Alpha Shield 202-5731 User manual

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HARDWARE FIREWALL
User Guide

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2
GO
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Quick Installation Guide
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Connect power to the AlphaShield.
Middle LED will turn Red.
Connect the “Cable/DSL” port of the
AlphaShield to your Modem using the
cable provided with the Modem.
The Right LED will turn Green, if the
in AUTO
or Manual Mode (LED will be RED if the
switch is in LOCK Mode).
switch
at the back of the AlphaShield is
Connect the “PC” port of the AlphaShield
to your computer or WAN port of the Router
using the cable provided with the
AlphaShield.
The Left LED will turn Green, if the switch at
the back of the AlphaShield is in AUTO or
Manual Mode (LED will be RED if the switch
is in LOCK Mode).
Press the Connect button (Blue).
All LEDs will turn Green.
Congratulations! You have successfully
installed AlphaShield Hardware Firewall on
your computer system.
Quick Steps to Install AlphaShield

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Table of Contents:
Quick Installation Guide 2
Letter from the CEO 4
Introduction 5
AlphaShield
Features and Benefits
Modes of Operation 5
Operation in Manual Mode
Operation in Auto Mode
Operation in Lock Mode
Operation in Gaming Mode
AlphaShield Time-Out Warning
Indicators 6
Inbound Data LED
Outbound Data LED
Connection/Disconnection LED
Controls 7
Connect Button (Blue)
Disconnect Button (Grey)
Mode Selector Switch
Connection Ports on AlphaShield 8
PC Port
AUX Port
Cable/DSL Port
Trouble Shooting 8
Support 9
Warranty
Service and Repairs
RMA Card
Product Specifications 10
FAQs 11
AlphaShield: Front and Rear Views 12
Various Setups 12

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Dear Customer,
Thank you for purchasing AlphaShield Hardware Firewall and congratulations on choosing our “state of the art” technology
to secure your High-Speed Internet connection. AlphaShield's unique feature of “disconnection” sets a new standard of
100% guaranteed security or your money back*, a claim that is unmatched by any of our competitors. Whether you are a
home user, business user, or even on the road with your laptop, AlphaShield will certainly prove to be a very effective tool in
providing the highest level of security and privacy for your computer.
With over 30% of all Internet traffic being malicious, it is time that everyone who uses High-Speed Internet take the
necessary steps in protecting his or her computer. Please be sure to advise your friends and relatives about your wise
decision of investing in computer security to protect your privacy.
For more information about Internet security issues, the latest Trojans, Product Reviews and Third Party Testing Sites, go to
www.alphashield.com and sign up for our monthly newsletter: “The AlphaShield Internet Security Report.”
We, at AlphaShield, thank you for your support.
Sincerely,
Vikash Sami
Vikash Sami
CEO & Chairman
* for more information visit http://www.alphashield.com

