I am using Win XP, and it comes with a firewall, which I have never really done anything with.

 

A friend got a virus, even though he had Norton on his system, and later was told that a firewall would have helped him.

 

I heard that if you are using free anti-virus, that it is better to use the free Zonealarm firewall then the WinXP firewall.

 

Is it because the Zonealarm firewall is more user friendly? If so, that would be my best bet because I am still learning my way around the internet...

 

Is there anyone out there who knows how to make their pc more secure? I would be greatful for any help. I dont want to get hacked or my computer to get a virus...:o

I'd suggest just getting an antivirus that you pay for. I use Trend, and it's very good.

 

Additionally, to stop yourself from getting viruses, most virus programs come with a scheduling function, so for instance you could schedule a full system scan once every week or something. The main thing you want to do though is find out which is best suited for you, and invest in some decent software.

 

Hope this helps :)

I don't know much about computer programs, but you can prevent most viruses by not clicking on random sites and not downloading things that you don't know if they're safe or not.

/sentence structure fail

 

Even then, you can still get viruses (I've gotten an unbelievable number and I'm really safe with my computer), so I'd suggest getting some form of a firewall. :nice:

I'm no expert on this sort of thing at all, but I downloaded Avast Free Antivirus, and it's been working pretty well for me.

I use Avast, and I am not at all careful what sites I visit, and I've never ever had a virus. :blank:

XP firewall is shit, don't use it unless you really really really have to.

Zone Alarm is shit. Made my PC unbearably slow and unstable. May have "protected" me, but it's so bloated, I probly would have been better off with a virus. My BF is an IT guy. Removed Zone Alarm and did what other posters said... Get a reliable pay program that runs regular scans. Not sure what all your friend is running, but I've had Norton for a few years now, and visit whatever sites I'd like, download what I like... Zero issues.

Norton these days is wonderful. See if you can get a half-price 2010 software disc, install the 2010 software than get a free upgrade to the 2011 software ;)