designed for penetration testing to help administrators secure their systems and networks, the Metasploit Framework provides working active exploits for a variety of vulnerabilities. In the wrong hands it is a fairly powerful weapon rather than a useful security tool.
Nessus Scans
A visual step-by-step tutorial on performing a vulnerability scan using Nessus 3
A visual step-by-step tutorial on performing a vulnerability scan using Nessus 3
iPrism Appliance
iPrism is the Internet access management solution of choice used by Human Resource and Information Technology professionals to help enforce an Internet Acceptable Usage Policy (AUP) within an organization. A winner of several industry awards, iPrism is a hardware appliance that monitors, filters and reports on inappropriate Internet access.
iPrism is the Internet access management solution of choice used by Human Resource and Information Technology professionals to help enforce an Internet Acceptable Usage Policy (AUP) within an organization. A winner of several industry awards, iPrism is a hardware appliance that monitors, filters and reports on inappropriate Internet access.
Interview with Eric Cole
This is an interview with Eric Cole by your About.com Guide, Tony Bradley, Eric Cole is the author of Hiding In Plain Sight and Hackers Beware. He is currently chief scientist for The Sytex Group's Information Warfare Center. Eric Cole spent more than five years working in information security for the CIA.
This is an interview with Eric Cole by your About.com Guide, Tony Bradley, Eric Cole is the author of Hiding In Plain Sight and Hackers Beware. He is currently chief scientist for The Sytex Group's Information Warfare Center. Eric Cole spent more than five years working in information security for the CIA.
Firefox Web Browser
Internet Explorer is the bane of web browsing and computer security in the eyes of many. It sometimes seems as if a new critical security flaw is found in IE weekly, turning tens of millions of computers into potential victims. Many security experts recommend dropping IE in favor of a different, more secure web browser. Firefox is available for free and offers a great alternative to IE in terms of both security and in some features.
Internet Explorer is the bane of web browsing and computer security in the eyes of many. It sometimes seems as if a new critical security flaw is found in IE weekly, turning tens of millions of computers into potential victims. Many security experts recommend dropping IE in favor of a different, more secure web browser. Firefox is available for free and offers a great alternative to IE in terms of both security and in some features.
Proxy Server
A definition of the term proxy server
A definition of the term proxy server