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Introduction:
AlphaShield:
According to the National Cyber Security Alliance, the safest way to fully protect any computer is to physically disconnect it
from the Internet. AlphaShield allows the customer to protect a computer effectively, by seamlessly disconnecting and
reconnecting it without Internet service interference. The IP Address is protected and concealed and thus is not visible to be
hacked, spied on, advertised to or changed by malicious softwares. It is estimated that over 30% of all Internet traffic is
malicious and that the average computer is scanned 7-10 times per hour by third parties. AlphaShield blocks all 65,536 ports
in your computer. For Always-On connections, blocking all ports or entry points is critical in securing a computer. Everyone
who has High-Speed Internet should have an AlphaShield to protect them.
AlphaShield prevents hacking and damage from worms like MSBlast, BugBear and DoomJuice. It is also easy to install and
does not require any software.
Features and Benefits:
AlphaShield is the next generation in network security. It is a stand-alone external hardware device that utilizes cutting edge
technology to stop hackers and network attacks before they can access your computer. AlphaShield monitors all inbound and
outbound data transmissions between your computer and the outside world. It does all this seamlessly, while maintaining
your Internet connection.
AlphaShield has many advanced features that make it a foolproof security device such as:
Unique “GAP” technology (Trademark: AlphaGAPTM)
RPA (Real-time Packet Authorization)
IP Stealth Technology (Makes your computer invisible to hackers)
Stand-alone hardware sentry
Manual Mode (Timed connection with a logical disconnect)
Auto Mode (Continuous connection with an optional logical disconnect)
Lock Mode (Timed connection with a physical disconnect)
Instant manual connect/disconnect function
Auxiliary Port for other IP devices such as VOIP
AlphaShield provides many benefits that make it a leader in data security and Internet privacy such as:
Blocks all 65,536 ports
Stops all third party pop-ups
True plug n' play installation and operation
No technical knowledge needed for setup and installation, less than 1 minute setup
No future software patches or upgrades required
Functions with all operating system platforms
Compatible with Cable, xDSL, ISDN, or wireless broadband
Firmware immune to viruses and alterations
No conflicts with existing firewalls or routers
Eliminates DOS (Denial of Service) and DDOS (Distributed Denial of Service) attacks
Provides 24/7 online protection
Modes of Operation:
Operation in Manual Mode:
When the Manual Mode is selected, a connection session must be manually initiated by pressing the Connect button (Blue)
on the AlphaShield. Once the Connect button (Blue) is pressed, the Connect (Center) LED will illuminate green to indicate to
the user that he or she is connected to the Internet or Network. After an inactivity period of 15 minutes, AlphaShield will
disconnect and enter into a Logical Disconnect state. In order to reconnect, press the Connect button (Blue).
The Connect (Center) LED will always indicate the connection status of the AlphaShield device.
Operation in Auto Mode:
When the Auto Mode is selected, a connection session must be initiated by pressing the Connect button (Blue). The Connect
(Center) LED will illuminate a solid green to indicate that the AlphaShield is in a connected state.

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The duration of the connection is infinite, regardless of user activity. It is highly recommended that once the user has
completed his or her Internet session, the Disconnect button (Grey) is manually pressed to cause a Logical Disconnect.
Operation in Lock Mode:
When the Lock Mode is selected, a connection session must be manually initiated by pressing the Connect button (Blue) on
the AlphaShield. Once the Connect button (Blue) is pressed, the Connect (Center) LED will illuminate green to indicate to
the user that he or she is connected to the Internet or Network. After an inactivity period of 15 minutes, AlphaShield will
disconnect and enter into the Physical Disconnect state. In order to reconnect, press the Connect button (Blue).
NOTE: Physical disconnection may result in your computer releasing the IP Address assignment.
The Connect (Center) LED will always indicate the connection status of the AlphaShield device.
Operation in Gaming Mode:
Gaming Mode can be enabled by pressing and holding down both the Grey and Blue buttons simultaneously for a few
seconds. The Gaming Mode was designed for technical users who prefer to configure their AlphaShields for personalize
usage. To utilize this mode, you will be required to download and install an AlphaShield Configuration Utility. You will need
to hold down the two buttons son the AlphaShield unit and press Configure on the AlphaShield Configuration Utility to
initiate the new settings. The AlphaShield Configuration Utility program will allow you to enter the IP Address of the
remote computer or the Port Addresses of your computer that you prefer to leave open for remote access or for hosting
games. This mode will also enable you to use VPN connections to access your secure Network or Computer. File Transfers
as well as Video and Voice Communications with Instant Messengers such as MSN, AOL, Yahoo, etc. can also be utilized in
this mode.
NOTE: Please be advised that utilizing this mode decreases the level of security for your Computer or Network.
In order to disable the Gaming Mode, first press the Disconnect button (Grey) and then the Connect button (Blue). This will
automatically reset the AlphaShield to one of the other modes.
AlphaShield Time-Out Warning:
Once connected, by pressing the Connect button (Blue) in the Manual or Lock Mode, the Connect (Center) LED will remain
a solid green if there is any communication activity between the AlphaShield ports. If inactivity occurs for a period of 30
seconds less than the 15 minute timer value (i.e. 14 min. and 30 sec.), the Connect (Center) LED will start flashing green to
indicate an impending logical disconnection within 30 seconds.
The client session can be extended by the user, when the Connect (Center) LED is flashing, by pressing the Connect button
(Blue) within the 30 second warning window.
Once the Connect button (Blue) is pressed, the timer value will reset to the pre-selected value of 15 minutes and the Connect
(Center) LED will return to a solid green indicating an ongoing session.
Indicators:
Inbound Data LED: (See Back Cover page for image)
The Inbound Data LED will always remain solid green upon a good link connection and will flash off when a valid data
packet is accepted by the AlphaShield. It will flash green under normal traffic conditions.
The Inbound Data LED will flash amber or red upon receiving illegitimate packets that are not destined to the client. These
packets will not be permitted through by the AlphaShield. A high occurrence of illegitimate packets will be displayed by
flashing red.
Outbound Data LED: (See Back Cover page for image)
The Outbound Data LED will always remain solid green upon a good link connection and will flash off when a valid data
packet is transmitted through the AlphaShield. It will flash green under normal traffic conditions.

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The Outbound Data LED will flash amber or red upon receiving illegitimate packets that are not destined to the Internet.
These packets will not be permitted through by the AlphaShield. A high occurrence of illegitimate packets will be displayed
by flashing red.
Connection/Disconnection LED: (See Back Cover page for image)
The indicator displays one of the following three different statuses:
1. Illuminates solid red to indicate that the connection between the PC port and the Modem port is logically or
physically disconnected. No transmission of user data can pass between the PC and the Cable/xDSL ports. The computer is
disconnected from the Network. The computer's IP Address assignment will be retained in Auto/Manual Mode (or will be
released in Lock Mode).
2. Illuminates solid green to indicate that the connection between the PC port and the Modem port is connected. Only
pre-inspected valid user session data packets are permitted to pass between the PC port and the Modem port. Both
AlphaGAP and RPA are enabled. Your AlphaShield Connect/Disconnect indicator must be green to establish a connection to
the Internet or Network.
3. Illuminates a flashing green to indicate that the impending logical or physical disconnect 15 minute inactivity timer
value is about to expire. This means that no user sessions have taken place during the timer value and the current connection
is 30 seconds away from a logical or physical disconnection. Only user activity, such as clicking onto a web link, or by
pressing the Connect button (Blue) at the top of the AlphaShield, will reset the inactivity timer and maintain the user session.
4. Illuminates flashing amber to indicate that the Gaming Mode is enabled. This mode will allow you to configure your
AlphaShield to permit remote access or VPN communication for business usage or to utilize Voice or Video
Communications over chat programs.
Controls:
Connect Button (Blue): (See Back Cover page for image)
Used to re-establish a new connection after either a logical or physical disconnection. The AlphaShield Connect button
(Blue) is functional in the Manual, Auto and Lock Modes.
In Manual Mode, the Connect button (Blue) must be pressed to re-establish a logical connection after a disconnection. In
Manual Mode, the logical disconnection is caused either by the inactivity timer value expiring or the Disconnect button
(Grey) being manually pressed by the user. The Lock Mode provides the same functionality except with a physical
disconnection.
In Auto Mode, there is no inactivity disconnect timer function. Connections do not time-out and should be manually
disconnected by pressing the Disconnect button (Grey) upon completion of the user’s Internet session.
Disconnect Button (Grey): (See Back Cover page for image)
The Disconnect button (Grey) will logically or physically disconnect (depending on user mode selection) any user session
currently in progress. The Disconnect button (Grey) is functional in the Manual, Auto and Lock Modes.
The Disconnect button (Grey) will provide a logical or physical disconnection immediately after being pressed. The
Disconnect button (Grey) can be pressed by the user at any time to invoke a session disconnection. This can be used if the
Inbound or Outbound Data LEDs are showing excessive intrusion activity.
NOTE: Regardless of the mode currently in use, it is recommended that the user press the Disconnect button (Grey) when he
or she has completed his or her user activity on the Internet or Network. This will ensure the highest level of security. It will
disconnect after 15 minutes of inactivity in the Manual or Lock Modes.
Mode Selector Switch: (See Back Cover page for image)
The slider switch provides 3 user selectable modes of functionality for the AlphaShield. Each mode will provide a different
level of computer security and user convenience.

