by Mark Hamburger

Created on: October 29, 2008

Windows XP is often criticized as being an extremely insecure operating system. This is not the case, however, as long as a few precautions are taken, Windows XP can be a very safe and secure operating system for everyday use. Installing an anti-virus program, keeping up with security patches, and using a firewall can prevent most every problem associated with XP.

The first and most important thing you can do to help protect yourself from malicious software or exploits in XP is to install all of the important updates to ensure that the operating system is as secure as possible against known threats. This can be easily accomplished by opening the Windows Update shortcut located in the start menu. With just 3 clicks of the mouse you can have a fully updated Windows XP system, once Windows Update is running, all you have to do is click Express Installation, confirm the updates you want installed, and then the restart button once everything has finished installing. As the bare minimum, you should install service pack 2, which includes many very important security features that were not included when XP was released, and all of the important updates that were released after service pack 2. I also recommend installing service pack 3, as this is the latest service pack and includes all of the updates released after service pack 2 up to the release of service pack 3.

Once you have updated through Windows Update, it is a good idea to verify that Automatic Updates are configured. This will ensure that your PC stays up to date with very little effort required on your part. To accomplish this, all that you must do is right-click on My Computer and then click on Properties. Once you are in the system properties there is an Automatic Updates tab. This should be set to automatically install updates, and you can choose any time that you would like. If you don't leave your computer on at night, pick a time when the PC is usually running during the day.

The second most important thing is to install a good antivirus program. There are many to choose from, but you must be careful when picking an antivirus program. There are many "rogue" antiviruses out there, which claim to be legitimate protection for your computer but are actually malicious programs themselves. To be safe, the best thing to do is purchase the software from a brick-and-mortar store rather than download from the internet. The well-known antivirus companies are the safest way to ensure you will be protected. You should

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