Are you paying for a PC security package like Norton Anti-virus? Are you buying the whole package of firewall, anti-spyware, anti-spam, and network security? Some of these packages cost $80+ per year, per PC. It gets expensive and there are free alternatives.
Consumer Reports suggests that some of the free packages are as good, or better than the commercial products. They suggest Avira AntiVirus Personal, Microsoft Windows Defender and Spamfighter Standard. These three packages, used together, will protect you from just about any evil presented on the internet. I have experience with all three and can endorse them all.
My experience with the free products has been that they are easy to use and seem, through totally un-scientific testing, not to slow my system as much as some of the name brand products. Personally, I’ve abandoned all the security add-ons by moving away from the PC and buying a Mac. For now, anyway, I can comfortably use the Mac without much security software. Of course, that will likely change if the Mac user base continues to grow and become a more appealing target.
Take a look at the licenses for the free packages. There are some restrictions on commercial use so be sure to only use the packages as permitted. Next time your security software comes up for renewal consider uninstalling it and making the switch to something free.
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Lee has practiced family law for more than twenty years. With three offices, 