how to stay safe on xp 2018?

[james067]

what measures in this day and age can i use to stay as secure as possible on xp
current ideas i have are use sp3 it is the most recent version use opera browser which still gets security updates and disconnect from the internet when ever possible
what more changes are there to try keep safe what is the best antivirus and firewall etc

 

[geofelt]

Most viruses come in through social engineering.
Do not open attachments or click on links in emails unless you are expecting them from a known contact.
Do not visit sketchy or unfamiliar web sites; particularly porn sites.

Run malwarebytes free edition.

XP still has a firewall capability, set that on.
That will help guard against random port attacks.

By all means use a xp supported antivirus program; some decent ones are free.

Take some system restore checkpoints.
At the first indication of a virus/malware issue, stop the pc with the power button and restore to a good previous point.
Nothing is truly safe so protect what you value with external backups.

 

[t53186]

The are known vulnerabilities in XP which is no longer supported by Microsoft. No security updates or fixes. XP is also a big target for persons wishing to create havoc on anyone using it. But its sounds like you plan on using it anyway.

If you can find XP with SP# from a reputable source than by all means use that.
Chrome is also a good choice from a browser
If you are on the internet you will be exposed to the world, even for a short period, so disconnecting is OK, but you are still exposed, malware takes many forms and is not limited to browsing the internet.
Any major company anti virus is good. Avast has been good for me for years
The only type of firewall that will add significant protection is hardware based, another piece of equipment to buy, and you would still be vulnerable when connected.
A VPN will add a layer of security as it would connect you to a server (with current software and hardware) to combat viruses and malware.

 

[james067]

ok guys so get an antivirus i was planning on getting norton since i typically used to use that create system restore points use opera disconnect when possible look into getting a vpn stay away from dodgy websites although i presume ebay is still fine for me to use i cant live without my ebay and backup stuff i also plan on limiting personal info on the pc to as little as humanly possible and then opting to not remember passwords or auto login

 

[james067]

you have been a big helps fellas thanks

 

[james067]