What Is Windows Security Alert?

Windows Security Alerts notify the user of potential computer threats

Windows XP Service Pack 2 saw the introduction of the Windows Security Center. The Windows Security Center plays a major role in protecting your computer, whether you are running XP, Vista or 7, from all manner of security threats. When security is breached, a Windows Security Alert is issued to alert the user of the problem and solutions.

Virus Infection

The Windows Security Center will alert users of virus infections detected by the built-in anti-virus software Microsoft Security Essentials or by third-party anti-virus software like AVG, Norton or other programs. The Windows Security Alert will identify the threat and give you the option of eliminating or quarantining the virus.

Spyware Infection

Windows Vista and 7 include built-in spyware protection provided by Windows Defender. When a spyware threat is detected by this application, a Windows Security Alert will appear notifying the user of the problem area and allowing the user to easily delete the spyware with the click of a button.

Firewall Exception

When an unknown application attempts to connect to the Internet, a Windows Security Alert will be displayed to allow the user to either allow or disallow the program past the Windows firewall.

Security Setting Disabled

If the firewall or anti-virus software is disabled, a Windows Security Alert will display alerting the user of this problem and providing ways to re-enable this essential security software.

Automatic Updates Disabled

When Windows Automatic Updates are disabled, a Windows Security Alert is displayed to allow users to easily enable automatic updates, thus providing Windows with essential security and feature updates.

References

• Microsoft: Windows Security Center
• Microsoft: Windows Defender
• Microsoft: Microsoft Security Essentials