Hi and you're most welcome!
Myself I use
Microsoft Security Essentials on the one machine I do have XP on, along with
Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware Pro(though using the freeware as on-demand is fine also) and
WinPatrol. Plus I use the
MVPS Host File.
Another good freeware alternative is
avast! Free Antivirus 6 with XP.
Note: Only ever use one Anti-Virus and Anti-Malware(spyware) application that provides real time protection/active in system memory. Otherwise a system conflict/security issue will occur and actually lesson overall online protection and reduce a machines overall performance also.
Next:Below is some further advice...
Importance of Regular System Maintenance:I advice you read both of the below listed topics as this will go a long way to keeping your Computer performing well.
Help! My computer is slow!Also so is this:
What to do if your Computer is running slowlyKeep your system updated:Microsoft releases patches for Windows and other products regularly:
- I advise you visit: http://update.micros...t.aspx?ln=en-us
- Install the Active X
- Once installed it will advise set Auto-Updates if not set and you then you will be able to manually check for updates also via:
- Start >> All Programs >> Microsoft Updates
Be careful when opening attachments and downloading files:Never open email attachments, not even if they are from someone you know. If you need to open them, scan them with your antivirus program before opening.
Never open emails from unknown senders.
Beware of emails that warn about viruses that are spreading, especially those from antivirus vendors. These email addresses can be easily spoofed. Check the antivirus vendor websites to be sure.
Be careful of what you download. Only download files from known sources. Also, avoid cracked programs. If you need a particular program that costs too much for you, try finding free alternatives on
Sourceforge or
Pricelessware.
Stop malicious scripts:Windows by default allow scripts (which is VBScript and JavaScript) to run and some of these scripts are malicious. Use
Noscript by Symantec or
Script Defender by AnalogX to handle these scripts.
Avoid Peer to Peer software:P2P may be a great way to get lots of seemingly freeware, but it is a great way to get infected as well. There's no way to tell if the file being shared is infected. Worse still, some worms spread via P2P networks, infecting you as well. My advice is avoid these types of software applications.
Next:This is a very helpful/useful set of advice from Microsoft:
Microsoft Safety & Security CenterAny questions? Feel free to ask, if not stay safe!
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