Microsoft KB Archive/889737

= Windows XP Service Pack 2 (Part 3): The new Security Center =

Article ID: 889737

Article Last Modified on 2/6/2007

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APPLIES TO


 * Microsoft Windows XP Service Pack 2
 * Microsoft Windows XP Service Pack 2

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SUMMARY
This article is Part 3 of the Windows XP Service Pack 2 - Step by Step guide. This article discusses the new Security Center.

To view the other topics of the Windows XP Service Pack 2 - Step by Step guide, see the Microsoft Knowledge Base articles that are listed in the &quot;References&quot; section.

The Windows XP Service Pack 2 - Step by Step guide includes the following topics: Part 1: Better security with Service Pack 2

Part 2: Installing Service Pack 2

Part 3: The new Security Center

Part 4: Automatic Updates

Part 5: Virus protection

Part 6: Windows Firewall

Part 7: Protecting against buffer overflows

Part 8: Improvements in Internet Explorer and Outlook Express

Part 9: Uninstalling Service Pack 2



Part 3: The new Security Center
The Security Center monitors a computer for faulty settings or shortfalls that pose a security threat. The Security Center verifies whether a firewall is enabled, evaluates the Automatic Updates configuration, and makes sure that the virus protection program is functioning correctly.

If Windows detects a security risk, a warning message is displayed. This lets you act immediately to enhance security.



How to open the Security Center
The Security Center is very easy to use.



Click the security icon on the taskbar, or click Start, select Control Panel, and then double-click Security Center.



Checking security settings
After you have open the Security Center, you can verify the security settings. Entries are marked red, yellow, or green to help you evaluate the situation.
 * Green

Current settings are okay. The computer is protected. You do not have to take action.
 * Yellow

Current settings are okay. However, you should verify that the security features on the computer are up to date.
 * Red

Current settings may be faulty. The computer is probably at risk.



Detailed information
If a fault is detected, detailed information is displayed automatically. In the example, the Security Center is satisfied with the enabled firewall. However, Automatic Updates still requires input from the user, and there is no virus protection software installed.

Note
You can manually display or hide the details at any time. Just click the corresponding status bar.





How to modify the security settings
If it is required, you can modify the security settings from the Security Center. Click the appropriate link in the Manage security settings for section. This means you do not have to use Control Panel to modify settings. You only have to configure virus protection separately.



