There are different methods that are employed to security purposes such as antivirus solutions, user authentication, encryption, firewall security, group policy management, intrusion detection, network auditing, event log monitoring, web content security and securing the gateway hardware of software.
Although the Windows XP Professional, Window 2000 and Windows 2003 are the stronger operating systems from security point of view but there are still some vulnerabilities and pitfalls that should be controlled. There are some basic steps that are helpful in protecting the windows based network.
Install Up-to-date Antivirus Program
Installing a good antivirus program should be the first step in securing the network. There are numerous antivirus programs such as Norton Antivirus, Trend Micro Antivirus, McAfee Antivirus, Panda Antivirus and others. Along with the good antivirus program, also install the good anti spyware program. Your gateway computer is the entrance point for the hackers, viruses and unauthorized users, so it should be protected with very strong security measures.
Regular Backup Your Critical Data
Regularly take backup of your server’s critical data. It is a best practice to secure your company’s important data. By this practice your data is being saved from any accidental deletion, hard disk failure and virus attacks. There is a built in backup utility in the Windows 2000, Windows 2003 operating systems and you can set your systems to take scheduled daily, weekly or monthly backups.
Password Protect Guest Account in Windows XP/2000
There is a built-in guest account in the Windows XP Professional. Guests and temporary users are allowed access to the network through this account. Set a strong password on the users of this account so that no unauthorized users can access the network.
Monitor Internet Traffic
If your LAN is connected with the internet through gateway or proxy server then there are chances that users of the internet may access the insecure and viruses attacked websites. If your proxy server is not well-guarded with an up-to-dated antivirus program and firewall then viruses may enter your network and can cause major harm. The best solution of this problem is this to block the access of the vulnerable websites, songs, mp3, video sites and monitor the user’s activities on the internet.
Upgrade Windows XP/2000
Update your operating system by following this path Start > Settings > Control Panel > double click the automatic update and turn on the automatic update settings. Your operating system will be automatically updated directly from the Microsoft Windows Website.
Regularly scan your Computer
Regularly scan your server and all the computers in LAN for the possible virus, spyware and other security threats. Because if one computer is infected with the viruses, it can spread the viruses to all network.