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Ask Slashdot: Best Anti-Virus Software In 2015? Free Or Paid?
CryoKeen writes: I got a new laptop recently after trading in my old laptop for store credit. While I was waiting to check out, the sales guy just handed me some random antivirus software (Trend Micro) that was included with the purchase. I don't think he or I realized at the time that the CD/DVD he gave me would not work because my new laptop does not have a CD/DVD player.
Anyway, it got me wondering whether I should use it or not. Would I be better off downloading something like Avast or Malwarebytes? Is there one piece of antivirus software that's significantly better than the others? Are any of the paid options worthwhile, or should I just stick to the free versions? What security software would you recommend in addition to anti-virus?
Anyway, it got me wondering whether I should use it or not. Would I be better off downloading something like Avast or Malwarebytes? Is there one piece of antivirus software that's significantly better than the others? Are any of the paid options worthwhile, or should I just stick to the free versions? What security software would you recommend in addition to anti-virus?
Because I'm assuming that will be an answer.
You can fill in any particular OS as an alternative.
Then they decided to do the stupefying thing that's the habit of all software companies, removing all the useful options "cuz only 5% of our usebase uses this". Well yeah, numbnuts, maybe only 5% will use any SINGLE feature, but each feature is used by a different 5%, so if you only keep the features used by most people, you can still end up pissing off most people.
I miss when the East was driven by first principles and the West by statistics - you'd get organisations combining the best of both worlds. Now it's all statistics, wildly misinterpreted.
AVG is a Freemium minefield. May as well be WeatherBug. Serves a purpose, but ultimately adware
"When life gives you lemons, don't make lemonade. Make life take the lemons back!" -- Cave Johnson
Trend Micro is top tier these days:
http://www.av-test.org/en/antivirus/home-windows/
DL Trend Micro trial and use the key on the disk.
Windows? Use Security Essentials and practice safe surfing. No need for anything else.
These days, if you get hacked you need to reimage, preferably with a new drive, maybe even a new motherboard. If you don't get a virus, you're fine.
AV has no point anymore.
Use Flashblock, Adblock and Noscript.
I'm not kidding.
I use a mix. I have webroot, the paid version, and I occasionally (i.e. weekly) run additional scans with SuperAntiSpyware and malwarebytes. On my work system, I have Avast (free, because the company i work for won't buy us anything) with extra scans with SuperAntiSpyware. As far as I know, I've never been hit by a virus.
I've found only one free antivirus where the nag screens can be turned off and stay off. Panda has treated me right so far and if things keep going this way I'm going to buy the premium version just to support the company. It's efficient, effective, and -- most importantly -- silent.
If video games influenced behavior the Pac Man generation would be eating pills and running away from their problems.
The Best AV for Windows is Microsoft Security essentials which is available for Free from Microsoft for private use. Make sure your OS and apps are not left without security updates. Use Secunia PSI or alternatively Qualys browser check both free for private use. One last thing, don't use an account with admin privileges but one that has limited rights, so if your box gets pwned the attackerhas to escalate privileges before he or she can run as admin/root.
I use Avast on our two Win7 computers. Seems fine after about 5 years use, IMHO
Clive DaSilva Email: clive.dasilva@gmail.com Ubuntu 18.10 Kernel 4.18
If you are on Windows 8.1, Windows Defender. If on Windows 7, MS Security Essentials. And supplement both with Malwarebytes. All free, and very non-intrusive.
who the hell takes trade-in laptops?
Remember kids, if you're not paying for the service, YOU ARE THE PRODUCT THAT IS BEING SOLD.
AV is pretty much useless anyway, and at least Microsoft's offering doesn't do much harm.
I thought the included (pre-installed) Microsoft Windows Defender (or Windows Security Essentials) was already good enough.
That, plus not installing every stupid piece of malware-studded "freeware" I come across and being a bit conservative in my browsing, has always been enough since Windows 7.
Windows after 7 also has a built-in software firewall, so wouldn't seem like you'd need one of those either.
I just can't picture needing anything beyond that.
Welcome to the Panopticon. Used to be a prison, now it's your home.
Clamav is free and isn't trying to sell you anything.
Kaspersky IS has signature whitelisting. If the executable isn't in the whitelist it doesn't run, period. You can configure it to completely prevent the execution of non-whitelisted exes. The database is updated daily, unlike a managed solution through Windows. It plays well with MalwareBytes, too.
As a person that actively ran viruses and rootkits on my own machine for years I'd say heuristics are worthless today. There's simply too many coders permutating and encrypting their code to trust a blacklist database anymore. The days of "a new virus came out today" were over in the 1990s.
A lot of IT guys swear by freeware antiviruses (you'll see them come out in droves in these comments), because they're "smart enough" to use them. But I have to say that no freeware solution will protect mom and dad who execute anything thrown at them. "Learning security basics" is never going to happen, so just lock down the threat at its source and use a whitelisting solution like KIS 2015.
I am using ClamXav. So far, so good.
I use OSX, but I still engage in safe surfing.
If only there were a way to access CD/DVD data from a computer without a CD/DVD drive. Wouldn't that make the world a wondrous place?
Microsoft Security Essentials has been solid, and I try to surf as safely as possible. I'm honestly more afraid of a Windows update bricking the system, so I have auto-install updates turned off too, and install them a week after availability.
If you use Windows, then you are already vulnerable. Bitdefender is one of the better antivirus out there. You get a 30 day free trial so you can see if it is for you. You can also find promo discounts to get it cheaper. Bitdefender has different levels like internet security and total security. I have tried others like PC Mechanic and McAfee antivirus and they are horrid. Bitdefender is considered the best, but it can still be knocked out if you are careless.
However it depends on how recent it is and how complete a solution it provides. I've used it in the Enterprise IT arena in the past (I've been in enterprise IT for a couple of decades now) and it worked well, both on servers and desktops. Last year though when I purchased a new laptop (my first Windows laptop in years) I looked around for a while and settled on Norton 360. I thought it provided the most complete solution, had decent reviews and I got it at a steal of a price - something like $20 on Amazon as a "deal of the day". I had looked at McAfee (which I still do not care for), was close to purchasing Kaspersky before the sale on Norton 360, and I had dismissed the free tools as simply "better than northing". Now, probably six months later, I don't regret the purchase at all but I do hope I can find a deal on Norton 360 again come renewal time.
Eset is one, if not the best out there.
But still, block ads, don't install java, etc, etc.
You are not going to find anyyhing that does it all the best. You also cannot run more than one antivirus at a time. Well, you can but i will make hou wish you never thought of the idea. And no- malware bytes is not an antivirus.
You would be better served learning safe habbits and monitoring tech sites dealing with infections while not expecting a best product. Do this anyways if someone convinces you thay there is a best.
Nowadays i use Microsoft's free AV, a decent browser and discretion. Unless you're particularly haphazard (like downloading random files with full Admin privileges and visiting dodgy sites with unpatched IE) that should be enough. You don't really need a full arsenal of anti-malware software anymore. Ms has tightened things up a fair bit over the last years.
A while back i tried NOD32 and was very impressed. I don't know if it's still good.
Make sure you get a cryptowall, and other ransomware, prevention. Bitdefender has one, free. Called Bitdefender Anti-ransomware prevents the virus from installing, and running...
I have tried a few paid options and a number of free antivirus. Nothing as yet has convinced me to use a paid option.
For Windows 8 there is no need as Microsoft Security Essentials, renamed Windows Defender, is good enough. Otherwise I use Avast, which seems to work well and comes with a few handy options like a software updater and the option to run a scan at boot time. Though it can be annoying recently as it reminds you of other paid features like VPN tunnels.
Steer clear of Norton for God's sake, it seems as bad as the disease itself. I dislike Symentec and had problems in the past with AVG. A few years back an update prevented browsers from accessing the internet.
If you think you may be infected try running a scan of the free version of Malwarebytes, it gives a good second opinion and is great at cleaning up some infections.
The most dangerous drug
Malwarebytes Anti-Malware.
Avast for Window or Mac though the latter is somewhat useless. Best feature is boot-time scanner which can catch issues before they load and prevent anti-virus from loading.
I used to use AVG until it became bloatware, then I tried Avira and it seemed to suffer stability problems, switched to Avast which was OK and didn't seem to slow things down, and then removed that when I realised how much FUD the antivirus industry uses to sell its products, and how piss-poor their products are at doing their job.
I've seen malware infections - from trivial all the way up to cryptolocker - manage to get past the "big 3" (norton/symantec, McAfee, and Trend Micro), and AVG. The only products who seem to be stable and maintain a small-ish footprint are Eset and Kaspersky.
I leave Windows defender switched on, scan once every few months with free malwarebytes, keep Cryptoprevent updated, and anything else I can remove with Combofix - not that I've had anything in over 2 years, but Combofix is what I use to repair customers' machines, then I leave them with a copy of free malwarebytes, and Cryptoprevent.
They sentenced me to twenty years of boredom
Bitdefender free. Register it every year (no activation required) and it won't ever pop up for annoying ads or extra addins. Industry leading protection and grandma-proof usability. There isn't anything better I've found.
I'm on Windows 7. Here are my tips:
1) I have run avast real-time for years. I'm a pretty wary, sophisticated user. But it has occasionally blocked malicious elements on webpages. And it once blocked a zip attachment that I got sucked in on with a phishing email before any harm was done. I have also had it give me a few false positives over the years, which are a bit disconcerting to see and annoying until you can get things sorted out.
2) Second, I run malwarebytes scans from time to time.
3) Other prevention: adblock plus and noscript plugins.
4) For seemingly dangerous websites that I still want to be able to access, I use a Sandboxie sandbox for the browser.
I've used Avira (free-av.com) for years (since Windows XP at least), both on my computers and my friends' and family's, and I've never gotten a virus despite visiting Bit Torrent and other questionable sites.
It's 100% free and it doesn't install malware (though it might optionally install some crapware, I forget). The only downside is that they pop an alert maybe once a day or so with different messages (the point of which is clearly to prod you to purchase the paid version). I strongly recommend getting the paid version to make those alerts go away ... but I'm embarrassed to admit that I haven't actually done as much myself (sorry Avira!).
What do people think of the security of using Windows 7's Virtual PC feature with "undo hard disks"?
Is this an effective VM? It sure is simpler to get running than a separate VirtualBox or similar.
Stop doing Windows.
I have been a fan of Avira Antivir for several years now. Avira, spybot s&d inoculated host file, and roughly 6 month mbam scans. Regularly catch crap (by the hundreds) missed by ALL previously mentioned products on computers brought over by friends. It is actually a decent drinking game to bet them when they are sure their crap is clean and never hacked.
These days the most effective measure you can take is to install an ad blocker. That will prevent the vast majority of drive by installs. Second, I'd say you need to be very sceptical of freeware software installers. Using a service like Chocolatey to find and install popular utilities will help here. Third, I'd recommend installing Process Explorer as a replacement for the windows Task Manager. Get a feel for what programs are running in the background, and investigate anything you don't yet recognise particularly after installing something new.
09F91102 no, 455FE104 nope, F190A1E8 uh-uh, 7A5F8A09 that's not it, C87294CE no. Ah! 452F6E403CDF10714E41DFAA257D313F.
...this is the correct answer.
trend micro keeps turning itself off on my computer. I could have a virus but if tm cant protect itself i wouldnt consider a good av.
After seeing so many customer computers with a wide variety of anti-virus software, still succumb to malware and virus infection, there really is NO good anti-virus.
They all suck, and offer very little real protection against threats users usually encounter.
I still use defender/MSE on my windows computers, but with the recognition that it is usually the human behavior behind the keyboard that will get you infected/keep you clean 99.9% of the time. At least defender/MSE doesn't try to sell me crap, or needlessly interrupts what I am doing.
Keep windows patched, use an ad-blocker, don't visit every random website, be careful in what you install, be critical of all your emails, and that will offer you better protection than any anti-virus I've seen.
Dennis Technology Labs tests the major antivirus programs quarterly.
http://dennistechnologylabs.com/
Who runs anti-virus?
The pro version has a lot going for it with real time malicious website blocking. All these guys saying they don't need any av are like fish who eat whatever they see - hook line and sinker. All the latest 0-day flash hacks etc get stopped by malwarebytes super fast. Plus if it removes something you wanted ( keygen.32.riskware) you can put it back easily. Avast is decent but go ahead and connect to a network share, have it flag and delete stuff instantly. Not really that desireable. Nice that it will also update other apps like flash, java etc. I like the free trend micro system cleaner for cleaning infected systems. Sysclean.com and the latest definition file in safe mode is a worthwhile cleanup step. Been using it for at least 10 years with great success.
When it comes to Women's tennis I always bet against the heterosexual
-- Top Secret
When it comes to AV products I usually trust the Romanians or the Russians. KIS is lightweight and just works.
Harrison's Postulate - "For every action there is an equal and opposite criticism"
The best AV software is changing the OS. Leave Windows now! You've warned!
Non-intrusive... and ineffective. I just cleaned up my brother-in-law's machine and that was what he was using.
My preferred approach is to use Avira Free (installed with ninite.com), MalwareBytes, HiJackThis, and the no-ads hosts file from mvps.
Secondary, install Google Chrome with adblock and a good no-script type program (though I personally just use Ghostery with AdBlock)
If treating for malware, bleepingcomputer is the site to go to. Run RKill, followed by ComboFix, ADWCleaner, and TDSSKiller.
This takes care of 99% of the issues, assuming you don't HAVE to continually visit some obscure Russian porn sites.
OP didn't mention whether it's Windows 7 or 8, but Windows 8 includes A/V out of the box. Lots of other good security best practices listed here, as well.
--------------------- -me, Crusher of those who are Foolish (don't be foolish)
An external USB DVD with read and write capabilities cost less than a packet of cigarettes in English speaking countries. They are almost as thin as the DVDs themselves they are used on laptops and small office servers. Virus spyware malware scanners work from so-called cloud-based because of the storage capability that is needed to detect all the known viruses and Trojans and spyware that are created every day. That means you have somebody who has the capability to monitor everything you do regardless of VPNs that you may use. The U.S. has a law that can demand any U.S. software or hardware company must give the U.S. spy agency the capabilities to spy on you and they are intoxicated with that power. A U.S. antivirus product would not be a good idea. Emsisoft, does a all in one product I think they are Austrian, and also have a base in New Zealand. http://www.emsisoft.com/ one of us has an account with these people. These days you cannot trust any software company, and as they say with software paranoia is a sense of awareness. it is not that I have something worth spying on it is just that I would like to have something that belongs to me.
MS Security Essentials ranks at the BOTTOM of the list of every independent AV test and you think it is safe? The thing is just as useless as the built-in MS Firewall (does nothing).
The only people who suggest MSSE are people who are completely clueless about basic security.
It was free and doens't give me popunders like Avira and Avast and doesn't hog my CPU much.
Hate its sudden bandwidth hogging updates every time I connect to the internet though. Terrible for laptops
Avira is pretty good (but sometimes annoying with the nagging popups). But suggesting Google (spyware) Chrome for security is just plain stupid.
ClamWin, the windows port of ClamAV which is relied on for mail scanning on just about every Linux/UNIX mail server you run across.
I think there may be a better front end that uses the ClamAV database as well, but I tend to just install ClamWin and call it a day.
Windows is a bonfire, Linux is the sun. Linux only looks smaller if you lack perspective.
Not only does it stop a bunch of viruses before they can get to your computer, it also blocks ads and makes pages load faster.
Don't waste your vote! Vote for whoever you want, unless you live in a swing state it won't matter anyways
G'Day,
I've been looking after PC's for clients for 20 odd years, I've seen lots of different AV's and malware software, and for the last 4 or 5 years using a combination has worked fine.
Avast for the antivirus (free is fine) and malwarebytes for the malware protection. Running both has reduced the amount of call backs for fixing up machines due to nasties dramatically.
Keep in mind they are different products covering a different scope of nasties.
" I just cleaned up my brother-in-law's machine and that was what he was using."
He's probably someone who clicks links or goes to websites he has no clue about. MSSE will do just fine if you're capable of safe browsing habits.
It should be super expensive so people do not use insecure operating systems.
EMET http://support.microsoft.com/k... along with whatever antivirus you choose.
I like ESET, especially the business version with console. I get it for my large customers.
Kaspersky is good. I use it for email gateways and small offices. The firewall breaks some shit, though.
I'm always removing viruses from computers that are running avast!, McAfee, Symantec, and AVG, so I won't be using those anytime soon
Trend Micro seems to be great, but I only have a couple of users running it so I have never used it in a large environment.
Vipre is a bad joke (I tested it).
MalwareBytes is great at removing crap and I use it often, but I have yet to use the paid version.
TDSSKiller http://support.kaspersky.com/v... for rootkits.
I'm thinking purchasing MalewareBytes for a small office soon (8 users), but I may go with Trend Micro. I'm on the fence.
"I fail to comprehend why so many people put up with Microsoft Windows, Apple, and products thereof."
Because they're good products that work.
"These companies put out the most asinine software and make life difficult for everyone."
Yeah okay buddy. Recall every Windows machine and replace it with a Linux machine and see just how smoothly the world (people) will run.
"The last time I tried to use MS Windows I couldn't even figure out how to shut the stupid system down and had to use CTRL+P to print."
Can't tell if troll at this point or just ridiculously stupid.
"I actually had to go through what must have been 25 screens"
That's not Microsoft's fault. That is Lexmark's doing.
"(and I only succeeded after two other seasoned MS Windows techs failed)"
Well I think you need to find some new techs because there's no reason you shouldn't have a printer driver installed in under 5 minutes.
Using antivirus/antimalware software to protect your computer from harmful software is like taking a pregnancy test every day and calling it birth control: Its only function will be to inform you that it has failed.
I haven't used antivirus software since midway through XP's lifecycle, and I've never had problems. Don't mindlessly click things on the internet and you'll be fine.
Best Antivirus I've used is Norton Internet Security and Symantec endpoint at work.
A FREE hosts program adds speed, security, & reliability, doing more, more efficiently vs. addons + fixes DNS' redirect security issues:
APK Hosts File Engine 9.0++ 32/64-bit:
http://start64.com/index.php?o...
---
A.) Hosts do more than:
1.) AdBlock ("souled-out" 2 Google/Crippled by default http://techcrunch.com/2013/07/... )
2.) Ghostery (Advertiser owned) - "Fox guards henhouse" http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/G...
3.) Request Policy -> http://yro.slashdot.org/commen...
B.) Hosts add reliability vs. downed/redirected dns (& overcome site redirects e.g. /. beta).
C.) Hosts secure vs. malicious domains too -> http://tech.slashdot.org/comme... w/ less "moving parts" complexity
D.) Hosts files yield more:
1.) Speed (adblock & hardcodes fav sites - faster than remote dns)
2.) Security (vs. malicious domains serving malcontent + block spam/phish & trackers)
3.) Reliability (vs. downed or Kaminsky redirect vulnerable dns, 99% = unpatched vs. it & worst @ isp level + weak vs DGA, & Fastflux + dynDNS botnets)
4.) Anonymity (vs. dns request logs + dnsbl's).
---
* Hosts do more w/ less (1 file) @ faster levels (ring 0) vs redundant inefficient addons (slowing slower ring 3 browsers) via filtering 4 the IP stack (coded in C, loads w/ os, & 1st net resolver queried w\ 45++ yrs.of optimization).
* Addons = more complex + slow browsers in messagepassing (use a few concurrently & see) & are nullified by native browser methods - It's how Clarityray's destroying Adblock.
* Addons slowup slower usermode browsers layering on more - & bloat RAM consumption + excessive cpu use too (4++gb extra in FireFox https://blog.mozilla.org/nneth...)
Instead, work w/ a more capable native kernelmode part you already have - hosts (An integrated part of the ip stack)
APK
P.S.=> "The premise is quite simple: Take something designed by nature & reprogram it to make it work for the body rather than against it..." - Dr. Alice Krippen: "I am legend"
...apk
I love end users that choose to go with free AV. They get infected and I make money. I am a self employed network engineer / admin. I do not support home users. I have over 30 businesses I support in my area and have had a few try and go the free route. It is like the old Fram oil filter ads; "Pay me now or pay me later". I recommend Vipre Business Premium to all of the clients I support. For the companies without a server I recommend Vipre Internet Security. The pricing is very reasonable and it doesn't take over your PC like Norton / Symantec and others. They have great English speaking customer service, free version updates as long as your license is up to date, and have reduced my documented virus removal time by over 90%. Yes, this reduces my billable time for the clients, but the confidence they find in the service I provide far out weighs the loss of revenue. I get to keep them as a client, make a small % off the sale of the AV and have maintained a 99% customer retention rate. You get what you pay for. Vipre consistently tests at he top of all AV solutions for response time to zero day infections and over all effectiveness. I am not an employee of Vipre or ThreatTrack, just love their product and the management console for server based networks.
Can adblock do 16 things hosts files do for more speed, security, & reliability:
1.) Protect you vs. known malicious sites/servers (beyond malicious adbanners: See 2-7 next)
2.) Protect you vs. fastflux using botnets + stop their communication back to C&C servers
3.) Protect you vs. dynamic dns using botnets + stop their communication back to C&C servers
4.) Protect you vs. DGA/domain generation algorithm botnets + stop their communication back to C&C servers
5.) Protect you vs. downed DNS servers (adds reliability)
6.) Protect you vs. DNS redirect poisoned dns servers
7.) Protect users vs. DNS Amplification attacks
8.) Protect users vs. trackers
9.) Protect users vs. spam mails sources
10.) Protect users vs. phishing mails sources
11.) Get you past a dnsbl you may not agree with
12.) Keep you off dns request logs
13.) Speed you up for websurfing not only by adblocking but also hardcoding favorite sites
14.) Work on ANY webbound application (think stand-alone email programs, for example).
15.) Give you direct, easily notepad/texteditor controlled data for all of the above
16.) Do all of those things & block ads (better than addons) more efficiently in cpu cycles + memory usage
* "?"
APK
P.S.=> The ANSWER ="NO" to each enumerated item above as far as AdBlock's concerned: It's also "souled-out" -> http://techcrunch.com/2013/07/...
AdBlock's 4++gb & 100% CPU usage flooring inefficiency -> https://blog.mozilla.org/nneth... + ClarityRay defeats it.
AdBlock does far less by way of comparison, & hosts do MORE w/ less.
AdBlock also adds more complexity/room for breakdown/exploit + from a slower mode of operations (usermode = more messagepassing overheads vs. hosts in kernelmode).
Hosts start w/ the IP stack itself before REDUNDANT inefficient addons BEGIN to operate (as 1st resolver queried too)
... apk
I'm really surprised more people aren't recommending Bit Defender. I use the free version on my own machines and install it on customer PCs, and have had very good results from it. Never pops up asking to upgrade to a premium version, doesn't audibly announce it's updating/scanning/etc (in fact you'll only know it's there if something goes wrong). It also doesn't impact performance very much at all -- way better than Avast or AVG. According to http://www.av-comparatives.org..., they're always at the top of their game.
I've stopped using AV software 5 years ago. Until then I was using Commodo, which was great.
Common sence will have you protected. I do yearly scans with Malwarebytes, Spybot and Kaspersky Rescue CD which is free, with the latest database, and cleans shit up because it's a boot cd. Windows isn't even started when you're scanning. Most infected I got was only 2 viruses, 2 years ago. I run dual boot with Arch and Windows 8.1 with disabled MSE / Defender and Firewall for daily use. I even download porn and shits, and I'm still safe...
Common sence people!!!!
Can adblock do 16 things hosts files do for more speed, security, & reliability:
1.) Protect you vs. known malicious sites/servers (beyond malicious adbanners: See 2-7 next)
2.) Protect you vs. fastflux using botnets + stop their communication back to C&C servers
3.) Protect you vs. dynamic dns using botnets + stop their communication back to C&C servers
4.) Protect you vs. DGA/domain generation algorithm botnets + stop their communication back to C&C servers
5.) Protect you vs. downed DNS servers (adds reliability)
6.) Protect you vs. DNS redirect poisoned dns servers
7.) Protect users vs. DNS Amplification attacks
8.) Protect users vs. trackers
9.) Protect users vs. spam mails sources
10.) Protect users vs. phishing mails sources
11.) Get you past a dnsbl you may not agree with
12.) Keep you off dns request logs
13.) Speed you up for websurfing not only by adblocking but also hardcoding favorite sites
14.) Work on ANY webbound application (think stand-alone email programs, for example).
15.) Give you direct, easily notepad/texteditor controlled data for all of the above
16.) Do all of those things & block ads (better than addons) more efficiently in cpu cycles + memory usage
* "?"
APK
P.S.=> The ANSWER ="NO" to each enumerated item above as far as AdBlock's concerned: It's also "souled-out" -> http://techcrunch.com/2013/07/...
AdBlock's 4++gb & 100% CPU usage flooring inefficiency -> https://blog.mozilla.org/nneth... + ClarityRay defeats it.
AdBlock does far less by way of comparison, & hosts do MORE w/ less.
AdBlock also adds more complexity/room for breakdown/exploit + from a slower mode of operations (usermode = more messagepassing overheads vs. hosts in kernelmode).
Hosts start w/ the IP stack itself before REDUNDANT inefficient addons BEGIN to operate (as 1st resolver queried too)
... apk
All antivirus sucks, the only difference is how much you pay for it. You give me an PC with any combination of AV product(s) and 15 minutes and I'll give you an infected box, and it won't just be an Adware / Crapware infection. It will be a Screw you type of Cryptovirus or some serious credential stealing backdoor.
That being said, I use MSE / Windows 8 Defender simply because it's free and the least intrusive of the free AV's and it works great as a canary since every Virus attacks MSE / Defender first and you know you're infected when it keels over, giving you time to do something about it before your Files / Backup gets screwed.
Also, Get Adblock plus for your browser, Disable Non Obtrusive ad's in adblock plus so you don't see the Search Engine virus ads and don't download or install anything from anywhere afterwards.
In Soviet Russia, Trojan exploits YOU!
The answer to the question, "What's the best anti-virus to use?"
No, seriously. Most trojans and malware get installed because the user is an idiot or just plain ignorant. You want to avoid malware, avoid websites that are shady and email that isn't from anyone you know or do business with. If they are from those people check the links and attachment names before you open anything. Get Adblock Plus and NoScript add-ons for Chrome or Firefox and use Flash only where you have to.
YOU are the best antivirus program there is.
Don't be like the disgusting majority of windows users who log in everytime as admin. Login with regular user access and half the viruses become helpless.
Damn_registrars has no butt-hole. Damn_registrars has no use for a butt-hole.
If you are running a small business AD environment, especially if its virtualised, we've had a good experience with webroot. Pushing it out via group policy, easy to manage and track centrally via its webconsole and doesn't kill your shared network storage.
Plays nice with other virus checkers to, we also use malware bytes free for random scans of desktops.
Most posts are regarding the value of the software. They totally miss the point the laptop lacks a CD/DVD drive. Simple solution that works for Windows and Linux is an external USB optical drive. They are not expensive and can be had for less than some nicer keyboards.
I don't pack an optical drive with my netbooks and notebook, but I do have a drive for those times I need to view or write optical medial. Some are designed for travel and don't require a wall wart for power.
Running Security Essentials + MalwareBytes for close to 5 years now.
Malware Bytes? Yes.... Great product that really is pretty effective (especially if you can boot into "safe mode" in Windows first) at cleaning up malware.
But Windows Defender? Absolutely not. It got ranked absolute worst at detecting malware in a head to head test last year vs. something like 40 other products on the market! And just from personal experience trying to keep PCs clean in an office setting with a lot of mobile workers? It didn't even trigger on some heavily infected machines.
Personally, we use eSet NOD32, and while I won't claim it's "best" - I just feel it seems to do a reasonably good job without dragging down system performance. It's not free but not that expensive either.
The reason is this - for 4 years running, it has one of the lowest performance impacts on a running system. Does it catch everything? No, but nothing does. Given that AV is imperfect protection, I might as well have a smoothly running system with minimal protection.
It especially explains why many colleges (at least before the US drinking age was raised to 21) have bars called "The Rathskeller", pronounced "Rat Cellar".
Bill Stewart
New Fast-Compression-only CPR http://preview.tinyurl.com/dy575ks
We have excellent results with Sophos. It has not been a drain on resources and has blocked everything so far for a couple of years on over 250 windows systems and servers. Symantec became ineffective and ruined performance. Microsoft Security Essentials is much better than it used to be and if you only surf safe sites and run commercial software, it will likely be fine; it comes loaded on Windows 8 and is free for Windows 7.
Greed is the root of all evil.
I've been using Outpost on a lifetime license for 8 or 9 years. I used ESET before that. I haven't had a computer infection in 15 years or so... Mostly because I am not stupid about what I click on or what I open in email. I like having a backup, but just don't be stupid is the most important thing.
I'm interested in anything anyone has to say about Malwarebytes.
See subject: I also don't associate myself w/ "just anyone" -> http://ask.slashdot.org/commen...
* :)
(Enjoy - it works, & to quote Howard Stark from the film "Captain America": "It's stronger than steel, & a 3rd the weight...")
APK
P.S.=> Simply by keeping you from *REALLY* even needing antivirus/antispyware @ all, by blocking out the main threat - the source of infestation online (& yet going faster + more reliably online, even more anonymously to an extent, if you like)... apk
Comment removed based on user account deletion
Hello everyone and hello to the author of this article,
My name is Sean, and after using numerous antivirus software I have concluded that the best antivirus software to use is WEBROOT. Yes you do have to pay for it, but it's worth the $50/year because the software actually does what it's programmed to do plus it's the only antivirus and antimalware software that doesn't use large amounts of resources. If anyone disagrees then please comment or post the best antivirus software to use.
P.S.
Malwarebytes only stops malware, it does nothing for viruses.
This is hilarious because Bill Gates said it.
YOU FOOL! You typed the file that shant be named! You will summon HIM! Do you know nothing?
See subject & this link -> http://ask.slashdot.org/commen... ?
(Enjoy)
* I'm glad to be associated with a great effort doing great stuff vs. the rotten stuff out there in this world (@ least some of it - & so, simply by applying myself with what I know how to do, which is code... thus, online I do, & aid others along with them, & it ALL works/helps vs. online infestation... the right idea)!
APK
P.S.=> "It's not easy being 'world-class'..." :)
... apk
Can't tell if troll at this point or just ridiculously stupid.
You really can't tell? You must be yankin' our chain...
See subject & this link -> http://ask.slashdot.org/commen... ?
(Enjoy)
* I'm glad to be associated with a great effort doing great stuff vs. the rotten stuff out there in this world (@ least some of it - & by simply applying myself doing what I have done for decades, coding...? I help online being faster, safer, & more reliable for others, & help out also vs. infestations/infections by malware of all kinds cutting off their main sources online, & it works...)!
Plus, hey - I *don't* just associate myself with just "anyone", either...!
APK
P.S.=> "It's not easy being 'world-class'..." :)
... apk
You'd like this #1 test result in mid 2014 vs. all others http://ask.slashdot.org/commen...
APK
P.S.=> I don't associate myself with "just anyone"... apk
Can adblock do 16 things hosts files do for more speed, security, & reliability:
1.) Protect you vs. known malicious sites/servers (beyond malicious adbanners: See 2-7 next)
2.) Protect you vs. fastflux using botnets + stop their communication back to C&C servers
3.) Protect you vs. dynamic dns using botnets + stop their communication back to C&C servers
4.) Protect you vs. DGA/domain generation algorithm botnets + stop their communication back to C&C servers
5.) Protect you vs. downed DNS servers (adds reliability)
6.) Protect you vs. DNS redirect poisoned dns servers
7.) Protect users vs. DNS Amplification attacks
8.) Protect users vs. trackers
9.) Protect users vs. spam mails sources
10.) Protect users vs. phishing mails sources
11.) Get you past a dnsbl you may not agree with
12.) Keep you off dns request logs
13.) Speed you up for websurfing not only by adblocking but also hardcoding favorite sites
14.) Work on ANY webbound application (think stand-alone email programs, for example).
15.) Give you direct, easily notepad/texteditor controlled data for all of the above
16.) Do all of those things & block ads (better than addons) more efficiently in cpu cycles + memory usage
* "?"
APK
P.S.=> The ANSWER ="NO" to each enumerated item above as far as AdBlock's concerned: It's also "souled-out" -> http://techcrunch.com/2013/07/...
AdBlock's 4++gb & 100% CPU usage flooring inefficiency -> https://blog.mozilla.org/nneth... + ClarityRay defeats it.
AdBlock does far less by way of comparison, & hosts do MORE w/ less.
AdBlock also adds more complexity/room for breakdown/exploit + from a slower mode of operations (usermode = more messagepassing overheads vs. hosts in kernelmode).
Hosts start w/ the IP stack itself before REDUNDANT inefficient addons BEGIN to operate (as 1st resolver queried too)
... apk
I have found the Sophos product to be awesome for home use. If you register for it, you get a license to use the security gateway with up to 50 IP addresses, and you also get A/V for 10 hosts.
http://www.sophos.com/en-us/products/free-tools/sophos-utm-home-edition.aspx
A FREE hosts program adds speed, security, & reliability, doing more, more efficiently vs. addons + fixes DNS' redirect security issues:
APK Hosts File Engine 9.0++ 32/64-bit:
http://start64.com/index.php?o...
---
A.) Hosts do more than:
1.) AdBlock ("souled-out" 2 Google/Crippled by default http://techcrunch.com/2013/07/... )
2.) Ghostery (Advertiser owned) - "Fox guards henhouse" http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/G...
3.) Request Policy -> http://yro.slashdot.org/commen...
B.) Hosts add reliability vs. downed/redirected dns (& overcome site redirects e.g. /. beta).
C.) Hosts secure vs. malicious domains too -> http://tech.slashdot.org/comme... w/ less "moving parts" complexity
D.) Hosts files yield more:
1.) Speed (adblock & hardcodes fav sites - faster than remote dns)
2.) Security (vs. malicious domains serving malcontent + block spam/phish & trackers)
3.) Reliability (vs. downed or Kaminsky redirect vulnerable dns, 99% = unpatched vs. it & worst @ isp level + weak vs DGA, & Fastflux + dynDNS botnets)
4.) Anonymity (vs. dns request logs + dnsbl's).
---
* Hosts do more w/ less (1 file) @ faster levels (ring 0) vs redundant inefficient addons (slowing slower ring 3 browsers) via filtering 4 the IP stack (coded in C, loads w/ os, & 1st net resolver queried w\ 45++ yrs.of optimization).
* Addons = more complex + slow browsers in messagepassing (use a few concurrently & see) & are nullified by native browser methods - It's how Clarityray's destroying Adblock.
* Addons slowup slower usermode browsers layering on more - & bloat RAM consumption + excessive cpu use too (4++gb extra in FireFox https://blog.mozilla.org/nneth...)
Instead, work w/ a more capable native kernelmode part you already have - hosts (An integrated part of the ip stack)
APK
P.S.=> "The premise is quite simple: Take something designed by nature & reprogram it to make it work for the body rather than against it..." - Dr. Alice Krippen: "I am legend"
...apk
I used to use solely Windows. Then I started running a linux distro inside a virtual machine for just a web browser and e-mail client. Now,
I only boot into Gentoo. Aside from updates, the only thing I do with Gentoo is run virtual machines through VirtualBox. It is inside those virtual machines that I do other things:
Win7 in a VM for Windows-only games, and only that
Arch Linux in a VM for web browsing and e-mail, and only that
Various OSes in seperate VMs for testing, all changes to them are discarded afterwards
Xubuntu in a VM for everything else
I like to keep the most-likely-to-be-compromised stuff seperate from everything else. For most, there is likely little need to do all that I did. However, even just running another OS in a VM for a browser and e-mail client is probably magnitudes better than solely hoping an anti-virus program can keep you safe.
How could they not be? See July 2014 test results -> http://ask.slashdot.org/commen...
APK
P.S.=> I don't associate myself with "just anyone" & when you surround yourself with greatness, you get great results (I do my part with them)... apk
Clamwin. Open source. Freeware. Used it on every windows box from xp to 8.1 never got an infection.
We run them both.
I've run AVG Free for years and I have no idea what you are talking about. It leaves me alone. Only the occasional new version installs (vs. just virus updates), which is once per year, bother me - once. There's a banner underneath the AVG window, but I don't need to open that and it isn't intrusive, it's just "there" (when the AVG window is open).
avira
no-script
host file
http://winhelp2002.mvps.org/hosts.htm
There isn't much of a difference between the desktop OS vendor capabilities - Windows Defender on Windows or Xprotect on OS X - and paid software like Norton's and , McAffee etc, in preventing infections.
There are significant down sides in almost all commercial AV software - almost the whole industry is bullshit , based on selling fear.
The most important things you can do do prevent getting viruses are :
- run a recent OS that still gets security patches, and patch ASAP
- keep your Apps/Browsers up to date and patched
- don't use client side Java , or Flash
- do not run as a privileged user
- do not do day to day user stuff on your servers
If you do that, you are 80+% safe. AV software will protect you about 30% of the time.
If you ran Linux or OS X, in addition to the above, that would take you to something north of 95% .
A sandboxed browser and smart application installation choices have kept me clean for a long time now.
Hosts stop you from visiting virus sources online getting infected http://ask.slashdot.org/commen...
APK
P.S.=> I work alongside a group from MalwareBytes who host my program & recommend it in fact for custom hosts file creation http://ask.slashdot.org/commen... which gives you more speed, security, reliability, & even anonymity (to a lesser extent on the latter only though) online & it makes sense:
"You can't get burnt if you avoid fires"
Which IS the VERY SIMPLE PRINCIPLE hosts work on for security, yet they speed up your online experience unlike MOST other 'security solutions' which slow you!
Blocking ads speeds you up massively & is source of infection too since ads = ~40% bulk of sites, but also speeding you up by hardcoding your fav. sites into hosts' TOP portion avoiding DNS security issues too - bonus!
Hosts additionally make you more reliable + safer (avoiding DNS security issues like DNS Amplification attacks, Redirect Attacks, & even being downed) + more anonymous (avoiding dns request logs) even...
Host do MORE, with far less & consume FAR less resources than *ANY* other "bolted-on so-called 'solution'" out there, bar-none, using something you already have natively (part of the IP stack in kernelmode & queried 1st )... apk
I've used AVG and Avast plus malwarebytes and the microsoft cleaner.
They are free.
It's been 20 years since I got a virus but I've had several caught attempts.
I left AVG a couple years ago and went to Avast. It's a little pushing on upselling lately.
I've had to clean virii off of friends computers. Malwarebytes is good for that.
Avast is also good for that.
Avast has a "web page reputation" feature.. but to be honest, the only thing it ever flagged for me is the site that records all DMCA filings (which I knew was safe which mean the corporations had corrupted Avast's rating system for that page).
I'm not sure how the hell my friends get them. I has to be lol cats or something like that. I got to a few porn sites now and then and never had a problem.
Malwarebytes has been effective for cleaning a machine that was infected already.
I don't keep the microsoft cleaner on disk but download it as needed so I always have to look it up.
She was like chocolate when she drank... semi-sweet at first and then increasingly bitter.
Hosts stop you from visiting virus sources online getting infected http://ask.slashdot.org/commen...
* Per my subject-line: Hosts also make you FASTER (unlike other "so-called security 'solutions'"), & more reliably connected online (& even a bit more anonymous too).
APK
P.S.=> I work alongside a group from MalwareBytes who host my program & recommend it in fact for custom hosts file creation http://ask.slashdot.org/commen...
Which gives you more speed, security, reliability, & even anonymity (to a lesser extent on the latter only though) online & it makes sense:
"You can't get burnt if you avoid fires"
Which IS the VERY SIMPLE PRINCIPLE hosts work on for security, yet they speed up your online experience unlike MOST other 'security solutions' which slow you!
Blocking ads speeds you up massively & is source of infection too since ads = ~40% bulk of sites, but also speeding you up by hardcoding your fav. sites into hosts' TOP portion avoiding DNS security issues too - bonus!
Hosts additionally make you more reliable + safer (avoiding DNS security issues like DNS Amplification attacks, Redirect Attacks, & even being downed) + more anonymous (avoiding dns request logs) even...
Host do MORE, with far less & consume FAR less resources than *ANY* other "bolted-on so-called 'solution'" out there, bar-none, using something you already have natively (part of the IP stack in kernelmode & queried 1st )... apk
"You can't get burnt if you avoid fires": That's what hosts do for security.
Hosts also speed you up in 2 ways (blocking ads + hardcoded topmost entries in them, which also aids reliability online vs. DNS downage or redirect poisonings) unlike MOST other "so-called 'security solutions'" which slow you down due to their overheads!
Hosts protect you vs. malware/viruses/trojans/botnets/rootkits (of all kinds) by blocking their sources online (per your common sense point) + vs. DNS amplification attacks, rogue DNS servers malware makers & botnet herders use, spam/phish, trackers & can yield more anonymity online (vs. dns request logs) + freedom (vs. dnsbl you may not like).
MalwareBytes #1 too.
* :)
(I say that with GOOD solid reasons & not just since I contribute alongside them: See my p.s. below & that link from this discussion...)
APK
P.S.=> "Shameless plug" yes, but true -> http://ask.slashdot.org/commen...
... apk
Per my subject: & not just for "personal reasons" but great results http://ask.slashdot.org/commen...
* :)
(Concrete, verifiable, & undeniable results in 2014 for MalwareBytes...)
APK
P.S.=> "Onwards, & UPWARDS..."
... apk
When our attackers desire to remain hidden, we usually can not detect and remove them using any common tool. The techniques for remaining in hidden control of systems are straightforward, effective and available to any attacker. We can detect all kinds of stuff by carefully inspecting network activity, but learning to do it takes years. And, analyzing 1 machine's traffic is slower than real-time.
For example, a while ago one of my coworkers managed to crack the C&C for a major fake-antivirus group. For 2 months we grabbed the rootkits as they went by. Code on compromised machines was updated daily. VirusTotal pronounced it all clean. Usually, the victims had no clue. None of the virus or malware detectors/removers would regain control of a compromised system. Sometimes the utilities would claim to have done something. It was never complete or successful. On the other hand, if we isolated a compromised machine from the C&C for 3 weeks, some of the utilities would start to be effective. At 6 weeks, almost all of them were effective. Of course, this fake antivirus group was indiscriminate and had a huge footprint.
We still use Microsoft Security Essentials or EndPoint Protection. It almost never prevents compromise, but in some circumstances it will let us know that that we have been had. Some attackers get what they want immediately and don't try to hide. Others break discipline after a few days or weeks. Then there are the ones that get what they want and sell you to less capable attackers. Finally, if the user/machine is vulnerable to attack then the machine eventually gets infested with multiple attackers. Once multiple attackers start interfering with each other, something always gets dropped.
We always recommend a "change passwords/backup/wipe/rebuild/restore" when we discover compromise. Even then, sometimes an attacker regains control by hiding hostile code in user files.
The preventative measures that seem to be most effective for us are:
Hosts do more for speed, security, & reliability vs. addons:
1.) Protect you vs. malicious servers (beyond malicious adbanners: See 2-7 next)
2.) Protect you vs. fastflux botnets + stop communication back to C&C servers
3.) Protect you vs. dynamic dns botnets + stop communication back to C&C servers
4.) Protect you vs. DGA botnets + stop communication back to C&C servers
5.) Protect you vs. downed DNS (adds reliability)
6.) Protect you vs. DNS redirect poisoned dns
7.) Protect you vs. DNS amplification attacks
8.) Protect you vs. trackers
9.) Protect you vs. spam sources
10.) Protect you vs. phishing sources
11.) Get you past a dnsbl you don't like
12.) Keep you off dns request logs
13.) Speed up websurfing by adblocking + hardcoding favorite sites
14.) Work on ANY webbound app (think stand-alone email programs) multiplatform.
15.) Give you direct easily texteditor controlled data for all of the above
16.) Do all of those things & block ads (better than addons) more efficiently
* Per subject: By email Mr. Goretsky said "hosts are a valuable security method" (not direct quote but point's there).
APK
P.S.=> Ghostery/AdBlock don't DO any of the above (or as well):
Ghostery's Advertiser owned - "A fox guards the henhouse"-> http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/G...
AdBlock's 4++gb & 100% CPU usage flooring inefficiency -> https://blog.mozilla.org/nneth... + ClarityRay defeats it + it 'souled-out' & is crippled by default paid off to not do its job http://techcrunch.com/2013/07/...
BOTH do far less than hosts do & less efficiently - hosts by way of comparison, do MORE w/ less.
Both add more complexity/room for breakdown/exploit + from a slower mode of operations (usermode = more messagepassing overheads vs. hosts in kernelmode).
Hosts start w/ the IP stack itself before REDUNDANT inefficient addons BEGIN to operate (as 1st resolver queried).
BEST hosts file? APK Hosts File Engine 9.0++ SR-1 32/64-bit -> http://ask.slashdot.org/commen...
... apk
Per my subject: & not just for "personal reasons" but great results http://ask.slashdot.org/commen...
* :)
(Concrete, verifiable, & undeniably great results in 2014 on testings of efficacy vs. the competition for MalwareBytes...)
APK
P.S.=> "Onwards, & UPWARDS..."
... apk
Per my subject: & not just for "personal reasons" but great results http://ask.slashdot.org/commen...
* :)
(Concrete, verifiable, & undeniably great results in 2014 on testings of efficacy vs. the competition for MalwareBytes...)
APK
P.S.=> "Onwards, & UPWARDS..."
... apk
Hosts do more for speed, security, & reliability vs. addons:
1.) Protect you vs. malicious servers (beyond malicious adbanners: See 2-7 next)
2.) Protect you vs. fastflux botnets + stop communication back to C&C servers
3.) Protect you vs. dynamic dns botnets + stop communication back to C&C servers
4.) Protect you vs. DGA botnets + stop communication back to C&C servers
5.) Protect you vs. downed DNS (adds reliability)
6.) Protect you vs. DNS redirect poisoned dns
7.) Protect you vs. DNS amplification attacks
8.) Protect you vs. trackers
9.) Protect you vs. spam sources
10.) Protect you vs. phishing sources
11.) Get you past a dnsbl you don't like
12.) Keep you off dns request logs
13.) Speed up websurfing by adblocking + hardcoding favorite sites
14.) Work on ANY webbound app (think stand-alone email programs) multiplatform.
15.) Give you direct easily texteditor controlled data for all of the above
16.) Do all of those things & block ads (better than addons) more efficiently
* Per subject: By email Mr. Goretsky said "hosts are a valuable security method" (not direct quote but point's there).
APK
P.S.=> Ghostery/AdBlock don't DO any of the above (or as well):
Ghostery's Advertiser owned - "A fox guards the henhouse"-> http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/G...
AdBlock's 4++gb & 100% CPU usage flooring inefficiency -> https://blog.mozilla.org/nneth... + ClarityRay defeats it + it 'souled-out' & is crippled by default paid off to not do its job http://techcrunch.com/2013/07/...
BOTH do far less than hosts do & less efficiently - hosts by way of comparison, do MORE w/ less.
Both add more complexity/room for breakdown/exploit + from a slower mode of operations (usermode = more messagepassing overheads vs. hosts in kernelmode).
Hosts start w/ the IP stack itself before REDUNDANT inefficient addons BEGIN to operate (as 1st resolver queried).
BEST hosts file? APK Hosts File Engine 9.0++ SR-1 32/64-bit -> http://ask.slashdot.org/commen...
... apk
Hosts do more for speed, security, & reliability vs. addons:
1.) Protect you vs. malicious servers (beyond malicious adbanners: See 2-7 next)
2.) Protect you vs. fastflux botnets + stop communication back to C&C servers
3.) Protect you vs. dynamic dns botnets + stop communication back to C&C servers
4.) Protect you vs. DGA botnets + stop communication back to C&C servers
5.) Protect you vs. downed DNS (adds reliability)
6.) Protect you vs. DNS redirect poisoned dns
7.) Protect you vs. DNS amplification attacks
8.) Protect you vs. trackers
9.) Protect you vs. spam sources
10.) Protect you vs. phishing sources
11.) Get you past a dnsbl you don't like
12.) Keep you off dns request logs
13.) Speed up websurfing by adblocking + hardcoding favorite sites
14.) Work on ANY webbound app (think stand-alone email programs) multiplatform.
15.) Give you direct easily texteditor controlled data for all of the above
16.) Do all of those things & block ads (better than addons) more efficiently
* Per subject: By email Mr. Goretsky said "hosts are a valuable security method" (not direct quote but point's there).
APK
P.S.=> Ghostery/AdBlock don't DO any of the above (or as well):
Ghostery's Advertiser owned - "A fox guards the henhouse"-> http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/G...
AdBlock's 4++gb & 100% CPU usage flooring inefficiency -> https://blog.mozilla.org/nneth... + ClarityRay defeats it + it 'souled-out' & is crippled by default paid off to not do its job http://techcrunch.com/2013/07/...
BOTH do far less than hosts do & less efficiently - hosts by way of comparison, do MORE w/ less.
Both add more complexity/room for breakdown/exploit + from a slower mode of operations (usermode = more messagepassing overheads vs. hosts in kernelmode).
Hosts start w/ the IP stack itself before REDUNDANT inefficient addons BEGIN to operate (as 1st resolver queried).
BEST hosts file? APK Hosts File Engine 9.0++ SR-1 32/64-bit -> http://ask.slashdot.org/commen...
... apk
Per my subject: & not just for "personal reasons" but great results http://ask.slashdot.org/comments.pl?sid=6809411&cid=48889655
* :)
(Concrete, verifiable, & undeniably great results in 2014 on testings of efficacy vs. the competition for MalwareBytes...)
APK
P.S.=> "Onwards, & UPWARDS..."
... apk
Thanks very much for the link. It's helpful.
I've been an advertising copywriter for technology ad agencies. Here is something that may be helpful for you: I suggest you work on creating a better way of explaining what you are trying to say.
I visited the link you gave and became confused. It says, "Powered by Malwarebytes". My guess is that it would take me an hour to decide what is being communicated. And, I already know about host files.
If you put more effort into explaining, every reader would find it far easier to understand what you have to say.
I use Sophos at the office and they allow free home use for all employees. It's solid stuff.
"A plan fiendishly clever in its intricacies"- Homer Simpson
Hosts = more speed, security, & reliability vs. addons:
1.) Protect you vs. malicious servers (beyond malicious adbanners: See 2-7 next)
2.) Protect you vs. fastflux botnets + stop communication back to C&C servers
3.) Protect you vs. dynamic dns botnets + stop communication back to C&C servers
4.) Protect you vs. DGA botnets + stop communication back to C&C servers
5.) Protect you vs. downed DNS (adds reliability)
6.) Protect you vs. DNS redirect poisoned dns
7.) Protect you vs. DNS amplification attacks
8.) Protect you vs. trackers
9.) Protect you vs. spam
10.) Protect you vs. phishing
11.) Get you past a dnsbl you don't like
12.) Keep you off dns request logs
13.) Speed up websurfing adblocking + hardcoding fav. sites
14.) Work on ANY webbound app (think stand-alone email programs) multiplatform.
15.) Direct easily texteditor controlled data for all of the above
16.) Do all those things & block ads (better than addons) more efficiently
* Per subject: By email Mr. Goretsky said "hosts are a valuable security method" (not direct quote but point's there).
APK
P.S.=> Ghostery/AdBlock don't DO any of the above (or as well):
Ghostery's Advertiser owned - "A fox guards the henhouse"-> http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/G...
AdBlock's 4++gb & 100% CPU usage flooring inefficiency -> https://blog.mozilla.org/nneth... + ClarityRay defeats it + it 'souled-out' & is crippled by default paid off to not do its job http://techcrunch.com/2013/07/...
BOTH do far less than hosts do & less efficiently - hosts by way of comparison, do MORE w/ less.
Both add more complexity/room for breakdown/exploit + from a slower mode of operations (usermode = more messagepassing overheads vs. hosts in kernelmode).
Hosts start w/ the IP stack itself before REDUNDANT inefficient addons BEGIN to operate (as 1st resolver queried).
BEST hosts file? APK Hosts File Engine 9.0++ SR-1 32/64-bit -> http://ask.slashdot.org/commen... which malwarebytes hosts & recommends
... apk
Every free AV that is, simultaneously, that should cover 99% of the most common evil code.
If you have the money, run all of the paid versions.
And to be extra safe, make sure that you click every single checkbox in the installer so it doesn't leave out some of the useful features.
When you're done, format the computer, go to your geeky best friend and have him install windows and set it up for you.
See subject (good choice with hosts too) & rthis link http://ask.slashdot.org/commen...
APK
P.S.=> My program incorporates ALL of their data AND tons more for custom hosts files from 12 reputable & reliable sources in the security community (one of which, malwarebytes, hosts & recommends my program APK Hosts File Engine 9.0++ SR-1 32/64-bit as is shown in that link, with malwarebytes doing a "#1 showing" @ a very reputable antivirus testing site in 2014 too)... apk
Can ghostery/adblock do 16 things hosts do for more speed, security, & reliability:
1.) Protect you vs. known malicious sites/servers (beyond malicious adbanners: See 2-7 next)
2.) Protect you vs. fastflux using botnets + stop communication back to C&C servers
3.) Protect you vs. dynamic dns using botnets + stop communication back to C&C servers
4.) Protect you vs. DGA botnets + stop communication back to C&C servers
5.) Protect you vs. downed DNS servers (adds reliability)
6.) Protect you vs. DNS redirect poisoned dns servers
7.) Protect users vs. DNS Amplification attacks
8.) Protect users vs. trackers
9.) Protect users vs. spam
10.) Protect users vs. phishing
11.) Get you past a dnsbl you don't like
12.) Keep you off dns request logs
13.) Speed you up online by adblocking + hardcoding fav. sites
14.) Work on ANY webbound application (think stand-alone email programs).
15.) Give you direct texteditor controlled data for all of the above
16.) Do all of those things & block ads (better than addons) more efficiently in cpu cycles + memory usage
* "?"
APK
P.S.=> The ANSWER ="NO" to each enumerated item as far as Ghostery/AdBlock are concerned:
Ghostery's Advertiser owned - "A fox guards the henhouse"-> http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/G...
AdBlock's 4++gb & 100% CPU usage flooring inefficiency -> https://blog.mozilla.org/nneth... + ClarityRay defeats it & is crippled by default paid off to not do its job http://techcrunch.com/2013/07/...
BOTH do far less than hosts do & less efficiently - hosts by way of comparison, do MORE w/ less.
Both add more complexity/room for breakdown/exploit + from a slower mode of operations (usermode = more messagepassing overheads vs. hosts in kernelmode).
Hosts start w/ the IP stack itself before REDUNDANT inefficient addons BEGIN to operate, w/ also as 1st resolver queried too).
For the BEST hosts file? APK Hosts File Engine 9.0++ SR-1 32/64-bit -> http://ask.slashdot.org/commen...
... apk
It's been my favorite for years: Eset. The only subscription-based software i care to pay for. It is on all my family's computers, my friends', their parents'...
And I am a professional technician actually doing the cleanups after some poor soul thrusted Norton, McAfee, threndmicro, Kaspersky, Bitdefender, Comodo, Avg, Avast, name it.
They don't block malware (and often neither do they viruses) and are all more cpu/ram hungry.
Eset really works. And is available for windows linus mac servers and android.
It beats a host file imo but the host is still a giod way to avoid ads...
See subject: I did posts on hosts in detail thru this article's discussion w/ more details. I also cannot post as much text as you registered users can (part of being ac is the restriction). Is THIS what you're looking for/suggesting -> http://ask.slashdot.org/comments.pl?sid=6809411&cid=48891339 OR perhaps this post of mine vs. that one -> http://ask.slashdot.org/comments.pl?sid=6809411&cid=48890343 ?
Now, when in doubt of either or they don't "do it for you"?
Well - Then, the main site for my program (not just malwarebytes but an exclusively 64-bit software site features it) extolls most ALL of hosts many virtues for added speed, security, reliability, & even anonymity online (to a lesser extent on the latter) APK Hosts File Engine 9.0++ SR-1 32/64-bit -> http://start64.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=5851:apk-hosts-file-engine-64bit-version&catid=26:64bit-security-software&Itemid=74
* In fact, I updated the program 5 days ago (better than ever).
APK
P.S.=> It works & to quote Howard Stark from the film "Captain America"? "It's stronger than steel & a 3rd the weight..." since in MANY ways? It's analogous to that (better than *ANY* single "so-called 'security solution' in terms of abilities, & FOR LESS, yet doing more - less resources consumed, moving parts "bolted-on" (when what you have already natively, really works), & less parts to breakdown OR be exploited)... apk
Install ClamAV ./configure --prefix=/usr
builds just fine and VERY easy with gcc 4.8
just a few simple commands and it is done
------
autoreconf -i -v
make
su
make install
-----
"I don't pitch OpenSUSE Linux to my friends, i let Microsoft do it for me
...as antivirus suppliers themselves have admitted, anti-virus software only slows your system down (dramatically)
Avast has started inserting itself into https requests (MITM style), which, in my case, somehow prevented me from doing https git pulls from github. Uninstalled and it worked fine again; much easier than the alternative solutions. That and its frequent popups requesting you purchase its other products are pretty annoying.
You were owned, stoned, and boned long ago--so STFU already, loser.
When it comes to getting owned, no man is your master. Now fuck off.
.. simply because the OEM disabled MSE/Defender and instead shipped the PCs with a trial version of Norton or some other commercial suite? At some point those trials expire, and there could be a lot of people who neither bought the full version nor enabled MSE/Defender.
The last virus I fell victim to was a virus spreading around on diskettes with infected boot sector. That was 1991.
Since then the only viruses and malware running on my PC would be there by invitation. I let them in intentionally, had a look and kicked them out - fully in control.
Last week I just fancied getting a virus check of my storage devices and installed Bitfender. It modified my Windows BCD boot without asking and took over. It would not let me launch it on demand, no, it deemed itself so indispensable that it had always to be there in imperial role. It didn't like being offline. Kicked out in no time.
And what anti-virus was I using? Ah, an easy one. I browse around as lowly user without javascript, session cookies only. Sure, I must use javascript with some banks and travel agencies and Google Maps but I know them and wipe out all their settings afterwards. Otherwise I do not allow web sites to take over my machine. No, bastards, keep your dirty fingers off my files.
Turn off Windows Defender via run > services.msc.
Run this free AV/Malware scan twice a month, or whenever you feel your system "may be infected".
http://www.eset.com/us/online-... (left option)
- No need to install a bulky Antivirus/Anti-Malware program that will slow your PC down more than an actual infection.
- No need to pay for something that you'll probably never use, let alone need.
If you "must" have active protection. Re-enable Windows Defender and put up with the performance impact it has on your system.
Now this is a worthy topic:
We should be comparing the EULAs of each AV/anti-malware product, free and paid. IMO most are very invasive and disturbing in the amount of data they collect from people's computers.
If you read any EULA in your life, let it be from AV/anti-malware products. Make sure you agree with the vast amount of your system's private info being transferred to them, with or without cloud functionality.
I normally don't request this but please mod this up so the regular /. users can see this. It is very important. Thank you.
has anyone tried and compared this?
they also have a free AV LiveCD.
Quick heal is best anti virus in 2015, it is paid
IT Training Institute
Hate antivirus, personally, only use it where I'm required to.
When people bring me a laptop to fix, one of the first things I ask is if I can uninstall McAffee / Norton for them. They almost universally agree as, even as a user, it just bugs them to shit and gets in their way.
There was a time I'd put AVG Free on instead but those days are long gone.
So I slap on Comodo. Free firewall, antivirus, etc. in an integrated suite, that you can turn shit off for, that you can uninstall easily if you do buy something else, you can pay to upgrade it to a full version if you want, and it just keeps out of your way for the most past.
I don't hear any complaints afterwards.
Install Linux on your machine, browse with GhostScript, adblock plus, flshblock. Use it for everything except the very few tasks where you need Windows.
Then install Windows in a virtual machine. Take snapshots regularly. Don't use any AV. Don't browse the web with it.
Non-Linux Penguins ?
Dennis Technology Labs says Kaspersky is the best for home protection. http://dennistechnologylabs.co...
and does it run linux?
You avoid answering apk's questions here (you owned yourself) http://ask.slashdot.org/commen... forrest
Only if you install flash in the first place..
Need to run special software tied to the OS? No? ... Install Linux. Ubuntu can be a drag, in more ways the one, but it's worth a try. Suse and Redhat probably are hassle free aswell. All three are way easyer to install than a fresh Windows.
We suffer more in our imagination than in reality. - Seneca
Need to run special software tied to the OS? No? ... Install Linux.
Really, it's that easy.
Ubuntu can be a drag, in more ways than one, but it's worth a try - and it does look really cool. Seriously.
Suse and Redhat are hassle-free to install aswell. All three are definitly more hassle-free than any Windows installation you can do thesse days.
I've got Ubuntu 14.04 on my ThinkPad. And while it can be anoying (which OS isn't?), it is way ahead of Windows in usability and you can get tons of books and free info on the web for it.
Other than that I'd recommend Mac OS X or Chrome OS - but since you already have your laptop I guess that's ruled out.
Welcome to the camp. Enjoy.
We suffer more in our imagination than in reality. - Seneca
Can ghostery/adblock do 16 things hosts do for more speed, security, & reliability:
1.) Protect you vs. malicious sites/servers (beyond malicious adbanners: See 2-7 next)
2.) Protect you vs. fastflux botnets + stop their communication back to C&C servers
3.) Protect you vs. dynamic dns botnets + stop their communication back to C&C servers
4.) Protect you vs. DGA/domain generation algorithm botnets + stop their communication back to C&C servers
5.) Protect you vs. downed DNS servers (adds reliability)
6.) Protect you vs. DNS redirect poisoned dns servers
7.) Protect you vs. DNS amplification attacks
8.) Protect you vs. trackers
9.) Protect you vs. spam mails sources
10.) Protect you vs. phishing mails sources
11.) Get you past a dnsbl you don't like
12.) Keep you off dns request logs
13.) Speed up websurfing by adblocking & also hardcoding favorite sites
14.) Work on ANY webbound app (think stand-alone email programs).
15.) Give you direct easily texteditor controlled data for all of the above
16.) Do all of those things & block ads (better than addons) more efficiently in cpu cycles + memory usage
* "?"
APK
P.S.=> ANSWER ="NO" to each above on Ghostery/AdBlock:
Ghostery's Advertiser owned - "A fox guards the henhouse"-> http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/G...
AdBlock's 4++gb & 100% CPU usage flooring inefficiency -> https://blog.mozilla.org/nneth... + ClarityRay defeats it + it 'souled-out' & is crippled by default paid off to not do its job http://techcrunch.com/2013/07/...
BOTH do far less than hosts do & less efficiently - hosts by way of comparison, do MORE w/ less.
Both add more complexity/room for breakdown/exploit + from a slower mode of operations (usermode = more messagepassing overheads vs. hosts in kernelmode).
Hosts start w/ the IP stack itself before REDUNDANT inefficient addons BEGIN to operate (as 1st resolver queried).
For the BEST hosts file? APK Hosts File Engine 9.0++ SR-1 32/64-bit -> http://ask.slashdot.org/commen...
... apk
Actually its higher,
http://www.zdnet.com/article/report-92-of-critical-microsoft-vulnerabilities-mitigated-by-least-privilege-accounts/
You're owned/stoned/boned by running from a question http://ask.slashdot.org/commen... forrest. Posting ac only proves you unjustifiably downmodded that to *try* to vainly and effetely "hide" what's in that link above you refused to answer. Only thing you can't hide is the egg on your face coward and that hosts files are an obviously better solution for abilities and efficiency compared to Ghostery and Almost all ads blocked.
Seriously guys, this is fucking outrageous! I' writing my first post on my brand new tablet just a minute ago and you're abysmaly flaky mobile version double posts again. So it wasn't android 3.2 after all.
And why can't I turnoff ads in the mobile version?
Rob, what's going on? .... You guys need to get your shit together man - it's 2015, mobile web is standard now. Get with the effing programm. ... Do you need help?n
Perhaps you need help? I'll build a professional mobile version for credit alone.
(Please don't mod down - this needs attention folks. Seriously.)
We suffer more in our imagination than in reality. - Seneca
Hosts speed you up (2 ways) http://ask.slashdot.org/commen... outlined there (unlike what you complain about in most security software slowing you down).
APK
P.S.=> Enjoy... apk
A FREE hosts program adds speed, security, & reliability, doing more, more efficiently vs. addons + fixes DNS' redirect security issues:
APK Hosts File Engine 9.0++ 32/64-bit:
http://start64.com/index.php?o...
---
A.) Hosts do more than:
1.) AdBlock ("souled-out" 2 Google/Crippled by default http://techcrunch.com/2013/07/... )
2.) Ghostery (Advertiser owned) - "Fox guards henhouse" http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/G...
3.) Request Policy -> http://yro.slashdot.org/commen...
B.) Hosts add reliability vs. downed/redirected dns (& overcome site redirects e.g. /. beta).
C.) Hosts secure vs. malicious domains too -> http://tech.slashdot.org/comme... w/ less "moving parts" complexity
D.) Hosts files yield more:
1.) Speed (adblock & hardcodes fav sites - faster than remote dns)
2.) Security (vs. malicious domains serving malcontent + block spam/phish & trackers)
3.) Reliability (vs. downed or Kaminsky redirect vulnerable dns, 99% = unpatched vs. it & worst @ isp level + weak vs DGA, & Fastflux + dynDNS botnets)
4.) Anonymity (vs. dns request logs + dnsbl's).
---
* Hosts do more w/ less (1 file) @ faster levels (ring 0) vs redundant inefficient addons (slowing slower ring 3 browsers) via filtering 4 the IP stack (coded in C, loads w/ os, & 1st net resolver queried w\ 45++ yrs.of optimization).
* Addons = more complex + slow browsers in messagepassing (use a few concurrently & see) & are nullified by native browser methods - It's how Clarityray's destroying Adblock.
* Addons slowup slower usermode browsers layering on more - & bloat RAM consumption + excessive cpu use too (4++gb extra in FireFox https://blog.mozilla.org/nneth...)
Instead, work w/ a more capable native kernelmode part you already have - hosts (An integrated part of the ip stack)
APK
P.S.=> "The premise is quite simple: Take something designed by nature & reprogram it to make it work for the body rather than against it..." - Dr. Alice Krippen: "I am legend"
...apk
Can ghostery/adblock do 16 things hosts do for more speed, security, & reliability:
1.) Protect you vs. malicious sites/servers (beyond malicious adbanners: See 2-10 next)
2.) Protect you vs. fastflux botnets + stop communication back to C&C servers
3.) Protect you vs. dynamic dns botnets + stop communication back to C&C servers
4.) Protect you vs. DGA botnets + stop communication back to C&C servers
5.) Protect you vs. downed DNS servers (adds reliability)
6.) Protect you vs. DNS redirect poisoned dns servers
7.) Protect you vs. DNS amplification attacks
8.) Protect you vs. trackers
9.) Protect you vs. spam mails sources
10.) Protect you vs. phishing mails sources
11.) Get you past a dnsbl you don't like
12.) Keep you off dns request logs
13.) Speed up websurfing by adblocking & also hardcoding favorite sites @ TOP of hosts files
14.) Work on ANY webbound app (e.g. stand-alone email programs).
