A PC with no antivirus is a sitting-duck waiting to be shot. But you don't need to break the bank (or use pirated software) to get a protection system in place that will protect your computer from threats.

Working directly with Orcon customers for over a year has made me realise just how many computers are in an alarming condition. Some have security packages that haven't been updated in months. Others have only anti-spam programs, assuming they'd take care of viruses too. Whilst a few have absolutely no protection on them whatsoever. Having a computer with no or inadequate security can lead to many issues cropping up, ranging from rogue emails and misfunctioning programs to complete erasure of harddrives and even personal identity theft.

Simple maintenance and a few easy-to-manage programs on your computer can often prevent many issues cropping up. And what's more, you can get your computer back into ship shape condition without breaking the bank. To start you off, here's some completely legal and legitimate Antivirus programs that hold their own in the market, whilst keeping that wallet firmly shut!

1. AVG

Easily the best known of the free antivirus programs. It's easy to use and easy to update, although a number of virus developers are targetting AVG due to it being one of the more commonly used antivirus programs

2. Avira

With an "easy or expert" choice of configuration methods, Avira has proven to be a breeze to use and catches numerous viruses that other "professional" programs fail to pick up on. The free edition runs from slower servers, so updating can be a bit lethargic

3. Avast

Built-in adware and spyware removal features compensate for a cumbersome user control panel. Avast catches most potential threats, but lacks in any extensive online support

TIP OF THE DAY

There will always be someone out there who wants to write a virus designed to bypass your antivirus program, regardless of how little or how much you spend on your software. Running TWO different antivirus programs reduces your computers chances of being attacked by a virus by around 80%