If you connect your computer to the Internet, you will be attacked by unscrupulous other Internet users, by automatic worms that are looking for vulnerable sites and by malicious code in your emails and instant messages. If you don't install at least some of the basic defences, you will be hit sooner or later. Fortunately, lots of good security software is available for free if you are a personal user (not using your PC for business).

If you want to learn more about security, you'll need this security guide  and some of the excellent free tutorials and white papers at the security tutorials site.

Anti-virus software

Running a virus checker is a must but just as important is to keep your virus software up-to-date. So download a new version every few weeks.

 

Zone-alarm

A personal fire wall is the second most important defence against internet attacks, especially if you have a broadband connection (cable modem or xDSL).  Don't think hackers are not interested  in your PC, they are. They can use it to attack other machines and hide their tracks. An average windows98 machine without a personal fire-wall can expect to be compromised within about 24 to  48 hours.