What Do I Really Need?

[mm2011]

As a computer 'newbie', I'm now totally confused as to what security measures I actually need.

Currently, I have Windows XP Home which has its' own firewall.  Is this any good and is this the only one I need.

I am on BT Broadband Option 1, with Yahoo Browser which has Norton SpyScan included and I have AVG Free Anti-Virus and Anti-Spy.

I am considering upgrading to Broadband Option 2, which apparently offers Email AV, SpamGuard Plus, Anti-Spy, Pop Up Blocker, Anti-Virus and Firewall and they assure me that that will cover all my needs (which they would, of course).

I've also been advised to turn off my Windows Automatic Updates.  Is this wise?

So, what do I really need and, is it correct that running two of such programs together will cause more problems?

What about CCleaner?  Is that a necessity?

Sorry to have so many questions, but, as I said, I'm a newbie and now totally confused.!!

[honvetops]

Hey, great questions * this is just my 2 cents*

 1. have and keep AVG free anti virus  ALWAYS running
 2. get spybot  search & destroy
 3  find at  filehippo.com     COMODO  firewall    << free !!  it is awesome  ~!!
 download & install  then, turn off your windows firewall....

 4. a must*  get  CCleanner      it is a real nice  free  utility ....  I use it everytime I get off line...  cleans up my old temp files/ browsing & has a very basic  regisitry  fixer....

 good luck ~

ps....  get rid of and uninstall  "correctly"  anything  Norton or MCafee   they are good programs   but,  once installed.....THEY NEVER  want to leave your puter ^

[CBMatt]

I wouldn't bother with the upgrade, unless it's free or darn close to being free.  Both AVG programs are very good to have; make sure your anti-virus stays active.

As suggested above, Spybot is a good program to get.  So is SUPERAntiSpyware.  It's okay to have multiple anti-spyware programs (just don't scan with them at the same time), but it's better to only have one or two anti-virus programs.  If you have two, make sure only one is active, and use the other one for backup scans (best performed in Safe Mode).

Windows Firewall is better than nothing, but there's much better out there.  You should look into getting either ZoneAlarm, Kerio Personal Firewall, or Comodo.  They're all good free firewalls.  Just be sure you only have one installed at a time!  Download the firewall of your choice, disconnect from the internet, disable Windows Firewall, and install your new firewall.

CCleaner is indeed something you want to have on your computer.  It doesn't help much when it comes to protection, but it does help a lot when it comes to cleaning up clutter on your computer.

If you have any other questions, feel free to ask.