Basic (and trial) versions of security software with new computers

[japlytic]

A few months ago, I have heard that a number of new computers (especially those from local computer shops) come only with trial (and often basic) versions of security software and anti-virus software.

The so-called "trial" versions typically last around 90 days and they usually stop protecting your computer when the trial period expies.

These "trial" versions are usually bundled with mainboards, and these mainboards are usually sold in systems from local computer shops.

Also, what I call the "technologically impaired revolution" (mainly consisting of older age and new users) makes this problem even worse . I would (as well as you would) want to see this trend reversed.

Check these links out:

http://www.choice.com.au/viewPressRe...tid=100010&p=1
http://www.cnet.com.au/software/secu...0060841,00.htm
http://www.thecouriermail.news.com.a...58-953,00.html

Good thing I gave IE the flick (for most sites)...

[willawake]

Re: Basic (and trial) versions of security software with new computers

i would go further and say that ISPs need to try harder to ensure all email is free of virii and all unnecessary ports are blocked on their networks.

vista will deliver security and antispyware as default but not antivirus service. Microsoft will be pushing http://www.windowsonecare.com for that.

more worrying is the computers with xp installed on the hdd and no cds provided for xp or drivers.

[Chris1992]

Re: Basic (and trial) versions of security software with new computers

>all unnecessary ports are blocked on their networks.
even port 80 unless explicitly opened.

>more worrying is the computers with xp installed on the hdd and no cds provided for xp or drivers.
absolutely right, I see loads of those. However if you buy one, m$ will give you XP pro for free if you rat on the vendor.

[Galvanized]

Re: Basic (and trial) versions of security software with new computers

This gentelman is a long time developer for MS. His security recomendations are to be considered. http://www.mechbgon.com/build/index.html

I use AVG free, Ad-Aware and SpyBot but will be buying Kasperskey in the near future.

Mech stongly discourages using the XP Admin.account for general comp use because a limited account can be deleted if the infection is limited to just it.

The only time (fingers crossed ) I have picked up a serious infection was when my girl friend was going to University sites doing research. Because there is so much file sharing there she picked up several bad ones. Thankfully by deleting all temporary files most were dismissed.