Which Security Software Is Right for You?

By Jennifer Martinez

To guard your identity and your computer, you need security solutions that offer the best protection you can find. Internet service providers (ISPs) are taking more responsibility for securing their users without lowering the cost savings you’ve enjoyed in the past.

Security software, such as shareware and freeware is being offered at no cost to users. Are these security solutions as good as or better than stand-alone software? Asking the right questions and knowing what to look for can help you decide what’s best for you.

ISPs: What do they offer to protect you?
Here are four questions to ask your ISP about its security offerings:

1. Most ISPs use outside security vendors to assess risks and control leaks. Ask your ISP which security vendors they use. You may want to visit those vendors' web sites to learn more about their solutions, such as the frequency of updates, the types of protection they offer (such as antivirus), and the content types that are protected (such as attachments and email).
2. Is your ISP using one vendor to assess and manage security risks or multiple vendors? Many ISPs choose multiple vendors because it costs less, which does not always translate into the best service or compatibility among programs.
3. Does your ISPs security vendor employ sophisticated technology such as firewalls, antispam and antispyware? When making your decision, think about your online activities, and make sure your ISP has the right solutions to best protect you.
4. What steps do you need to take to activate protection? Just because you sign up does not mean you are protected.

Freeware: What's in it for the provider?
Before you download security freeware, consider these issues:

• Because freeware and shareware providers are often not global companies, how are they going to properly support you if you need help or have questions?
• Freeware is exactly that -- free. Make sure the vendor will be consistent with product updates to protect you from the latest vulnerabilities. Some freeware and shareware can also include forms of adware/spyware. Be sure to read end user license agreements (EULAs) carefully before downloading, so you understand exactly what you are getting.
• Find out whether the software will be around for some time to come. Freeware vendors may not be well established, so they may not be available to you for the long term.
• Free software can mean buggy software. Find out who is testing it and how thoroughly it has been tested.

Stand-alone software: What's the return on your investment?
Outside of an ISP or freeware, you can also buy off-the-shelf software. Take these steps for the best results:

• Install a high-quality antivirus solution that has the ability to update itself automatically. Make sure it can scan inbound email and instant message attachments before they have the opportunity to infect your computer.
• Make sure your antispam program is from a trusted security software provider to reduce your exposure to phishing emails.

Finally, make sure the security solution you decide on has a firewall and an antispyware tool that work together to protect your data from hackers, viruses, worms and Trojan horses.

Be sure to do your research on the features and benefits when looking for security software. And once you pick an approach, make sure all your security components are up to date.