Desktop Security Software for Business, Individuals, Gamers

Whether you run a business or a home computer, are a gamer or net surfer, you need desktop security software. The ever growing threat from viruses, spyware, malware, worms, trojans, and hackers has made it imperative that all computers be protected against these intrusions, or else risk theft of personal information or corruption of files.

There are many features to be considered before purchasing security software. What are your needs? For the home user, you need antivirus software that also includes protection against spyware and malware. You will most definitely want firewall protection as well. A good firewall software is your first line of defense against unwanted access to your computer. An antivirus firewall software monitors incoming and outgoing information and allows only what you permit.

For the business owner with a single computer or multiple computers, you want to protect your business from thieves who want to steal your information or files, you want secure email, safe remote server access, or you may also want to restrict employee access to certain websites or domains. Backing up files is another concern.

Gamers are at risk for viruses, spyware, and malware. Since many gamers are connected to the internet for many hours at a time, they become vulnerable to attacks. Desktop security software is a must. But you don't want protection that will slow down your computer, or interfere with your game play when the antivirus software is performing its updates. You'll want a software that works quietly and efficiently in the background, while using minimal battery power and less memory. So light on resources, ESET's antivirus software is the choice for gamers.

There are ways to reduce the risk of viruses and threats to your computer. For one, don't download pirated software to your computer. Many of these contain spyware and malware, leaving you open to hackers and thieves. Often times they will ask your permission to check for software updates to download to your computer. Unwittingly, you give them permission, allowing them access to all your personal information. Don't open email attachments from someone you don't know. If it's from someone you know, verify they sent it to you before opening it. But, their computer could be infected without them knowing it, so beware of attachments from friends and family as well.

For proactive protection, use ESET Smart Security.

ESET Smart Security, CNET Editors’ Choice 2009consistently outperforms the other top brand antivirus software with comprehensive protection, proactive detection, and smoother performance.

Don't Let This Happen to You

If you continue browse the internet without some type of antivirus software, you're playing Russian roulette with your computer. Sooner or later a virus, spyware, malware, or worm will make itself at home on PC or laptop.

It's easy and inexpensive to protect your computer files and your identity. There are many different types of desktop security software programs available. But all are not created equal. Make sure you get a program that is proactive. One that detects a virus or spyware before it has a chance to infect your computer.

Just because an antivirus software is free, doesn't necessarily mean it's good. Some of these free programs are actually spyware. Also, some free spyware scans can actually place spyware on your computer and then inform you that you need to purchase their software to get rid of the virus. To be safe, purchase from a well known company, or do research before you purchase.

Facebook Virus

Even though the Facebook virus, koobface, first emerged several months ago, it still continues to create problems for social networking sites. A few simple safety steps will go a long way in keeping your computer free of this virus, or any other virus.

The Facebook virus is spread from one account to several accounts through a message, instructing you to click on a link to download software to view a video or picture. It appears as if the message is from one of your friends. It's not. As soon as you click on the link, the spyware is downloaded to your computer.

The simplest and most effective weapon against the Facebook virus is you. Don't download anything to your computer unless you trust the source completely. If you get a message or email with an attachment or link, contact the sender to verify. A quick "Hey, what's this you sent me" is all you need to do. If they don't know what you're referring to, delete the message without opening the attachment or clicking the link.

If your computer gets hit by the Facebook virus, shut down your computer immediately. Turn it back on and run a virus scan. Make sure you always have a good desktop security software installed on your computer. ESET Smart Security, CNET Editors’ Choice 2009is a proactive antivirus firewall software that stops viruses before they get to your computer.