What Virus Protection Software Should I Use?

I get this question a lot when I work with customers. I surprise people when I tell them that virus protection is over-rated. First of all, we need to look at the "cost" of virus protection. I don't mean the actual dollar amount. (although that is a consideration) I mean the fact that you now have a program running on your system all of the time. This slows things down. (especially with older systems)

Now for a moment consider the risk. If you are running a major business with thousands of very proprietary documents a virus might be something that could cost you a considerable amount of money. However, for average Joe User that isn't the case. Here is my recommendation for keeping your computer safe.

1. Get a hardware router (most people already have one)
2. Be cautious about the sites you visit. If you visit gambling sites, file sharing, or other nefarious sites you increase your risk of contamination.
3. Once a year do a complete re-install of your system. Back everything up completely and "start over" - (I can help you with this by the way and your system will feel faster)
4. If you must have virus protection check out AVG (it is free) or Microsoft's onecare - both of these run faster than Norton and Mcafee

Virus' are overblown in most cases. Your system is much more likly to get fried in an electrical storm.

I hope that helps! :)