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It is not always possible or practical to immediately move to Ubuntu Linux or other alternative when you have work to do and deadlines to meet. So you are stuck with Windows for now? Read on for the basics of securing your Windows Desktop using Freely available Tools.

Windows Update

Windows Update your one stop shop for patching Windows Operating systems. If you are running Windows you need your operating system to be updated on a regular basis - as Microsoft are regularily releasing patches to fix the endless supply of new Security Vulnerabilities. Some of the newer versions of Windows allow patches to be applied automatically when available (beware of required reboots when this occurs).

Anti-Virus

There are many free antivirus programs available. Some are below par when it comes to updates and system resource usage.

A good choice would be Antivir Personal Edition, Avast Antivirus or AVG Free Edition. Another option is Clamwin based on Clamav is a promising Open Source project. Clamav was originally developed to be used in a Mail Server environment, now other projects such as Clamwin have brought it to the desktop.

Anti-Spyware
Ad-Aware SE Personal, is a good choice and doesnt have some of the bad press associated with Microsofts own Anti-Spyware Tool.

Firefox
The Firefox Web Browser will keep you secured from much of the spyware and other threats that are present when using Internet Explorer. Having said that vulnerabilities are present in Firefox and you need to check for updates on a regular basis. The latest version (Firefox 1.5) has an auto update feature.

Personal Firewall
A local firewall is a good choice, as this can provide another layer of security (Security Indepth). A firewall can protect your system from vulnerabilities for which there is not yet a patch available or patches that have not been applied. Rogue services and backdoors are also thwarted by a personal firewall. It is a good idea to understand what you are allowing in and out of your firewall before clicking on the “allow” option. Following the initial install you need will to go through a “tuning” process that configures your firewall policy.

A free and popular choice is Zone Alarm, other choices include Sygate Personal Firewall and Kerio Personal Firewall.

Conclusion
Using freely available tools and performing regular maintenance it is possible to have a secure and productive Windows Desktop. The main thing to remember is once you have the above tools installed and working, you need to be aware of what is happening and ensure all updates are being applied.