Manage Vista safeguards from the Windows Security Center
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Windows Security Center
Windows Security Center
The Security Center in Windows Vista lets you view the current security status of your computer and access important security settings. It gives you quick and easy access to important security information and settings through a single window.
The four main security essentials are: Firewall, Automatic Updating, Malware Protection and Other Security Settings.
Credit: Diana Huggins
Malware protection
Malware protection
Malware protection includes Windows Defender and anti-virus software. Here, within the Security Center, you can see that the Malware Protection settings require your attention. It indicates that there is no anti-virus software installed on this computer and that Windows Defender is out of date.
Note: Windows Vista does not include virus protection software.
Credit: Diana Huggins
Internet Security Settings
Internet Security Settings
The Security Center provides status information about Internet Security Settings and User Access Control.
Credit: Diana Huggins
Windows Update settings
Windows Update settings
The Security Center provides a single point of access to important security settings including: Windows Update, Windows Firewall, Windows Defender and Internet Options.
Select Windows Update to access the respective settings. You can manually check for updates and change the settings.
Credit: Diana Huggins
Windows Firewall settings
Windows Firewall settings
You can quickly access firewall settings by selecting Windows Firewall from within the Security Center. The Windows Firewall window will open where you can enable/disable the firewall and create exceptions for programs.
Credit: Diana Huggins
Internet Explorer 7 security settings
Internet Explorer 7 security settings
Internet Explorer has specific security settings designed to protect your computer. These settings are quickly accessible through the Security Center by selecting the Internet Options link.
Credit: Diana Huggins
