Security(Win95/98/ME/XP/Win2k) (There's a lot of SH*T out there)
Must Have Programs(All Free)
AVG Install this as your main Anti-Virus)
A Squared Install this and manually update every day if you have to and scan at least once or twice a week!!
Ad AwareSE(free) Again update manually and scan on a regulrar basis.
SpyWareGuard(Spyware Backgroud guard)
PopUpTray(Anti-spam Defender)
Outpost Firewall(recomended)Old version is best)

I've made this page as I,like many people,have got fed up with the increasing bad practices of web designers and companies who wish to take control of your Browser/System with,"Pop-ups"and,"Page Re-directions and ,"Auto-Diallers".These practices are now tantamount to a,"Virus" infection IMNSHO and can stop programs like Scandisk and Defrag from operating and inhibit surfing and can cause system lock-ups and Rip Money Off You!!

To stop,"Popups" I use Popup Stopper

Protect Yourself For Free!!!!

1:An up-to-date Anti-Virus program is essential.I use the free AVG from Grisoft.This has been the best free Anti-virus solution I have used.Please make the rescue disk if you know or after you know your system is clean!But keep AVG Updated!

2:Spyware.This is one of the nastiest parts of the modern Internet.People and companies trying to track your usage and take over your browsing.I use the free Spybot Search And Destroy and Spyware Blaster to remove and then,"Immunize" against these but like Anti-virus Programs keep them Updated!

3:To protect yourself from your system sending out information you don't want it to use a,"Firewall".I like the small and free,Outpost Firewall And keep it Updated!

4:I've stopped using Outlook Express for Email and News as it is always being attacked by viruses.Instead I use the great free Calypso Email for mail(it has a built in spellchecker as well :) and you can use the free Gravity 2.5 for news groups.

5:You can also use SpywareGuard if your home page has been taken over.

General Tips 1:Scan all Floppy disks/Cdrom disks and Downloads with your up-to-date Anti-virus program.
2:NEVER!!!! open attachments from people you don't know!!
3:Never open Attachments from people you do know unless you know they have scanned the file with an Anti-virus program!!!
4:Never reply to,"Spam" or to people you don't know

Lastly
There are several online anti-virus and anti Trojan scanners you can use for free and I suggest you use them around once a month or if you feel you have been infected just in case.
Panda Active Scan
Online Trojan Scan and also do a Security check on how secure your system is when connected to the Internet with a Sygate Scan,or Shields Up

Shep's Help