Windows Vista Anti-virus/Firewall suggestions

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legend0fthefall

Guest
Hallo Hallo all

Well...after a couple weeks of debating and weighing and researching I
think I am finally going to go ahead and plop down the cash for Vista
64. Which is messed up since I just went to Vista 32 on a new PC I
built 2 months ago....

RAM access is the deciding factor. I have 4GB of RAM installed, yet,
because of the way 32bit works, I only have 1.5GB of it usable (and
Vista uses 40% of that just idling). That just doesn't cut it since I
am a gamer.

I have my ducks all in a row...seems the only extra cash I need to
spend is on a new wireless adapter, the one I have doesn't have 64bit
support....and a new av/firewall program.

I am pretty sure I know which wireless I will be purchasing...though I
am going to try the one I have before I spend the cash, just in case the
OS has a driver for it...

It's the av/firewall I need help with.

I currently have PC Security Shield. IMO the best AV/Firewall out
there. Daily updates, extremely MINIMAL system resource use--virtually
invisible in the background, customer service support/tech support that
has NO rival (actual native english speaking techs that not only answer
the phones virtually immediately but call back within an hour if you
have to leave a message or email them--which they reply to btw--and it's
free support). The only issue is they do not have 64bit support,
straight from a tech supports mouth, they currently do not offer a 64bit
av/firewall.

Sooooo

What do I use?

What AV/Firewall combo has 64bit support?

I want one as identical to PC Security Shield as possible. I'd say the
main selling point to an AV/Firewall that I would be looking for would
be minimal system resource usage.

Here is what I will NEVER use....Norton/Symantec, McAffee nor Trend
Micro.---resource hogs and not frequent enough updates, not to mention
charged for any and every tech support incident and barely english
speaking foreigners (well, with Norton on the foreigner part...personal
experience...not sure aobut McAffee or Trend)

I haven't had a good experience with AVG either. My work PC has AVG on
it and it is a resource HOG....upon boot up I can't even use the work PC
for a good 30-60 minutes until AVG finishes whatever the hell it is
doing...but it is a work PC and obviously I am not allowed to mess with
it....

Soooo recommendations?

I don't care about price, so whether it's free or costs $$ I don't
care. Just want a good one.


--
legend0fthefall
 
Re: Anti-virus/Firewall suggestions


Good Morning from Sydney, Australia LegendOfTheFall

Without question, I have absolutely no hesitation in recommending for
your serious consideration ESET Software's Smart Security product.

Low on resources, excellent detection, excellent reputation, highly
regarded.

'http://www.eset.com/smartsecurity/index.php'
(http://www.eset.com/smartsecurity/index.php)

With Kindest Regards

Neil


--
Mr Smiley

- Asus P5W DH Deluxe MB (BIOS 2704)
- Intel Core2Duo E8500 3.16GHz CPU
- G-Skill DDR2 800 4GB RAM
- Seagate 2 x 320GB Sata HD
- Leadtek/Nvidia 7900 GT-TDH GPU
- Creative X-Fi Xtreme Music SC
- Logitech Z-5400 THX Digital 5.1
- Dell 2407WFP UltraSharp 24" LCD
- Antec 550W v2.0 PSU
- Antec P180 Case
- Logitech diNovo Edge KB
- Logitech G5 Laser Mouse
- Vista Ultimate x64 SP1
 
RE: Anti-virus/Firewall suggestions

ANY all-in-one Security centre is bloated. They try to be everything to
everyone; and fail!

Below is what I use, and the AV is 32bit and 64bit Vista compatible

Vista’s Firewall is very good!

http://www.avast.com/eng/download-avast-home.html

Above is a link to Avast Free 4 Home Anti-Virus
It is low resource using, free and Vista 32bit and 64bit compatible.

--
Mick Murphy - Qld - Australia


"legend0fthefall" wrote:

>
> Hallo Hallo all
>
> Well...after a couple weeks of debating and weighing and researching I
> think I am finally going to go ahead and plop down the cash for Vista
> 64. Which is messed up since I just went to Vista 32 on a new PC I
> built 2 months ago....
>
> RAM access is the deciding factor. I have 4GB of RAM installed, yet,
> because of the way 32bit works, I only have 1.5GB of it usable (and
> Vista uses 40% of that just idling). That just doesn't cut it since I
> am a gamer.
>
> I have my ducks all in a row...seems the only extra cash I need to
> spend is on a new wireless adapter, the one I have doesn't have 64bit
> support....and a new av/firewall program.
>
> I am pretty sure I know which wireless I will be purchasing...though I
> am going to try the one I have before I spend the cash, just in case the
> OS has a driver for it...
>
> It's the av/firewall I need help with.
>
> I currently have PC Security Shield. IMO the best AV/Firewall out
> there. Daily updates, extremely MINIMAL system resource use--virtually
> invisible in the background, customer service support/tech support that
> has NO rival (actual native english speaking techs that not only answer
> the phones virtually immediately but call back within an hour if you
> have to leave a message or email them--which they reply to btw--and it's
> free support). The only issue is they do not have 64bit support,
> straight from a tech supports mouth, they currently do not offer a 64bit
> av/firewall.
>
> Sooooo
>
> What do I use?
>
> What AV/Firewall combo has 64bit support?
>
> I want one as identical to PC Security Shield as possible. I'd say the
> main selling point to an AV/Firewall that I would be looking for would
> be minimal system resource usage.
>
> Here is what I will NEVER use....Norton/Symantec, McAffee nor Trend
> Micro.---resource hogs and not frequent enough updates, not to mention
> charged for any and every tech support incident and barely english
> speaking foreigners (well, with Norton on the foreigner part...personal
> experience...not sure aobut McAffee or Trend)
>
> I haven't had a good experience with AVG either. My work PC has AVG on
> it and it is a resource HOG....upon boot up I can't even use the work PC
> for a good 30-60 minutes until AVG finishes whatever the hell it is
> doing...but it is a work PC and obviously I am not allowed to mess with
> it....
>
> Soooo recommendations?
>
> I don't care about price, so whether it's free or costs $$ I don't
> care. Just want a good one.
>
>
> --
> legend0fthefall
>
 
