Free security software to protect your PC from malware
With identity
theft on the rise, you know that
computer security is important. So,
if you don't have security software
or if your security programs are
outdated, take action!
I know what you're
thinking: Buying a computer security
suite is costly. But you don't need
to spend a dime. I have links to all
the free security software you need.
Antivirus programs
There are tens of
thousands of pieces of malware
circulating on the Internet. These
include viruses, worms, Trojans,
dialers and other monsters. This
stuff poses a terrific threat to
your security.
To counter
malware, use antivirus software. You
should only run one antivirus
program on your computer. If you run
multiple antivirus programs, they'll
conflict. Make sure to keep it
updated, as virus definitions are
constantly being added.
A good firewall
will also make your computer more
secure. Firewall programs render
your computer invisible to hackers'
probes. Hackers run scanning
programs over the Internet, looking
for computers with electronic
openings, called ports. Good
firewalls make your computer
invisible to the scanners. As with
antivirus software, don't run
multiple firewalls. They will
conflict.
Spyware and adware
are other big threats to computer
security. Spyware tracks your Web
surfing and reports your interests
to a computer on the Internet.
Adware sits on your computer and
feeds you ads. Both spyware and
adware will slow your machine.
You need programs
to keep spyware and adware from
taking root. And you need other
programs to annihilate spyware and
adware that collects on your
computer. You should use multiple
anti-spyware programs on your
computer. Unlike antivirus software
and firewalls, they won't conflict.
Microsoft's
Internet Explorer is rife with
security holes. Over the years, many
of these security problems have been
patched through Windows updates. But
new ones continue to appear. I
recommend that you switch to the
Firefox browser. It's free. I think
it is inherently safer.
• Firefox Web Browser
