[jdemnyan1116]

My brother plans on getting DSL for the speed of it but doesn't want it on the computer all the time. If your modem is shut off, can you still get infected with a bug? If you unplug the line coming in, do you have to reenter everything? I don't need DSL so know nothing about it. If your computer is shut off, can they still get into your computer on DSL? He is worried about viruses and trojans.

 

[jbcalg]

he needs to read up a little more about such things

it's touted as 'always on' but it's really up to the user

adsl makes a connection on startup or manually by the user
- so it can be shut off (disconnected) the same way

so if it's not connected, or the modem is unplugged, or the line into the PC is unplugged, or if the PC is turned off
- then nothing comes in or goes out

(edit: most connection software can store the userid and pwd, so you don't need to re-enter everything each time)

a far safer approach is to look at 2 security programs:
- using a router and/or software firewall (zone alarm, sygate to name 2 available in both freeware and retail versions)
- using a good antivirus software, keeping the definitions up to date, and scanning everything as it comes in (email & downloads)

i admire his caution, but there are ways to be safe out there too