Platinum Edition Using® Microsoft® Windows® XP

Making a Secure Internet Connection

The safest way to completely secure your system from outside influences is to disconnect it from any and all networks on which you are not the only client. This includes corporate networks as well as the Internet. Unfortunately, that makes it difficult to get your email, surf the Web, and download virus updates. So your next best option is to make your system appear as if it were disconnected from the network by hiding behind a firewall. A firewall acts as a protective boundary against unexpected traffic or unauthorized connections between a trusted network, such as your computer or your LAN, and a distrusted network, such as the Internet.

Large corporate networks often use sophisticated, expensive hardware/software ...