Difference between firewall and anti-virus

[abstibus]

I have SpySweeper on my laptop. Do I also need a firewall (Vista)?
Many thanks for any advice.

[ACtheTROLL]

the vista firewall is actually quite good ... but you have to know how to drive it.

something like zone alarm is much more user friendly.

you also need a virus scanner ... AVG is (just) better than nothing ... but the good 'uns have to be bought

[Buenchico]

(2-part post):

Internet security basically requires 3 components:

First, you need a decent firewall. It's purpose is to prevent other people from connecting their computers directly to your own (which would allow them to access data on your PC or to install something nasty onto it). Windows Vista has its own firewall but many people regard it as inadequate. Most people prefer to use Zone Alarm Free Edition or Comodo (which is also free).

NB: You should never have two firewalls (or anti-virus programs) running simultaneously. If you install Zone Alarm or Comodo, you should disable the Vista firewall. Instructions are here:
http://www.sophos.com/support/knowledgebase/ar ticle/11827.html

[Buenchico]

Next, you need an anti-virus program. This stops malicious programs being installed on your computer by, for example, email attachments. Nothing in your post suggests that you've got any antivirus program at the moment. Get hold of AVG Free Edition or Avast! Home Edition (also free) as soon as possible.

Lastly, you need an anti-spyware program. This gets rid of software which tracks your web activities, so that you can be targetted for advertising purposes. These types of software have a nasty habit of slowing your PC down or of causing conflicts with legitimate software. Spy Sweeper is an anti-spyware program. (It is not an anti-virus program). It will do the job but it's no better than the free stuff, such as Adaware or SpyBot Search & Destroy (so there's little point in paying for the Spy Sweeper subscription).

All the links that you'll need are in my post here:
http://www.theanswerbank.co.uk/Technology/Ques tion669796.html

Chris

[abstibus]

Thanks, Buenchico
I'll get my resident young person to do this for me when he comes home tomorrow.