What is the best security for a new PC using Windows 7 home premium

[Zara]

Good Evening All :)

 

I am currently running MBAM scan on my lap top and 4 hours later it is still going!!!

 

To avoid any problems with the new PC we have just bought for me to complete my degree I just want to confirm that we are getting the best security for it;

 

We are planning on Microsoft Security Essentials, MBAM and a 3rd party firewall.

 

Is this all we need?

 

We were going to buy kaspersky but having read the threads this seems unnecessary. As the PC is brand new we don't want to slow it down with lots of software.

 

Any clarity for an absolute techno phobe is greatly appreciated :)

 

Thanks lots!! Zara :)

[Starbuck]

Hi Zara,

 

We are planning on Microsoft Security Essentials, MBAM and a 3rd party firewall.

Sounds good to me.

If you have a new system i'm guessing it's running Win7?

Are you connecting through a router?

 

Just about every router now has a built in Firewall ( a Hardware Firewall) this can be used with a software Firewall.

So a good 3rd party firewall or the latest built in Windows Firewall should serve you fine.

 

I use Microsoft Security Essentials, MBAM and the Windows Firewall ( plus my router hardware firewall) on this system and never have a problem.

 

As the PC is brand new we don't want to slow it down with lots of software.

This sounds a very sensible idea.

Too much security is just as bad as not enough.

[directlysubtle]

First thing I did when I got my Windows 7 Home Premium Service Pack 1 was uninstall the Norton they offered. I installed Avast Free Home Edition using custom settings. I also use the older version of Spybot Search and Destroy and the Windows Firewall.

 

I've used various free and paid for programs at home and work. I've been happy with the above programs for the last 5 years. The problem with programs is even the paid for versions are not set for maximum protection by default.

 

As far as slowing a new computer down with software I've not had problems and mine only has 4 Gig RAM

Edited October 3, 2012 by directlysubtle