* Dr. Internet columnist Steve Blass discusses protecting systems from Word’s zero-day attacks * Help Desk columnist Ron Nutter discusses installing DSL at home
* Protecting systems from Word’s zero-day vulnerabilitiess
By Steve Blass
Q: What steps can I take to protect my systems from zero-day vulnerabilities in Microsoft Word?
A: Microsoft recommends not opening suspicious Word documents from untrusted sources. This is always good advice but can be difficult to implement successfully given the level of business correspondence delivered as Word documents and the ease with which e-mail addresses can be spoofed. Patches do not appear to be scheduled for release until January at the earliest.
To read Steve’s response in its entirety, please click here.
* Installing DSL at home
By Ron Nutter
Q: I read your explanation in regard to installing a DSL line for a warehouse. Can you help some one who is just trying to set up her own house? I am pretty much a newbie in regard to computers and internet access. so please, forgive the naivite. I am looking for the DSL that I would like to sign up but I just need to know what other equipment I need so that I can use the DSL. I have two laptops, do I still need the modem? From what I understand there is a built in modem in my laptops.
A: All of the DSL implementations I have dealt with require some type of modem. The DSL modem connects to the ISP’s network and gives you an Ethernet connection that could connect directly to your computer. While it is possible to buy the DSL modem from the local computer superstore, I suggest buying it from the DSL provider themselves. In doing this, you eliminate finger pointing from the DSL provider when you have a problem. In some cases, you may not have to pay for the modem. One of the teaser deals you can expect to see is the DSL modem for free if you sign up for a certain length of service.
To read Ron’s response in its entirety, please click here.
