Tuesday Tech Tip #2 - Secure your PC, free!
Unfortunately, many people do not have good protection for their computer because they think they have to pay for it. This is not true. I am going to do this article in three parts: Anti-Virus, Firewall and Anti-Spyware.
In the first part I will present two excellent, reputable and FREE anti-virus solutions called AVG and Avast.
AVG software is free, and covers the basics that you need. CNET, in part, had this to say: "This antiviral program offers rock-solid protection for no financial commitment. AVG Anti-Virus Free Edition provides all the necessities, including a tool for scanning your hard drive and e-mail, as well as a real-time shield to prevent infections."
I have used AVG personally on several computers and I have found it to be a fairly simple, straightforward program. It does not use a lot of memory nor hog up the CPU like some expensive and pretty intrusive anti-virus software packages I have used. The email feature does take a few moments to scan each email before you open them, but it is negligible.
Avast Home Edition is also free and is more advanced than AVG. It has more features, but in my opinion is not as simple to use. An excerpt of CNET's review: "Avast Home Edition guards your PC and the network with multiple shields that scan executables and files. You can select parameters for scanning, and even choose wildcards to exclude specific file types. You can adjust the sensitivity level for the program's detectors when it comes to scanning downloaded files, instant messages, e-mails, and a host of P2Ps. Its efficient interface opens up window after window to tweak its settings to your liking, for novice to advanced level protection."
I have not used Avast personally on any of my computers, but I have read many reviews of it and I do know some other people that use it. Overall, it has an overwhelmingly positive review by anyone who has used it.
So, there you go. Two good and FREE anti-virus programs to start protecting your computer. I don't expect you to take my word for it, the links to the software point back to CNET's download.com. Read their reviews and the reviews of many users before making your decision.
Next week, I will talk about two free firewall programs.
In the first part I will present two excellent, reputable and FREE anti-virus solutions called AVG and Avast.
AVG software is free, and covers the basics that you need. CNET, in part, had this to say: "This antiviral program offers rock-solid protection for no financial commitment. AVG Anti-Virus Free Edition provides all the necessities, including a tool for scanning your hard drive and e-mail, as well as a real-time shield to prevent infections."
I have used AVG personally on several computers and I have found it to be a fairly simple, straightforward program. It does not use a lot of memory nor hog up the CPU like some expensive and pretty intrusive anti-virus software packages I have used. The email feature does take a few moments to scan each email before you open them, but it is negligible.
Avast Home Edition is also free and is more advanced than AVG. It has more features, but in my opinion is not as simple to use. An excerpt of CNET's review: "Avast Home Edition guards your PC and the network with multiple shields that scan executables and files. You can select parameters for scanning, and even choose wildcards to exclude specific file types. You can adjust the sensitivity level for the program's detectors when it comes to scanning downloaded files, instant messages, e-mails, and a host of P2Ps. Its efficient interface opens up window after window to tweak its settings to your liking, for novice to advanced level protection."
I have not used Avast personally on any of my computers, but I have read many reviews of it and I do know some other people that use it. Overall, it has an overwhelmingly positive review by anyone who has used it.
So, there you go. Two good and FREE anti-virus programs to start protecting your computer. I don't expect you to take my word for it, the links to the software point back to CNET's download.com. Read their reviews and the reviews of many users before making your decision.
Next week, I will talk about two free firewall programs.
Labels: Geek Stuff, Tech Tip
Posted (Permalink): 3/17/2008 01:07:00 PM
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