Free Security Suite
Computers connected to the Internet are under constant attack. Protecting your computer from an attack has become a very important task for all computer users. There are many software packages on the market to protect your system and they generally do a good job. But what they also do is cost you money, usually around $70 to $100 to purchase and could also have an annual subscription fee after that. Listed below are software packages to protect your computer that are 100% free and available for download. Security suites have a package for every section listed below, so use at least one piece of software from every section for proper security.
Software is used at your own risk! Computer Support is not responsible for any damage caused by this software.
Anti-Virus
Anti-virus software, along with the firewall, is the cornerstone of any security suite. Viruses are an epidemic that will continue for the foreseeable future. Viruses can come in an e-mail attachment, across the network, and from a website. Having an up-to-date anti-virus package is the best defense against any virus and any method they use to infect your computer. You should install and use only one anti-virus package. Using more will cause slowness and instability and could render your computer almost useless.
- McAfee VirusScan - Available from Computer Support to Students, Faculty, and Staff
- AVG Anti-Virus
Firewall
A firewall, along with anti-virus software, is the cornerstone of any security suite. A firewall is a barrier between your computer and the rest of the Internet. The purpose of a firewall is to prevent unwanted traffic (system attacks) from getting in or out. Windows XP has a built-in firewall but only protects against incoming attacks, it does not prevent your personal information from being sent out. You should install and use only one firewall package. Using more will cause slowness and instability and could render your computer almost useless.
- ZoneLabs ZoneAlarm (Windows 98/ME, 2000, XP)
- Sunbelt Kerio Personal Firewall (Windows 2000/XP)
- SecurePoint Personal Firewall (Windows 2000/XP)
- Jetico Personal Firewall
Anti-Spyware
Many websites now install software simply by viewing their site, sometimes without the users' permission, keeping track of your browsing habits and displaying pop-ups using this information. This is adware. Many times it keeps track of your browsing history and other personal information. This is spyware. Adware/spyware has become a major problem on almost all computers that browse the web. It is recommended to install and run several anti-spyware packages to get the best results. Most of this software requires manual updating. Check our how-to's to see how to update and scan with these packages.
Anti-Phishing
Phishing is the attempt to gather your personal information through fraudulent e-mail and/or websites. Phishing is a rapidly growing cyber attack and is increasingly becoming harder to detect. Since a phishing attack requires end-user interaction, the only prevention is to not participate. By installing one of the following toolbars, you will be alerted to what you are visiting, a legitimate site or one that is attempting to steal your information.
Anti-Spam
Unsolicited e-mail, or spam, is an annoyance to almost all users of e-mail. Spam has gotten out of control to the point where you can't stop it, you can only minimize its impact on your inbox. Use one of these tools to sit between your server and your e-mail client to help keep your inbox clean.