Keeping your PC safe

[Knives122]

you'd think Common sense and not using IE would be one in the same. I mean everyone should have that knowlege.

[dragonrage]

thanks for the info....

[Board of Command]

I only use my router's firewall because it has proven to be pretty secure. I used to run Sygate firewall alongside my router's firewall but Sygate has never picked up anything (whereas it used to before I got a router), so to save some RAM I just use my router's firewall. (D-Link DI-624)

I tried installing Spybot a while ago but I think it doesn't like Win XP x64 very much... I'll give it another shot some time.

[woofcat]

For Linux people who need a firewall try out Firestarter it works great for me and its easy to set up / configure.

[masamuneehs]

moved and stickied in General Support.
-m

[darkshadow]

Well, if you know what your doing, even IE can be safe ( since i only use IE, and never had any problems )

also get Spyware Blaster.
While Spybot and Ad-Aware remove spy/adware, Spyware Blaster will try and keep it off your pc:

The most important step you can take is to secure your system. And SpywareBlaster is the most powerful protection program available.



Prevent the installation of ActiveX-based spyware, adware, browser hijackers, dialers, and other potentially unwanted software.
Block spyware/tracking cookies in Internet Explorer and Mozilla/Firefox.
Restrict the actions of potentially unwanted sites in Internet Explorer.

SpywareBlaster can help keep your system spyware-free and secure, without interfering with the "good side" of the web.

And unlike other programs, SpywareBlaster does not have to remain running in the background.

Download:
JavaCool Software

[xDarkMaster]

Thanks for the tip darkshadow, I'll check it out if I have time. Although, already have Spyware Doctor, AVG, and Avast so I don't really need it.

[samsonlonghair]

Most of the best programs have already been mentioned. Firefox and Spybot are definite must-haves. Another good program to have in your article is Hijack this. When you're having trouble finding out what's causing trouble in your computer this program will work wonders.

I only use my router's firewall because it has proven to be pretty secure. I used to run Sygate firewall alongside my router's firewall but Sygate has never picked up anything (whereas it used to before I got a router), so to save some RAM I just use my router's firewall. (D-Link DI-624)

Generally, a hardware firefall is a better solution. To make an analogy, a software firewall is like putting a security system in your home; a hardware firewall is like putting a deadbolt in your door. It's simpler, easier, and (usually) more effective. Just my opinion.

[naruto49]

I'm glad I read this. I just scanned my computer for spyware and found that I have about 7000 spyware infections.

[xDarkMaster]

Does anyone with AVG know how to prevent it from automatically starting when Windows starts?

[Deadfire]

I'm glad I read this. I just scanned my computer for spyware and found that I have about 7000 spyware infections.

IF you truly found that many I would suggest you reinstall windows as removing that many can cause windows to be very unstable. (As if it wasn't already)

Does anyone with AVG know how to prevent it from automatically starting when Windows starts?

There does not appear to be a simple disable option in the free AVG software but there is a way around it that is easier than uninstalling and reinstalling the software and this is to prevent it from starting automatically. If you uninstall it then you will have to download all the patches and updates and reconfigure it again.

To prevent it from starting click on start, run and type MSCONFIG then click on the startup tab and you will see all the programs that start automatically when the computer starts.

Now just remove the tick from the program called Avgcc, click OK and then restart your computer.

Any other questions?

[drims]

I got one Deadfire. You know what I could do so my computers usage doesnt get so high from playing online game "starcraft".