Monday, November 24, 2008

Useful Tips

It is possible that the most important thing you can do about computer security is NOT JUST to get the best antivirus or internet security product, BUT to keep your computer up to date.

If you have automatic updates enabled on your computer, that is good. However there are many common programs for which you may NOT have the latest updates which often are created to plug holes which could allow a hacker to mess up your computer.

One solution is a free utility, called Secunia found at http://secunia.com/vulnerability_scanning/online. You can choose to download the desktop version or run a scan while you wait online.

Internet Security - Antivirus - The BEST Solutions

I use Vipre on one of my systems. I need to restrict it to one so that I can keep testing OTHER internet security systems on the other computers that I own. I use Vipre which is much newer but comes from Sunbelt Software who Microsoft bought their original technology from for Windows Defender. Problem being that Microsoft did not keep developing it like Sunbelt does. [See left sidebar for trial copy or to purchase]

Sunbelt also owns Kerio Personal Firewall which they have now renamed Sunbelt Personal Firewall. There is a free version and a paid one. Soon I believe you will see Vipre become complete by incorporating their firewall into Vipre.

It is very inexpensive and protects against viruses in email and from other sources as well as Spyware. So far it does not have a built-in firewall. Most people don't need a firewall but it never hurts to have one even if just to make yourself feel better.People like me who have zillions of websites and blogs and are on the internet for hours every day, NEED a firewall because they are obvious targets for BAD GUYS!

I use Kaspersky Internet Security 2009 on the computer I am typing this on. It is my main system. It is so complete and stays in the background keeping my whole system secure that I use it here.

In addition, Kaspersky has the FASTEST RESPONSE TIME when a NEW VIRUS is found. Sometimes as soon as 20 minutes later, they are updating your system with the solution. Fast I like! If two days go by or even 24 hours, a lot of havoc can be created on your computer while the slow guys are trying to find a new solution to the NEW VIRUS. Do you really want to take that chance? [see banner link on left sidebar]

Other good products are BitDefender and NOD32. Unusual name, NOD32. However both products are very good. I will write about them later.