Are Vista's Security Features Enough?

Hi, I was just wondering if Windows Firewall, Defender and Updates are enough to keep my computer protected, oris it better if i seek out an alternative spyware scanner and firewall?

I'm using AVG Free as my Virus protection. Just want to check up on my Firewall and Spyware/Malware.

Also, is there a site where i can test my computer's security? EG a site that can point out security vulnerabilities?

Thanks in advance.

 

Hi Magia
I would advise you to step up your anti-malware precautions. Probably the best around are AdAware and Spybot. Vista's firewall works OK for me and I use Avast Free for the anti-virus.
To check your firewall visit GRC and run their 'Shields Up" test.

Roger

 

Thanks for the reply. I'll install Spybot as soon as I get a chance . Is there a version which works with Vista or are they all the same?

 

Hi Magia,

The latest version, 1.5, works well with Vista.

Roger

 

I thought that was the point of Vista and why there was such a drop in performance, but it's starting to look like it's no better than XP and the same approach to security should be followed.
http://www.pcpro.co.uk/realworld/124839/cleaning-a-vista-pc.html

 

[FONT= "Comic Sans MS"]Unfortunately, today's malware is getting increasingly difficult to remove and programs such as Spybot Search & Destroy and Lavasoft's Ad-Aware 2007 just don't cut the mustard anymore, IMO and IME. I tend to use them for general PC housekeeping.

The following are far superior and offer free, limited, on demand scanning capabilities: -

SUPERAntiSpyware Free

AVG Anti-Spyware Free Edition

Just remember to update them on a regular basis, and prior to using them.

As far as Firewalls are concerned, you have Sunbelt Personal Firewall (support October 2007) and ZoneAlarm 7.1, both of which are free for personal use.

Good luck.[/FONT]

 

thank you

 

[FONT= "Comic Sans MS"]You're welcome, Magia.

On a side note, you will be even better protected with a NAT enabled, hardware firewalled router.[/FONT]

 

I don't think the Windows Vista Firewall is that bad - especially if used with th eWindows Vista Firewall Control program (there is a free version for personal use).

This program simplifies the options for outgoing and incoming traffic for your Vista firewall.

I use it and think it works great.

For antivirus I recommend Avira AntiVir. It has great detection rates and is free for home/personal use. I have even read that it is comprable to commercial antivirus products.

I have also read that it does better than AVG free (although this program is getting better all the time).

I'm trying to find the article to back up my words at this point.

For antispyware I use a program called Ashampoo Antispyware (unfortunately it's not free). Version 1 works great for XP and under. Version 2 is needed for Vista.

I'm considering upgrading to the second version because I love the program so much.