Many people ask me how they can secure their home computer system. That is a very good question, and something that every computer owner should be concerned about. Many times I get called to a site, after a computer has been loaded by spyware and viruses and running very poorly or not at all. Much of this is preventable with three basic precautions: do you have updated antivirus software, do you have spyware protection, and do you have an active firewall.
Do you have an updated antivirus? I have been asked many times what the best antivirus on the market is. To which I have repeatedly answered, "On that is updated." Sometimes I have gone to repair a computer to see that the antivirus has expired or has not been updated. The little red x down by the clock has been neglected or ignored. Antivirus programs need to be continually updated to battle the constant stream of viruses that are out there on the web. There are many free options to this if you don't want to spend money on your antivirus. Get it and keep it updated.
Do you have spyware protection? Everyone needs spyware protection in addition to viruses. And like antivirus software it needs to be updated. Now, many antivirus companies also market spyware components to augment their package. These are never as good as the stand-alone products that are offered for purchase or for free (donations keep them going). Let the antivirus people do their specialty and get a good spyware program too.
Do you have an active firewall? Windows comes with a pretty good firewall built-in. There are also replacement firewalls that are available for purchase. These have different features that may help or may just increase your paranoia. I like the Windows firewall. It works great and you don't need to fuss about it much.
Well that is it: Updated Antivirus, Spyware in Addition, and a Firewall. Get them. Install them. And, maintain them. Thanks for reading and keep your computer running smooth.
David Brown
http://www.livecomputertech.com