Computing HelpDesk

Windows XP Service Pack 2 Security

Have you installed Microsoft's latest Service Pack 2 (SP2) for Windows XP?  How do you know if you have installed SP2 or not?   Click Start, click Control Panel, click System as seen to the right.

Why would you want to install Service Pack 2?  SP2 has the latest security enhancements added to Windows XP for better protection. For additional information, see Microsoft's Windows XP SP2 site.

The newest feature added for security to Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2) is the Security Center, accessed by clicking Start, clicking Control Panel, and then clicking Security Center. The Security Center checks the status of your computer for the three security essentials - a firewall, automatic updates and virus protection. If a problem is detected with any of these three (for example, if your windows updates are out of date), the Security Center sends you an alert and provides recommendations for better computer protection.

Here is a brief summary of the three security essentials found in the Security Center:

Windows Firewall

The Windows Firewall is a protective boundary that monitors and restricts unauthorized users from gaining access to your computer through the Internet or a network. In SP2, the Windows Firewall is now on by default.

Some programs open a connection between your computer and the Internet or a network. If you have programs that require an Internet connection, they might not work because the Windows Firewall might have closed the port for that connection. It is recommended that you leave Windows Firewall turned on, especially when your computer is connected to a wireless network. For information on issues with the firewall turned on, visit our Windows XP Service Pack 2 site under "Known Issues.

Automatic Updates

With Automatic Updates turned On, Windows can routinely find, download, and install the latest important critical and security updates to help protect your computer against viruses and other security threats.

Antivirus Software

Antivirus software can help protect your computer against viruses and other security threats. Windows checks to see if your computer is using a full, up-to-date antivirus program.

Other security features, as listed below, were also added in Windows XP SP2:

Internet Explorer (IE)

Enhanced security settings warn about viruses and other threats that can spread through the Internet. Internet Explorer can also block certain Web site features and provide a warning, so you can decide whether it is safe or not.

Pop-up Blocker in Internet Explorer

The IE Pop-up Blocker gives you more control to stop most browser windows that Web sites pop up without your permission.

Data Execution Prevention

Data Execution Prevention works with your computer's processor to help prevent viruses and other unauthorized programs from running on your computer.