Windows XP SP2 and Windows SP3 has added the security center to monitor firewall, automatic updates, and antivirus settings and to warn users when there is a problem. This is a good idea for the most part, since it gives a visual warning to the user when their antivirus or firewall have been disabled or changed.
However, if your computer doesnt connect to the internet often enough to update your antivirus, or if you have purposely turned off the Automatic Updates feature. Maybe you dont want Windows to warn you each time you restart your computer or modify something.
I have had several instances where the Windows XP SP2 and Windows SP3 Security Alert balloons were more of a nuisance than anything else.
These of the Security Alert Balloons
Windows Firewall is Turned off
Automatic Updates have been turned off
Antivirus is turned off or not installed
How to Turn off Security Alert Notifications
1. Open the Control Panel
2. Double-click on the Security Center icon security center icon
3. Click on the option "Change the way Security Center alerts me" Change the Way Security Center Alerts Me
4. Uncheck the alert settings boxes you wish and click Ok
