As a server administrator it is essential that you understand how to protect your clients and server from problems, and prevent issues. Two essential issues are your understanding the use of patches and virus protection.

Patches also referred to as support pack or service packs.

Because no software package is perfect, manufacturers provide free updates, or patches, to fix known problems or to provide enhanced services with the software.

Patches enable you to update your operating system or client software without having to upgrade your system completely.

Determining if a Patch is Necessary

The first approach is to apply only those patches necessary to keep the system up and running. In other words, don't bother fixing what isn't broken.
The other approach is to keep the server software as up-to-date as possible to take advantage of all possible features and enhancements made to the software.

Which approach meets your needs?

Often a new application requires that the NOS be updated with a specific service pack, so you have little choice.
Because applying a patch changes the network environment, you should carefully plan before you apply any patch file.
Whenever possible, you should test the patch in an isolated environment to see how it works with other files.
By reviewing the documentation describing each patch, determining if the patch will address any current problems you're experiencing, and testing the patch to ensure that it doesn't cause other problems on your network.

Virus Protection:

Virus are programs that run without your knowledge or permission and are designed to replicate themselves.
Viruses normally inflict damage to your data or programs, display messages, or slow system performance.

Trojan horse

A program whose actual purpose differs from its stated purpose.
A Trojan horse might mimic the features and functions of a login command. In doing so, it would gather valid login names and passwords that could be used later to compromise your data.

Another type of Trojan horse might initiate a denial of service attack by bombarding a network with useless traffic.
A Trojan horse doesn't replicate itself.

File infectors

Attach to executable files so that when the program is run, the virus is also run and loaded into memory.
The virus then infects any other programs that are run on the system.

Virus Hoaxes

An offshoot of the threats caused by viruses is the proliferation of virus hoax emails, such as Good Times, WOBBLER, and Join The Crew.
Not only can forwarding these emails clog a mail server and network with unnecessary traffic, but they also tend to undermine the vigilance of many users for real virus alerts.

For more information on Networking Basics, the OSI Model and Server Administration:
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