[Solved] Newbie to Windows 7 with a few questions.

[5teve]

Hi guys and guyesses (gotta keep the Memsahibs sweet)

I use a Mac for my main computing duties so I don't bother with AV stuff much. I just have one programme running all the time that updates itself as and when required, ClamXav scans and protects without me getting in the way. However, in the olden days of using XP Pro, I had 3 programmes to update and run. Avast for AV duties, Malwarebytes to take care of malware and something called Superantispyware to take care of the rest.

So the question is, Will my laptop be covered if I download and run those 3 programmes or are there better plans afoot for Windows7 Pro sp1?

 

Cheers,

Steve.

[RandyL]

Hi Steve.

You're going to get some different answers because some things are a matter of preference such as a choice of antivirus programs.

 

I would say three things are important.

1. Firewall

2. Antivirus

3. Anti-Spyware

4. Other

 

What I use.

1. I just use the Windows firewall. It is turned on by default unless you have a AV suite installed.

 

2. I use Microsoft Security Essentials. It's from Microsoft and is free.

 

3. Windows 7 has Windows Defender which is turned on by default unless you have a AV suite installed. However if you install MSE it is also an anti-spware program now which also will turn off Defender to avoid conflict.

 

4. Just for peace of mind I also use Spywareblaster.

 

And of course make sure you get all of the important Windows Updates. By default automatic updates is already enabled.

[KenB]

Randy has said what I would have done :)

 

MS_Essentials is a very good AV ..... and the price is right too.

( This is what I use )

[Starbuck]

Malwarebytes to take care of malware and something called Superantispyware to take care of the rest.

Whilst both are good programs....... you don't need both.

Basically they will both do the same job.

So just choose one or the other.

[5teve]

So ..... The best plan of action is to download but not install MSE and then drop the internet. Delete Avast and install MSE. Re-connect. Do an update followed by a full scan. Remove Superantispyware and use the router's firewall.

Job done.

Cheers for all your help,

Steve.

[RandyL]

That would work. Although the router has a hard firewall use the Windows firewall too. If I remember right if the Windows firewall is not turned on MSE will do it or ask to turn it on. It's probably already enabled right now.

 

Avast is good too but I switched.

 

Good luck Steve.

[5teve]

Thanks guys

I now have Windows 7 running fine with MSE, Malwarebytes and the router's firewall. All is well chez Steve

Cheers, m'dears,

Merry Christmas to one and all.

[KenB]

That's good to hear Steve.

 

Merry Christmas to you and yours too :)