How to Get Free Internet Security Software

There are many software options available to protect your computer these days. You may be surprised to know many good, reliable software programs are available for free. Try them out and see how you like them. All you have to do is know where to download them from the Internet.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. 
   Windows Firewall Enabling Screen

   Microsoft Windows has a firewall built into it. Make sure this is enabled. It boasts many of the features that the other paid versions have, but runs quieter with less user knowledge and intervention required. You can enable it if it is not already by making sure the radio button is green inside the security screen. This is available in Windows XP and Windows Vista.

2. Your Internet Service Provider often will make security software available to its subscribers for free. You still need to find it on their help website and download it. Often you will be given a security key in an email. Cut and paste it into the setup step when prompted. When you do this, be sure you do not have any old Antivirus software remaining on your computer. To double-check, go to "Start," "Control Panel" and "Add/remove programs." Look for Symantec, McAfee or AVG. There are others, but those are the main ones.

3. There are also plenty of free antivirus and firewall software programs that will do the job. Be careful not just to do a free scan but actually download and install the software from the original website. Some sites are listed below this article in the Resources section.

4. In the case where you are unsure which direction to go, say for example, you've tried those "other" software programs, it may be good to download a free trial from another website from a different company. If you had Norton, you may want to try McAfee, for example. Many sites will give you a 30- to 90-day free trial. Just Google "free trial Antivirus (or Internet security) software. You will be prompted by the software when attention is needed, it needs to be renewed, or problems arise.

5. When you purchase a new computer it will often come with a 90-day to 6-month (or longer) security software subscription. Check your installed software or in your toolbar in the lower right corner of your screen. If it is installed, you will be prompted to update it and then possibly given an activation code. It will also prompt you again when the subscription is about to expire.

6. Most antispyware programs are free, such as ad-aware and spybot. There is even Windows Defender, which also can come pre-installed on most new computers. Anti-spam software is built in to most email programs, and can be a headache if it comes with your security suite. Very often it ends up throwing "good" emails into the trash or throwing everything out. Be sure to check your deleted items or trash email folders often if you have this software. If you do not have it, it is not necessary to go out and purchase this protection.

Tips & Warnings

• If you like the software you are with, try a 2-year plan instead of the usual 1 year.
• Try not to use two firewalls as they may conflict with each other.
• Always remove antivirus software before adding a new program, as you never want to have two on your computer. It will dramatically slow or shut down your computer.

[MidniteWriter]

on 1/9/2009 Any resources or tips you have are welcome! This is my most-read, least-commented on article!