Free security software to protect your PC from malware

With identity theft on the rise, you know that computer security is important. So, if you don't have security software or if your security programs are outdated, take action!

I know what you're thinking: Buying a computer security suite is costly. But you don't need to spend a dime. I have links to all the free security software you need.

Antivirus programs

There are tens of thousands of pieces of malware circulating on the Internet. These include viruses, worms, Trojans, dialers and other monsters. This stuff poses a terrific threat to your security.

To counter malware, use antivirus software. You should only run one antivirus program on your computer. If you run multiple antivirus programs, they'll conflict. Make sure to keep it updated, as virus definitions are constantly being added.

Free antivirus software:
• AVG AntiVirus
• avast!
• Avira AntiVir Personal
• Microsoft Security Essentials
• Panda Cloud Antivirus

Firewalls

A good firewall will also make your computer more secure. Firewall programs render your computer invisible to hackers' probes. Hackers run scanning programs over the Internet, looking for computers with electronic openings, called ports. Good firewalls make your computer invisible to the scanners. As with antivirus software, don't run multiple firewalls. They will conflict.

Free firewall:
• Zone Alarm

Anti-spyware software

Spyware and adware are other big threats to computer security. Spyware tracks your Web surfing and reports your interests to a computer on the Internet. Adware sits on your computer and feeds you ads. Both spyware and adware will slow your machine.

You need programs to keep spyware and adware from taking root. And you need other programs to annihilate spyware and adware that collects on your computer. You should use multiple anti-spyware programs on your computer. Unlike antivirus software and firewalls, they won't conflict.

Free anti-spyware programs:
• Ad-Aware
• Spybot Search & Destroy
• Microsoft Windows Defender
• SpywareBlaster

Safe Browsing

Microsoft's Internet Explorer is rife with security holes. Over the years, many of these security problems have been patched through Windows updates. But new ones continue to appear. I recommend that you switch to the Firefox browser. It's free. I think it is inherently safer.
• Firefox Web Browser

Mac Security :
• Sophos Anti-Virus Home Edition for Mac
• With ClamXav

http://www.komando.com/securitycenter/