Safe Computing Tips

Keep your Windows update. Microsoft always updated and improve the security of their Windows. By turning on automatic update, you'll get the definition of malware removal, and the security patch for internet explorer. To turn on automatic update, simply go to Start > Control Panel > Security Centre > Windows Update.

Install an anti-virus program. Today, using an anti-virus program is a must. Use only one anti-virus at a time. If you don't have an anti-virus software, download AVG anti-virus, AVAST Free edition or maybe BitDefender Free Edition. By using these program, you'll get the scan engine that is certified by VB 100% Award. Besides update, these program can only perform on-demand scan.
Real-time protection and customer support is not included. However, for most home user, this limitation is not important, perhaps this choice is better, since they're free.
Install an anti-spyware program. Besides virus, spyware is another threat today. Make sure that you install an anti-spyware program, and update it always. Of course, the better one is the paid version, such as Lavasoft AdAware PLUS or maybe SunBelt CounterSpy. These software will give you Real-Time protection and registry guard. However, for some users, installing a free version is just enough. It's better than nothing. Some of free choices are SpyBot Search And Destroy, Lavasoft Adaware Free, Spyware Terminator.
Install Windows Defender. Microsoft now provide their own program to remove malware. This one give you basic protection against spyware and malware. However, it is safe that you use additional anti-spyware program, with lots of prevention. Download Windows Defender.
Guard your registry and startup. Turn On Real-Time protection/ Active protection. Most anti-spyware today is equipped with Real-Time protection. For Lavasoft, this feature only included in the plus version. This part is crucial, especially when you're an active internet user and don't have internet security suit installed. Real-Time protection will guard your registry from being changed, without your permission.
Guard your browser. Use alternative browser. It is not safe to use Internet Explorer browser today. Most spyware take advantage of security flaws in IE browser. Use the next generation browser such as Mozilla Firefox or Opera. Plus, Firefox lets your browsing more safe, secure and fun. Especially when you customize it with certain theme or add-ons.

Guard your browser. Lock ActiveX in Internet Explorer. Internet Explorer is integrated into Windows core. So, even tough you want to use alternate browser, keeping it locked is important. To lock it, open your IE browser > Internet Options > Security > Internet. Click restore all zones to default level. Press Custom level button. In the ActiveX section, set the Download signed ActiveX controls to "Prompt" and unsigned ActiveX controls also to "Prompt", and "Initialize and Script ActiveX controls not marked as safe" to "Disable".

Safe surfing with McAfee Site Advisor. Today, getting infected is easier. For certain sites, you'll get infected just by surfing it. By using Site Advisor, you'll be able to detect and avoid bad websites; that site could contain pop-up, spyware, virus, phishing activity, or maybe bad programs. Download Site Advisor.
Avoid phishing sites using Google Toolbar. Phishing sites trick users, and lead to identity theft. Google Safe Browsing is an extension to Firefox that alerts you if a web page that you visit appears to be asking for your personal or financial information under false pretences. It'll warn you when you're about to make payment on phishing site.