Questions on Firewalls and Anti-Virus Software (Norton)

[Stevendsmith]

I just installed Norton Firewall 2005 to my Windows PC. I also have Norton Anti-Virus 2003 with a subscription that is good until next month. Here are my questions.

1) Now that I have a proper firewall, do I need to keep the free spyware blockers that I downloaded (Spybot and Ad-aware)? If not, should I uninstall them?

2) Since my subscription is still good on my Anti-Virus 2003, does that mean I am still protected. Or should I upgrade to 2005 immediately?

BTW: I have a broadband connection.

Thanks for any help!

[pintobean]

1. Keep the spyware tools.

The firewall doesn't stop that stuff. You should be ok on the Anti-Virus. Run Norton's live update. All their active programs should be listed.

[Stevendsmith]

3. Thanks! So...?

So as long as the subscription is up to date on the 2003 product, LiveUpdate should provide me with Norton's most up-to-date virus definitions? In other words, I'm not better protected with the 2005 product?

I know, this is extremely boring!

Thanks!

[pintobean]

7. The protection will be the same with either one.

As long as you keep it updated. The '05 version just has all the stuff you've updated since '03 packaged into it. I'm still using the 2002 version. It's cheaper to renew it rather than upgrade each year.

[Stevendsmith]

2. Delete Message (NT)

[Uroboros]

4. I would keep the Spyware blockers...

The firewall probably will not protect you against spyware and ad-ware which those two programs (in conjunction) will find and destroy. God to run those once a month or so (while keeping them updated) to check your system and make sure it's clean.

As for the virus program; you are effectively protected until your subscription runs out. If you don't renew your subscription the virus program will not stop working; it just won't be updated with the latest virus lists. Meaning it won't be as effective any more.

You'll have to upgrade your subscripting (or to a later version of the program) to continue to be protected 100%.

[Lady Effingbroke]

5. Yes, Keep Spybot and Ad-Aware.

They help clean the crap out of your computer and will keep it running better.

Also try these FREE programs:

Spyware Blaster

Spyware Guard

CleanUp!

Crap Cleaner

[Stevendsmith]

6. Thanks all! Much appreciated advice! (NT)

[pintobean]

8. By the way

You can check tour firewall here. I've closed some holes with this site.
http://www.grc.com/x/ne.dll?rh1dkyd2

Edit: use internet explorer for this site