I am often asked about computer security. The following are security programs recommended to protect your computer from malicious attacks. You should use one program from each category. Using more than one program from each category does not increase the level of your security, and in some cases might even be harmful.
Look up their definitions on the Wikipedia web site.
Selecting security products is a moving target at the best of times. Some companies are consistently good, while others rise and fall in their effectiveness. Below is a list of applications that are recommended as of today. (March 1, 2009)
The best defence against being infected in addition to installing some of these programs is to create a user with restricted rights. Some users find this annoying, but it is, in fact one of the ebst methods to stop the proliferation of attacks. A restricted user cannot install applications, and by extension, cannot install malicious applications. This makes the installation of programs a conscious choice as opposed to a mindless or accidental click.
Free tools are noted as such, although you are strongly encouraged to support the developers by purchasing their products. In some cases, the purchase is a one time fee.
There are now several categories of security products:
- Ad-ware
- Virus-ware
- Mal-ware
- Risk-ware
- Porn-ware
- Rootkit exploit
- Phishing
- Spy-ware
- Surprise-ware
I think it is also important to mention that there are many fake security programs that will pretend to be virus scanners etc but are actually viruses themselves, this is called social engineering. To get around this make sure you look up fully on the product you are about to download.
This, of course, is precisely what triggered the problems this past week with a virus masquerading as a problem solver.
It occurred to me that people should have a bit more confidence in the virus products that they have installed on their computers. If you have AVG installed, it will broadcast a problem, but it will identify itself as the message sender.
If you get a popup on your screen, pay attention to the title bar and make sure that the message is from you anti-virus product. Also keep in mind, that your anti-virus product will ask you what you want done with the culprit, as opposed to a general warning and attention getting antics.