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    security rookie... need as much help as I can get

    Discussion in 'Security and Anti-Virus Software' started by shocker3000, Apr 7, 2008.

  1. shocker3000

    shocker3000 Notebook Consultant

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    So I just ordered a laptop with vista home premium. I have been a mac user for many years now, so I am kinda paranoid/clueless as to how much security software I will need for my laptop. I figure I will for sure need an anti-virus, but how much will I need for spyware, and other random stuff like that? Also any suggestions on programs would be great (preferable free). Also any other pointers for maintaining a secure PC would be great
    -Thanks.
     
    shocker3000, Apr 7, 2008
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  2. gengerald

    gengerald Technofile Extraordinaire

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    Use the download.com guide as well as the top downloads from filehippo.com. Here is a crude list you can use:


    Avg AntiVirus Free or Avast Home(register for free)
    Spy Bot Search and Destroy
    CCleaner (beware, this is very powerful, be conservative on what you clean)
    Defraggler (best defragmentation solution)
    Startup Inspector (use this once everything is installed to disable useless stuff)
    Zone Alarm (free edition)
    Mozy Online Home Backup (free backup for your documents and special stuff, you have to click the register page on mozy.com then scroll down on the left is free version)
    Registry Mechanic
    Spyware Blaster
    WinVista Manager
     
    gengerald, Apr 7, 2008
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  3. shocker3000

    shocker3000 Notebook Consultant

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    Thanks, I have a T61 on the way that I am wiping clean. So I am just trying to figure out the balance of security, and not using up all my system resources running security software.
     
    shocker3000, Apr 7, 2008
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  4. gengerald

    gengerald Technofile Extraordinaire

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    The only apps of those that should be running would be anti-virus, zone alarm, mozy, and spybot tea timer. The rest are maintenance. I would suggest disabling windows firewall and windows defender. You are looking at 50mb running at a time with just regular actions. Your T61 should handle that with ease :p GL with your new laptop.
     
    gengerald, Apr 7, 2008
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  5. shocker3000

    shocker3000 Notebook Consultant

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    Thanks, and again thanks for the pointers. I liked my little mac bubble where I just assumed no viruses would hurt me lol. Now that I step out I am a little more paranoid :p
     
    shocker3000, Apr 7, 2008
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  6. Leon

    Leon Notebook Deity

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    Avira also has anti-rootkit.
     
    Leon, Apr 7, 2008
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  7. wakikilady

    wakikilady Notebook Enthusiast

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    i think i agree with Baserk on the firewall bieng Comodo V.3 but i suggest the anti virus be Kaspersky or BIT defender and Threat fire, a behavioral blocker that stops spy ware/malware.
     
    wakikilady, Apr 8, 2008
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  8. shocker3000

    shocker3000 Notebook Consultant

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    So just curious how does utorrent work if I have comodo? Would I have to turn it off when downloading torrents?

    Also any tips for settings I should change in comodo? Or will it be fine as default?
     
    shocker3000, Apr 21, 2008
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  9. jin07

    jin07 Notebook Deity NBR Reviewer

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    I'm not sure, but I'm guessing Comodo will recognize it and everything will be fine. If it doesn't, you could always create your own rule for utorrent. Someone that uses Comodo should be able to help you, I switched to OA a while ago.

    Edit: Arg. Didn't see the second page.
     
    jin07, Apr 21, 2008
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