Welcome to pcNetworking, the user's source for self-help network security information.

Understanding computer networking and security is often a daunting task for home and small business users. pcNetworking is a site dedicated to users to allow you to understand and maintain your small network environment. Built and maintained by IT professionals with over 28 years in computing, networking, and network security fields, pcNetworking is your guide to self-sufficiency.

The security dangers on the Internet are vast and growing. From relatively harmless "looky-lou's" to deliberate attacks and infiltrations, the Internet is quickly becoming the most dangerous place for your personal computer. But it doesn't have to be that way.

You also cannot directly blame your service provider for your security risks either. That would be the same as asking your local car dealership to cover your auto insurance. Security of your data is a personal or professional issue, and no Internet Service Provider (ISP) has the time or resources to monitor every connection within their vast networks.  Even those with a firewall to their direct backbone connections can't protect you from unscrupulous elements within your ISP's network. This includes other ISP customers and disgruntled employees.

More startling is the appearance of more and more hacking software and tutorials on Internet hacking sites. Even a relatively novice user of this software is capable of mounting a devastating attack on unprotected Internet connected computers and devices.

Are we telling you this to alarm you, well, yes and no. Yes, you should be alarmed at the dangers of connecting your computer to the Internet. Awareness is half the battle. But no, we aren't trying to panic anyone. With properly implemented, multi-tiered security measures you can implement yourself, you can protect your private and small business systems from attackers, and still enjoy the benefits of the vast information and services available on the Internet today and in the future.

What's unfortunate is that your average person on the Internet is only interested in the communications needs they have. But a small minority, the same ones that have us locking the doors to our homes, offices, and automobiles, are looking for something more that isn't theirs. It may be a thrill ride, general adolescent behaviorisms, or deliberate criminal activities.

Yet most users are unaware of just how vulnerable their Internet connected systems are. If your running one of today's desktop or server operating systems with a generic installation of the operating system itself, you would be amazed at how open your system is to outside intrusion, and it's not really that difficult to penetrate with basic computer skills. Not to mention the potential for threats from the truly technically talented attacker armed with an array of penetration software utilities. These trespassers can access your personal finance and other sensitive data that could allow for even more heartaches such as identity theft, legal woes, and other such perils. 

So what's a person supposed to do to secure their system(s)? An excellent question, and one that is generally answered in a series of steps:

1. Securing 

	Have a knowledgeable outside source secure your system.
	Get knowledgeable and do it yourself.

At pcNetworking we're all about teaching you how you can defend yourself.

2. Stay informed and alert, and be proactive. pcNetworking provides a free newsletter to our customers that will warn you of new threats as they arise. From viruses and Trojan horses, to newly discovered security vulnerabilities and threats.

While your here, take an opportunity to examine our offerings and online information regarding keeping your systems secure. A vast array of knowledge is provided to assist you in your efforts to become secure. We also feature information on more secure methods of online communication to protect your privacy and security.