The best protection against viruses is a good anti-virus software that you install on your computer. STI recommends both McAfee Antivirus and Norton Antivirus. Both solutions allow your PC to download the latest anti-virus files on a daily basis (a must for good anti-virus protection).

Unfortunately, some viruses spread so rapidly that your machine can become infected before it has a chance to acquire the latest virus update. Aside from anti-virus software, the best protection against the common computer virus is to resist the temptation to open email (or associated attachments) from people you don't know. Likewise, if you receive an unexpected email attachment from someone you know, contact them before opening the email to ensure it is legitimate. If the user didn't knowingly send the email, then it is likely a virus.

Hackers attack your machine through open "ports" (legitimate "doorways" used by your PC to send and receive data). Good anti-hacker software such as Zone Labs Zone Alarm will thwart most hacking attempts. Sound practices such as disconnecting your PC from the Internet when you are not actively online curbs the amount of hacking activity your PC is exposed to. (Broadband subscribers should turn off their computers when not in use.)

Sierra Tel Internet is not responsible for lost data or lost business due to viruses and hacking activity. Be smart and protect your assets by following the guidelines listed above. To help curb virus activity STI will be installing anti-virus software on our email servers over the coming months. This will not completely stop the spread of viruses however. To protect your PC investment, install good anti-virus and anti-hacker solutions on your PC and keep them up-to-date with the latest files.