Need some advice on my security options

I'm doing some tune ups and software evaluating on my system and wondering what you guys think of my security setup. I'm aiming to have about 3 or 4 programs to cover everything. Currently I've got..

- ESET Nod32 antivirus, retail
- spybot, free
- ad-aware, free
- malwarebytes, free

So basically an antivirus and 3 spyware programs. I keep nod32 running all the time, and only use the others for a monthly or bi monthly scan, to save on performance.

What do you guys think of that? can I make any improvements? do i even need ad-aware? what about a firewall? I have windows 7 firewall and the spi nat firewall on my router, should I be good or seriously look into commodo?

thanks!

 

I would suggest removing Spybot & Ad-Aware, as they aren't as good as their competitors. I think your all set with just MBAM.

But if you want to have another on-demand anti-malware app, then try A-Squared or Hitman Pro. Or you could also install Avira as just on-demand.

As for firewall, I dont think you'd need a third party firewall, since you're behind a router firewall. But if you want out-bound control for Windows 7 firewall, then check out Windows 7 Firewall Control.

Cheers.

 

Except that I was using Avast Professional, you basically have the same install as I did.

I switched to Microsoft Security Essentials when it first came out last summer and between that and running Win 7 x64 - I haven't had a problem since. And, it has cut down my 'maintenance' time drastically on my workstations/notebooks.

If, however, you are constantly going to the 'dark' corners of the 'net, then you may need more - but Common Sense 2010* + MSE is all that is needed, really.

* Common Sense 2010 trademark of usapatriot @ NBR.

See:
http://forum.notebookreview.com/showpost.php?p=5744897&postcount=23


Cheers!

 

lol I agree with common sense 2010, but every now and then my needs can only be filled in those "dark" corners.

I like nod, but do you guys think avira is worth replacing it? or MSE?

I like spybot and malwarebyes, but i do wonder if ad-aware is uneeded with these 2. you said it yourself (but ill never get rid of spybot lol). is there any generally accepted best antspyware out there i could install as scan only?

Although, perhaps avira free would be the best solution...if it scans for spyware well.

I really don't know, but i like feeling secure.

 

Well, if you do like venturing into the 'dark', then you can never have too much protection. The problem, of course is thinking you're bullet-proof and finding out the hard way that you're not.

You'll know this is the case when you are one of the first to be hit with a new type/form of virus/malware and none of your protection schemes / scanners have been informed of it and simply let it pass. Usually, the only 'real' fix is to re-install when that happens - make sure you're not online when you're trying to solve/re-install when you've been compromised.

There are some websites that regularly 'rate' A/V products, but how applicable they are to you specifically is always tempered by the unknown virii I mention in the paragraph above.

Good luck and - Stay safe!

 

Well I decided to uninstall ad-aware and install avira, just for on demand scans. for some reason i cant update it though, it just hangs and searching for updates =(

 

Anyone know what I can do about this problem?

It just says scan for updates, but nothing ever happens. It just hangs

 

You can manually install the updates from here.

But if it continues to hang while updating, i'd recommend uninstalling, then cleaning the registry with either CCleaner or Avira Registry Cleaner, and then re-installing Avira.

Cheers.

 

Number 1 protection - disable Active Scripting in the Internet Zone.
Disabling this one setting will protect you from getting infected while browsing.
When you need more functionality and trust a website, then add the URL to your Trusted Sites.

Number 2 protection - use a firewall with outbound protection.
If you get infected with a virus/spyware, you will know immediately if it tries to connect to the internet. I use Windows 7 Firewall Control freeware.

Number 3 protection - download Process Explorer and check it everyday.
Know how many Processes you typically have running. My typical number of processes are 46 to 47. If I see more than 47 running I start to investigate.

Spybot and Adaware are free and worthwhile for an occasional scan, say once a month.