additional security

General Topics
1

Hi, I’ve never used a forum before so hopefully this is all in the right spot!! I read some Avast forum messages about SpywareStop not being good for my computer so I’ve now uninstalled it…thanks for your help. My question is, should I be using any other security programmes or is Avast enought to cover everything? How do I know if a security programme is legitimate? I am definitely NOT computer savvy - and I’m in the “older” age group so please keep answers simple!! Regards catsrgr8

2

Welcome catsrgr8

I too am in the “older” age group.

I like to have system Layered Protection with several security applications.

An up to date anti virus application: avast!
An up to date anti malware application like Malwarebytes’ Anti-Malware (MBAM)
http://www.malwarebytes.org

Download the free version then install it then get the latest definition updates then run a Quick scan and have it remove what it finds.
Post itsl log here if you like.

A system Security monitor that watches over them that WinPatrol provides:
http://www.winpatrol.com/download.html

Up to date HOSTS file that prevents access to known malware sites with hpHosts and MVPS HOSTS file managed with HostsMan.

Ask here if you have further questions.

3

Hi Yokenny - thanks for your help.

4

I’m from the ancient group and agree with YoKenny regarding layered protection except,
I don’t use a host file think it only slows thing down. But that’s my opinion.
Welcome to the forum. :slight_smile:

5

I’m 76.

Try that. :slight_smile:

6

avast! with ThreatFire and Comodo Firewall is an excellent security.

7

The HOSTS file does not slow things down if you use it properly.

Blocking Unwanted Parasites with a Hosts File

Editors Note: in most cases a large HOSTS file (over 135 kb) tends to slow down the machine.

To resolve this issue (manually) open the “Services Editor”

Start | Run (type) “services.msc” (no quotes)
Scroll down to “DNS Client”, Right-click and select: Properties - click Stop
Click the drop-down arrow for “Startup type”
Select: Manual (recommended) or Disabled click Apply/Ok and restart.

http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.htm

I use HostMan to manage my HOSTS file that uses hpHosts and MVPS HOSTS files as input plus I use HostsServer as a browser speedup proxy with its logging capability to show the HOSTS file’s effectivenes:
http://download.cnet.com/HostsMan/3000-2381_4-10996342.html

8

Welcome to the forums, catsrgr8 :slight_smile:

You will find that many of us on here are 50+ in age.

A layered protection is the way to go. See my signature for what I use.

9

Hi :slight_smile:

All In My Signature :wink: