I have multiple protection programs, which ones do I keep?

[chrisdab]

Hi, I have a few protection programs installed in my computer. I have NOD32, spyware terminator, AVG anti-spyware, and spybot. I think NOD32 overlaps antivirus with AVG. I kept realtime protection off for all but NOD32 antivirus. I was wondering if I need anything else besides a spyware. Which ones do I keep? Which ones might conflict? I want to conserve computer resources.

Also, I use firefox browser with Adblock plus plugin, I have a router that provides limited firewall. I also Peerguardian and Protowall installed which loads blacklists to block known bad IPs. I need both programs for different lists. On top of that, I have comodo firewall, which I feel like I dont need. DO I? I disabled the application monitor because I have never had an issue with trojans and viruses and because I'm conditioned to accept every warning box I so it does me to good to have the window up. With the application monitor gone, all I have left is the network monitor which is just duplicating the work done by the router.

Explain the options please. My goal is to just have the NOD32, a spyware checker, the IP filters, and the router firewall. Why have more?

[AnnMarie]

Hi chrisdab. I am going to transfer your topic to the Applications Forum so you can get balanced feedback.

I have NOD32, spyware terminator, AVG anti-spyware, and spybot. I think NOD32 overlaps antivirus with AVG.

Spyware Terminator has been listed as a rogue here (http://www.spywarewarrior.com/rogue_anti-spyware.htm#spyterm_note) and although it has been delisted, there are others that I would recommend before this utility.

Spybot in my opinion, has seen better days.

Nod32 is a well respected AV and AVG Antispyware offers excellent protection and/or detection if you are using the freeware version. It should run quite happily with Nod32.

[renegade600]

Personally I believe you can dump the ip filters. I dont see a need for the unless you spend alot of time in the online red light district or do other questionable stuff online.

As far as the others, what do you do online, do you go to warez, p2p or other similar sites? Do you do alot of online gaming? Do you spend alot of time in the chat rooms.

In general, all you need is a good antivirus, every so often use an online antivirus scan for a second opinion. A good software firewall and anti spyware utilities.

[AnnMarie]

You could also click on the link in my signature for suggestions on hardening your security.