Personal Computer World

AOL Active Security Monitor 2

Freeware

Helps you determine how vulnerable your PC is to computer viruses, spyware and other dangers and learn what steps you can take to improve your protection. And if you have more than one PC in your home network, you can use Active Security Monitor to check the security status of your entire home network. Your PC's level of protection is represented by a Safety Score, shown on Active Security Monitor's dashboard.

Requires: Windows 2000 or XP

Spyware Terminator 1.9.2

Freeware

Will prevent spyware, adware, keyloggers and other types of malicious applications from hijacking the use of you computer. It resides in your system tray and works in real-time to prevent unauthorised programs from taking over your computer. Scan your computer manually or schedule an in-depth scan.

Requires: Windows 98SE, 2000, Me or XP

ZoneAlarm 7.0.337

Freeware

Comprehensive security solution that is based on the world's best firewall to keep out hackers, viruses, worms, and other threats. It combines popular firewall with antivirus protection, Web site filtering, privacy protection, and instant-messaging security.

Requires: Windows 98SE, 2000, Me or XP

Jetico Personal Firewall 2.0.0.28

Freeware

Firewall designed for home users. It will prevent access from hackers attempting to access your computer, whilst you browse the Internet. It will close open ports on your system, so that unauthorised users do not have access to your computer. Easy to configure and more powerful than the built-in Windows Firewall. Remember that if you have a broadband connection, youÆll most likely have a hardware firewall built-in to your modem.

Requires: Windows 2000 or XP

Steganos LockNote 1.03

Freeware

Enables users to quickly and easily protect confidential notes, passwords, addresses, phone numbers or other sensitive information. LockNote looks and acts like a normal text file; however, it can only be opened with a password chosen by the user. The encrypted memo can be saved to a USB stick and used while on the road.

Requires: Windows 98SE, 2000, Me or XP

Ad-Aware SE Personal Edition 1.06

Freeware

Provides advanced protection from known data-mining, aggressive advertising, Trojans, dialers, malware, browser hijackers, and tracking components. Extended Registry scanning scans branches of multiple-user accounts.

Requires: Windows 98SE, 2000, Me or XP