Bought New Vista Computer. What security program do I need?

[mlpjd]

Hi there. I just got a new computer this weekend, and it runs Vista Home Premium. I have heard that there is a firewall and spyware software included with Vista, but not antivirus. Is this true? What programs do I NEED to run?

I have learned the hard way that running more than one security solution can seriously slow your system down.

I got some software free when I bought my computer. If I NEED to run additional things, which of these would you recommend (or please tell me if they are all crap):

PC-cillin Internet Security (says it includes AV, Spyware, Firewall, anti-phising and some network stuff (but I don't have a network)).

System Mechanic 7 Professional (says it cleans spyware, includes iolo AV, iolo firewall and some other stuff).

webroot Spy Sweeper

Registry Mechanic PC System Repair (by PC Tools Software)

Any advice is appreciated. I'm delaying getting on the internet with my new computer until I have my security set up figured out. Thanks!

Mary
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[leroys1000]

PC-cillin should give you adequate protection to get you going.
I have had problems with system mechanic in the past.
Registry mechanic is good for keeping the registry clean,
but use it with care.

[mlpjd]

So, even with the new "more secure" Vista, you still need a third party AV, firewall, and spyware remover? Somewhere I heard you didn't need that stuff anymore ...... probably from Microsoft!

Mary

[renegade600]

So, even with the new "more secure" Vista, you still need a third party AV, firewall, and spyware remover? Somewhere I heard you didn't need that stuff anymore ...... probably from Microsoft!

Mary

it was billy boy speaking out of his nose again, you will still need all that stuff.

[AMH]

I am using McAfee and something called Anti-Spyware: Venus Spy Trap...

The guy who put my system back together after my hdd failed said that these two would work well.

I don't know much about McAfee or the Venus thing but i have not had a problem with either.

[blanc11]

Has anyone found a third party firewall for Vista?

[Miz]

You can read up on what the Vista firewall can do...and how to make it do it...on this page (http://www.microsoft.com/technet/community/columns/cableguy/cg0106.mspx). It's certainly more than the XP firewall offered.

[Donuil]

Trend Micro PC-cillin Internet Security (12?) works pretty smooth excpet for the auto updater will seems to take a longer time installing updates comprared to XP.