Question: What should our school do to secure our desktop computers running Windows XP Service Pack 2?

The IT Guy says:
Irrespective of your operating system, the three basic methods for securing individual desktops on a network are:

1. Activate and configure a software firewall on the client computers
2. Make sure all operating system and software programs are up to date with the latest available patches / updates
3. Regularly update and run antivirus software

Microsoft provides a short guide on this topic, targeted specifically at small and medium business owners, but also applicable to educational users, at “Step-by-Step Guide to Securing Windows XP Professional with Service Pack 2 in Small and Medium Businesses.”

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