Software...

[Forsaken_One]

Well, I have ZoneAlarmPro as my Firewall, anti virus etc... But, I am wondering how good it really is. As for me, I do not know much about software in this dept. So, I am wondering if there is anything specific I should purchase, or at least look for. Or, am I fine with what I have.

Lately, my computers performance hasn't been working as good as it should be, so I am thinking my some adware/spyware has infected my computer.

So, I may need some jelp or suggestions.

Thanks ahead of time.

[TimP]

Well since you asked, I guess I'll go on a little rant. ZoneAlarm is an invasive piece of software. It's a needlessly bloated firewall/security/kitchen sink that is no more effective than the free, built-in Windows Firewall. If you need to check for spyware, I've had good luck with Windows Anti-Spyware (http://www.microsoft.com/athome/security/spyware/software/default.mspx) for removing spyware off relatives' computers.

[Forsaken_One]

Well, thank you for telling me Zona Alarm isn't too good. I've been skeptical with it ever since my mum paid for it.

Any alternatives?

[TimP]

Windows Firewall. You already have it (http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/using/security/internet/sp2_wfintro.mspx).

[Neo]

Kerio is extremely nice.

http://www.sunbelt-software.com/Kerio.cfm

I've used it for a long while now.

-Neo

[Basan]

... If you need to check for spyware, I've had good luck with Windows Anti-Spyware ("http://www.microsoft.com/athome/security/spyware/software/default.mspx") for removing spyware off relatives' computers.

Is it solely me, or the spyware removal tool they had was only free 'till July last year? :o If that isn't so, please care to enlighten as why it didn't occur?

Windows Firewall. You already have it ("http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/using/security/internet/sp2_wfintro.mspx").

That, obviously assuming that you have a XP OS laying about. ;)

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Seriously though, I like NeoX's option better (going for Kerio). It was kinda simple to set it and to learn how to work with it when used it a while ago.

[TimP]

Is it solely me, or the spyware removal tool they had was only free 'till July last year? :o If that isn't so, please care to enlighten as why it didn't occur?

I've downloaded it within the last two weeks and it's still free. The beta expires in a year, but that's common with most Microsoft beta software. It would be in their best interest for them to make it free.

[IceFlare]

Its actually really good. I personally like it, after the first few times of running it, it knows how to set permissions by itself and its very flexible. Also low on CPU usage, mine is running @ 4k right now. BTW this is the pro version and mine expires in 52385 days whenever that is >.<

[BlackHawk]

Lately, my computers performance hasn't been working as good as it should be, so I am thinking my some adware/spyware has infected my computer.

For adware / spyware removal I suggest downloading Adaware Personal from Lavasoft (http://www.lavasoft.com/)'s website. It's free and I've used it to great effect.

[Basan]

I've downloaded it within the last two weeks and it's still free. The beta expires in a year, but that's common with most Microsoft beta software. It would be in their best interest for them to make it free.

If that's so I'm gonna head to your previous shown link. :)
Although it was good for the time that I've tested, it lacks in one thing from their developers... the actual fact that it's an app to plug what shouldn't have been there long time ago (read: security holes at IE, OE n' Outlook). But this patch up healing measure seems to be better for their pockets than actually being preventive. Oh, well... guess that we can't have like we wanted to/should be. But let me stop now, since this as an awful "dejá vu" feeling (as in, debated here before). :rolleyes:

For adware / spyware removal I suggest downloading Adaware Personal from Lavasoft (http://www.lavasoft.com/)'s website. It's free and I've used it to great effect.

For that to work better, may I also suggest the combo presented here (http://www.warboards.org/showthread.php?t=4133) (namely Spyware Blaster n' SpyBot with perhaps a sprinkle of Hi-Jack This)? ;)