antivirus and firewalls

pattipat · Sep 1, 2010

I've been using computers for years, but canNOT keep up with all the new "stuff"!! I'm switching from dial up to cable internet and am more concerned than ever with protecting myself. I don't do a lot of downloading, but do shop and bank online. I'm sure I'll do more with the increased speed. I've been using AVG free for years and have been happy with it, but know nothing about firewalls except than I need one. I've been trying to read on this site about firewalls and antivirus programs, but I am very confused. I have XP Home Edition version 2002 and I'm sure I'm way behind on downloading service packs. I assume I need to start with that, but from what I've read on here, XP doesn't offer great protection anyway.

I'd like to continue using AVG Free for my antivirus unless someone can offer a reason to change, but I don't know where to start with firewalls. I need something simple to install and use. I don't want any more bells and whistles than are needed to offer basic, safe protection. Free would be nice. Can someone help walk me through this decision making process? Please remember to speak plainly. Thanks so much for any help you can offer.

Patti

TimW · Sep 1, 2010

How to Protect yourself from malware!

LauraR · Sep 1, 2010

Hi

Have you seen this thread put together by Chaslang who is one of malware removal experts?:http://forums.majorgeeks.com/showthread.php?t=44525 It is a great place to start.

A lot of people use AVG and are happy with it. If you like it, I'd stay with it. The thread offers their top picks for Firewalls also.

As noted in step 4 of the thread, you should also have a real time Antimalware tool as well as your antivirus. They target different malware. Superantispyware is what I would recommend, but it is not free.

**Having said all that, you mentioned that your windows was not up to date. That is where you should start immediately. A lot of the updates offer vulnerability patches and are extremely important to keep up with.

pattipat · Sep 1, 2010

Thank you TimW and LauraR. Lots of information to absorb here, but at least it's all in one place. As soon as I get connected on Friday, I'll get caught up on Windows updates, then I'll get busy with Chaslang's suggestions. One at a time!! This is rather overwhelming when you're so far behind but I appreciate the help.

Feeling old and behind the times in Alabama.
Patti

hrlow2 · Sep 1, 2010

The antispyware that I like for the "front door" watching is SpywareBlaster.(free)

http://www.majorgeeks.com/SpywareBlaster_d2859.html

plodr · Sep 2, 2010

If you are really concerned, put a router between the cable modem and your computer.
The router has a hardware firewall which helps block incoming things.
I still run software firewalls on all the computers even though they go to the internet through the router.
I've been on cable since June 2004 and so far haven't gotten anything nasty on 4 windows computers that go on at least once a week (a few of them daily).

capttoon · Sep 19, 2010

ty for the spyblaster

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antivirus and firewalls

pattipat Private E-2

TimW MajorGeeks Administrator - Jedi Malware Expert Staff Member

LauraR MajorGeeks Super-Duper Administrator Staff Member

pattipat Private E-2

hrlow2 MajorGeek

plodr MajorGeek Super Extraordinaire Moderator Staff Member

capttoon Private E-2