Antivirus programs

Norton Antivirus 2001--Effective protection, and a previous PC World "best buy;" includes one year of virus-signature updates; additional updates are $4 per year.

PC-cillin 2000--Automatic updates, fast virus scans; includes a content filter for objectionable Websites.

Software firewalls

Network ICE BlackICE Defender 2.1.--Needs minimal user input. Provides detailed information on attacks, including source IP address, logs suspicious network activity and displays information graphically. Does not monitor applications.

Zone Labs ZoneAlarm Pro--Highly configurable, network ready; stops outside attacks and lets you selectively allow or disallow internet access by application. MailSafe quarantines potentially harmful e-mail attachments.

Hardware firewalls

Linksys Etherfast Cable/DSL Router--Inexpensive: Includes router for up to four networked PCs (expandable to 253 users). Overcoming some limitations on incoming services in the default configuration required extensive tweaking.

Linksys--Provides a wireless Cable/DSL Router and four-port switch combo for about $120 more than the wired version. If you work in an old building or want to do some work outside, this is the ticket.

File encryptor

CenturionSoft Steganos Security Suite--Easy-to-use 128-bit suite includes password management, file shredder, password-protected system lock, encrypted e-mail.

E-mail encryptor

Sigaba Secure--Highly secure encryption keeps keys separate from messages by generating the keys at Sigaba servers. Easy to set up and use, but currently lacks support for some major e-mail clients.

Anonymizer--Easy to use and works with any browser. Allows the secure use of cookies with sites that require them. URL encryption hides browsing history from prying eyes.

The products on this list were top-rated by PCWorld magazine.

15-second business tip

Eric Eder

President

Intelligent Connections

Three more tips for information security:

1. Harden your passwords. Passwords for system access should be a minimum of eight characters in length and should include numbers, letters and special characters. A great password example is E#a^9!e1.

2. Do not open attachments or e-mails (including previewing messages) from unknown sources. E-mail is the most common way to spread viruses and vandals.

3. Secure your Internet connections. Every connection on the Internet is at risk for "always on" technologies such as DSL and cable modems. Visit www.aks.com and download eSafe Desktop to protect your Internet connected system.

Guide to Detroit Region's
tech organizations

Automation Alley     www.automationalley.org
Digital Detroit       www.digitaldetroit.org
Smart Detroit          www.smart-detroit.com
ITE@M                         www.i-team.org
Ann Arbor IT Zone     www.annarboritzone.org
SmartZones          http://medc.michigan.org
Cyber-state.org          www.cyber-state.org