Free Online Security Software to Protect Your PC and Personal Information

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PCs bought in this age can hardly stay off the internet. Most laptops and desktops are fitted with internet access and are often connected to the web. Being online has its huge benefits, but watch it, there is always a security threat.

The threat is in the nature of  potential attacks you face when connected to the internet. There is always the danger of being hit by some spreading worm. Or visiting an attack site that could harm your computer. Or some prying eyes online could be looking out for your sensitive personal information that could be abused.

Even offline, viruses are all over the place and could be transmitted when files are copied or shared.

It all means that you desperately need good protection for your computer. Fortunately, there are several solid options for protecting your PC. Some, though, could cost a chunk of money. But not to worry, there is always something that’s available for free.

Here, we look at free security suites that can get the job done and save you all the trouble.

Anti-virus

One basic protection you need is to have an effective anti-virus program to protect your PC from various forms of virus attack. Ideally, you need a combination of solid anti-virus, firewall and anti-spyware protection. Norton AntiVirus by Symantec, Kaspersky and McAfee are some of the reputable antivirus software to consider. For more on some internet security software you might consider, check these top-rated securty software

If you are not ready to spend on an antivirus kit, however, you don’t have to go online unprotected. These free antivirus software are trusted to provide the basic protection you require and are available for free download:

1. AVG Free
AVG Free is easy to install, has a comfortable user interface and is trusted to perform well in handling viruses and spyware. It offers a link-scanner and you can activate identity protection, It also offers online updates and you can schedule your updates, just as you can update anytime you choose. You can choose between full system or smart scans, meaning you scan the entire computer or select files, folders or drives to scan. Overall, this is a good choice of free antivirus. Download here.

2. Avira AntiVir Personal
Use the free version of the Avira antivirus software and get protection from dangerous viruses, worms, Trojans and costly dialers. Avira Free is available for single computer use for home and non commercial use. Avira AntiVir Personal - FREE Antivirus offers good basic protection and could just be enough for you. Besides, you can always upgrade. Downlaod here.

3. Avast! Home Edition - free antivirus:
This is another free antivirus option that can be trusted for good performance. Avast free is credited with the following functions:

• Antivirus and anti-spyware
• Anti-rootkit protection
• Secures e-mail and chats

Download here.

Firewall

What about stepping up your protection by installing a firewall to safeguard your computer or home network? A firewall works to prevent unauthorized access to your computer or private network by outsiders and, in particular, intruders and hackers. Windows XP or Vista, which you’re most-likely using, has a built-in firewall (Windows Defender).

You may want more firewall protection than the basic free one integrated in the Windows OS. Here are free options to consider:

1. Zone Alarm Free Firewall
This firewall, available for free download, boasts of  providing basic two-way firewall protection that blocks inbound and outbound traffic threats and makes you invisible to hackers. Download here.

2. Comodo Firewall
This is really a combo firewall and antivirus software and is free to download and install. Comodo has a good rating and prove a safe protection package. Download here

Anti-Spyware

What about killing off all snooping agents, including the adware that tracks your activities online?; An anti spyware is what you need to clean up your computer of snooping agents and to block further access. Check these:

1. Ad-Aware Free
This software offers more than anti-spyware function and is credited with also protecting against trojans, rootkits, hijackers, keyloggers, and more! This free version does the job, but you won't get  real-time anti-spyware and anti-virus protection unless you upgrade to the paid version – Ad-Aware Plus. At least, you can scan and clean when you want, if you can be for the version that's real-time. Download here.

2. SpywareBlaster
SpywareBlaster has a good rating from users.. The developers credit it with the capacity to:

• Prevent the installation of ActiveX-based spyware and other potentially unwanted programs.
• Block spying / tracking via cookies.
• Restrict the actions of potentially unwanted or dangerous web sites.

Download here

All said, the reality is that things are not as simple as they seem, when you are online. A lot of ill-intentioned agents are out there to get you. You need to take steps to protect yourself. One thing you must do is to get security software that gets regularly updated, because the threats you face continue to evolve. Paid licensed software is your best bet, but the free versions can bridge some of the gap so you are not completely exposed.