Its amazing the amount of arguments in this forum over what security programmes to get. As far as my computer goes, I have only had 3 viruses in 5 years online and those viruses were basically non-destructive, never been hacked either and i live on yahoo messenger anyway :). Had ICQ , MSN, AOL, Trillian, you name it and i tried it i also test software so i have about 15gb in downloads. And yet all i ever paid to secure my computer was $80. I think the key to a good running computer is a particular set of software that should be able to keep you running safely IF USED PROPERLY. Brand Names will not save you ..... I will post my list of software if anyone cares to comment or maybe to add their list i think it will help a lot of people in here who have problems deciding on what to get and what will work for them. It is as follows: --------------- Windows Xp ... upgrade from Windows ME P4 2.2 ghz , 100 gb hd 512 mb RAM --------------- = ANTIVIRUS : AVG (had PC-cillin before this) and F-Prot DOS freeware --------------- = FIREWALLS : Kerio and Agnitum freeware --------------- = TROJANS : Tauscan, Script Defender and Swat It, Tausan is shareware --------------- = PC CLEAN UP : System Mechanic, RegCleaner, Space Odyssey, Ad-aware, DLL Archiver ... only System Mechanic is shareware --------------- Those programmes have maintained security and stability wih my system for 5 years. I cannot for the life of me see why people have all these problems in here. I think most of the hacks and virus infections are due to Human errors. One other thing with firewalls ... I love Kerio for one simple reason .. when online if i am using Opera and Yahoo Messenger ... i disable (remove the ticks) from all other software so when i connect only what i am using connects out. This helps a lot and i have recently stopped using IE ... vulnerabilities are too much with that. All you need to do is get proper patches for your computer, proper software and a little commonsense about where you surf and who you talk to and you will be happy on the net ... rather than trying to figure out how to debug your pc in here.

I could not agree with you more hylian_lynk. I could not tell you the last time I got a virus,trojan, worm, etc.. Probably like you I spend an extensive amount of time on-line. I think a lot of people will install one security software and then for what ever reason change to another. I have a total of $60.00 in security software. McAfee's Internet Security, AdWare, Nortons Corporate Edition 7.x AV. Users would be better off installing whatever protection software they want, checking for updates on a regular basis, and then just leave it alone to do it's job. Sorry, I get carried away on the subject of AV and Intrusion security. If you follow hylian_lynk's advice you will be able to have a lot more time for fun things. Rather than chasing down virii and security issues, unless thats what you like to do. Later! Underdog V-Peace-V

Yes...sound advice. I have one question. I am running AVG for anti-virus and am quite happy with it after failures with big name stuff. Do I need additional software protection for trojans. Some say AVG has me covered. Just wondering. Thank you, Jim

I agree.Find a good program and stay with it.I have tried many security programs.I am finally settled on everything;Sygate 5.0 firewall,NOD32 antivirus;Trojan Hunter,spybot,IE organizer pro 2.0 history remover,reg cleaner 4.3,3D traceroute,startup control panel(by mike lin).You are correct about risk and caution.If you take risks,like opening unknown e-mail that has attachments,there is no guarantee that even the best security program can protect you.Human error/momentary loss of common sense,LOL I been there!And right,ALWAYS UPDATE SECURITY PROGRAMS!!That's the biggest pet peeve for me.Best Regards JB

Check out wilders.org.That site has a security page with recommendations in regards to security programs and reviews as well as downloads.They break it down by product type,like av programs,firewalls,anti trojan etc..Some anti-virus programs detect trojans fairly well,(I hear Kapersky av does this)but usually not.There is a difference between trojans and virus and the programs to fight against these problems.

hi hylian, ditto. i don't think i've spent more than $50 to secure my machine. been using kerio, regprot, regmon, pestpatrol, and nod32 also i have an old copy of Jammer1.95 and that's it. cheers, murve