I stopped using symantec products some years back so I can't say for sure.
That doesn't sound right though. The firewall should be in place when the
network starts. You might try the symantec support site (though I don't hold
much hope. One of the reasons I no longer use their products) to see why
this might happen. The tray icon may just be the user's gui interface and
not the actual firewall starting up.

--

Regards,

Dave Patrick ....Please no email replies - reply in newsgroup.
Microsoft Certified Professional
Microsoft MVP [Windows]
http://www.microsoft.com/protect

"Richard in Va." wrote:
> Dave,
> Your MS links are helpful. I've read thru the first link which discusses
> how to set dependencies for services.
> "How to delay loading of specific services"
> Using this approach, I would make the network (DSL) service wait or
> "depend" on the NIS service "ISSVC".
> This would work I suppose just fine. So long as NIS is installed and
> configured to run at startup.
>
> I have not yet read thru the 2nd MS link you provided, will do so shortly.
>
> My reason for asking this to begin with is because when I boot and watch
> the system tray, I notice that the DSL network connection icon appears and
> blinks a few times. Then I see the Windows Security Center icon along with
> a warning that my system security is turned off. Then I see the NIS icon
> in the tray and after a moment, the Windows Security message goes away.
> The NIS icon is furthest from the clock, which I assume to be the last
> program or service to be loaded.
> (Programs or services that are providing a tray icon to view)
>
> Really don't know if there are any security issues here. I've just always
> wondered what nasty little treat I receive from the internet before NIS
> gets up and running.
>
> I have a system at work I use that has much the same setup, but using
> dialup. I've noticed that on several occasions that after a complete
> boot, when I connect to the internet I will get a message from NIS that I
> have just received a treat and that NIS has blocked it. And this is
> without any email or browser application open.
>
> Now that's scary!
>
> I'll read thru your 2nd link soon. But today I've taken the day off to do
> yard work and such.
> It's sunny and about 70deg here and the clock is ticking!
>
> Thanks for you help!
>
> Best regards,
> Richard in Va.
> +++++++++++++++++++++++