More Free Tools Increase Security For Your PC
A recent article about preventing hackers from breaking into
your computer caused an overwhelming response by readers.
It seems everyone has an opinion about the best software and
advice for keeping your computer safe from viruses and online
predators. The following will help you increase your online
security and usually without spending a dime!
Zone Alarm
Zone Alarm offers several versions of their popular firewall
software with various options for increased security. The basic
firewall software comes free of charge and ranks among the most
highly rated firewalls available. The paid version helps you to
eliminate everything from pop-up windows to unwanted advertising
and also helps you track hackers back to their source.
Visit www.zonealarm.com to download your copy today, especially
if you don't already carry a firewall on your system.
The Guru Of Security
Visit www.grc.com if you want a real "eye opener!" Frankly, some
of the things I saw on this website shocked me. I had no idea so
many potential problems existed for breaches in your online
security.
But what also shocked me was how simple most of the "fixes" rate
for securing your computer against attack. It became very
apparent to me that most computer hackers don't exploit hardware
or software weaknesses, they actually exploit our ignorance
about the simple steps we should take to protect ourselves and
others.
When you visit www.grc.com you'll see the site covers a lot of
ground. Since you might find it easy to get sidetracked with all
the interesting information, make sure to specifically check out
the "Shields Up!" area. This section offers two comprehensive
tests of your Internet connection to check for the typical
points of entry used by hackers.
The first test, "Test My Shields," checks the security of your
Internet connection itself and how much system and personal
information others can obtain without your knowledge.
The second test, "Probe My Ports," attempts to find open ports
on your computer and evaluate how and where a hacker could
enter.
Both tests will help you spot the most common and obvious
vulnerabilities most of us face when connected to the Internet.
Also to its credit (and unlike similar sites), this website
doesn't use these tests as a lead-in to try to sell you anything.
Free Anti-Virus Software
Visit www.grisoft.com to download a free anti-virus software
package that rivals anything you could buy. The software comes
with free updates on virus definitions (critical for up-to-date
protection) and will even certify your outgoing email as virus
free!
I have used this software myself and, though nothing rates
perfect, I have found it rivals products costing $50 or more. If
you don't carry virus protection software on your computer, stop
this minute and go to www.grisoft.com to download the free
version now.
With so many resources and advice available for free, no valid
excuse exists for not immediately securing your computer against
hackers, vandals, viruses and malicious code.