Managing Security in One Place

The Windows Security Center provides a single place to manage your four security essentials, Windows Firewall, Automatic Updating, Malware protection (virus and spyware) and Other security settings (Internet security and User Account Controls). The Security Center recommends security settings that you can use to help protect your computer. It also provides links to important information about the latest virus or other security threat, or to get customer support from Microsoft for a security related issue. As you work, Windows Vista uses security alerts and icons in the notification area on the taskbar to help you recognize potential security risks, such as a new virus, out of date antivirus software or an important security option is turned off, and choose appropriate settings.

View Essential Security Settings Using the Security Center

Click the Start button, and then click Control Panel.

Double-click the Security Center icon in Classic view.

Important:

If you’re part of a network, options might be grayed out; your security settings are managed by your network administrator.

To find out information on a security area, click the down arrow next to it.

To set security settings, click the link (Windows Update, Windows Firewall, Windows Defender, and Internet Options) for the area you want to change.

When you’re done, click the Close button.

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Act Upon Security Alerts

If the Security Center detects that your computer needs enhanced security, it displays an alert in the notification area.

Read the security alert, and then click it.

To find out information on a security option, click the down arrow next to it.

To find out how to address the problem, click a link or a button, and then follow the instructions.

When you’re done, click the Close button.

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Did You Know? You can change the way Automatic Updates alerts changes. Click the Start button, click Control Panel, double-click the Windows Update icon in Classic view, click Change settings, select the alert option you want, click OK, and then click the Close button.

Security Icons Icon Description Security Settings: Indicates important security information and settings that are available, such as the Windows Security Center. Potential Risk: Indicates your computer encountered a potential security risk; act upon the security alert. No Risk: Indicates your computer is more secure and using recommended security settings; no action needed. Security Warning: Indicates your computer encountered a warning alert, which is potentially harmful; consider adjusting security settings. Security Problem: Indicates your computer is not using recommended security settings; consider adjusting them.