Protection Firewalls block hackers’ access to your computer by creating a barrier — like a wall — between your ports and Internet that allows you to control data that comes and goes through your ports. Your firewall protects your ports even if you don’t have an IDS. Sometimes a firewall is bundled with an IDS. If not, and if you want an IDS, be sure it’s compatible with your firewall.

Dis-infection Anti-virus software detects and deletes viruses that are in your computer. Viruses often attach themselves to your computer through email attachments and floppy disks. That means a firewall can’t catch them. Similarly, an IDS won’t alert you when a virus is attacking your computer. Look for anti-virus software that recognizes current viruses, as well as older ones; that can effectively reverse damage; and that updates automatically.

If you send mail from one of online mailing services, chances are they've already asked you to make necessary changes to comply with act. But if you run your own autoresponder, have you remembered to add your physical mailing address so that it will be placed on every email you send out? Have you added it to any one-time messages that you may send from autoresponder accounts that may be included in your hosting account? Have you added it to any scripts that you have that generate email?

If you receive any opt-out requests, you must stop sending email to requesting account within 10 business days. Again, for marketers using autoresponder software, that usually happens immediately, so no worries there. You may also not sell or lease email addresses of those who opt-out of your mailings without their consent.

Certain email is exempted from CAN-SPAM regulations. For example, email that is transactional in nature, or that is a "relationship" message, may not be covered. This would include, for example, sales receipts, announcements of product bug patches, change of membership login information, etc. Still, to be safe, it may be best to make sure all of your email communication is compliant. CAN-SPAM is vague about rules as they apply to existing and inactive business relationships, and when such relationships end.

Now that you're aware of act's requirements, you'll want to review every email you send, from every site you own, to comply with act and avoid severe civil and criminal penalties for non-compliance. This article isn't intended to be legal advice - see a professional for that.

John Calder is the owner/editor of The Ezine Dot Net. Subscribe Today and get real information YOU can use to help build your online business today! http://www.TheEzine.Net RSS feeds are available.