Re: Anti-virus/Firewall suggestions

Avast


"legend0fthefall" <legend0fthefall.37z574@no-mx.forums.net> wrote in message
news:legend0fthefall.37z574@no-mx.forums.net...
>
> Hallo Hallo all
>
> Well...after a couple weeks of debating and weighing and researching I
> think I am finally going to go ahead and plop down the cash for Vista
> 64. Which is messed up since I just went to Vista 32 on a new PC I
> built 2 months ago....
>
> RAM access is the deciding factor. I have 4GB of RAM installed, yet,
> because of the way 32bit works, I only have 1.5GB of it usable (and
> Vista uses 40% of that just idling). That just doesn't cut it since I
> am a gamer.
>
> I have my ducks all in a row...seems the only extra cash I need to
> spend is on a new wireless adapter, the one I have doesn't have 64bit
> support....and a new av/firewall program.
>
> I am pretty sure I know which wireless I will be purchasing...though I
> am going to try the one I have before I spend the cash, just in case the
> OS has a driver for it...
>
> It's the av/firewall I need help with.
>
> I currently have PC Security Shield. IMO the best AV/Firewall out
> there. Daily updates, extremely MINIMAL system resource use--virtually
> invisible in the background, customer service support/tech support that
> has NO rival (actual native english speaking techs that not only answer
> the phones virtually immediately but call back within an hour if you
> have to leave a message or email them--which they reply to btw--and it's
> free support). The only issue is they do not have 64bit support,
> straight from a tech supports mouth, they currently do not offer a 64bit
> av/firewall.
>
> Sooooo
>
> What do I use?
>
> What AV/Firewall combo has 64bit support?
>
> I want one as identical to PC Security Shield as possible. I'd say the
> main selling point to an AV/Firewall that I would be looking for would
> be minimal system resource usage.
>
> Here is what I will NEVER use....Norton/Symantec, McAffee nor Trend
> Micro.---resource hogs and not frequent enough updates, not to mention
> charged for any and every tech support incident and barely english
> speaking foreigners (well, with Norton on the foreigner part...personal
> experience...not sure aobut McAffee or Trend)
>
> I haven't had a good experience with AVG either. My work PC has AVG on
> it and it is a resource HOG....upon boot up I can't even use the work PC
> for a good 30-60 minutes until AVG finishes whatever the hell it is
> doing...but it is a work PC and obviously I am not allowed to mess with
> it....
>
> Soooo recommendations?
>
> I don't care about price, so whether it's free or costs $$ I don't
> care. Just want a good one.
>
>
> --
> legend0fthefall
 
Re: Anti-virus/Firewall suggestions

"legend0fthefall" <legend0fthefall.37z574@no-mx.forums.net> wrote:

> Soooo recommendations?
>
> I don't care about price, so whether it's free or costs $$ I don't
> care. Just want a good one.

Here is a good one:
http://www.microsoft.com/windows/products/windowsvista/features/details/firewall.mspx

The Shield FW is apparently based on Comodo's firewall engine. The original
is free and supports 64-bit:
http://www.personalfirewall.comodo.com/download_firewall.html

Eset NOD32, reputable anti-malware with a small footprint:
http://www.eset.com/products/index.php


Oh, and you should really reconsider PC Security Shield:

Rougue security software (search document for "pcsecurityshield.com"):
http://www.spywarewarrior.com/rogue_anti-spyware.htm
SiteAdvisor:
http://www.siteadvisor.com/sites/pcsecurityshield.com
Scandoo (search for "pcsecurityshield.com"):
http://www.scandoo.com/

Charlie42
 
Re: Anti-virus/Firewall suggestions


"Mr Smiley" <Mr.Smiley.37z7a0@no-mx.forums.net> wrote in message
news:Mr.Smiley.37z7a0@no-mx.forums.net...
>
> Good Morning from Sydney, Australia LegendOfTheFall
>
> Without question, I have absolutely no hesitation in recommending for
> your serious consideration ESET Software's Smart Security product.
>
> Low on resources, excellent detection, excellent reputation, highly
> regarded.
>
> 'http://www.eset.com/smartsecurity/index.php'
> (http://www.eset.com/smartsecurity/index.php)

I'll second that suggestion...
 
Re: Anti-virus/Firewall suggestions

ESET

"Charlie42" <Charlie42@spam.me.not> wrote in message
news:ufE9eKAoIHA.4292@TK2MSFTNGP04.phx.gbl...
> "legend0fthefall" <legend0fthefall.37z574@no-mx.forums.net> wrote:
>
>> Soooo recommendations?
>>
>> I don't care about price, so whether it's free or costs $$ I don't
>> care. Just want a good one.
>
> Here is a good one:
> http://www.microsoft.com/windows/products/windowsvista/features/details/firewall.mspx
>
> The Shield FW is apparently based on Comodo's firewall engine. The
> original is free and supports 64-bit:
> http://www.personalfirewall.comodo.com/download_firewall.html
>
> Eset NOD32, reputable anti-malware with a small footprint:
> http://www.eset.com/products/index.php
>
>
> Oh, and you should really reconsider PC Security Shield:
>
> Rougue security software (search document for "pcsecurityshield.com"):
> http://www.spywarewarrior.com/rogue_anti-spyware.htm
> SiteAdvisor:
> http://www.siteadvisor.com/sites/pcsecurityshield.com
> Scandoo (search for "pcsecurityshield.com"):
> http://www.scandoo.com/
>
> Charlie42
 
Re: Anti-virus/Firewall suggestions


I love ESET but only use the AV, NOD32. I use the X64 Comodo, A-Squared
free, Spybot and SuperAntiSpyware. All on Ultimate X64. ESET make their
products in native X64 as well as X86. With a HW FW to boot you should
be fine.


--
joel406
 
Re: Anti-virus/Firewall suggestions

On Wed, 16 Apr 2008 14:03:18 -0500, legend0fthefall wrote:

> Hallo Hallo all
>
> Well...after a couple weeks of debating and weighing and researching I
> think I am finally going to go ahead and plop down the cash for Vista
> 64. Which is messed up since I just went to Vista 32 on a new PC I
> built 2 months ago....
>
> RAM access is the deciding factor. I have 4GB of RAM installed, yet,
> because of the way 32bit works, I only have 1.5GB of it usable (and
> Vista uses 40% of that just idling). That just doesn't cut it since I
> am a gamer.
>
> I have my ducks all in a row...seems the only extra cash I need to
> spend is on a new wireless adapter, the one I have doesn't have 64bit
> support....and a new av/firewall program.
>
> I am pretty sure I know which wireless I will be purchasing...though I
> am going to try the one I have before I spend the cash, just in case the
> OS has a driver for it...
>
> It's the av/firewall I need help with.
>
> I currently have PC Security Shield. IMO the best AV/Firewall out
> there. Daily updates, extremely MINIMAL system resource use--virtually
> invisible in the background, customer service support/tech support that
> has NO rival (actual native english speaking techs that not only answer
> the phones virtually immediately but call back within an hour if you
> have to leave a message or email them--which they reply to btw--and it's
> free support). The only issue is they do not have 64bit support,
> straight from a tech supports mouth, they currently do not offer a 64bit
> av/firewall.
>
> Sooooo
>
> What do I use?
>
> What AV/Firewall combo has 64bit support?
>
> I want one as identical to PC Security Shield as possible. I'd say the
> main selling point to an AV/Firewall that I would be looking for would
> be minimal system resource usage.
>
> Here is what I will NEVER use....Norton/Symantec, McAffee nor Trend
> Micro.---resource hogs and not frequent enough updates, not to mention
> charged for any and every tech support incident and barely english
> speaking foreigners (well, with Norton on the foreigner part...personal
> experience...not sure aobut McAffee or Trend)
>
> I haven't had a good experience with AVG either. My work PC has AVG on
> it and it is a resource HOG....upon boot up I can't even use the work PC
> for a good 30-60 minutes until AVG finishes whatever the hell it is
> doing...but it is a work PC and obviously I am not allowed to mess with
> it....
>
> Soooo recommendations?
>
> I don't care about price, so whether it's free or costs $$ I don't
> care. Just want a good one.

You are not going to find anything better than the Vista FW and Vista in
itself due to the advanced features the FW and Vista are using.

"Personal Firewalls" are mostly snake-oil.
http://www.samspade.org/d/firewalls.html

Jesper's Blogs-
At Least This Snake Oil Is Free.
http://msinfluentials.com/blogs/jesper/archive/2007/07/19/at-least-this-snake-oil-is-free.aspx
Windows Firewall: the best new security feature in Vista?
http://blogs.technet.com/jesper_johansson/archive/2006/05/01/426921.aspx

Exploring The Windows Firewall.
http://www.microsoft.com/technet/technetmag/issues/2007/06/VistaFirewall/default.aspx
"If you try to block outbound connections from a computer that’s already
compromised, how can you be sure that the computer is really doing what you
ask? The answer: you can’t. Outbound protection is security theater—it’s a
gimmick that only gives the impression of improving your security without
doing anything that actually does improve your security. This is why
outbound protection didn’t exist in the Windows XP firewall and why it
doesn’t exist in the Windows Vista™ firewall."

Tap into the Vista firewall's advanced configuration features
http://articles.techrepublic.com.com/5100-10877-6098592.html
"...once you discover the secret of accessing its advanced configuration
settings via the MMC snap-in, you'll find it to be far more configurable
and functional. At last, Windows comes with a sophisticated personal
firewall that can be used to set up outbound rules as well as inbound, with
the ability to customize rules to fit your precise needs."
Or
Configure Vista Firewall to support outbound packet filtering
http://searchwindowssecurity.techtarget.com/tip/0,289483,sid45_gci1247138,00.html
Or
Vista Firewall Control (Free versions available).
Protects your applications from undesirable network incoming and outgoing
activity, controls applications internet access.
http://sphinx-soft.com/Vista/

There are many good free AV applications available, and almost everyone has
his favorite. Most of the users are emotionally attached to their av
application and will have excellent reasons for not recommending any other
brand.
The most important thing here is that all of the available choices listed
here are better in some respects than in others, and which choice is better
for *you* depends on what you do, how you work, and which features you use.
The way you use your PC is different from others.
Have a look at this:
http://www.spywarewarrior.com/rogue_anti-spyware.htm
and be guided accordingly.
Good info can be obtained here:
http://www.majorgeeks.com/page.php?id=20
and here:
http://www.av-comparatives.org/

If the above is too deluging consider this:-
Real-time AV applications - for viral malware.
Do not utilize more than one (1) real-time anti-virus scanning engine!
Disable the e-mail scanning function during installation (Custom
Installation on some AV apps.) as it provides no additional protection.

