The Older Geek

Every computer that connects to the Internet should have a robust security program. Viruses, phishing scams, and worms have multiplied exponentially the last few years. You are flouting with danger if you connect to the Internet without security software. And there is some excellent software available absolutely free of charge. There is no need to be unsecured and to pay money for computer security software when there is such a good selection for free.

There are three very basic types of security software: firewall, anti-virus, and spyware/malware detectors. You should only have one firewall program and one anti-virus program installed on your computer, to avoid conflicts. You can have a multitude of spyware and malware detectors.

The Firewall

A firewall is a software program that monitors the ports (or, openings for the transmission and reception of data) of your computer. A good firewall will block all transmissions going in or out of your computer unless it receives your permission. The Internet is a constant stream of data, from computer to computer; some of that streaming data is malicious. A firewall blocks the malicious data by comparing that data with the firewall database and your preferences.

Traditionally, firewalls were complex, asked a lot of questions while you browsed, and were a general nuisance; many people disliked the constant interruptions and therefore uninstalled their firewall. This is not recommended! After initial installation, your firewall will be popping up little windows, asking for this or that permission; it’s expected. Over time as you inform the firewall what you want to allow and disallow, the interruptions will cease. Firewalls are more user-friendly, too.

Good, Free Firewall Software:

• Comodo Firewall Pro
• Zone Alarm
• Agnitum
• Ashampoo Firewall Free
• Sunbelt Kerio Free Firewall

Windows operating systems now come with a built-in firewall, but it’s not liked by security-conscious people. Windows Firewall does effectively block incoming data transmissions, but it does not block outgoing transmissions. So if some sneaky worm or trojan has somehow got into your computer, the bug will be able to “phone home” freely.

Tip: Running more than one firewall can cause Internet connection problems. Always shut off Windows Firewall after your new firewall is installed and running.

The Anti-Virus

An anti-virus program is on constant watch, checking incoming email and files for infected files or threats; it also scans your entire computer’s hard drive for malicious files. Of course, it can only scan what it knows to scan, so that’s why it’s so important that you keep the anti-virus database updated at every new release. You can schedule scans at set times, or manually start them when you want. Depending on how large your hard drive is, scanning can take several hours.

Good, Free Anti-virus Software:

• AVG Anti-Virus
• Avast!
• Avira
• ClamXav for Mac users

Spyware and Malware Detectors

Spyware and malware are increasing. Spyware obtains data from a user’s computer (or monitors the user’s computing habits, without the user’s knowledge or consent). Examples of spyware are keyloggers, toolbars that track your computer usage, and tracking cookies. Spyware is usually for advertising (or spying) purposes, intended to watch your offline and online activities and report “home”; a computer analyzes the data and targets you with strangely appropriate advertisements or offers. Or, spyware may change your browser’s home page (called “hijacking”) or other computer settings; it may also bombard you with popups, and slow your computer down.

Malware is a little more pernicious: malware is short for “malicious software.” It’s a general term for spyware, viruses, worms, trojans, and etc. Malware usually does more damage to the computer (or an Internet website). Malware encompasses all the things spyware does, but more: malware may steal your financial information and send it to thieves in another country; malware can create chaos in your computer registry, causing system failure; and more.

Good, Free Spyware/Malware Detectors:

• MalwareBytes
• a-Squared Free
• Trend Micro HijackThis
• IObit Security 360
• Lavasoft Ad-Aware
• Spybot Search and Destroy
• WinPatrol

Cookie and History Cleaners

Cookie and history cleaners are not exactly classified as “security” programs, but I thought I’d mention it here. More and more frequently, your computer habits are being monitored. While you work on your computer, you leave behind little bits of information, in the form of cookies or bookmarks or deleted files. And also, these small files do build up over time, slowing your computer down a little. It is advised to regularly clean out your cookies and computer history. There are not many free programs (not that I have found) available, but one of the best cleaners is free: CrapCleaner. You can also go to the website Download.com and search for history cleaners. You’ll get a lot of results.

Tip: never do a search engine search for a security program and then download the program. There have been reports of scams and viruses posing as the “real thing.” They show up in search engine results. Always go to a reliable vendor’s website, or check out Download.com for the software. Visit the vendor’s website, and check the web for opinions about the product.

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• How to Avoid Computer Viruses and Phishing Hacks