Summary

18 IT Essentials: PC Harware and Software Companion GuideIdentify Common Preventive MaintenanceTechniques for SecurityRegular security updates are essential to meet the threat from attackers constantly searchingfor new ways of breaching security. Software manufacturers have to regularly create andissue new patches to fix flaws and vulnerabilities in products. If a technician leaves a computerunprotected, an attacker can easily gain access. Unprotected computers on the Internetmay become infected within a few minutes.Because of the constantly changing security threats, a technician should understand how toinstall patches and updates, as shown in Figure 9-6. They should also be able to recognizewhen new updates and patches are available. Some manufacturers release updates on thesame day every month and also send out critical updates when necessary. Other manufacturersprovide automatic update services that patch the software every time a computer isturned on. Manufacturers also often send e-mail notifications when a new patch or update isreleased.Figure 9-6Security UpdatesAt the end of this section, you will meet these objectives:■■Explain how to update signature files for virus checkers and spyware.Explain how to install operating system service packs and security patches.