Why You Don't Need Your Anti-Virus Program to Scan Your E-Mail
http://thundercloud.net/infoave/tutorials/email-scanning/index.htm

http://www.free-av.com/antivirus/allinonen.html
You may wish to consider removing the 'AntiVir Nagscreen'
http://www.elitekiller.com/files/disable_antivir_nag.htm
or
Free antivirus - avast! 4 Home Edition
It includes ANTI-SPYWARE protection, certified by the West Coast Labs
Checkmark process, and ANTI-ROOTKIT DETECTION based on the best-in class
GMER technology.
http://www.avast.com/eng/avast_4_home.html
(Choose Custom Installation and under Resident
Protection, uncheck: Internet Mail and Outlook/Exchange.)
or
AVG Anti-Virus Free Edition
http://free.grisoft.com/
(Choose custom install and untick the email scanner plugin.)
or
Kaspersky® Anti-Virus 7.0 - Not Free
http://www.kaspersky.com/homeuser
or
ESET NOD32 Antivirus - Not Free
http://www.eset.com/
and (optional)
On-demand AV application.
David H. Lipman's MULTI_AV.EXE from the URL:
http://www.pctipp.ch/ds/28400/28470/Multi_AV.exe
http://www.pctipp.ch/downloads/dl/35905.asp
English:
http://www.raymond.cc/blog/archives/2008/01/09/scan-your-computer-with-multiple-anti-virus-for-free/

A-S applications - for non-viral malware.
The effectiveness of an individual A-S scanners can be wide-ranging and
oftentimes a collection of scanners is best. There isn't one software that
cleans and immunizes you against everything. That's why you need multiple
products to do the job i.e. overlap their coverage - one may catch what
another may miss, (grab'em all).

SuperAntispyware - Free
http://www.superantispyware.com/superantispywarefreevspro.html
and
Ad-Aware 2007 - Free
http://www.lavasoftusa.com/products/ad_aware_free.php
http://www.download.com/3000-2144-10045910.html
and
Spybot Search & Destroy - Free
http://www.safer-networking.org/en/download/index.html
and
Windows Defender - Free (build-in in Vista)
http://www.microsoft.com/athome/security/spyware/software/default.mspx
WD monitors the start-registry and hooks registers/files to prevent spyware
and worms to install to the OS.
Interesting reading:
http://www.pcworld.com/article/id,136195/article.html
"...Windows Defender did excel in behavior-based protection, which detects
changes to key areas of the system without having to know anything about
the actual threat."

A clarification on the terminology: the word "malware" is short for
"malicious software." Most Anti-Virus applications detect many types of
malware such as viruses, worms, trojans, etc.
What AV applications usually don't detect is "non-viral" malware, and the
term "non-viral malware" is normally used to refer to things like spyware
and adware.

Some more useful applications:
SpywareBlaster - Free
"SpywareBlaster is not a scanner application. It blocks the installation of
most ActiveX-based spyware, adware, browser hijackers, dialers and other
unwanted programs from the user's computer. SpywareBlaster works by
blacklisting the CLSID of known malware programs, effectively preventing
them from infecting a protected computer and also allows the user to
prevent privacy hazards such as tracking cookies."
http://www.javacoolsoftware.com/spywareblaster.html

GMER - is an application that detects and removes rootkits.
http://www.gmer.net/index.php
or
Rootkit Revealer - Free
http://www.microsoft.com/technet/sysinternals/Utilities/RootkitRevealer.mspx

CCleaner - Free
Cleans temporary internet files, cookies, history, recent urls, application
MRUs, etc. ...
http://www.filehippo.com/download_ccleaner/
If Windows Defender is utilized go to Applications, under Utilities
uncheck "Windows Defender".

CW Shredder - Free
http://www.softpedia.com/get/Internet/Popup-Ad-Spyware-Blockers/CWShredder.shtml

Good luck :)
 
Re: Anti-virus/Firewall suggestions


Kayman

That's a huge statement to say that LegendOfTheFall 'will not find a
better personal firewall than Vista's'. I'm sure you'd have many
members challenge you on that.

Also, as LOTF mentions, he/she is quite happy to invest in an effective
AV/PFW solution and doesn't appear to be comfortable in using a freebie
(I can relate to that).

Mick Murphy

My dear fellow Australian, like Kayman, how can you make a blanket
statement that "ANY all-in-one Security centre is bloated. They try to
be everything to everyone; and fail!"

What absolute hogwash Mick. Yes there are many that do I agree, but
not all. Have you ever used any of Nod32's products yourself?

I've purchased numerous AV/Security Suite/PFW programs over the last
couple of years (yes I'm stupid ... I've spent a fortune on them as
somewhat of an experiment to establish which is better), including
Kaspersky, McAfee, ZoneAlarm, TrendMicro, PC Tools and the list goes on.

I can only make my comments based on my own personal experience in
using most of them, and am yet to find any better for all-round benefits
than Nod32 AV or their "next generation" Smart Security" solution which
is NOT bloated and has NOT failed to date.

