Help for National customers

These days it's important to have the right level of security on your computer to protect it from all sorts of Internet nasties.

There are two security features that come as standard with your Virgin Media wireless router – encryption and firewall. Plus, you can get added protection for your computer by using Virgin Media's free security software, Virgin Media Security. And it's always a good idea to download the latest update for your Windows PC or your Mac. Read on for more details on all these features:

• Encryption prevents other wireless computers within range from connecting to your router and using your Internet service without your permission. You will have set this up when you installed the router (remember when you typed in the wireless network name and password), so there's no need to do anything further.

  If you want to change the password to your wireless network, please see this article.

• A firewall helps protect your computer from unauthorised access by people who are already connected to the Internet – for example, hackers. Your router's built-in firewall blocks unauthorised Internet traffic before it can get to your computer. The firewall is switched on by default.

  For more details, see this article on understanding firewalls.

• As a Virgin Media broadband customer, you also get the benefit of our free security software Virgin Media Security, which gives you firewall, anti-virus and anti-spyware protection for your computer, plus a few extras. You may have downloaded Virgin Media Security during initial setup – if not, click on Virgin Media Security to download it now, or to remind yourself what it covers.

• Microsoft and Apple review their software regularly and release updates, or 'patches', to fix any known security issues, which viruses can exploit.

The Microsoft Security and Protection site has the latest advice on using firewalls, Windows updates and anti-virus software. This site also features warnings about any new viruses and any additional steps you need to take to protect your computer.

If you use a Mac, check out the Apple Product Security site for information on system and security updates.

At this point, we need to let you know that it's your responsibility to make sure that your computer is secure and protected. Virgin Media can not be held responsible if a person gains unauthorised access to your connection or data, whether your computer is protected by a firewall or not.