What is vulnerability?

Many computer programs are made to communicate over the Internet. That’s a great benefit, but it also leaves them vulnerable to attack. Hackers look for ways to use that communications interface to break into the program and modify it in some way. Or they may use the opening to plant malicious software that can attack the computer in other ways.

What is a patch?

A patch can be an upgrade (adding features), a bug fix, a new hardware driver, or an update to address newly discovered security or stability problems. Usually, you can install a patch on top of an existing program without uninstalling or reinstalling the original program.

Most patches are free. In some cases, only registered users may get upgrades. Or a security fix may only be available in a version upgrade, requiring users to purchase the new version (often at an upgrade discount price).

How do I find patches?

• Vendors of most popular Web applications will notify you when you open their program if a security patch is available. If a trusted vendor asks if you want to download and install a patch or an upgrade, click OK and follow the instructions.
• Your Windows operating system should be set to receive updates whenever they become available. Go to Start Menu > Control Panel > Automatic Update to check your settings.
• For other applications that you use regularly, visit the vendor’s Web site periodically and check for updates.

How do I install a patch?

In most cases, all you do is respond to a dialog box that asks if you want to download and install a patch. If the dialog is from a trusted vendor, click OK and follow the instructions.

In some cases, the patch may download but not automatically install itself. Find the downloaded patch and double-click it to launch the installer.

You may need to shut down and restart your PC before a patch can take effect.

What happens before the patch arrives?

Your PC is vulnerable to attack until you download and install a required patch. The best way to protect it is to use an Internet security solution, such as Norton Internet Security, that protects against suspicious behavior or unauthorized data transmissions even if it doesn’t recognize a specific invader.

Does Symantec have a product to protect against software vulnerabilities?

Yes. Norton Internet Security protects against the consequences of software vulnerabilities, preventing any malicious actions even if a hacker has penetrated your system. It looks for programs that exhibit suspicious behavior and removes them from your system before they cause harm. It also protects against unauthorized data transmissions, for example, preventing a keylogging program that may have entered your PC from sending out your passwords and account numbers.