So, you've got a new computer running Windows, and you want to start hooking it up to the net. The internet has a lot to through at you and you want to be safe from it. Here's what you need to know to get started with security:
- Install security software or go to Windows Update (Windows 7+) and install the Microsoft Security Essentials optional update. Although most Computers nowadays are preinstalled with something from the manufacturer, these are usually just trials of something like McAfee that are inferior to free ones that you can get on the net. I would recommend Comodo Internet Security or Avast. Note that in versions of windows before windows 7, Microsoft Security Essentials can be downloaded from here.
- Get a firewall, unless you installed Comodo Internet Security from the above, you should get a firewall with HIPS built in. Those that I recommend are Comodo Firewall, PC tools firewall plus, Privatefirewall or Online Armor. You should also connect to the internet using a router, this is better than a software firewall but the HIPS component is still something to install a software firewall for.
- Get something like Sandboxie (Both 32 and 64 bit), Bufferzone (Only 32 bit, may be planning a 64 bit version) or GeSWall (Only 32 bit at the time of writing this, though there are plans to make a 64 bit version). GeSWall is my personal pick.
- Install another browser or get Internet Explorer 9 (Vista with the latest updates and later), they are typically less exploited by malware and have more security features than what you would get from typically preinstalled browsers. The alternative browsers that I would recommend are Opera and Google Chrome. Mozilla Firefox is also popular, it's not one of my personal favourites, but it's still one to consider.
- Install some security addons, WoT is a must for a compatible browser. You can also use SiteAdvisor and Adblock Plus if you want, though WoT is the one that you really need.
- You may now want to download a companion antivirus, Immunet Protect.
- Get an on demand scanner in case your first line of defence misses anything. Hitman Pro, Malwarebytes and SuperAntiSpyware have high on demand detection rates, so I would recommend those.
- Disk imaging software should be used every few months or so. I only know of Macrium Reflect.
- For Vista, the UAC included is very annoying, but disabling it would be very unwise. I would instead advise getting Norton UAC because it has more technical information and it allows you to make it not ask you again for an application. This application is not compatible with Windows 7.
