Here are some basic steps to make your pc more secure from hackers, viruses, adware and whatever else
The first step is to turn on Windows built in firewall. To do that click: start>control panel>Network and Internet Connections>Network connections then right click on your connection icon, select properties, click the advanced tab, then check the box next to "Protect my computer and network by limiting or preventing access to this computer from the internet" then click ok.
There, now your computer is a little more secure, but you should definitely consider doing step two
I recommend using a second (good) firewall. You can download ZoneAlarm for free here, only about 73% of the reviews are positive which seems wierd to me because it's a great product. There are other versions you can pay money for if you want.
Now's a good time to go get DCOMbobulated. It sounds silly, but it's an important fix go here to read all about it and get it taken care of
Now you're good and firewalled, lets take care of viruses.
AntiVir Personal Edition is effective, free virus protection, you can learn more about it and download it here
For about $20 you can get Norton SystemWorks. It's an extremely useful suite, and you get a year of free updates from the date you install it so even if you buy the 2002 or 2003 version you'll still get the latest virus definitions. Here's a link to pick it up cheap.
There's one more program I think everybody should have. It's Ad-aware, it scans your computer for adware which can do all kinds of nasty things. You can learn more about it and get it for free here
Here are some good links:
Download.com You can look for apps that suite you needs, make sure you read reviews and check licenses
MajorGeeks This is another great site for downloading program. The programs here generally seem to be better than the ones at download.com
Astalavista This is a fairly hardcore security related sight. You can learn a ton here, it's definitely worth checking out.