Warmest regards

Neil


--
Mr Smiley

- Asus P5W DH Deluxe MB (BIOS 2704)
- Intel Core2Duo E8500 3.16GHz CPU
- G-Skill DDR2 800 4GB RAM
- Seagate 2 x 320GB Sata HD (Intel Raid0)
- Leadtek/Nvidia 7900 GT-TDH GPU
- Asus MB Onboard HD Audio (SPDIF)
- Logitech Z-5400 THX Digital 5.1
- Dell 2407WFP UltraSharp 24" LCD
- Antec 550W v2.0 PSU
- Antec P180 Case
- Logitech diNovo Edge KB
- Logitech G5 Laser Mouse
- Vista Ultimate x64 SP1
 
RE: Anti-virus/Firewall suggestions

You Vista x86 should show all 4 gigs of ram. The limitation of the x86 architecture is 4GB so I dont know why you are seeing 1.5. Anyways ZoneAlarm is one of hte best and free firewalls around, for spyware get spybot search and destory and for Virus get AVG or Avast both are free and excellent.


Post Originated from http://www.VistaForums.com Vista Support Forums
 
Re: Anti-virus/Firewall suggestions

Zone Alarm works but it slows down web browsing considerably. I used to use
it until somebody told me that so I uninstalled it and my web browsing speed
almost doubled. Running Vista with UAC enabled a 3rd party firewall is not
necessary.

"Jason" wrote in message news:eQ%23JoEFoIHA.264@TK2MSFTNGP05.phx.gbl...
> You Vista x86 should show all 4 gigs of ram. The limitation of the x86
> architecture is 4GB so I dont know why you are seeing 1.5. Anyways
> ZoneAlarm is one of hte best and free firewalls around, for spyware get
> spybot search and destory and for Virus get AVG or Avast both are free and
> excellent.
>
>
> Post Originated from http://www.VistaForums.com Vista Support Forums
 
Re: Anti-virus/Firewall suggestions

On Wed, 16 Apr 2008 23:53:27 -0500, Mr Smiley wrote:

> Kayman
>
> That's a huge statement to say that LegendOfTheFall 'will not find a
> better personal firewall than Vista's'. I'm sure you'd have many
> members challenge you on that.

The average home user does not need a 3rd party application. May I kindly
suggest researching the subject in more detail (notwithstanding your doubts
and/or bad experiences with the in-build version). Please study the
credentials of relevant authors and compare with 'statements/views' made by
"members".

> Also, as LOTF mentions, he/she is quite happy to invest in an effective
> AV/PFW solution and doesn't appear to be comfortable in using a freebie

The average home user can get by with (good quality) freely available
applications provided he/she practices 'Safe-Hex'.

> (I can relate to that).

With all respect, you may wish re-evaluate your browsing habits :-)

<snip for brevity)

What you fail to understand is this - *Security Is Not a Product*! It's not
something you can install on your computer to keep you secure for all time
and under all circumstances. To achieve security YOU will have to actively
participate in the process, no matter if you like that or not.
The best defenses are:
1. Do not work in elevated level; Day-to-day work should be
performed while the User Account Control (UAC) is enabled. Turning
off UAC reduces the security of your computer and may expose you to
increased risk from malicious software.
2. Familiarize yourself with "Services Hardening in Windows Vista".
3. Keep your operating (OS) system (and all software on it)
updated/patched.
4. Reconsider the usage of IE.
5. Review your installed 3rd party software applications/utilities;
Remove clutter.
6. Don't expose services to public networks.
7. Activate the build-in firewall and tack together its advanced
configuration settings.
7a.If on high-speed internet use a router as well.
8. Routinely practice safe-hex.
9. Regularly back-up data/files.
10.Familiarize yourself with crash recovery tools and with
re-installing your operating system (OS).
11.Utilize a real-time anti-virus application and vital system
monitoring utilities/applications.
12.Keep abreast of the latest developments - Sh!t happens...you know.
The least preferred defenses are:
Myriads of popular anti-whatever applications and staying ignorant.
Peez of pith, really :-)

--
Security is a process not a product.
(Bruce Schneier)
 
Re: Anti-virus/Firewall suggestions

On Wed, 16 Apr 2008 23:06:18 -0700, Jason wrote:

<snip>

> ZoneAlarm is one of hte best and free firewalls around,

<snip>

Wanna do soma e educational reading?
Go to:
http://www.microsoft.com/technet/technetmag/issues/2006/05/SecurityMyths/default.aspx
and scroll down to:
Myth: Host-Based Firewalls Must Filter Outbound Traffic to be Safe.

Then read this:
("...the typical form of outbound protection in client firewalls is just
security theater.)
http://www.microsoft.com/technet/technetmag/issues/2007/06/VistaFirewall/default.aspx

PFW Criticism.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Personal_firewall#Criticisms

"Personal Firewalls" are mostly snake-oil.
http://www.samspade.org/d/firewalls.html

Why your firewall sucks.
http://tooleaky.zensoft.com/
"But I quickly realized the truth: The added protection provided by
outbound filtering is entirely illusory."

Read, comprehend and implement :-)
 
Re: Anti-virus/Firewall suggestions


Kayman

May I kindly suggest you refrain from being so condescending with your
remarks and appreciate the fact that you're not the fountain of all
knowledge on all matters pertaining to computer security, although I'm
sure you'll beg to differ on that.

Stating that the average? (or in your case above average it appears)
home user does not need a third party application. Well that's fine,
but that's your opinion, nothing more, nothing less. It's not
necessarily a statement of fact.

I take exception to the fact that again in the only opinion that seems
to matter, yours, that you've made the arrogant and inaccurate
assumption that I have not already researched the subject matter in
detail.

No where did I say that I doubted or had a bad experience with Vista's
native firewall (which incidentally up until a month or so ago had been
using since Vista was released on 30 January, 2007 and would be happy to
go back to it in the event Nod32's let's me down at some stage in the
future.

And I don't need you to tell me that I need to re-evaluate my browsing
habits.

Who do you think you are ... oh I forgot, "everyone's an expert aren't
they!!!"

We don't need arrogant know-it-alls on this site, we need people who
genuinely want to help someone else.


--
Mr Smiley

- Asus P5W DH Deluxe MB (BIOS 2704)
- Intel Core2Duo E8500 3.16GHz CPU
- G-Skill DDR2 800 4GB RAM
- Seagate 2 x 320GB Sata HD (Intel Raid0)
- Leadtek/Nvidia 7900 GT-TDH GPU
- Asus MB Onboard HD Audio (SPDIF)
- Logitech Z-5400 THX Digital 5.1
- Dell 2407WFP UltraSharp 24" LCD
- Antec 550W v2.0 PSU
- Antec P180 Case
- Logitech diNovo Edge KB
- Logitech G5 Laser Mouse
- Vista Ultimate x64 SP1
 
Re: Anti-virus/Firewall suggestions

On Thu, 17 Apr 2008 07:14:59 +0700, Kayman <kaymanDeleteThis@operamail.com>
wrote:

>"Personal Firewalls" are mostly snake-oil.
>http://www.samspade.org/d/firewalls.html
Out of date statement. This is over 10 years old. Long before everyone and his
brother got into attaching a virus to every web page and email.

I went with a FREE Pccillin [trend micro] from a win98 driver CD. I've used
Trend every day since then.
For $60.00 a year, best value on the web. You get firewall, virus protection,
several other goodies re: Drive security. Other virus software bundles each
option as a separate entity. Jacking a $60,00 a year program to more than
$100.00 to have all the bells & whistles.
Check out Mcaffee, or Norton.. firewall = 1 price, virus = 1 price, etc...

No virus damage in 10 years. There have been attempts, all were blocked &
removed.

>Windows Firewall: the best new security feature in Vista?
>http://blogs.technet.com/jesper_johansson/archive/2006/05/01/426921.aspx

Do you really want to rely on the fox guarding the hen house ?

There's a VERY good reason for ANTI-MONOPOLY practices.
--
more pix @ http://members.toast.net/cbminfo/index.html
 
Re: Anti-virus/Firewall suggestions


"Kayman" <kaymanDeleteThis@operamail.com> wrote in message
news:%23ME5OACoIHA.552@TK2MSFTNGP06.phx.gbl...
> On Wed, 16 Apr 2008 14:03:18 -0500, legend0fthefall wrote:
>
>> Hallo Hallo all
>>
>> Well...after a couple weeks of debating and weighing and researching I
>> think I am finally going to go ahead and plop down the cash for Vista
>> 64. Which is messed up since I just went to Vista 32 on a new PC I
>> built 2 months ago....
>>
>> RAM access is the deciding factor. I have 4GB of RAM installed, yet,
>> because of the way 32bit works, I only have 1.5GB of it usable (and
>> Vista uses 40% of that just idling). That just doesn't cut it since I
>> am a gamer.
>>
>> I have my ducks all in a row...seems the only extra cash I need to
>> spend is on a new wireless adapter, the one I have doesn't have 64bit
>> support....and a new av/firewall program.
>>
>> I am pretty sure I know which wireless I will be purchasing...though I
>> am going to try the one I have before I spend the cash, just in case the
>> OS has a driver for it...
>>
>> It's the av/firewall I need help with.
>>
>> I currently have PC Security Shield. IMO the best AV/Firewall out
>> there. Daily updates, extremely MINIMAL system resource use--virtually
>> invisible in the background, customer service support/tech support that
>> has NO rival (actual native english speaking techs that not only answer
>> the phones virtually immediately but call back within an hour if you
>> have to leave a message or email them--which they reply to btw--and it's
>> free support). The only issue is they do not have 64bit support,
>> straight from a tech supports mouth, they currently do not offer a 64bit
>> av/firewall.
>>
>> Sooooo
>>
>> What do I use?
>>
>> What AV/Firewall combo has 64bit support?
>>
>> I want one as identical to PC Security Shield as possible. I'd say the
>> main selling point to an AV/Firewall that I would be looking for would
>> be minimal system resource usage.
>>
>> Here is what I will NEVER use....Norton/Symantec, McAffee nor Trend
>> Micro.---resource hogs and not frequent enough updates, not to mention

Avast is better than those above and wil not slow down your system like
Mcafee etc

But can't you use the firewall in your DSL/ Cable modem/router?




















