Prepare your computer for TG08
We strongly recommend that you update Windows and protect it from viruses and spyware. Read through this list before you arrive TG08!
#1 Update Windows
Download the latest Service Pack for your version of Windows:
After installing the latest Service Pack, install all remaining updates. Do this either by enabling automatic updates (Control Panel -> Security Center) or by visiting windowsupdate.microsoft.com
#2 Firewall
When installing Service Pack 2 (SP2) for Windows XP, you get Windows Firewall. We strongly recommend that you turn the firewall on (Control Panel -> Security Center).
If you for some reason are unable or unwilling to use Windows Firewall, we recommend installing an alternate firewall. Possible alternatives include:
- Comodo (Free)
- Zone Alarm (Free version)
Please note: Do NOT run multiple firewalls at once, choose only one. Running multiple firewalls simultaneously are likely to cause a lot of strange problems.
#3 Antivirus
Please install an anti-virus program. Numerous alternatives exist.
A few things to remember:
- Remember to keep your antivirus program updated with the latest definition files and patches
- Trial versions have a limited period of use, and your version must not expire during The Gathering.
- You should only run one anti-wirus program, since running several at once will usually make them conflict.
If you think you may have a virus, and have not yet installed antivirus software, take a look at housecall.trendmicro.com and scan your computer online. This can solve many problems related to installing of antivirus software and is free.
#4 Spyware
In addition to antivirus software, we recommend that you install software to remove spyware and other malware. Removing such malicious software can improve the performance of your computer a lot, and will also reduce network traffic, allowing better performance for everyone.
Therefore, please install at least one of the following programs:
- Microsoft Defender (Requires licensed version of XP)
- Ad-aware SE Personal Edition (Free)
- Spybot S&D (Free)
Remember to keep your anti-malware software updated, and also be careful not to accept when websites ask you to install unknown software. Also note that you may very well install multiple anti-malware programs, and this might result in better results.
#5 Make your computer ready for TG08
- Set a password for your Administrator account (Control Panel -> User Accounts).
- Make sure that you don't share folders with write access.
- Check that Internet Connection Sharing is turned off. (Control Panel -> Network Connections, Right-click and choose Properties/Advanced on all connections, and make sure "Allow other network users to connect..." isn't checked) Note: If Internet Connection Sharing is turned on it can make everyone on your switch unable to connect to the network. This is likely to make them angry at you.
- Do not use Internet Explorer, it is like a open door into your computer. Try one of these: Firefox (Free) or Opera (Free)
- Do not use Outlook or Outlook Express. Mozilla Thunderbird is a great E-Mail program less affected by viruses and worms than Outlook.
#6 If you need to reinstall your operative system during the party
- Unplug your network cable (Very important!).
- Reinstall your operating system.
- Ask your neighbour if he can download security updates and burn it on a CD or write it to a USB pen drive, so you can be completely protected before you plug in the network cable again.
Tech:Support
