Does an internet user with a broadband cable connection need wireless network protection? What steps to take?

Answer 1

Only if you are using Wireless, and only if you want to.

Answer 2

First make sure that your wireless network is 'security enabled' (users must enter a password to sign on to the network), the program that came with your wireless router should be able to guide you through the steps of setting up an encrypted (secure)network.
Also make sure that your computer has a good internet security program, such as Norton Internet Security (or the like), and that you have the most current virus definitions installed in that program. You should set that program to recieve automatic updates so you don't have to remember to check every other week.
Potential internet threats are constantly evolving, so there are teams of software developers out there writing new programs and actions to combat these threats as they attempt to infiltrate your network, and your computer, just about every day.
Be careful with spam (unknown emails) and pop-ups, and if you are inclined to click, make sure you have a pop-up blocker, and that it is activated.
Mind which folders and files you have in your 'shared' folders.
Don't keep highly sensitive information, pics, or videos, on your hard drive; keep them on an external hard drive, or a disc, or both.
Also, just use common sense.

Answer 3

Only if you don't want your "stuff" to become other peoples "stuff". If you have a combination cable/dsl modem - broadband router with WIFI, your in good shape if you set things up securely. Not using WIFI... disable it in the settings. Otherwise these devices are pretty well secure out of the box for you.

Answer 4

no.
use good antivirus with interney security.