Posted on 01/24/2009 4:17:17 AM PST by savedbygrace
I've used Semantec, Grisoft's AVG, and Panda AV apps. None of those have been satisfactory. They all tend to use too much system resources, or cause other problems.
Currently, I'm using Panda AV, but it is causing start up problems and it seems to have a mind of its own WRT running scans.
On the firewall front, I've used Zone Alarm Pro, but it slows my WinXP computer down. I've forgotten the names of the succession of other firewall apps I've used. Currently, the Panda AV app I'm using also provides a firewall.
I'm not defenseless even without a firewall app, because I have a hardware router.
So, bottom line: What anti virus and firewall apps would you recommend?
“THIS IS NOT TRUE. Firewalls will not stop email viruses or web based viruses. Nor will they stop attacks which use open ports.”
I believe the routers do stop the open port attacks, however. Educate me if I am wrong on this.
I run a router with no firewall on the computer.
As for S/W Firewalls, personally I think they are a waste of time if you have a H/W one set up.
The Hardest thing you will go through is trying to get all of the old programs uninstalled (trust me).
Regrettably, both firewall and anti-virus programs quickly turn in to glutware.
I dropped McAfee and Trend Micro and ZoneAlarm years ago for that very reason. They took up too many system resources.
==
Now, I use an older version of Comodo Firewall (free for home use) because it makes my computer nearly invisible to the outside world. Upgrades of ZoneAlarm conflicted with too many other programs, etc. I have not updated Comodo because the old version works and does not conflict with the programs I use.
I also use AVG 8, but had to turn off everything except the auto update, email check and Anti-Virus. All their other background stuff caused a system slowdown. I liked ver 7/7.5, but was forced in to 8 for auto-updates.
==
Most of these programs grow in to glutware, as their developers need to keep adding things to sell updates. It becomes a vicious circle.
I have seen anti-virus programs exceed 30 meg and firewall programs grows from 5 megs to 30 megs.
I recently upgraded XP sp2 with all the MS updates. Something caused a conflict with my PCTV card. I had to back up to a previous system image.
I hate upgrades. Many times, they create more problems than they solve. I have stopped upgrading my home system, except for essential programs such as AVG.
“I believe the routers do stop the open port attacks, however. Educate me if I am wrong on this.”
Routers have some utility in controlling traffic because their purpose is to route the data packets. If something is addressed to your IP it will deliver it to you PC.
Some routers have firewall features which on the residential end is sufficient for most users.
A router and or firewall is not a replacement for anti-virus on windows desktops. There are simply too many people writing malicious code which neither of these will stop.
I had to recently install a LAN card because the MB LAN died. I had to reactivate XP. How many times will they let you do that before you have to call them?
Sounds as though you have a solid tank there with the Antec. A good build.
Unless a gamer, extreme overclocking is a waste as FSB speed for the RAM (bandwidth), a 64 bit OS and 4+ GB RAM is what makes a system fast. Even at 2.66, I am finding Quads and Duo's are fast enough bar video and audio editing. Newer 3.0 GB/s HDD's and vid cards w/ 512 MB DDR2 memory and at lest 32 streaming processors really kick up the performance of the PC.
I do plan on taking that cooler running E7300 CPU to 3.0 GHz with the FSB set to 1066.
I like my HP HDX 18 with 2.80 gigahertz Intel Core2 Duo,64 kilobyte primary memory cache, 6144 kilobyte secondary memory cache, 4094 Megabytes Installed Memory.....It runs like a Ferrari compared to my old Dell Pinto.
My AVG and SPYBOT run in minutes rather than hours.
Bookmark
I too, since about mid last June have notice more and more problems with system performance and hangs with 'auto updates' from Microshaft.
Training MIS 2008 to accept new software has become a real pain.
My tracecerts have logged several hacker attempts since mid-June originating from mainland China, eastern Europe, SE PAcific islands, and the ME. Seems that this happens most when I visit unknown, not trusted websites. I suspect those sites have been hacked as many are here in the US....no, no porn, neither.
Norton has been darn good about catching those instantly. Still, the hackers get through the modem to the older Dell, but, as far as I know, my Linksys router and IS 2008 on the other PC's haven't been affected; they can't get past those as of yet.
I do not think most FReepers realize the increased level of such activity since mid-June. This seems to correlate precisely with the steep global economic decline starting then. I have a friend in IS at work...he's our security dude and he's darn good....I am learning a lot from him on these issues. Just wish he wouldn't screw with my workstation at work...he's seeing how much I've learned....yaho LOL!!
“AVG used to be good, now it’s bloated.”
I still use AVG, but I agree. The old version was great. Small imprint and did everything you needed it to do.
I haven’t researched avast. Thanks for the tip.
SPYBOT is darn good...especially SDHelper and TeaTimer running while browsing. Do you use HIJACK THIS?
Test your firewall with Gibson Research’s free scan.
https://www.grc.com/default.htm
Arrow down to the Shields Up section.
BTW, please I apologize for not mentioning this earlier...both Norton and Kaspersky 2009 versions will cause you serious problems if you try to run other security software at the same time....that’s a big downfall. It’s not a big issue if only one is running and you want to disable one temporarily and run the other.....I have found, on occasion, some of the freeware to catch spyware and malware Norton was asleep on.
No worries. I’m not jumping quickly on this, though I do want to make a decision very soon. Panda is driving me carazy!
That is a good site...Gibson cannot see this PC at all, only the reverse DNS for the DSL modem. Will check the other 2 PC's later.
I will say, for the most part, the folks on FR are of outstanding caliber, knowledge and help.
Thanks for the info. Where does it store the clone?
I just installed Kaspersky 2009 on two computers and they crash constantly. One had Kaspersky 2008 on it with no problems. I removed it from the one that never had it and it works fine. The other one is still crashing.Is there any way to fix the problem? I get a “driver “ notice from Microsoft every time it crashes.
Thanks.
I have found that doing a quite of bit of research from various geek sites, overclockers in particular, has taught me a lot....and then here on FR...there's TomGuy.
Nuf said.
A good friend, ex-Navy electronics tech on a boomer, has moved on to better opportunities out of state. His abilities with PC's, Internet, power, communication, etc., (oh and cooking and drinking when he decided to) astounded me...dearly miss hanging with him.
That relationship proves the Army and the Navy can work together for beneficial interests of both branches. LOL!!
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.