What About Security - Arris Touchstone CM550 User Manual

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What About Security?

Having a high-speed, always-on connection to the Internet requires a certain
amount of responsibility to other Internet users—including the need to maintain a
reasonably secure system. While no system is 100% secure, you can use the fol-
lowing tips to enhance your system's security:
• Keep your operating system updated with the latest security patches. Run
the system update utility at least weekly.
• Keep your email program updated with the latest security patches. In addi-
tion, avoid opening email containing attachments, or opening files sent
through chat rooms, whenever possible.
• Install a virus checker and keep it updated.
• Avoid providing web or file-sharing services over your Cable Modem. Be-
sides certain vulnerability problems, most cable companies prohibit running
servers on consumer-level accounts and may suspend your account for vi-
olating your terms of service.
• Use the cable company's mail servers for sending email.
• Avoid using
abuse by other Internet users (some are shipped open by default). Crimi-
nals can take advantage of open proxies to hide their identity when breaking
into other computers or sending spam. If you have an open proxy, your ca-
ble company may suspend your account to protect the rest of the network.
• If you connect your Cable Modem to a wireless LAN, make sure you enable
security and encryption on the wireless hub (for the same reason that you
should run only secured proxies). Consult the documentation and technical
support of the wireless equipment provider for help.
CM550 Cable Modem User's Guide
Usage Troubleshooting
proxy software unless you are certain that it is not open for
Glossary
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