>> charged for any and every tech support incident and barely english
>> speaking foreigners (well, with Norton on the foreigner part...personal
>> experience...not sure aobut McAffee or Trend)
>>
>> I haven't had a good experience with AVG either. My work PC has AVG on
>> it and it is a resource HOG....upon boot up I can't even use the work PC
>> for a good 30-60 minutes until AVG finishes whatever the hell it is
>> doing...but it is a work PC and obviously I am not allowed to mess with
>> it....
>>
>> Soooo recommendations?
>>
>> I don't care about price, so whether it's free or costs $$ I don't
>> care. Just want a good one.
>
> You are not going to find anything better than the Vista FW and Vista in
> itself due to the advanced features the FW and Vista are using.
>
> "Personal Firewalls" are mostly snake-oil.
> http://www.samspade.org/d/firewalls.html
>
> Jesper's Blogs-
> At Least This Snake Oil Is Free.
> http://msinfluentials.com/blogs/jesper/archive/2007/07/19/at-least-this-snake-oil-is-free.aspx
> Windows Firewall: the best new security feature in Vista?
> http://blogs.technet.com/jesper_johansson/archive/2006/05/01/426921.aspx
>
> Exploring The Windows Firewall.
> http://www.microsoft.com/technet/technetmag/issues/2007/06/VistaFirewall/default.aspx
> "If you try to block outbound connections from a computer that's already
> compromised, how can you be sure that the computer is really doing what
> you
> ask? The answer: you can't. Outbound protection is security theater-it's a
> gimmick that only gives the impression of improving your security without
> doing anything that actually does improve your security. This is why
> outbound protection didn't exist in the Windows XP firewall and why it
> doesn't exist in the Windows VistaT firewall."
>
> Tap into the Vista firewall's advanced configuration features
> http://articles.techrepublic.com.com/5100-10877-6098592.html
> "...once you discover the secret of accessing its advanced configuration
> settings via the MMC snap-in, you'll find it to be far more configurable
> and functional. At last, Windows comes with a sophisticated personal
> firewall that can be used to set up outbound rules as well as inbound,
> with
> the ability to customize rules to fit your precise needs."
> Or
> Configure Vista Firewall to support outbound packet filtering
> http://searchwindowssecurity.techtarget.com/tip/0,289483,sid45_gci1247138,00.html
> Or
> Vista Firewall Control (Free versions available).
> Protects your applications from undesirable network incoming and outgoing
> activity, controls applications internet access.
> http://sphinx-soft.com/Vista/
>
> There are many good free AV applications available, and almost everyone
> has
> his favorite. Most of the users are emotionally attached to their av
> application and will have excellent reasons for not recommending any other
> brand.
> The most important thing here is that all of the available choices listed
> here are better in some respects than in others, and which choice is
> better
> for *you* depends on what you do, how you work, and which features you
> use.
> The way you use your PC is different from others.
> Have a look at this:
> http://www.spywarewarrior.com/rogue_anti-spyware.htm
> and be guided accordingly.
> Good info can be obtained here:
> http://www.majorgeeks.com/page.php?id=20
> and here:
> http://www.av-comparatives.org/
>
> If the above is too deluging consider this:-
> Real-time AV applications - for viral malware.
> Do not utilize more than one (1) real-time anti-virus scanning engine!
> Disable the e-mail scanning function during installation (Custom
> Installation on some AV apps.) as it provides no additional protection.
>
> Why You Don't Need Your Anti-Virus Program to Scan Your E-Mail
> http://thundercloud.net/infoave/tutorials/email-scanning/index.htm
>
> http://www.free-av.com/antivirus/allinonen.html
> You may wish to consider removing the 'AntiVir Nagscreen'
> http://www.elitekiller.com/files/disable_antivir_nag.htm
> or
> Free antivirus - avast! 4 Home Edition
> It includes ANTI-SPYWARE protection, certified by the West Coast Labs
> Checkmark process, and ANTI-ROOTKIT DETECTION based on the best-in class
> GMER technology.
> http://www.avast.com/eng/avast_4_home.html
> (Choose Custom Installation and under Resident
> Protection, uncheck: Internet Mail and Outlook/Exchange.)
> or
> AVG Anti-Virus Free Edition
> http://free.grisoft.com/
> (Choose custom install and untick the email scanner plugin.)
> or
> Kaspersky® Anti-Virus 7.0 - Not Free
> http://www.kaspersky.com/homeuser
> or
> ESET NOD32 Antivirus - Not Free
> http://www.eset.com/
> and (optional)
> On-demand AV application.
> David H. Lipman's MULTI_AV.EXE from the URL:
> http://www.pctipp.ch/ds/28400/28470/Multi_AV.exe
> http://www.pctipp.ch/downloads/dl/35905.asp
> English:
> http://www.raymond.cc/blog/archives/2008/01/09/scan-your-computer-with-multiple-anti-virus-for-free/
>
> A-S applications - for non-viral malware.
> The effectiveness of an individual A-S scanners can be wide-ranging and
> oftentimes a collection of scanners is best. There isn't one software that
> cleans and immunizes you against everything. That's why you need multiple
> products to do the job i.e. overlap their coverage - one may catch what
> another may miss, (grab'em all).
>
> SuperAntispyware - Free
> http://www.superantispyware.com/superantispywarefreevspro.html
> and
> Ad-Aware 2007 - Free
> http://www.lavasoftusa.com/products/ad_aware_free.php
> http://www.download.com/3000-2144-10045910.html
> and
> Spybot Search & Destroy - Free
> http://www.safer-networking.org/en/download/index.html
> and
> Windows Defender - Free (build-in in Vista)
> http://www.microsoft.com/athome/security/spyware/software/default.mspx
> WD monitors the start-registry and hooks registers/files to prevent
> spyware
> and worms to install to the OS.
> Interesting reading:
> http://www.pcworld.com/article/id,136195/article.html
> "...Windows Defender did excel in behavior-based protection, which detects
> changes to key areas of the system without having to know anything about
> the actual threat."
>
> A clarification on the terminology: the word "malware" is short for
> "malicious software." Most Anti-Virus applications detect many types of
> malware such as viruses, worms, trojans, etc.
> What AV applications usually don't detect is "non-viral" malware, and the
> term "non-viral malware" is normally used to refer to things like spyware
> and adware.
>
> Some more useful applications:
> SpywareBlaster - Free
> "SpywareBlaster is not a scanner application. It blocks the installation
> of
> most ActiveX-based spyware, adware, browser hijackers, dialers and other
> unwanted programs from the user's computer. SpywareBlaster works by
> blacklisting the CLSID of known malware programs, effectively preventing
> them from infecting a protected computer and also allows the user to
> prevent privacy hazards such as tracking cookies."
> http://www.javacoolsoftware.com/spywareblaster.html
>
> GMER - is an application that detects and removes rootkits.
> http://www.gmer.net/index.php
> or
> Rootkit Revealer - Free
> http://www.microsoft.com/technet/sysinternals/Utilities/RootkitRevealer.mspx
>
> CCleaner - Free
> Cleans temporary internet files, cookies, history, recent urls,
> application
> MRUs, etc. ...
> http://www.filehippo.com/download_ccleaner/
> If Windows Defender is utilized go to Applications, under Utilities
> uncheck "Windows Defender".
>
> CW Shredder - Free
> http://www.softpedia.com/get/Internet/Popup-Ad-Spyware-Blockers/CWShredder.shtml
>
> Good luck :)
 
