I’d like some recommendations regarding security software for a home network using a router to connect multiple PCs to internet.
I’ll probably get a Linksys 4-port router with wireless & I understand it comes with some FIREWALL software. My impression is that this means the software actually runs on a router, and therefore does not eat computer resources. Is this correct?
Also, I need something to scan emails and downloads. I currently use macafee but it seems to eat up resources, especially on slower systems. Is there a nice free/cheap, lean-and-mean virus protection software?
For antivirus, I would go unilaterally with Panda Antivirus. They come out with virus updates daily, scan e-mail, memory, OS files, boot - just about anything. It also eats only about 2-3% of resources. They’re current versions have an “XP-fied” GUI, but runs transparently in the background. It comes with a firewall, but that can be turned off. The lowest-end version is about $40. If you have Linux, though, there is a free beta version. www.pandasoftware.com
I’ve heard some about AVG Antivirus, which is cheap or free. You can try checking it out (I would personally rather go with Panda). www.grisoft.com
The firewall in the router has no effect on your computer’s resources, it runs whether your comp is on or off. I believe the settings can be accessed by pointing your browser to 192.168.0.1 (your manual should say). Make sure to change the password from the manufacturer PW, since hackers often enter default router PW’s to try to hack into a system.
Hi Kev,
The router+switch is a good start, but unless you absolutely need wireless, I would not recommend it. You will get better bandwidth through a wire, and you do not have to worry about neighbors “borrowing” your connection. If you do go wireless, take every step you can to secure it (tie IP addys to MAC addys, encrypt, etc) because if you don’t then you have just opened up a public wireless node.