Neewbie

Avast Free Antivirus / Premium Security
1

I am in the process of purchasing a new computer. What suggestions about security does any one have. I know the basics Avast, Zone Alarm. What about Google Toolbar for pop-ups? Also I will set security settings to medium or high? My new computer will also come with Service Pack 2. So any suggestions are welcome and needed to reinforce my limited knowledge. As soon as I unpack it I will download avast and zone alarm. Thank’s in advance.

Reg ;D

2

Firefox comes with Google as the default search engine (you can highlight text on the page and right click, selecting ‘Search web for’) and a Google search window. It also comes with a pop-up blocker integrated into the browser.

3

For security :

  • router with build in hardware firewall.
  • anti virus application
  • never use the administrator account unless there is no other way to do something
  • password protect all accounts
  • change passwords at least once a month for everything you use a pw for
  • Do not use Internet Explorer except to visit Windows Update website
4

It’s better you take a more secure browser (for instance, Firefox).
Anyway, if you want to use Internet Explorer, try at least Maxthon (more configurable and confortable, blocks pop ups, allow Google Toolbar, etc.)

Dependes on how you feel more protected and comfortable (while working).
Generally, Normal protection should be enough.

SpyBot, SpywareBlaster, Ad-aware.
All Windows updates.
A script blocker (see ‘Links’ on my signatures for more suggestions) 8)

5

Internet Explorer has pop up blocking with service pack 2.

No need for any toolbars if you plan to use IE.

However FireFox seems to be the more secure solution.

Dont rely only on a software firewall , get a router with a hardware firewall.

Make sure the router has a SPI (stateful packet inspection ) firewall
:smiley:

And…

AVAST! :-*