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The first slide position selects the Manual Mode with an inactivity and logical disconnect timer value of 15 minutes. In this
mode, your computer will retain the current IP Address assignment from the Internet Service Provider (ISP).
The second slide position selects the Auto Mode with an inactivity disconnect timer value that is infinite. There is no
disconnection. In this mode, the AlphaShield will retain the current IP Address assignment from the Internet Service
Provider (ISP). This is the recommended and default setting for AlphaShield.
The third slide position selects the Lock Mode with an inactivity and physical disconnect timer value of 15 minutes. In this
mode, your computer may release the current IP Address assignment from the Internet Service Provider (ISP). This is an
excellent setting for users with Static IP Address assignment.
Connection Ports on AlphaShield:
PC Port: (See Back Cover page for image)
It is used to connect the computer's high speed connection or the Router's WAN port.
AUX Port: (See Back Cover page for image)
It is used to connect the VOIP and other similar devices that do not require protection. It can also be used for testing purposes
or for bypassing AlphaShield’s security features.
Cable/DSL Port: (See Back Cover page for image)
It is used to connect the high speed Modem or the Router's LAN port.
Trouble Shooting:
My AlphaShield does not power up. Why?
Ensure that you are using the provided wall mount power adaptor (9 volt DC. 200 mA center positive) shipped with the
AlphaShield and not some other power adaptor.
Make sure that there is 110 volts AC or 220 volts AC being provided through the wall outlet (In North America 110 VAC).
If all of the above is correct, then the provided adaptor could be faulty.
The Inbound data link status LED does not come on when I connect my AlphaShield to my cable or xDSL Modem. Why?
Make sure that power is being supplied to your cable or xDSL Modem and that it is switched on. Make sure that the
Network RJ-45 (Ethernet) cable is the same as that provided by the Modem manufacturer or your ISP.
Make sure that the AlphaShield’s Cable/DSL port is not being connected to the computer’s Network port.
If all of the above is correct, the cable could be faulty. Replace the cable with a similar type of RJ-45 (Ethernet) Network
cable.
The Outbound data link status LED does not come on when I connect my AlphaShield to my computer. Why?
Make sure that power is being provided to your computer and that the computer is switched on.
Make sure that the Network RJ-45 (Ethernet) cable is a straight through connection provided with the AlphaShield.
Make sure that your Network Interface Card within your computer is not a fixed fast Ethernet 100Mbps card that cannot
switch or auto negotiate to 10 Mbps.
Make sure that the AlphaShield’s PC port is not being connected to the Cable/DSL port or the AUX port.
Make sure that you have the RJ-45 jack plugged into a Network Interface Card on the computer and to no other type of
peripheral card.
If all of the above is correct, then the cable could be faulty. Replace the cable with another straight through RJ-45 (Ethernet)
Network cable.
The Connect (Center) LED is always on solid green. Why?
The Auto Mode has been selected on the rear of the unit. This solid green indication is normal for this mode and the logical
15 minute disconnect time-out is bypassed. The AlphaShield remains always connected and provides security via the IP
Stealth and RPA technologies until the Disconnect button (Grey) is manually pressed.

