Help with security

I need advice regarding internet security. Occasionally I get a pop-up stating my computer is broadcasting my IP address. What can I do so IP address can't be read ?

 

As far as I know, when you go to any website or location on the web, it will transmit your IP address. The only way around this is to set up some type of proxy system where you are behind another computer that uses it's IP address for the internet instead of yours.

At our business, we have a gateway that uses one static IP address for a lot of computers behind the gateway.

There isn't much anyone can do with your IP address besides scan your machine for open ports/sockets. You might want to download a program that checks for open sockets and closes them.

One of the many ways a hacker can get into your machine is by sockets that are left open.

 

i don't know very much about computers.

but I've heard it's a good idea to

1. get zonealarm

http://www.zonelabs.com/store/content/home.jsp

2. check your pc security on

http://grc.com/default.htm

cheers

 

You should seriously consider a router for NAT protection. If you use broadband, which you should be if you are serious about your trading business, you should have router and a software firewall. Your broadband connection will have a static ip that changes anyhow so if people get your ip its not that big of a deal.

 

I have broadband. What's the best router ?

 

I've seen it myself. This particular online ad is a pretty smart scam. For instance, see http://www.langa.com/newsletters/2002/2002-08-29.htm#3

 

Nothing more than stupid pop-up ad using fear tactics to get you to buy their software. They could just as easily say "click here and see monkeys fly" or whatever they want. But lots of users feel fear, uncertainty, and doubt (FUD) when they see those pop-up ads!

Just do research on personal firewalls/intrusion detection systems on zdnet or cnet.

 

There all pretty good routers. You can check out linksys or netgear, they are less than $80 for a 4 port.

 

Okay, finally hooked up to a linksys 4 port router. Nothing to it once the internet provider resets address. Thanks for the help guys.