This tutorial is directed to Windows XP users who have a dial up connection other than AOL. DSL and cable modem users should already have a software or hardware firewall installed and configured appropriately for their needs. Dial up users MUST BE ONLINE to enable this feature. Perform the following steps to enable the XP Firewall. 1. From the Start Menu, open the Control Panel. If in Category View, switch to Classic View. 2. Double-click on the Network Connections icon 3. Right-click on the icon for the connection that you want to protect 4. Left-click on Properties 5. Left-click on the Advanced Tab 6. In the Internet Connection Firewall section, click in the box to put a checkmark next to the following statement: Protect my computer and network by limiting or preventing access to this computer. 7. Click OK. You will be reminded that the settings will not take effect until the next time you dial it. Disconnect from the Internet and restart your computer. Redo the steps above to make sure that you enabled the ICF correctly. Note: The use of a firewall may prevent some applications from running or operating properly. Read the online FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) or contact the vendor's tech support for help. For maximum protection, a firewall MUST be used in concert with an antivirus program. Get one and keep it updated. Microsoft recently stated that future releases of XP will have the ICF enabled by default. Better safe than sorry. Regards, Barry