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My AlphaShield does not time-out. Why?
If AlphaShield is in Auto Mode, then it will not disconnect. However, if the selected mode is either Manual or Lock Mode,
then the connection session timer has not expired because there is client user activity being detected. If the client is
downloading or uploading a large file that exceeds the inactivity timer value, the Connect (Center) LED will stay green. The
AlphaShield will stay connected and will not disconnect the client until the data file transfer is completed and the timer value
expires with no transmission activity. The second condition is the normal operation of the AlphaShield in Manual or Lock
Mode.
Cannot make a connection to the Internet and the Connect (Center) LED and Data LEDs are solid red. Why?
This is normal for the AlphaShield if it is in the Lock Mode. In the Lock Mode, AlphaShield has physically disconnected the
computer from the Network connection and will not allow any communication to take place. This mode should be used only
if the user requires security of an extreme measure. This mode is recommended if the user does not access the Internet for an
extended period of time or has left the computer unattended and wishes no communication to take place between the
computer and the ISP.
The red Connect (Center) LED comes on too often. Why?
AlphaShield is in Manual or Lock Mode and the user is not creating enough user activity to reset the
inactivity disconnect timer. This is normal operation in Manual or Lock Mode if the user is not using his or her Internet
connection. The Connect (Center) LED will give a 30 second warning by flashing green prior to disconnection. It will turn
red upon a logical or physical disconnection.
Users’ sessions have to be re-established after a logical or physical disconnection. Why?
Your AlphaShield device contains a memory map of concurrent valid users’ sessions while you are connected to the Internet.
Once a logical or physical disconnection has taken place, either manually or automatically, the IP map table is discarded. All
users' sessions must be re-established after a logical or physical disconnection by re-connecting and making them active
again.
Only one computer will work with my AlphaShield device. Why?
Your AlphaShield has a provision for a one to one correlation of IP Addresses to computer connections. You must have one
assigned IP Address for every computer that is connected to the protected PC port side of the AlphaShield. Your
AlphaShield does not employ any type of Network Address Translation (NAT). However, an AlphaShield can protect a
Network of computers when placed in front of routers.
Support:
Warranty:
The Manufacturer warrants AlphaShield with an exclusive one-year warranty in workmanship and materials from the date of
purchase. The AlphaShield will provide years of Network security and trouble free operation if properly connected and
operated as per the instructions in this manual. If you are experiencing any problems with your AlphaShield, please refer to
the trouble shooting section of this manual.
NOTE: Your AlphaShield device has no user serviceable component within it. Opening the housing will VOID THE
WARRANTY and may even cause permanent damage to the static sensitive electronic devices. If you are experiencing any
type of problems with your AlphaShield, please refer to the detailed trouble shooting section contained on page 8 of this User
Guide.
Service and Repairs:
In case AlphaShield is found to be defective, the Manufacturer will be obligated only to replace or repair the defective
product provided that the following is determined:
The product has not been altered or repaired without the written consent of the Manufacturer
The product has not failed due to misuse, improper maintenance, carelessness or physical damage.
No other warranty or condition is implied and the Manufacturer under no circumstances is liable for any damages arising
from the use of the AlphaShield device.
For repair and service, please contact the Manufacturer at the following:
Email: [e-mail]
· Telephone: [phone] or 1-604-435-0700

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Please note that we cannot accept any returns without a proper RMA (Return Merchandise Authorization) number. An RMA
number can be obtained by contacting AlphaShield Inc. prior to the shipment of the unit.
RMA Card:
AlphaShield Inc. warrants this product to be free of defects and to be fully functional for a period of 12 months from the date of
original purchase. AlphaShield will repair or replace at AlphaShield Inc.'s option any unit, without cost, during this period, if
the unit is found to be defective for any reason other than abuse or incorrect usage or installation.
Do not try to repair the unit. If it fails, contact AlphaShield Inc. to obtain an RMA number prior to shipping. Any
modifications of the unit by anyone other than an authorized AlphaShield representative will void the warranty.
If an AlphaShield needs repair, call AlphaShield for a (RMA) Return MarchandiseAuthorization number and return the
defective unit, freight prepaid, along with a brief description of the problem, to the address specified by the Representative.
AlphaShield will repair faulty units beyond the warranty program at a nominal charge. Contact an AlphaShield Sales
Representative for details and pricing.
RMA # _______________________
Description of problem: _____________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
Product Specifications:
Category AlphaShield
Warranty 1 year Limited Warranty
Interface Speeds Link speeds up to 10 Mbps
Power Supply DC wall adaptor 9 VDC 1.8 watts
ESD Line Protection Each port up to 1500 VDC
Electrical Interfaces 3 x IEEE 802.3 10Base-T RJ-45 Connectors
Network Interface 1 x 10Base-T Ethernet client port protected
Network Interface 1 x 10Base-T Ethernet port Modem connection
Network Interface 1 x 10Base-T Auxiliary port unprotected
Software Setup None, a true plug n’ play device
Operating System Runs on all operating systems (platform independent)
Terminal Interface Push button control (2 buttons)
Session Reconnect Manual Intervention (Push Button Reset)
Power Failure Retention Retained Settings Non-volatile
Device IP Address No IP Address assignment for device
IP Address Translation None (Device provides no address translation)
Maximum No. of Users Up to 30 Computers
Security Connection Time domain AlphaGAP Technology
Packet Inspection RPA (Real-time Packet Authorization) Firewall
Supported Protocols TCP/IP, FTP, UDP, HTTP, TFTP, IMAP, DNS,DHCP
Modes of Operation 3 modes of operation - Manual, Auto, Lock
User Session Times User Selectable (2 values: 15 and Infinite)
Intrusion Alert Visual LED Indicator illuminating red or amber
Instant Disconnect Manual Intervention (Push Button)
Physical Connection LED Link Status on 10Base-T ports
Power to Device Power Indicator via Connect (Center) LED
Data Transmission Inbound/Outbound LED Indicators
Operational Mode Selectable via Multi-position switch
Connection Indicator LED Indicator: two colors and two states
Operating Temperature 50 to 110 degrees F

