I need the definitive EASY PEASY recommendations for computer protection

[lemonice]

I have Windows 98. I only have an expired version of Norton anti virus (about 4 years ago and wasn't new then)and nothing else. I never open unknown attachments. I only have dial up at the moment but would changed to broadband if I thought i could install it without messing up.

What is your duffer's computer protection recommendation?

Windows 98 doesnt automatic update so you have to periodically go to Windows Update .

It will automatically recognise your operating system, then click scan for updates and it will supply a list of critical updates and recommended updates to keep your computer running nicely.

lemonice, i found out after searching through many computer help forums, asking the experts, that you can get free antivirus, and firewall off the internet. They are just as good as the ones you pay a fortune for, i have tried both.

For the AV ... www.grisoft.com/us/us_index.php.

The firewall... www.zonelabs.com

They really are both excellent. They may take a while to download if you haven't got broadband, but it will be well worth it.

Just a note, if you do get the antivirus, make sure you up-date it, as new viruses come out all the time.

If you need anymore help - just ask!

i've just installed zone lab and it keeps popping up with things its blocked, all a bit confusing at the moment,

You can ask it to protect your computer silently - also it learns as it goes so over time there will be less pop ups

Hi thanks

Have spent the afternoon updating windows which was SS>>LL>>>OOOOOW.

So a bit doubtful about downloading av and firewall on my dial up as it has a habit of disconnecting when I'm downloading (also means my customers can't make credit card purchases while I'm connected) But will definitely do something now I've started. I am quite dozy because I haven't got out of date Norton I've got out of date McAfee!