Precautions when connecting an unpatched Windows box

What is the best way to connect a new computer to the internet for the purpose of running Windows Update? I have heard that for security, I need to buy a router to sit between the computer and the DSL modem. Would this prevent attacks? The new computer will come with Windows 8 (not 8.1), so the software is potentially very out-of-date and vulnerable to attacks. I want to safely update the computer when I unbox it, and then safely use the internet on a daily basis.

Any suggestions?

 

Just turn on windows firewall (ON by default on WIN7 and 8 ) and that's it. Next go to windows update and do all updates. Risk linked to this procedure? Basically zero.

 

CERT/CC says the following is step one when connecting to the internet.

The problem is that I don't know how to actually implement this recommendation. What do I have to buy?

 

How do you connect to the internet right now ? Aren't you already using a Router ? If so, just install the software/drivers etc for it on the new comp.

Maybe you only have a Modem ? If so, install as above.

Anyway what fax said should suffice, without a Router. You could always add one afterwards. Most ISP's provide them for free these days, unless you prefer to buy one.

After you've installed the Updates, i would Strongly advise you to install a good BiDirectional Firewall. Look in the FW threads for some nice options & advice etc

 

I believe that there are currently no publicly known "remote code execution while doing nothing except being connected to the internet" vulnerabilities for a default installation of Windows 8. Thus, I agree with the other posts.

 

Yes, I agree with others. Just get the computer to internet (however you can), leave OS firewall enabled and update your system. You should be fine.

hqsec

 

Thanks for all the advice. I like keeping things simple when possible.

So you're saying the default firewall in Windows 8.1 isn't really strong enough?