These are some of the protection programs that IT folk install on their own computers, and in my opinion, a great combination to keep your computer safe and secure. I have had NO problems for the past couple years with this protection plan and minimal manual updating. If you just got a new computer, this setup is perfect for you. It’s all free for life with no strings attached. If you have any suggestions, disagreements or additions whatsoever, please comment this post and I’ll do a little research and add it to the soon-to-be megalist.
While I’m here i might as well tell you what NOT to use: ZoneAlarm Firewall and Norton Antivirus. If you have either of them, switch now. They don’t even deserve a link. I’ve had SO many problems with these two programs it’s almost a joke. ZoneAlarm blocks too much without easy configurations and Norton is a memory hog, annoying as all hell, and far from free. That being said, enjoy the list.
* indicates programs I use myself for the "protection plan" i spoke of. The rest are trusted programs that i know have been successful for myself, friends, and colleagues.
Anti-Virus Software: (fights viruses, worms, trojans)
1. AVG Free Antivirus *: Great antivirus protection. Constantly and automatically updated. It’s what i use and have no problems. However, i HAVE heard that it’s not the best for businesses and high security networks, but for home use it works just fine.
2. Comodo Antivirus : Part of a well compiled suite from Comodo who is a well respected, semi-young company dedicated to protection. They offer paid PRO versions as well but aren’t necessary for full protection.
3. Avast! Antivirus : I had Avast installed before but for some reason i switched to AVG. Simplicity i think. But Avast! is still one of the most respected Antivirus programs out there. Many of my friends and colleagues have actually switched to Avast from AVG.
4. ClamWin : Another Antivirus program. Many Antivirus programs actually use ClamWin as their core and build on top of it. I’ve never used it but have heard good things.
Anti-Malware Software: (fights spyware, adware, malware, cookies, other intrusions)
1. Spybot Search and Destroy *: Antispyware, antiadware. It can actually immunize your computer from thousands upon thousands of malicious code. Have used it for years and is a crucial tool in the IT world.
2. Comodo BOClean : Self-proclaimed as an identity theft protector, it’s basically a registry addition preventer and malware cleaner. I have not personally used this program, but according to colleagues, it’s simple and they’re happy.
3. SpywareBlaster : This program is special due to the fact that you don’t have to have keep it running. It adds a list of bad sites to your preferred browser’s block list. Just update every now and then, and you’re always protected without using any system resources.
4. Ad-Aware 2008 : I used to use this, but I got Firefox so I’m not necessarily exposed to much malicious code anymore. However, it is a good program. I personally switched to Spybot Search & Destroy because it was less intrusive and Spybot had an immunization feature. Ad-Aware is just another option for you to think about.
Firewall Software: (protects against attacks and blocks transmissions in and out of your internet connection)
1. Sygate Personal Firewall : Worked great for me until I learned about the following firewall called Comodo. Blocks any transaction going in or out your computer unless you tell it to. It’s not the best of the best, but for simple home use it’s ok. Non-intrusive and clean. Good for beginners.
2. Comodo Firewall *: Yet another program from Comodo. This is an amazing firewall. Protects many accessible flaws and transactions through your internet connection. Has a lot of pop-ups and may seem to be in your face, but in the end it’s only doing it’s job. After a while of simple ‘allow’ and ‘block’ clicking by the user it will learn your actions, and stop being "annoying". But again, it’s only, at first, a constant nag because it takes computer security seriously. If you have Windows 2000 you need to scroll down and click the bottom link.
3. Outpost Firewall : Yet another program unused by me. Comes straight from the mouth of good sources and a respectable security company. Like all personally unused programs on this list, I know it to be used and trusted through friends and colleagues. Please leave a comment if you have any further information.
4. PC Tools Firewall Plus : I’ve never used but, I’ve heard good things from a friend and have seen it around. Again, please let me know how it is if you choose to try it out.
Other: (system optimization, cleanup, etc.)
1. CCleaner : Removes unnecessary files from your computer, cleans and optimizes speed of your system. I used to use it at work but with Firefox as my browser of choice, i have little to no dirty file dumping folders that needs cleaning.
2. Glary Utilities : An All-In-One system optimizer and cleaner. A friend uses it and enjoys it. Supposedly an internationally known program.
…And For Good Measure:
1. PeerGuardian 2 *: It’s a very powerful little program that blocks transmissions with a list of bad IP addresses from a central database. Updates everyday. You can set it to block all spyware, advertisement, government, educational, or peer to peer fake addresses on the internet (or your selection of them…one, some, or all of them). You can also make it block HTTP (web sites) as well.
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January 26th, 2009 at 3:21 pm
You can add Avira Free Edition to the list of antivirus programs. It has active pc security shield and automatic updates, but less functions than paid version (no anti-phishing, no antispam, etc).
Kelly Wright’s last blog post..Comment by Doc Holiday
October 1st, 2009 at 2:05 pm
I think you may have cracked the PC market,your products sound cool