Is there a more reliable way to secure your PC than with Windows?

Question

To start this off, yes, I have already tampered with the Windows settings. Utilizing the Windows features is an easy, practical, way. But the one thing is fore sure, it's not very 'secure'. (Sorry, Gates...) I need to disable things like "automatic updates, the 'Run' feature, deny access to the command prompt...the list goes on. So is there a '.bat' file or other executable (or similar) that i can create? (i.e if admin logs, then no limits; if 'user' logs, then limit to these...) How about, is there (free/cheap) software to do this with? (Should be self-explanitory). In either case, if you can, please provide a personal experience- and how you over-came it, and a link to a reference or an application download. Thank you to those who respond to topic.

Answer 1

Get the Windows Updates for the Security and Critical updates.

Use a firewall. You might try the free version of Zone Alarm from http://www.zonelabs.com

You should have an anti-spyware solution on your computer. I recommend that you go to http://www.download.com and get AD-AWARE and SpyBot Search & Destory. Install, run, update and scan your computer with both programs.

This double whammy will help keep you safe and running faster

Keep your Anti-virus up to date, and run regular scans.

Use FireFox for general browsing. Visit http://www.mozilla.com it's free, safer than IE and resists popups.

Answer 2

I overcame the security issue earlier this year by purchasing an Apple!
Mac OS took a little getting used to, but it's a vastly superior operating system, and it's much more secure from viruses, spyware, etc. Well worth the investment!

(If you must stick with an inferior Windows-based platform, the least you should do is purchase a Linksys router to act as a firewall between your computer and the big, scary world of malicious programs out there on the Net.)

Answer 3

Zone alarm