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Why internet security matters
With hackers, fraudsters and disreputable companies at large on the internet, it makes sense to protect your computer - recent research has found that an unprotected computer connected to the internet will be will infected with a virus within 12 minutes. The three corners of internet security are your: FirewallA firewall acts as shield and keeps your computer safe whenever you connect to the internet. Surfing without a firewall is the virtual equivalent of going on holiday and leaving your front door open. Virus protection softwareA virus is a malicious piece of code which attaches itself to other programs. Viruses, worms and Trojan horses - generically known as malware - can wipe your hard drive, turn your computer into a spam sending machine, and even record the keys pressed on your keyboard, allowing hackers access to your online passwords. Virus protection software monitors your computer to protect you from unwittingly downloading infected files. Spyware protection softwareSpyware is software designed to collect and report information about your surfing habits. It can also be malicious: if you've ever found your computer bombarded by pop-up adverts or had your home page changed without your knowledge, you have been a victim of spyware. Anti-spyware software will remove and guard against this happening. The products - where to start?We've selected these products as the best all-round security solutions, but don't just take our word for it - be sure to check out the customer reviews on each of these products. Who's it for: Anyone looking for a one-stop solution to internet security - Norton keeps you automatically protected against viruses, hackers and privacy threats. What does it do: Everything. The package includes Norton AntiVirus, Norton Personal Firewall, Norton Privacy Control, Norton Anti Spam and Norton Parental Control. Norton is respected for its easy to use interface, and the online-troubleshooting database provides excellent technical support . Most "hey, that's clever" feature: Visual tracking of (foiled) attacks on your computer is very neat, if slightly pointless, touch - Norton pinpoints where in the world the hacker lives, and points them out on a map. Sadly, you don't get to see their pimply face. The bottom line: A simple to operate, one-stop security solution
Who's it for: Much like Norton, McAfee Internet Security offers across the board security package. Install it, and you can surf, shop, download and email, safe in the knowledge that you have a virtual bouncer/early 90s New York guardian angel is sitting on your shoulder. What does it do: The suite includes McAfee Virus Scan, McAfee Firewall, McAfee SpamKiller, McAfee Privacy Service, McAfee Identity Protection, spyware removal tools, a pop-up blocker and McAfee shredder. The different elements work seamlessly together, and the online technical support is regarded as one of the best in the business. The box is also a nice red colour. Most "hey, that's clever" feature: The McAfee Shredder securely erases your confidential files, folders and emails, forever. The bottom line: Easy to use security solution
Who's it for: Though less of a household name than McAfee and Norton, ZoneAlarm's Internet Security Suite is considered by many experts to be one of the best security products on the market, making it suitable for pretty much everyone. What does it do: Like Norton and McAfee, ZoneLabs's suite will keep all security angles covered. The package includes ZoneLab's highly acclaimed triple defence firewall, anti-spyware and anti-virus software, spam blocking and a whole host of other extras - including wireless network protection. The suite runs quickly and the annual subscription renewal fees are among the lowest in the market. The ZoneLab's forums also provide useful technical support. Most "hey, that's clever" feature: ZoneLab's firewall is the most sophisticated on the market, protecting the very core of the Windows operating system. And they say virus protection software is boring... The bottom line: The rising star of internet security We have compared the best Internet Security and PC Cleaning programs available today and reviewed the Top 5's for you. All the listed programs have either a free trial or a free scan available. |
