Anti-Virus

I still recommend AVG Anti-Virus Free Version for people who need anti-virus software. It's less obtrusive and slimmer than Norton or McAfee, updates automatically, and does a very good job of virus protection. Paid versions are unnecessary as this combined with Spyware Doctor below with prevent most infections someone is likely to run across.

Download: AVG Free Edition

Anti-Spyware

People are still having a hard time avoiding and preventing spyware from getting on their systems. Google has partnered up with PCTools and offered a free version of their effective Spyware Doctor software. I use it often at work and highly recommend it as a primary protection against spyware. Unlike AdAware or SpyBot that some of you may be familiar with, Spyware Doctor runs continually like an anti-virus to keep you protected.

Download: Spyware Doctor Starter Edition 5.0.1.201 freeware

Browser

Internet Explorer is an effective browser, but it is also insecure, slow to adopt, and not very customizable.  I prefer and highly recommend the browser FireFox for it's increased security and customization.  You can install add-ons to do everything from show the weather at all times at the bottom of the screen, to blocking ads, to increased functionality with your favorite sites.   Check out this site for why it may be a good idea to switch if you haven't already.

Download: FireFox Browser

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