Computer Security

Check your firewall Gibson Research. This will check the firewall for vulnerabilities, open ports, file sharing and messenger spam, not to be confused with Live Messenger, but the built-in Windows Messenger service.
 
Also point your browser to pcflank where you can run multiple tests, scroll to the bottom of the page and see the recommended options based on their level of experience.
 
Anti-Virus
 
Many users have their own preferences and stick with what you know, this is not necessarily the best that is available. AVG has been the most popular for some time, but has also encountered many problems and has become more bloated but there are many alternatives.
 
Essentials:
 
On the desktop, create a new folder and rename it "Downloads" for all program downloads are at an easy to find location.
 
A Firewall, Antivirus One, usually two anti-malware programs.
 
Keep in mind that each computer is configured differently, and there is no "one size fits all." What works for one user may not work as well for another, because they have different programs and settings, so you have to play to find out what works best on your system.
 
Tweaking program lets you create a better balance between minimal intrusion protection that constantly asks permission. It may take a few days for you to receive the settings as you like, but it will be worth.
 
Prevention and take an active role in protecting your PC is the best way to deal with many of the threats of spyware and malicious downloads. Stopping it is much easier than removing it once it is installed.
 
DO NOT click on unknown links on websites or in emails and do not be fooled by promises of programs that can scan and clean your computer or clean the registry, many contain malware and do more damage.