OT

[irishbreed]

Hey guys where can i find free virus protection?
Maybe a free pop up blocker. Just getting this computer up and running and havent bought any as of yet.

[toddshore]

Provided Link: AVG Free Edition (http://free.grisoft.com)

[duanebrown]

I'll second that. AVG is better than any store bought viris scan.

[aduncan]

I also agree with the AVG recommendation. If you're looking for even more protection, checkout Spybot Search and Destroy and be sure to change to advanced mode. It has three features to help immunize the system: the regular immunize which blocks certain items from installing, the ability to add Spybot's Host File which blocks certain websites, and also the TeaTimer, which can protect certain major system settings. The TeaTimer feature saved my skin a while back when I was dumb and downloaded what was supposed to be a Windows XP CD Key tool but turned out to be a nasty trojan. Norton didn't catch much of it, but the TeaTimer was able to block most of the damage that this guy would have caused. TeaTimer works a little like a software firewall in the way it either allows or denies programs to change system settings, so be prepared for periodic alerts from it - it might be intimidating for a novice user.

Firefox is also strongly recommended as an alternative to IE to help keep the system clean.

[toddshore]

Provided Link: Trend Micro Housecall (http://housecall.trendmicro.com)


> I also agree with the AVG recommendation. If
> you're looking for even more protection,
> checkout Spybot Search and Destroy and be
> sure to change to advanced mode.

I also like to use Trend Micro's online virus and spyware scan on a monthly basis for a sanity check.