Re: Anti-virus/Firewall suggestions

On Thu, 17 Apr 2008 14:50:09 +0700, Kayman <kaymanDeleteThis@operamail.com>
wrote:

>The best defenses are:
>1. Do not work in elevated level; Day-to-day work should be
> performed while the User Account Control (UAC) is enabled. Turning
> off UAC reduces the security of your computer and may expose you to
> increased risk from malicious software.
UAC sends productivity into the crapper. I don't need to try and find how to
bypass a nag screen telling me you can't do that, when I clearly NEED to do
that. And not look for a solution on how to bypass UAC TO DO THAT.
I want full access to my machine, and won't settle for anything less.
A court won't let you off with 'I have no access to that part of my drives'. If
the court can get someone with a $3000.00 software program to scan every byte
of your drive, you should know what's on your drive.

A good virus program can work much better than UAC, and windows defender.

>4. Reconsider the usage of IE.
What the heck does that mean ? I switched to firefox, when IE started taking 10
minutes to open every web site.

>5. Review your installed 3rd party software applications/utilities;
> Remove clutter.
again ! What the heck does that mean ? 1 mans trash...

>6. Don't expose services to public networks.
Such as ? The entire web is Public.

>7a.If on high-speed internet use a router as well.
unnecessary.

>8. Routinely practice safe-hex.
again ! What the heck does that mean ?

>9. Regularly back-up data/files.
>10.Familiarize yourself with crash recovery tools and with
> re-installing your operating system (OS).
Or get a reliable virus scanner to avoid the need for crash recovery and
re-installing OS. etc..

>11.Utilize a real-time anti-virus application and vital system
> monitoring utilities/applications.

>12.Keep abreast of the latest developments - Sh!t happens...you know.
again ! What the heck does that mean ?

>The least preferred defenses are:
>Myriads of popular anti-whatever applications and staying ignorant.
--
more pix @ http://members.toast.net/cbminfo/index.html
 
Re: Anti-virus/Firewall suggestions

just go for NOD32. i've practically used all the top ranking
antiviruses in the last few months, and i can tell you you won't
regret it. as for the firewall, i think vista's firewall is pretty
good. if you're not satisfied try zonealarm or the latest version of
comodo.

here are some links that should help you decide:
http://avscan.blogspot.com/2008/03/eset-nod32-antivirus-v30-review.html
http://techqi.blogspot.com/2008/01/miscellaneous-security-software-part-2.html

hope this helps.
--
tashfeen
http://avscan.blogspot.com
http://techqi.blogspot.com

On Apr 16, 12:03 pm, legend0fthefall <legend0fthefall.37z...@no-
mx.forums.net> wrote:
> Hallo Hallo all
>
> Well...after a couple weeks of debating and weighing and researching I
> think I am finally going to go ahead and plop down the cash for Vista
> 64.  Which is messed up since I just went to Vista 32 on a new PC I
> built 2 months ago....
>
> RAM access is the deciding factor.  I have 4GB of RAM installed, yet,
> because of the way 32bit works, I only have 1.5GB of it usable (and
> Vista uses 40% of that just idling).  That just doesn't cut it since I
> am a gamer.
>
> I have my ducks all in a row...seems the only extra cash I need to
> spend is on a new wireless adapter, the one I have doesn't have 64bit
> support....and a new av/firewall program.
>
> I am pretty sure I know which wireless I will be purchasing...though I
> am going to try the one I have before I spend the cash, just in case the
> OS has a driver for it...
>
> It's the av/firewall I need help with.
>
> I currently have PC Security Shield.  IMO the best AV/Firewall out
> there.  Daily updates, extremely MINIMAL system resource use--virtually
> invisible in the background, customer service support/tech support that
> has NO rival (actual native english speaking techs that not only answer
> the phones virtually immediately but call back within an hour if you
> have to leave a message or email them--which they reply to btw--and it's
> free support).  The only issue is they do not have 64bit support,
> straight from a tech supports mouth, they currently do not offer a 64bit
> av/firewall.
>
> Sooooo
>
> What do I use?
>
> What AV/Firewall combo has 64bit support?
>
> I want one as identical to PC Security Shield as possible.  I'd say the
> main selling point to an AV/Firewall that I would be looking for would
> be minimal system resource usage.
>
> Here is what I will NEVER use....Norton/Symantec, McAffee nor Trend
> Micro.---resource hogs and not frequent enough updates, not to mention
> charged for any and every tech support incident and barely english
> speaking foreigners (well, with Norton on the foreigner part...personal
> experience...not sure aobut McAffee or Trend)
>
> I haven't had a good experience with AVG either.  My work PC has AVG on
> it and it is a resource HOG....upon boot up I can't even use the work PC
> for a good 30-60 minutes until AVG finishes whatever the hell it is
> doing...but it is a work PC and obviously I am not allowed to mess with
> it....
>
> Soooo recommendations?
>
> I don't care about price, so whether it's free or costs $$ I don't
> care.  Just want a good one.
>
> --
> legend0fthefall
 

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