Summary

16 IT Essentials: PC Harware and Software Companion GuideFigure 16-8Windows XP FirewallThe configuration of the Windows XP Firewall can be completed in two ways:■■Automatically: The user is prompted to Keep Blocking, Unblock, or Ask Me Later forany unsolicited requests. These requests can be from legitimate applications that havenot been configured previously or can be from a virus or worm that has infected thesystem.Manage Security Settings: The user manually adds the program or ports that arerequired for the applications in use on the network.To add a program, choose Start > Control Panel > Security Center > Windows Firewall> Exceptions > Add Program.To disable the firewall, choose Start > Control Panel > Security Center > WindowsFirewall.Lab 16.3.2: Configure Windows XP FirewallIn this lab, you will explore the Windows XP Firewall and configure some advanced settings.Refer to the lab in IT Essentials: PC Hardware and Software Labs and Study Guide,Third Edition (ISBN 1-58713-198-6). You can perform this lab now or wait until the end ofthe chapter.Describe Protection Against Malicious SoftwareMalware is malicious software that is installed on a computer without the knowledge orpermission of the user. Certain types of malware, such as spyware and phishing attacks,collect data about the user that can be used by an attacker to gain confidential information.