My Clicks first appeared two Thursdays past. Since last Thursday was my birthday and I didn't post, I'm posting it today instead. My clicks will not always be computer-related. Some will be for just plain fun!

My Clicks

There are essential things Windows users must have/do:

- Install Anti-Virus software and regularly update it (twice weekly). If you don't care to buy one, there are free alternatives:

AVG Anti-virus

Free online scanning virus software
Housecall Anti-virus is great to use when you're suspicious of a false positive. It will not only find the virus, but remove it. Others like Panda Software's online virus scan will find the virus or spyware, but prompt you to buy and not remove anything!

- Install anti-Spyware software and pre-set all the immunizations, especially in SpyBot Search & Destroy

Spybot Search & Destroy
Ad Aware
Windows XP Giant

- Install a Firewall

Broadband users need to have a hardware firewall (AKA a router). Brand names for routers are: Net Gear, D-Link, Belkin, Linksys, etc. Software firewalls are okay for dial up users, but Broadband requires extra protection. Hackers seek out broadband services for their fat pipes and speed.

Free software firewalls for dial up users:

Sygate Personal Firewall
Tiny Firewall
Zone Alarm

- Windows Update

Regardless the version of Windows you use, regularly apply the updates. We all know Windows has a lot of holes and vulnerabilities. Without the updates, the vulnerabilities persist and once Microsoft announces an update, hackers read about the fixes thereby learning about the gaping holes and are more knowledgable about where and how to strike. Patches and updates should always be applied to Internet Explorer!

- Use another browser.

A free alternative is Firefox. It's small, nimble and has been in use for awhile. Don't uninstall Internet Explorer because you'll need it for Windows Update and for some of the recommended online virus scanners. These online services use Microsoft's Active X program.

That's it. I don't claim to be an expert by any means, but I do wish to share the information and knowledge that I have. Whenever free is available, I use it as an alternative. What I've recommended is what I use. If it helps just one person, then I'm happy!