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Frequently Asked Questions:
I used the scan test and some of my ports are still OPEN or CLOSED, not all STEALTH or BLOCKED, what is wrong?
You are not testing your computer’s IP Address. In some cases, the scanning is not actually done to your computer's IP
Address, but to the IP Address of your ISP. Please check the IP Address on the top of the page where you go to perform the
test. Please compare it to the real IP Address that belongs to your system. You will be able to check your real IP Address if you
visit one of the following sites:
http://www.whatismyip.com or http://www.whatismyipaddress.com
Does my AlphaShield work with the router?
Yes! AlphaShield will definitely work in your environment! AlphaShield should be connected between a xDSL/Cable Modem
and a router (this includes wireless routers). If connected this way, it will protect your whole Network.
Is AlphaShield compatible with Macintosh OS X?
Yes! AlphaShield is a platform independent hardware. It does not require any configuration and does not need any software to
install. Macintosh operating systems rely mostly on AppleTalk protocol, but they do take advantage of TCP/IP when an Internet
connection is required. TCP/IP is a default protocol for the Internet and AlphaShield works with any device/node that supports
this protocol stack. That is why it really does not matter what operating system you are using as long as TCP/IP protocol is
used.
In regards to shielding your IP Address, exactly how does this work?
AlphaShield will show your IP Address to the resource that you visit. This is how TCP/IP protocol works. You have no way to
hide it, and it is ok. An IP Address is like a phone number. Everyone needs one to contact the other person, or to get a phone
call from somebody. When you request a website your IP Address will be visible to the server you visited. Communication is a
two way process and you will not be able to use the Internet if you do not provide an IP Address to the resource you want to
visit. Your IP Address is not a credit card number, this is not something that you have to hide all the time. When protected by
AlphaShield, your computer will never be detected by any scanning tools and thus would not reply to PING requests. If it
cannot be found on the Internet, then it cannot be a target! Even if you visit a server and an attacker gets a hold of your IP
Address, your AlphaShield will not reply to any requests. Your computer is essentially invisible.
What is the use of the switch at the back of the unit?
Please refer to page 7 regarding Mode Selector Switch.
Does AlphaShield work in wireless Network configuration?
Yes! AlphaShield works in most wireless Network environments. The vast majority of home wireless Networks have a
xDSL/Cable Modem connected to a wireless access point. A wireless access point will distribute the signal between computers
on the same Network. If this is the case, AlphaShield should be placed between your xDSL/Cable Modem and a wireless access
point.
Can an AlphaShield be used to protect connection with USB Modems and dial-up Modems?
Unfortunately, the current version of AlphaShield does not support dial-up Internet connections, or connections with USB
interface.
Does the AlphaShield work with programs like MSN Messenger or ICQ?
Yes!
Do I require an anti-virus software on my computer even though I have an AlphaShield device connected with my system? Can
I still receive live updates?
Even though AlphaShield stops the Trojan worms such as MSBlast, BugBear, and Fizzer, you will still require an anti-virus
software to detect viruses that come through emails. AlphaShield will not interfere with any form of live updates
.
Does AlphaShield work with Remote access programs like PC anywhere?
Yes! AlphaShield works perfectly with Remote access programs when it is securing the client computer. Remote Access
programs will not work if someone is trying to access from outside since AlphaShield makes your computer invisible unless
you are in the Gaming Mode (see page 6 for detail).

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Computer
User with one computer.
Internet AlphaShield
Modem
Hub/Router/
Proxy Server
Internet
AlphaShield
Printer
Server
Computer
Computer
Computer
AlphaShield Protecting Small
Network.
Laptop
Modem
Computer with Wireless
connection
User with more than one computer at home/
small office using Wireless Router.
AlphaShield
Laptop with Wireless
connection
Modem Wireless
Router
Internet
Various Setups:
AlphaShield Front View:
AlphaShield Rear View: