Adware/Spyware: Oftentimes we notice a gradual decline in the performance of our PC. Perhaps it no longer runs as fast as it did several months ago; certainly not like it did when it was new. Everything seems to take longer to run. Most problems encountered today are related to adware and spyware. These are programs installed on your computer to deliver advertising on your desktop, in the case of adware, or spy on your web browsing activities and report the results back to a marketing company (spyware). These programs are installed sometimes with your knowledge by your agreement to install; at other times they are installed when you install a free program. Usually they are not dangerous, but merely a nuisance. Microsoft offers a free program, Microsoft Defender, that does and excellent job of detecting and removing these programs.

Virus Protection: Perhaps the most essential piece of software needed on your PC is antivirus protection. Not only is this software essential but must incorporate the latest virus signatures. An unprotected PC can be compromised in a matter of minutes without virus protection. New viruses appear daily; having active and updated virus protection is the first and biggest step in protecting your computer. There are a number of antivirus solutions available. Norton Antivirus and MacAfee are two of the most popular. If you subscribe to Comcast broadband serivce, MacAfee is available free. You may use any program you like, but be sure to keep it updated and actively running so it can do what is supposed to do.