Thrifty Thursday - Budget Friendly Computer Protection

This week for my Thrifty Thursday post, I'm talking about keeping your computer safe on a budget.

If you wander the Internet at all, you know that the threat of computer viruses can be very real. Years ago, I remember the pain of not having my virus protection up to date, and losing everything on it - we're talking way back when Napster was at it's prime. ;) I was devastated - and it was a learning lesson to make sure all my photos are uploaded to a safe spot too.

You need a good anti-virus protection program. There are many free awesome programs available on the Internet, but in other cases, you get what you pay for - and the program you choose for free could let you down at the worst possible moment. Before downloading any program, be sure that first of all, it is from the company it's supposed to be from (hackers can pose as a free virus program!), and check reviews to see if it actually works.

Many major anti-virus companies will have free trials available that can keep your going for several months if you're trying to stretch your budget. You may have some luck finding BETA anti-virus programs, too. Norton is a company that has been running one program in a BETA mode right now that gives you three free months, but remember that with BETAs, there will probably be bumps along the way - you are helping test that unfinished product. You must make sure it updates its' files on a regular basis so you have the latest developments!

You can also often score anti-virus programs for free or nearly free after rebate on different sites such as Staples, Buy.com, etc. Be aware that it may take several days for the hard copy of the program to reach you, so don't wait until 24 hours before your current protection is set to expire. ;) If there is a rebate involved, be sure to copy everything before you send it in, so you have proof if they say something is missing, or you purchased the wrong edition.

The most important part after the virus protection is backing up your computer files on a regular basis. If you have photos - and we all do in this day and age - take advantage of sites that allow you to safely store your images for free. Many photo printing companies will give you free space, some without ever deleting your photos even if you don't order a print of that particular photo. (Be sure to check, and if you receive emails mentioning change of terms - always check to see if they are changing that part!)

Make sure that your computer also has all the program updates for browsers, media players, etc, up to date so that they don't expose you to any hackers or viruses - even the best programs that you pay full price for can miss something sometimes!