Nobody genuinely enjoys spending money on security software,
but savvy computer users understand that it’s a pill
they have to swallow. What many people don’t realize,
though, is that they may already have access to such software--for
free. As Internet-based dangers have increased, large Internet
service providers such as America Online, EarthLink, and PeoplePC
have bolstered the security packages they offer to their customers.
Often the packages are a combination of homegrown tools and
off-the-shelf apps, some of which are included in the suites
I tested for this story. So check with your provider to see
what they offer.
So why are ISPs going to all the trouble and expense of offering
these comprehensive security services? It’s simple--they
want to keep their customers happy. As Kaplan of EarthLink
puts it, “We’re heavily invested in protecting
our consumers and bringing great value to their staying with
EarthLink.”
10 Tips for Running Security Suites
Attempting to install and run a full-featured security suite
can be a complex and daunting proposition, especially if the
task involves replacing one vendor’s product with another
company’s package. Several security companies have contributed
advice on properly installing and maintaining security software.
Here’s what they say:
1. Trash your old security software: You should run just one
antivirus engine at a time. Completely uninstall one antivirus
product and reboot your PC before installing another one.
Also, turn Windows’ firewall off when using another
company’s firewall; some products will offer to turn
it off for you.
2. Check your hard drive’s health: It’s wise to
run Windows’ Chkdsk utility several times before installation
to rule out or repair problems with your system’s hard
drive. Go to Start, Run and type chkdsk in the dialog box.
Click OK.
3. Freshen up Windows: Run Windows Update to make sure that
your system is completely up-to-date before you install security
software, which you should also be certain to update.
4. Make an ID card: In case you need to call tech support,
make a record of the install date, the serial number, and
the support phone number of your security suite. You will
need this information, and some tech support calls are charged
by the minute.
5. Run an extra antispyware app, if you wish: You can run
a separate antispyware utility alongside your security suite,
but you should be careful to coordinate the two products’
schedules to ensure that you have only one application’s
scanner and update engine running at a time.
6. Stay networked: PCs connected to a network, particularly
via VPN, may have custom network settings. If after installing
a security suite your system hangs during the reboot, disconnect
from the network. When you’ve re booted successfully,
reconnect to the network and let the security suite configure
your firewall’s settings. (Most products have a wizard
to do this.)
7. Handle printing and file sharing: Your firewall should
have predefined profiles that enable you to conduct file and
print sharing; if it doesn’t, you will have to create
manual rules in your firewall that permit outbound TCP traf
fic to port 1023 and inbound traffic to port 139.
8. Document your woes: If a product gives you any indication
of a problem--such as an error message or a malware warning--write
down the exact wording of the entire message. Even better,
take a screen shot of the information.
9. Send away your bad stuff: If you encounter suspicious files
or e-mail messages, don’t open and investigate them
yourself. Send them to your security provider, making sure
to follow the proper procedure. Most vendors have adopted
an automated method for users to submit suspicious files.
10. Keep your subscription current: We can’t overemphasize
this point. Security products are only as effective as their
latest update, and updates are typically not provided after
your annual subscription expires. Once your year of coverage
is up, don’t forget to renew or replace your security
software.
For the full article: http://www.pcworld.com/article/id,125817-page,1/article.html
So, there you have it. So make your decision and stick with
it!
