I've read on several places that IP Addresses are the key hackers use to hack somebody's computer. Is this true? I'm going to get a new computer soon, and I want it to be bulletproof against bad things, but IP Addresses sound dangerous. Is there any way to keep my IP address from hackers?

Very basically - your IP address is your location on the internet. Sites need to know where you are for you to receive info. Static (fixed) IP's are set by your isp (broadband only). You always have the same IP address. Dynamic IP addresses (dial-up and some DSL) change each time you power on or at certain intervals. You can get a router, which will use its own ip address on the connection and hide your address on said connection. You can also get a software firewall, which you can set to "stealth" your ports / ip address / browser / etc. This may prevent some web pages from working (you can change the option temporarily). Having both provides a dual layer of security.

An easy way to think of IP addresses is: An IP address is like a street address. And ports are like the windows in your house. If a robber knows your street address, he can't neccassarily get in to your house as long as all of your windows are locked. You can get a software firewall for free on www.freeware.com and search for Zone Alarm. This will allow you to configure which programs on your computer can access the internet. It will also tell you if a hacker is attempting to connect to your computer, it will even tell you about the attempted hack and trace the hacker and allow you to report the abuse to that users internet service provider. Also go to www.grc.com and scan your your computer. It will tell you if you are protected from hackers or not. It will also provide some downloads to fix the open ports. Unfortunatly, to be able to access the internet, you will inevitably be vulnerable to hacker attempts. There are numerous ways to minimize the risk though. Also, download, update, and run these programs regularly, available at www.freeware.com Ad Aware SpyBot Then mke sure that your computer is up to date with security patches. Norton provides an excellent package which contains a firewall, a excellent knowledge base, a Anti-Virus, Internet security, and much more.

inez100@hotmail.com I just don't understand people that come here for help and then put up bogus addresses. _________________________ Computers work with absolute flawless perfection, until the first person touches them!