Microserv Computer Security Recommendations - Virus Protection and Firewalls -
General Virus Information
| Virus Related Definitions | |
| Virus | A computer program that replicates by attaching itself to another object. |
| Worm | A computer program that replicates independently by sending itself to other systems. |
| Trojan Horse | A program with hidden destructive functionality. |
| Hoax | A chain letter that usually spreads a false virus warning. |
| Joke | A program with annoying or funny functionality, but it's not destructive. |
• No Anti-Virus software can identify every virus 100% of the time.
• As of Feb. 06, 2009 there were 287,524 viruses and that number was growing at a rate of up to several hundred per month.
• There are new viruses released every day.
• No single product or service is 100% effective in protecting a computer from viruses.
• Microserv recommends a multi-layered approach to computer security including Anti-Virus protection. This means that Microserv recommends that users take advantage of our Email Spam and Virus filter, AND that they utilize an anti-virus software package on their PCs and local networks. This provides two basic layers of protection; other protective layers including a firewall are available and recommended.
• Microserv's security and anti-virus products and services are only tools, and we can't and don't guarantee 100% protection. Remember that 100% is IMPOSSIBLE.
Email Spam and Virus Filter
• Our Email Virus filter ONLY scans email, and NOT any other virus sources such as direct network infections, diskettes, etc.
• Our Email Virus filter currently ONLY scans email that comes from OUTSIDE of the Microserv network. Virus-infected email from another Microserv customer WON'T be scanned if the email originates and is delivered on the same email server. I.e. email sent from johndoe@ida.net to admin@ida.net can't be scanned because it never leaves the mail server.
• Just like all other virus scanners, our email Virus filter can miss new viruses.
• Keeping the above in mind, the Email Virus filter does an excellent job and will catch most Email viruses.
• Microserv does NOT recommend that customers rely solely on our Email Virus Filter as a single defense.
• Microserv highly recommends using anti-virus software IN ADDITION to our email virus scanner.
Anti-Virus Software
• Anti-Virus software is only as good as its virus definition database.
• Not all Anti-Virus software detects the same viruses - there can be extreme differences in the quality of different products.
• Anti-Virus software MUST be kept current. A virus definition database that is one day old may miss tens or hundreds of new computer viruses.
• Microserv recommends AVG, NOD32 and Norton Anti-Virus, . They each have their pros and cons. The important thing is to pick one and to KEEP it current.
• Viruses and worms can disable anti-virus software.
• Anti-Virus software is very complex and has the potential to interfere with the normal operation of a computer.
• In some cases, Anti-Virus software can't prevent an infection, but it can identify that the system has been infected.
• Anti-Virus software is intended first to identify infections, and second (if it can) to prevent infection.
• The important thing is to know when you have a virus so that it can be cleaned up.
• Microserv does NOT recommend that customers rely solely on anti-virus software as a single defense.
• Most data destruction is caused by incorrect virus cleanup, rather than intentional destruction by the virus. Know what you are doing when cleaning up computer viruses. If you are unsure, get professional help from our On-site or In-House Staff.
Firewalls
Think of a firewall as the modern-day analog to having a moat around your castle. A firewall is a combination of hardware and software that protects computers and computer networks from unwanted intruders. Firewalls come in two basic types: software and hardware. The most basic firewall for a PC is a personal software firewall. Firewall appliances are also a popular hardware firewall option. A firewall helps to protect your computer or network from outside users and rogue software such as viruses. Firewalls range greatly in features and complexity and also in price. Software firewalls range from free personal-use firewalls to about $150 depending on features. Hardware firewalls range from about sixty dollars to several thousand dollars.
• Microserv recommends that ANY computer attached to the internet have some sort of firewall protection. This includes dial-up, DSL, wireless, etc. This is why Microserv gives each of its wireless customers a free firewall with installation.
• Customers with dedicated connections like DSL, wireless, etc. are especially at risk.
• Microserv carries and supports both hardware and software firewalls.
• A firewall does NOT replace the need for anti-virus software.
• Microserv recommends ZoneAlarm software as minimum protection for all Internet customers.
• Microserv recommends and supports Linksys and NetGear firewalls for inexpensive network protection, and we recommend and support Cisco firewalls for higher-end firewalls.
• Microserv can consult with customers on selecting the most appropriate level of protection.