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Every computer should have the following three core protections installed:

• Anti-Virus Software
• Firewall
• Anti-Spyware Software

Installing these software packages is the first step. Equally important is keeping them up to date.

New threats emerge daily and quality software packages come with subscriptions that allow you to update your defenses on a regular basis. In most cases, you can set the software to retrieve the updates automatically. Set your system for these automatic updates so you don't create extended periods of potential vulnerability.

In addition, your computer runs an operating system. If you surf the Internet, you use a browser as well. Both should be updated regularly. Many of the updates that address security issues can be scheduled to run automatically.

Anti-Virus Software
Anti-virus software protects your computer from viruses by scanning your computer and your incoming email and deleting anything that is infected. Viruses can destroy your data, slow your computer's performance, cause a crash, or allow spammers to send email through your account.

To be effective, your anti-virus software should be updated regularly to defend against the latest viruses circulating through the Internet. Most commercial anti-virus software includes a feature to download updates automatically when you are on the Internet.

You can download anti-virus software from the Web sites of software companies or buy it in retail stores. Many Internet Service Providers (ISPs) actually offer anti-virus software for free.

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Anti-Spyware Software
Spyware is a form of malicious software that monitors your online activities and can potentially collect your personal information. Anti-spyware software helps protect your computer from spyware. It periodically scans your computer for spyware programs, and then gives you the opportunity to remove any harmful surveillance software found. Some anti-virus software also contains anti-spyware capability. Given the increasing sophistication of spyware programs, consider using two different anti-spyware programs.  Each one looks for slightly different sets of threats, and together they may offer increased protection.
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Firewalls
Firewalls help keep hackers from using your computer to send out your personal information without your permission. While anti-virus software scans incoming email and files, a firewall is like a guard, watching for attempts to access your system and blocking communications with sources you don't permit.

Some operating systems come with a built-in firewall that may be set on the "off" mode. Make sure you turn it on and keep it updated. Check your online "Help" feature for specific instructions.

If your operating system doesn't include a firewall, get a separate software firewall that runs in the background while you work, or install a hardware firewall (an external device that includes firewall software). Several free firewall software programs are also available on the Internet.

This list was gathered and provided by the GetNetWise Web site. We cannot guarantee the effectiveness of any of the products listed on the GetNetWise Web site, nor do we endorse any products. The National Cyber Security Alliance is also unable to provide any technical assistance with any of these tools.
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Operating System and Browser
Keeping your computer updated and patched will provide an additional layer of security for your system, and your personal data. Out-of-date or defective software can leave your computer open to attack, so it is essential to be vigilant in the update process.

Each computer runs on a specific operating system (OS) that houses the vital components that allows your computer to work.  The two biggest operating systems are Windows and Macintosh.  Online criminals and hackers launch specific attacks against these computer operating systems for personal gain. 

In order to stay safe from these attacks, OS manufacturers issue regular updates (or "patches") that fix specific problems or vulnerabilities in the OS.  These updates are primarily "pushed" to the computer user, meaning the computer automatically receives and downloads those fixes. 

Hackers look for ways to exploit users of out-of-date web browsers.  They can use unfixed vulnerabilities or problems in a web browser to gather personal information, install malicious software (malware) and launch attacks against other machines.  Most of the major browser vendors regularly update their software to reduce risk factors. You should make sure you're receiving the latest updates, running the most current version of your browser, and making sure you have all the proper security controls turned on.

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