Setting Network shields

You can modify the shields that monitor network communication between your computer and other Web sites. These communication settings are vulnerable to the effects of spyware and viruses and can be changed without your permission. Network shields block some ads that may open in your browser. They also stop Web sites from sending you to other, unexpected Web sites.

To set Network shields:

1.	In the Icon panel, click Shields.

The Shields panel opens, showing a summary of the available shields and their status. (If any shields are dimmed, you do not have access to them; see Using multiple accounts.)

2.	Click the Network tab.

3.	Select the options you want to use. Items with a green check mark  are enabled.

 

Network shields
Common Ad Sites	Blocks banner and other advertising from common advertising sites. When you go to a Web site that has advertising from one of the blocked sites, you may see a small graphic that indicates a broken link to a graphic (typically a red X in a box). This X just shows where the blocked ad would display. The Webroot software updates these sites when you update your definitions.
Hosts File	Monitors the Hosts file for any changes. Some programs will add or change the IP address for a Web site in the Hosts file. When you try to go to the added or changed Web site, you will really go to a different Web site, such as an advertising site. This shield ensures that programs do not change an IP address without your knowledge. Hosts File Shield Options button: Click to edit the Hosts file. For more information, see Editing the Hosts file.
Internet Communication	Monitors communication from your computer to known Web sites that are related to potentially unwanted programs. The Webroot software includes a list of known sites with its definitions. If the Webroot software detects an attempt to communicate with a site on the list, it displays a pop-up alert in the system tray (lower-right corner of your screen) telling you that access to the site was blocked.