Security passwords?

[Robin1k]

Hi
I am currently running Win XP I am connected to my phone line using an ethernet wireless router I don't use wireless, it is connected to my pc but my husband uses the wireless for his laptop. I understand that my pc is at risk as someone could log into my pc without my knowledge if they are outside my home. I hope this is making sense, how do I protect my pc. I am using norton 360 for my anti virus etc. Also when I bring up windows task manager there seems to be an awful lot of processes going on 49 at the last count (just before asking this question) I am sure this is why my pc seems to be running a little slow!
Any help will be gratefully recieved.
Robin

 

[Addis]

While I can't categorically say that you aren't under threat, your PC still has a degree of protection even with a wireless network.

The first thing to check is that your router is set up with encryption, so that it is very difficult for anyone to connect to your network. While the specifics are different for each router, the idea is that you login to your router by typing in it's IP address into your browser, logging in as the router admin and changing the settings through the web interface. The login details for your router should be printed on the bottom of your router.

For your wireless security, I suggest setting up WPA security, not WEP since it's deprecated and very easily broken. You'll have to change the settings on the laptop as well, so that it can connect.

Even with an unprotected network, it's still not easy for anyone to log in to your PC, since Windows is designed to have some network security. Use a software firewall as well.

If you are unsure about a process, google it and see if it's legitimate or not.