Ad-Aware - Is your computer slow on the Internet? This utility by Lavasoft discovers and removes "spyware" and cookies which some websites and viruses install on your PC without your knowledge.

Spyware Blaster - prevents Active/X spyware add-ins from running

Mozilla Firefox - tired of Internet Explorer security holes? Try this alternative web browser.

Blogger.com - want a FREE WEBSITE that can be set up by practically anyone, to post pictures very easily, exchange comments, write commentary, optionally keep it private. Did I say it's FREE?

Qurb - keep spam out of your Microsoft Outlook or Outlook Express inbox

AVG Antivirus Free Edition - uses less of your computer's horsepower than competing products (Symantec, McAfee) and yet is a top-rated antivirus product

Housecall by Trend Micro - free online virus scan

Shields Up - test your computer's vulnerability to outside hackers for free. Follow the links to Shields Up and click the "Test My Shields" and "Probe My Ports" buttons. Also see Steve's personal firewall evaluation scoreboard.

Symantec Antivirus Information Centre

cexx.org - Adware and Spyware ... what is it and how to remove it safely. Describes the 'free' programs that put exploitive software on your computer Also see Ad-Aware above.

Microsoft Resources - click on Search and choose Search microsoft.com

Microsoft Windows Update - keep your Windows computer up-to-date - a free Microsoft service

DSL Reports - tests and tools for optimizing performance on high speed Internet connections (like Direcway!)

PC Pitstop - tools and information for PC users