The move toward open-source and free software solutions is gaining popularity thanks to the growth of Internet advertising, consumer frugalness, and globalization. What does this mean for you? You can fix most computer headaches yourself, with free software! The three basic solutions any computer should have installed are Anti-virus, Firewall, and Spyware removal and prevention software.

I've spent days, months, years, repairing computers infected with viruses, adware, and spyware. Rest assured I know what I'm saying when I recommend the following pieces of software.

Anti-virus Solution

AVG Anti-virus Free edition: Similar to the commercial versions of AVG Anti-virus, Norton Anti-virus, McAfee, & Zone Labs. Tested by IT professionals aplenty, this free Anti-virus solution offers thorough protection against the latest viruses and trojans. The program automatically updates itself every morning and provides the user with an intuitive setup process.

Firewall Solution

Zone Labs ZoneAlarm Free edition: The best firewall software on the planet. No question. Strong, flexible, and user-friendly. Zone Labs offers a commercial version of this software, but I don't think it's necessary for most users. The free edition provides advanced security measures and protection not found in Windows XP's integrated firewall. The setup process is straight forward and even offers users the opportunity to watch free training videos.

Spyware/Malware/Adware Solution

Spybot Search & Destroy: Spyware/Malware/Adware is becoming more of a problem than viruses. It can slow your computer down so badly that you may purchase a new computer thinking your old one is just too slow. Spyware/Malware/Adware is tiny software-like bugs that usually install themselves automatically or trick you into thinking their services are mandatory/useful. They can track your Internet use, steal credit card information and passwords, cause major slow down issues, and even render a computer useless. Spybot Search & Destroy will remove most of these bugs and prevent them from installing in the future. Download it, follow the setup instructions, and use it religiously (once a week minimum). The software works much like anti-virus software, downloads weekly updates and scans your local computer for known bugs/infections.

All-In-One Solution

Zone Labs ZoneAlarm Internet Security Suite: This commercial program will set you back a whopping $49.95/year, but includes all the advanced and trusted features of the above mentioned programs, all in one, easy-to-use application. The best, most affordable solution. If you've shelled out over a thousand dollars for a new computer recently, don't you think it's worth protecting your investment? I'd say so. If you don't have the time to manage three individual software solutions, then get this All-In-One application!

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