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C.1 Overview
C
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C.1 Overview
The Internet is a giant network of computers located all over the world. When
a computer is connected to the Internet, it can exchange information with any
other computer on the Internet. This allows a computer user to send e-mail,
surf the World Wide Web, download files, and buy products and services online,
but it also makes the computer vulnerable to attack from persons intent on
doing malicious mischief, or worse. Unless access to the computer is controlled,
someone on the Internet can access the information on the computer and
damage or destroy that information.
We recommend securing your computer from unwanted intrusion. Security is
ultimately the end user’s responsibility. Please secure your computer, and don’t
be a victim.
C.2 Comparing DSL Service with a Dial-Up Modem
With a dial-up modem, a computer user makes an Internet connection by
dialing a telephone number, surfs the Internet for a period of time, and then
disconnects the dial-up modem. No one on the Internet can access a computer
that is not connected to the Internet.
Unlike a dial-up modem, DSL service is “always connected.” The connection
is always available – there is no need to dial a phone number to access the
Internet. The computer can be connected to the Internet all the time.
With both types of Internet connections, access to the computer must be
controlled to make sure someone on the Internet doesn’t access the information
on the computer. The longer the computer is connected to the Internet, the
easier it is for someone on the Internet to find the computer and attempt to
access it without permission. DSL service also provides fast Internet connections.
This not only improves Internet performance, it also improves Internet
performance for anyone attempting to access the computer.