Being net-connected: a point I'm not clear on.

[wumply]

IF THIS IS THE WRONG FORUM, PLEASE MOVE IT.

OK, my broadband modem is ON 24 lhours a day. And let's say I've just booted up my computer but that I have no browser open. I have a running firewall, I have a running anti-virus program and I have a router.

Question: From the point of view of the modem I'm connected through my ISP to the net (or am I?); but since no browser is active/open, am I connected to the net? I mean re this question, could I, if I had some good reason, SAFELY shut my anti-virus program down? I mean it's like neither browser is open and I'm about to install a program. And the install program will recommend shutting down ALL OPEN programs. Same situation...so again can I safely shut down my anti-virus? (In practice I usually ignore that "Shut down all open programs when installing" rule.) But is that wise?

[bhxtyrant]

Personally i never shut down my antivirus or firewall software,I am also a DSL user behind a router.As far as i always seen it reguardless of if a browser is open or not you are connected to the net.Not only your browser is what causes a connection almost every program on your PC at one point or another can connect to the internet including windows itself.So i view it as not safe unless you activily go to your connections manager and disable your connection.

[Reverend]

:goodpost: :whs:

[wumply]

Thanks bhxtyrant! wumply.