Vital Windows Security Guidelines
(Page 1 of 5 )
Of all modern computer operating systems, Windows XP is the most often attacked in terms of security. In this article, we'll discuss why it is attacked so often, the most common security exploits, and what you can do to guard your system against attack.
The reason for the operating system's popularity with hackers is obvious, according to this report: Windows XP is still powering 71% of all business and personal computers.
This is still a substantial market share. This popularity makes the OS a viable and attractive target for cyber criminals, hackers and spammers. It is why we more often find viruses, spyware and malware aimed at this operating system when compared to other reliable OSes such as Linux or UNIX.
Windows XP is hard to replace. A lot of useful applications that provide meaning to our lives run on that operating system. Office applications such as Word, Excel and PowerPoint are very easy to use on XP, and the operating system supports a lot of friendly Internet applications, such as video streaming, gaming and others. You can hardly find this level of user-friendliness and comfort in other operating systems.
Linux and other OSes are still nice, but since many of these boast a lot of limited and hard-to-find drivers, they're less appealing to non-techie persons using computers for work and pleasure. Even though the drivers are there, it is harder to configure and install them than it is to do these things in Windows XP.
This tutorial focuses on the tools available for improving the security of your Windows XP/Vista-powered machines. By improving security, your privacy as well as your computer is secure from any breach or file damage.
I will be discussing the top possible exploits where security can be compromised in Windows XP and suggest preventive/corrective actions.
Next: Exploit Number 1: Viruses and Spyware >>
More Windows Security Articles
More By Codex-M
