Freeware Security Apps
Ad-Aware
Ad-Aware 2007 is an anti-spyware application to remove malicious software such as spyware and adware from your computer. Although the free version doesn't have real-time protection, it is a very popular spyware removal program.
Avast!
Avast! Home Edition is another anti-virus solution, which has real-time protection. It features P2P and instant messenger virus protection. Also, if you say "Avast!" correctly, you can sound like a pirate.
AVG Free
AVG Free is an anti-virus program protection tool with free virus database updates, making this a popular and reliable free anti-virus solution. It has low system resources and provides real-time protect protection as well as the ability to scan your email or computer on demand. AVG Free includes AVG Resident Shield, which provides real-time protection as programs are run and files are opened, and AVG Virus Vault for safe handling of infected files.
Comodo Firewall
Comodo Firewall provides protection against identity theft hackers, trojans, viruses, scripts and malware. It is the PC Magazine Online's Editor's Choice and has many security features.
Restoration
Restoration is an application which can restore files deleted from the recycle bin or files deleted when pressing Shift+Delete. It also has another function which can delete files completely, so they can not be restored. You can scan for all files that may be recovered or limit the results by entering a search term or extension. Restoration works with FAT and NTFS as well as digital cameras cards.
Spybot - Search and Destroy
Spybot - Search and Destroy is another popular malware, spyware and adware removal program. It offers similar features to Ad-Aware, and you can use both. A "Tea-Timer" module can be enabled, which provides a level of real-time protection
Spyware Terminator
If the two anti-spyware programs above aren't enough, here's another one! Spyware Terminator can effectively remove harmful files on your computer, such as spyware, adware, trojans, keyloggers, home page hijackers and other malware threats. It is easy to use, requires minimal PC resources and has fast scanning speeds. You can protect your computer with real-time protection, as well as guard your personal information. You computer can be scanned manually or scanning can be scheduled.
TrueCrypt
Here is a tool for encrypting files (or just feeling like a spy). Basically it makes a file which can be mounted like it was a real hard drive. Then you can put files into it, which are encrypted using some trickiness. You can access the files by inputting your password and mounting the virtual drive using TrueCrypt.
