Compare Free PC Security Software Free Downloadable Security Programs Computer security software is readily available for free over the internet. While major corporations still produce extensive security software packages that are marketed for consumer purchase, they still release smaller versions that can be downloaded for free. When shopping for a free security software package, try to find ones that have as many of the following features as possible: Personal Firewalls - these are geared towards blocking active attempts by other terminals to access your computer over the internet. When looking for a free firewall, find one that has an easy user interface. This is because firewall settings are a major determinant in the extent of security they provide, so the interface should allow you to easily adjust these settings to suit your needs. Anti virus - anti virus software ideally should not only be able to detect and block incoming viruses, but should be able to detect existent viruses that are already in your system and clean them out. Since there are new viruses constantly being made, as well as thousands of existing known viruses, the best thing to look for in a virus software is an extensive database of viruses it can deal with, as well as constant updates on the latest viruses discovered. Adware and Pop Up Blockers - these are specialized programs similar to firewalls whose primary purpose is to keep ads, spam, and annoying pop ups from flooding your screen when you're accessing the internet. While not necessarily harmful, the sheer volume of these can, if unrestricted by a blocker, bog your computer speed down drastically. Anti Spyware - spyware is a form of virus that you should definitely consider protecting yourself against. While not a classic self-replicating and destructive virus per se, spyware actually inserts itself into your system and allows a hacker on a remote terminal to access your personal information This can range from simply monitoring and viewing your information and activities, to actually controlling your computer's functions. Spyware protection programs ideally should be able to not only block intrusion attempts, but to detect active spyware that manages to sneak in your system, and cut off its access. Anti Trojan Programs - Trojan viruses are special viruses that are usually disguised as a different program. For example, a trojan virus may appear to be a harmless game or a music file that you can download. Anti Trojan Programs scan all files that you attempt to download off the internet to make sure they are secure. Like regular anti virus programs, make sure the anti trojan program you select has a good coverage of known trojans. PC Security Can Be Costless Since computers have been used for a lot of purposes, no doubt that they are most of the time the targets of threats and danger.  Access to information is being sought.  Likewise, the existence of hackers for years gives more reason to owners to be very concerned about PC security.  Achieving ultimate PC security normally come with considerable costs to the owner.  However, there are some free PC security softwares available in the market which prove to be equally helpful and useful.  These are commonly firewalls and internet security products that are free if they going to be for personal use.  Some of the free personal firewalls available are ZoneAlarm, Comodo Personal Firewall, and Sunbelt Kerio Personal Firewall.  ZoneAlarm is a product of Zone Labs which has been popularly known as the producer of reliable products which are widely used.  On the other hand, Sunbelt Kerio Personal Firewall normally provides free download of full functions which last for a maximum of 30 days.  After which, the features will go back to the free version.  PC owners may opt to maintain the full functions after 30 days but this will come already with a fee which is usually around $20.  However, there are some things that you should remember when installing another firewall.  Make sure that the built-in firewall within Windows XP is deactivated already before installing another one.  It is not good to use two firewalls at the same time.  After installation of the new one, test it to see if your PC is really secured.  There are still many other free PC security softwares available nowadays.  One is called Ad Blocker which works to filter out web bugs, cookies, and urls.  Anti-Rootkit, on the other hand, shuns off concealed applications and processes. Moreover, to remove spyware on your PC, you may avail of Microsoft Anti-Spyware.  Another variation is called SpywareBlaster which prevents the loading of spyware onto your computer. Some internet browsers may also pose some risks to PC security.  According to some, the use of Internet Explorer brings in some viruses to the PC.  Firefox may be a good alternative.  Furthermore, for email clients, Thunderbird is also considered as a better option over Outlook Express.  A lot of users express satisfaction with such email client. You can indeed choose from a wide variety of available free PC security softwares.  To help you find out the most suitable for you, lay down all your usual PC activities.  From there, you can see what exposes you to risk most and counter with the best alternative.