Every few weeks or months, Microsoft will come out with an announcement that there is a new virus or security threat to the operating system you are using. These threats can include virus programs, Trojan horses or holes that hackers can use to exploit a weakness in your computer’s security. What does this mean? Simply, that if you do not already have Firewall and Antivirus software to protect your Windows computer, you should get those now.
There will always be threats from hackers and vulnerabilities in operating systems. Typically, new announcements like this will not require you to do anything, because Microsoft makes frequent updates to its software.
Microsoft Windows XP and Windows Vista systems include a firewall. Make sure you enable it. There are many, many different Antivirus software manufacturers. For more information about Antivirus software, check out the Antivirus Software site on about.com