Microsoft Update
Microsoft update
(requires Internet Explorer) should be your first stop to securing your
computer no matter what version of windows you are running. It is
important to install critical updates whenever they are released for the
home user. One of the biggest improvements has been with windows XP
service pack 2 (SP2). Businesses might want to wait on installing sp2,
especially if they are running critical software applications, until
they can evaluate the effects on their network. SP2 offers greater
security and new features, including a updated firewall that can be
better managed.
Ad-Aware Spyware Scanner
Here is a direct link to
Ad-Aware spyware scanner. Ad-aware is a program produced by Lavasoft
that removes spyware from your computer. This takes you to the
download.com site to down load it directly.
Spybot Search & Destroy
Spybot Search and Destroy is a similar program to Ad-aware. It helps
to run both since one will sometimes find things that the other will
not.
Trend Micro's Free Housecall
Housecall
is a FREE online virus scanning tool. Ii is useful if you suspect
that you have a virus. Some viruses turn off, or mask their presence to,
antivirus programs that are installed on your computer. It is possible
to get a virus BEFORE your antivirus program releases an update for it.
An anti-virus program is not a cure for bad security.
AVG Antivirus
AVG is a
good free antivirus program developed by Grisoft for the home user. The
free version is not licensed for use in businesses, schools, and
non-profits. They do have discounted licenses for schools and
non-profits and full licensed versions for business/commercial use.
Zone Alarm Firewall
Zone Alarm is a freely available firewall for home use from Zone
Labs. For businesses, while it is a great idea to run a software
firewall, we recommend that you also run some sort of firewall
appliance. Contact us do discuss your business needs.
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