The test used security systems designed to handle thousands of simultaneous sessions. But even using fast Ethernet connections, as few as 80 simultaneous sessions could cause firewall and other security functions to increase response times as much as threefold. That can irritate waiting customers. Or it can reduce productivity of employee users - or cause them to hesitate to use the system for reports and other functions. It s not always easy.
Most viruses don t announce themselves and, in fact, most are designed to stay hidden.
But here are some hints, from Microsoft, the originator of much of the software used on personal computers. The size of your files and programs changes unexpectedly. Use virus protections built into some programs, such as Outlook Express and Microsoft Outlook e-mail programs, and Internet Explorer. Download files only from companies and people you know and trust. Install at least one antivirus program, either one you load on your machine or one you access online - and be sure to put in every update promptly.