15.) Give you direct easily texteditor controlled data for all of the above
16.) Do all of those things & block ads (better than addons) more efficiently in cpu cycles + memory usage
* "?"
APK
P.S.=> ANSWER ="NO" to each above on Ghostery/AdBlock:
Ghostery's Advertiser owned - "A fox guards the henhouse"-> http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/G...
AdBlock's 4++gb & 100% CPU usage flooring inefficiency -> https://blog.mozilla.org/nneth... + ClarityRay defeats it + it 'souled-out' & is crippled by default paid off to not do its job http://techcrunch.com/2013/07/...
BOTH do far less than hosts do & less efficiently - hosts by way of comparison, do MORE w/ less.
Both add more complexity/room for breakdown/exploit + from a slower mode of operations (usermode = more messagepassing overheads vs. hosts in kernelmode).
Hosts start w/ the IP stack itself before REDUNDANT inefficient addons BEGIN to operate (as 1st resolver queried).
For the BEST hosts file? APK Hosts File Engine 9.0++ SR-1 32/64-bit -> http://ask.slashdot.org/commen...
... apk
"I'm interested in anything anyone has to say about Malwarebytes" - by Futurepower(R) (558542) on Friday January 23, 2015 @11:04PM (#48890863)
See subject & this link -> http://ask.slashdot.org/commen...
(Enjoy)
* I'm glad to be associated with a great effort doing great stuff vs. the rotten stuff out there in this world (@ least some of it)!
APK
P.S.=> "It's not easy being 'world-class'..." :)
... apk
A FREE hosts program adds speed, security, & reliability, doing more, more efficiently vs. addons + fixes DNS' redirect security issues:
APK Hosts File Engine 9.0++ 32/64-bit:
http://start64.com/index.php?o...
---
A.) Hosts do more than:
1.) AdBlock ("souled-out" 2 Google/Crippled by default http://techcrunch.com/2013/07/... )
2.) Ghostery (Advertiser owned) - "Fox guards henhouse" http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/G...
3.) Request Policy -> http://yro.slashdot.org/commen...
B.) Hosts add reliability vs. downed/redirected dns (& overcome site redirects e.g. /. beta).
C.) Hosts secure vs. malicious domains too -> http://tech.slashdot.org/comme... w/ less "moving parts" complexity
D.) Hosts files yield more:
1.) Speed (adblock & hardcodes fav sites - faster than remote dns)
2.) Security (vs. malicious domains serving malcontent + block spam/phish & trackers)
3.) Reliability (vs. downed or Kaminsky redirect vulnerable dns, 99% = unpatched vs. it & worst @ isp level + weak vs DGA, & Fastflux + dynDNS botnets)
4.) Anonymity (vs. dns request logs + dnsbl's).
---
* Hosts do more w/ less (1 file) @ faster levels (ring 0) vs redundant inefficient addons (slowing slower ring 3 browsers) via filtering 4 the IP stack (coded in C, loads w/ os, & 1st net resolver queried w\ 45++ yrs.of optimization).
* Addons = more complex + slow browsers in messagepassing (use a few concurrently & see) & are nullified by native browser methods - It's how Clarityray's destroying Adblock.
* Addons slowup slower usermode browsers layering on more - & bloat RAM consumption + excessive cpu use too (4++gb extra in FireFox https://blog.mozilla.org/nneth...)
Instead, work w/ a more capable native kernelmode part you already have - hosts (An integrated part of the ip stack)
APK
P.S.=> "The premise is quite simple: Take something designed by nature & reprogram it to make it work for the body rather than against it..." - Dr. Alice Krippen: "I am legend"
...apk
Can ghostery/adblock do 16 things hosts do for more speed, security, & reliability:
1.) Protect you vs. malicious sites/servers (beyond malicious adbanners: See 2-7 next)
2.) Protect you vs. fastflux botnets + stop their communication back to C&C servers
3.) Protect you vs. dynamic dns botnets + stop their communication back to C&C servers
4.) Protect you vs. DGA/domain generation algorithm botnets + stop their communication back to C&C servers
5.) Protect you vs. downed DNS servers (adds reliability)
6.) Protect you vs. DNS redirect poisoned dns servers
7.) Protect you vs. DNS amplification attacks
8.) Protect you vs. trackers
9.) Protect you vs. spam mails sources
10.) Protect you vs. phishing mails sources
11.) Get you past a dnsbl you don't like
12.) Keep you off dns request logs
13.) Speed up websurfing by adblocking & also hardcoding favorite sites
14.) Work on ANY webbound app (think stand-alone email programs).
15.) Give you direct easily texteditor controlled data for all of the above
16.) Do all of those things & block ads (better than addons) more efficiently in cpu cycles + memory usage
* "?"
APK
P.S.=> ANSWER ="NO" to each above on Ghostery/AdBlock:
Ghostery's Advertiser owned - "A fox guards the henhouse"-> http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/G...
AdBlock's 4++gb & 100% CPU usage flooring inefficiency -> https://blog.mozilla.org/nneth... + ClarityRay defeats it + it 'souled-out' & is crippled by default paid off to not do its job http://techcrunch.com/2013/07/...
BOTH do far less than hosts do & less efficiently - hosts by way of comparison, do MORE w/ less.
Both add more complexity/room for breakdown/exploit + from a slower mode of operations (usermode = more messagepassing overheads vs. hosts in kernelmode).
Hosts start w/ the IP stack itself before REDUNDANT inefficient addons BEGIN to operate (as 1st resolver queried).
For the BEST hosts file? APK Hosts File Engine 9.0++ SR-1 32/64-bit -> http://ask.slashdot.org/commen...
... apk
I would just like to mention a rather dubious automatic yearly renewal I got with BitDefender. Although I normally wouldn't mind being given a reminder, in that case I only discovered the item in my VISA card statement. Annoyingly, they didn't even apply the discount that was running at their website at that moment, so I was charged something like $89 for a product that was selling $49 or so.
Anyway, be sure to check this if you are running or planning on buying BitDefender.
APK Hosts File Engine 9.0++ SR-1 32/64-bit:
http://start64.com/index.php?o...
FREE & adds speed, security, + reliability, doing more with less, more efficiently vs. addons + fixes DNS' redirect security issues:
---
A.) Hosts do more than:
1.) AdBlock ("souled-out" 2 Google/Crippled by default http://techcrunch.com/2013/07/... )
2.) Ghostery (Advertiser owned) - "Fox guards henhouse" http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/G...
3.) Request Policy -> http://yro.slashdot.org/commen...
B.) Hosts add reliability vs. downed/redirected dns (& overcome site redirects e.g. /. beta).
C.) Hosts secure vs. malicious domains too -> http://tech.slashdot.org/comme... w/ less "moving parts" complexity
D.) Hosts files yield more:
1.) Speed (adblock & hardcodes fav sites - faster than remote dns)
2.) Security (vs. malicious domains serving malcontent + block spam/phish & trackers)
3.) Reliability (vs. downed or Kaminsky redirect vulnerable dns, 99% = unpatched vs. it & worst @ isp level + weak vs DGA, & Fastflux + dynDNS botnets)
4.) Anonymity (vs. dns request logs + dnsbl's).
---
* Hosts do more w/ less (1 file) @ faster levels (ring 0) vs redundant inefficient addons (slowing slower ring 3 browsers) via filtering 4 the IP stack (coded in C, loads w/ os, & 1st net resolver queried w\ 45++ yrs.of optimization).
* Addons = more complex + slow browsers in messagepassing (use a few concurrently & see) & are nullified by native browser methods - It's how Clarityray's destroying Adblock.
* Addons slowup slower usermode browsers layering on more - & bloat RAM consumption + excessive cpu use too (4++gb extra in FireFox https://blog.mozilla.org/nneth...)
(Instead, work w/ a more capable native kernelmode part you already have - hosts (An integrated part of the ip stack))
APK
P.S.=> "The premise is quite simple: Take something designed by nature & reprogram it to make it work for the body rather than against it..." - Dr. Alice Krippen: "I am legend"
...apk
APK Hosts File Engine 9.0++ SR-1 32/64-bit:
http://start64.com/index.php?o...
FREE & adds speed, security, + reliability, doing more with less, more efficiently vs. addons + fixes DNS' redirect security issues:
---
A.) Hosts do more than:
1.) AdBlock ("souled-out" 2 Google/Crippled by default http://techcrunch.com/2013/07/... )
2.) Ghostery (Advertiser owned) - "Fox guards henhouse" http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/G...
3.) Request Policy -> http://yro.slashdot.org/commen...
B.) Hosts add reliability vs. downed/redirected dns (& overcome site redirects e.g. /. beta).
C.) Hosts secure vs. malicious domains too -> http://tech.slashdot.org/comme... w/ less "moving parts" complexity
D.) Hosts files yield more:
1.) Speed (adblock & hardcodes fav sites - faster than remote dns)
2.) Security (vs. malicious domains serving malcontent + block spam/phish & trackers)
3.) Reliability (vs. downed or Kaminsky redirect vulnerable dns, 99% = unpatched vs. it & worst @ isp level + weak vs DGA, & Fastflux + dynDNS botnets)
4.) Anonymity (vs. dns request logs + dnsbl's).
---
* Hosts do more w/ less (1 file) @ faster levels (ring 0) vs redundant inefficient addons (slowing slower ring 3 browsers) via filtering 4 the IP stack (coded in C, loads w/ os, & 1st net resolver queried w\ 45++ yrs.of optimization).
* Addons = more complex + slow browsers in messagepassing (use a few concurrently & see) & are nullified by native browser methods - It's how Clarityray's destroying Adblock.
* Addons slowup slower usermode browsers layering on more - & bloat RAM consumption + excessive cpu use too (4++gb extra in FireFox https://blog.mozilla.org/nneth...)
(Instead, work w/ a more capable native kernelmode part you already have - hosts (An integrated part of the ip stack))
APK
P.S.=> "The premise is quite simple: Take something designed by nature & reprogram it to make it work for the body rather than against it..." - Dr. Alice Krippen: "I am legend"
...apk
Can ghostery/adblock do 16 things hosts do for more speed, security, & reliability:
1.) Protect you vs. malicious sites/servers (beyond malicious adbanners: See 2-7 next)
2.) Protect you vs. fastflux botnets + stop their communication back to C&C servers
3.) Protect you vs. dynamic dns botnets + stop their communication back to C&C servers
4.) Protect you vs. DGA/domain generation algorithm botnets + stop their communication back to C&C servers
5.) Protect you vs. downed DNS servers (adds reliability)
6.) Protect you vs. DNS redirect poisoned dns servers
7.) Protect you vs. DNS amplification attacks
8.) Protect you vs. trackers
9.) Protect you vs. spam mails sources
10.) Protect you vs. phishing mails sources
11.) Get you past a dnsbl you don't like
12.) Keep you off dns request logs
13.) Speed up websurfing by adblocking & also hardcoding favorite sites
14.) Work on ANY webbound app (think stand-alone email programs).
