Absolutely!
Antivirus firewall software is a must.
It may be the most important software you'll ever install on your Microsoft Windows computer.
As a computer user you've probably come across terms like viruses,
spam, Trojan horses, worms, etc. Some of you may know what these refer
to; others of you may have heard of them but have no idea what they
mean. In a word they mean: DANGER!
We can't emphasis this too strongly. Anytime you go online to shop or to
access your email or just to surf the web you and your PC are vulnerable to
attack by dangerous elements.
These threats come in many forms and sometimes they can even come from sites you've
been to many times and "trust."
The virus and malware writers are now taking it upon themselves to take over
reputable sites and install viruses, worms, trojans, keyloggers, spyware, and other malware
on otherwise reputable sites, most often without the site's owners ever knowing it happened.
In essence, these and other malware attacks are attempts by disreputable individuals
to disrupt the proper operation of your computer; in some cases rendering it useless.
Others can cause you financial ruin.
Think, for instance, that if all the important information stored on your
PC was suddenly wiped out. All those priceless family pictures-gone
forever. How about the novel you've been writing and didn't make backup copies
of?
What about your tax returns, bank account, and 401K information?
Whatever you hold nearest and most personal has disappeared and you can't
begin to replace it.
Then there is the danger of identity theft. If someone can get your social
security number, banking, or other financial information it can mean months,
if not years, of battle to get things back in order.
We share these things as a wakeup call more than anything.
How to Protect Your PC: Internet Security Software
The three biggest things you can do to secure your PC are:
- Keep your operating system and your applications well-patched.
- Don't run as Administrator or with an account that has Administrator privileges.
- Install the best antivirus firewall software you can.
By taking these steps, many of these threats can be minimized significantly.
If you're looking for help choosing antivirus software, try the Buyer's Guide on the right of this page.
For more details on what's lurking "out there" have a look at our Consumer
Antivirus Firewall Software Guide.
Additionally, we also strongly recommend our visitors
download Firefox,
the alternative free, open-source web browser now.
