9. If you are not running file and printer sharing for Windows Network, in other words if you do not use a local Windows based network to share files and printers with other local computes, then you should disable NetBIOS on your local computer. You can disable the NetBIOS service from Control Panel - Administrative Tools – Services.

10. You should also disable the Windows Messenger service, which is normally used by programs and users to send messages between computers in a local network, as it can be used in some sort of Internet – based advertising exploit.

11. Disable Guest user on the local computer. This is very important since this account runs without a password. If this account is enabled, anyone can enter your computer without the need to have a proper user name and password. Having the Guest user enabled is a serious security risk.

12. Disable all IIS services that you do not need, like HTTP or FTP or SMTP. You can find these services listed under Control Panel – Administrative Tools – Services. If you cannot locate these services there, then likely IIS is not installed on the local machine.

13. Disable the Telnet service, as this can be an excellent way for an attacker to send commands to your computer and to control it remotely.

14. Disable Terminal Services or Remote Desktop under Windows XP, unless you need such remote desktop capabilities, for example if you use to connect to your home computer from a laptop while you are in transit or in another location.

15. Be informed. Learn about configuring and securing Windows installations, and about new viruses and security threats discovered every day. Please keep in mind that this is a never ending battle and that you need to be informed in order to stay secure.