There are a vast number of programs available for security purposes that help protect your computer from hackers but one of the best programs is the AVG Internet security. It is available in a free version or a paid version. This specific program has everything you need to prevent an attack on your computer such as a firewall, spam filter and identity theft protection.
The free version of this software is only slightly different from the paid version. The primary difference is that the free version of the anti-virus software is not licensed for businesses or by multiple machines like are used in many large corporations. The full version offers a few additional features that some will find well worth the cost.
Most all Internet security programs offer a firewall to block any unauthorized access to a computer. The firewall has settings that can be manually set to ones own desired settings. It should be noted that other programs may attempt to change these settings but the options are ultimately the user’s choice. This firewall actually investigates all traffic that comes into a computer from the Internet and blocks potentially hazardous ones.
The spam filter is not as common in an internet security program as a firewall is but they too can be essential for keeping a computer free of unwanted attacks. Generally emails are sent out with phishing software attached to them. The software reports user’s movements on the Internet and sends that information back to the sender. Spam filters allow the user to send unwanted emails to a folder so they are isolated.
A rootkit is a small piece of software that actually hides the fact that a computer has been hacked. It usually hides this from both the user and the anti-virus software the user has running. The anti-rootkit scanner that is included in the full version of AVG actually scans for this type of software. Once it is found it is isolated and can be removed safely.
Most anti-virus software stops protection when it comes to instant messaging and identity theft but the full version of the AVG software includes both of these. Some instant messaging programs will allow file sharing and this can infect a computer. Any financial information a computer contains can also be compromised and your identity stolen with little effort.
It should be noted that the free version is remarkably smaller in size than the full version therefore it requires more space and takes longer to run. If a security program is needed for personal use, the free version is more than sufficient. Those who require or simply want the additional features will find the full version satisfactory.
The decision to use or not use anti-virus software like AVG security software is ultimately up to the user. Their use can be a valuable tool for anyone who stores personal information on their computer or someone who uses the Internet on a regular basis. This type of software can give users the peace of mind needed to continue working without worry.