15.) Give you direct easily texteditor controlled data for all of the above
16.) Do all of those things & block ads (better than addons) more efficiently in cpu cycles + memory usage
* "?"
APK
P.S.=> ANSWER ="NO" to each above on Ghostery/AdBlock:
Ghostery's Advertiser owned - "A fox guards the henhouse"-> http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/G...
AdBlock's 4++gb & 100% CPU usage flooring inefficiency -> https://blog.mozilla.org/nneth... + ClarityRay defeats it + it 'souled-out' & is crippled by default paid off to not do its job http://techcrunch.com/2013/07/...
BOTH do far less than hosts do & less efficiently - hosts by way of comparison, do MORE w/ less.
Both add more complexity/room for breakdown/exploit + from a slower mode of operations (usermode = more messagepassing overheads vs. hosts in kernelmode).
Hosts start w/ the IP stack itself before REDUNDANT inefficient addons BEGIN to operate (as 1st resolver queried).
For the BEST hosts file? APK Hosts File Engine 9.0++ SR-1 32/64-bit -> http://ask.slashdot.org/commen...
... apk
APK Hosts File Engine 9.0++ SR-1 32/64-bit:
http://start64.com/index.php?o...
FREE & adds speed, security, + reliability, doing more with less, more efficiently vs. addons + fixes DNS' redirect security issues:
---
A.) Hosts do more than:
1.) AdBlock ("souled-out" 2 Google/Crippled by default http://techcrunch.com/2013/07/... )
2.) Ghostery (Advertiser owned) - "Fox guards henhouse" http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/G...
3.) Request Policy -> http://yro.slashdot.org/commen...
B.) Hosts add reliability vs. downed/redirected dns (& overcome site redirects e.g. /. beta).
C.) Hosts secure vs. malicious domains too -> http://tech.slashdot.org/comme... w/ less "moving parts" complexity
D.) Hosts files yield more:
1.) Speed (adblock & hardcodes fav sites - faster than remote dns)
2.) Security (vs. malicious domains serving malcontent + block spam/phish & trackers)
3.) Reliability (vs. downed or Kaminsky redirect vulnerable dns, 99% = unpatched vs. it & worst @ isp level + weak vs DGA, & Fastflux + dynDNS botnets)
4.) Anonymity (vs. dns request logs + dnsbl's).
---
* Hosts do more w/ less (1 file) @ faster levels (ring 0) vs redundant inefficient addons (slowing slower ring 3 browsers) via filtering 4 the IP stack (coded in C, loads w/ os, & 1st net resolver queried w\ 45++ yrs.of optimization).
* Addons = more complex + slow browsers in messagepassing (use a few concurrently & see) & are nullified by native browser methods - It's how Clarityray's destroying Adblock.
* Addons slowup slower usermode browsers layering on more - & bloat RAM consumption + excessive cpu use too (4++gb extra in FireFox https://blog.mozilla.org/nneth...)
(Instead, work w/ a more capable native kernelmode part you already have - hosts (An integrated part of the ip stack))
APK
P.S.=> "The premise is quite simple: Take something designed by nature & reprogram it to make it work for the body rather than against it..." - Dr. Alice Krippen: "I am legend"
...apk
Can ghostery/adblock do 16 things hosts do for more speed, security, & reliability:
1.) Protect you vs. malicious sites/servers (beyond malicious adbanners: See 2-7 next)
2.) Protect you vs. fastflux botnets + stop their communication back to C&C servers
3.) Protect you vs. dynamic dns botnets + stop their communication back to C&C servers
4.) Protect you vs. DGA/domain generation algorithm botnets + stop their communication back to C&C servers
5.) Protect you vs. downed DNS servers (adds reliability)
6.) Protect you vs. DNS redirect poisoned dns servers
7.) Protect you vs. DNS amplification attacks
8.) Protect you vs. trackers
9.) Protect you vs. spam mails sources
10.) Protect you vs. phishing mails sources
11.) Get you past a dnsbl you don't like
12.) Keep you off dns request logs
13.) Speed up websurfing by adblocking & also hardcoding favorite sites
14.) Work on ANY webbound app (think stand-alone email programs).
15.) Give you direct easily texteditor controlled data for all of the above
16.) Do all of those things & block ads (better than addons) more efficiently in cpu cycles + memory usage
* "?"
APK
P.S.=> ANSWER ="NO" to each above on Ghostery/AdBlock:
Ghostery's Advertiser owned - "A fox guards the henhouse"-> http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/G...
AdBlock's 4++gb & 100% CPU usage flooring inefficiency -> https://blog.mozilla.org/nneth... + ClarityRay defeats it + it 'souled-out' & is crippled by default paid off to not do its job http://techcrunch.com/2013/07/...
BOTH do far less than hosts do & less efficiently - hosts by way of comparison, do MORE w/ less.
Both add more complexity/room for breakdown/exploit + from a slower mode of operations (usermode = more messagepassing overheads vs. hosts in kernelmode).
Hosts start w/ the IP stack itself before REDUNDANT inefficient addons BEGIN to operate (as 1st resolver queried).
For the BEST hosts file? APK Hosts File Engine 9.0++ SR-1 32/64-bit -> http://ask.slashdot.org/commen...
... apk
Hey there. Try avast free antivirus. It's pretty complete and configurable (disable the annoying voice over, animation, etc)
From all the antivirus software I've tried, this one seems to be the most unobtrusive and light on resources when properly configured.
On a side note, why is everybody being such a judgemental asshole? Let the guy do whatever he wants, limit yourself to answer the question or just ignore the topic completely, and that's it!
For a long time I have been using Comodo Internet security suite. I am very pleased with it.
There are hundreds of different BIOSes. System init code isn't like program code, it's non-relocatable. You can't just add a hook and bypass the original. In theory, boot block flash which is a mini-BIOS might be hooked, but every single MB model would be different. Unless you're running a REALLY high volume computer (Surface, Macbook), the investment in such hooks would be meaningless.
HD firmware could be more interesting, but the payoff would be hard to justify. HD vendors tend to use the same firmware for an entire series. Still, I can't see it.
Just because "Security researchers" can show a possible exploit for a specific hd or mb model and raise FUD, I would just reflash those components if I were actually concerned.
EFI is a different beast, but that's why we have signed code and OS bootloaders.
MS Security Essentials ranks at the BOTTOM of the list of every independent AV test and you think it is safe? The thing is just as useless as the built-in MS Firewall (does nothing).
The only people who suggest MSSE are people who are completely clueless about basic security.
Security Essentials or Windows Defender in Win8 costs nothing, is hardly noticeable in action and does a decent job. There's no ads or any other garbage. Of course MS also pays nothing to all the companies publishing lists of greatest AVs, so these products naturally land at the bottom of the list. I'm a software specialist since before the days of Windows 1, but I guess I must be pretty clueless. Never had a virus infection though. Or maybe I was just too stupid to notice my empty bank account or encrypted files. Or anything at all.
Everyone has an opinion on AV programs. Anecdotes aren't really useful, however. I show our customers the latest results from AV-Test.org and AV-Comparitives.org so they can choose based on test comparisons. I have had hundreds of customers that claim they had no problems until "yesterday". Manually scanning the pulled hard drive usually shows malware files from as long as a couple of years ago. They just happened to pick up a particularly nasty one the day before, and then noticed pop-ups, extreme slowness, or other issues. We currently recommend Kaspersky for business use, as it isn't as bloated as Trend Micro or as buggy as Bitdefender. All three are highly rated currently. Others fall short on the test results. Among the free choices Avira is a top performer. 360 Total Security is currently even better, as long as you manually select the add-on Avira and Bitdefender engines. People in general tend to recommend what they use no matter how good it really is in comparison to the competition.
I prefer FortiClient. Not only AV but has a website blacklisting. Also use a browser like SRWare Iron or Comodo Dragon... Adblock + the standard security stuff for the browser. Comodo Internet security premium is good (so I've read)... Also free. Windows firewall should be enough, but do configure it properly. Default settings aren't enough. Although seriously, if you are in-the-know... Even MS's Defender/malicious software removal tool and a proper windows config (blocking ad/malware sites via OpenDNS or Comodo DNS or whatever else)... For you guys that bash this or that OS... I use, Windows for gaming and some development... OSX as my main development workhorse... It's the best of both worlds... Linux for everyday office work, servers and a lot more else... Solaris for 2 Oracle DBs
Imagination is more important than knowledge. Having both makes one a genius.
just install mutliple free ones, the more the merrier
If you understand computers--don't even bother with anti-virus. The anti-virus software on a PC of a savvy PC users is just lowing down the computer.
AdBlock and NoScript on my browser is all I every use--and that is mainly so I don't have to deal with ads, pop-ups, and auto-play videos.
You should be able to tell if you are a savvy user fairly easily. How many times has your PC been infected over the last five years? If zero--you probably know what you are doing.
How does your host file solution protect against domain generating algorithms?
The whole point of that strategy is to evade blacklisting.
As they're discovered, 12 reputable security community sources my data comes from fills them in automatically.
Pretty simple.
* They get discovered every day, like mad... & I get them, every day like mad (via my program APK Hosts File Engine 9.0++ SR-1 32/64-Bit http://start64.com/index.php?o... ).
APK
P.S.=> Another VALUABLE source (manually done on my own of course) is security community articles:
E.G. - Speaking of DGA utilizing malwares too, I used Gar Warner's security blog to get DGA'd C&C + payloads servers for CryptoLocker & many like it that used Domain Generation Algorithms, by the MANY 1,000's (his blog = great, & there are MANY others, that security sources for hosts data leverage as I do)... apk
I've also got the likes of MalwareBytes (#1!!!) too http://ask.slashdot.org/commen...
* :)
Of course, I've ALSO got truth & facts + greater abilities using less AND more efficiency than my "so-called 'competition'" does by a mile too -> http://ask.slashdot.org/commen... that NOBODY HERE CAN VALIDLY DISPROVE, period...
(Face it, Luckyo: YOU *WISH* YOU WERE ME... lol!)
APK
P.S.=> Let me tell you all, 1 thing: It's NOT easy being 'world-class' (like me)... apk
I love the irony that you're evading the point he made by accusing him of "running away". We all know why people "run away" from you APK, it's because you refuse to engage with the argument and just keep spamming non-sequiturs until people just shrug and walk off. Arguing with you is like playing chess with a pigeon. You can be checkmated in two moves, but you'll still shit all above the board and strut around like you've won. You are completely mental, and I guarantee that your response to this post will only demonstrate that further. Let me assure you, you can post whatever nonsense you like in response, safe in the knowledge that I won't be engaging with it because it's a waste of my time. I anticipate...ooohh say... ~4 posts that are thinly disguised as posts from 4 different ACs that are clearly all written by you. I'll be disappointed if you don't include the phrase "run forrest, run".
(1.21 gigawatts) / (88 miles per hour) = 30 757 874 newtons
Create a separate regular user account that you use 100% of the time, and only use the admin account credentials when you know you are installing or updating something that's legit. Do or don't use anti-virus (I use Microsoft Security Essentials on my Windows machine because it's free, good enough, and not pesky).
If you do manage to get infected with something, create another user account and only copy documents over. Since the virus is likely hiding elsewhere in your user profile or in your user registry key, the virus is gone, by your perspective.
MSE
HOSTS file
Adblock, NoScript, Disconnect (Ghostery was sold to an ad company)
EMET
MalwareBytes
Job's done!
Until you've proven ME wrong here you fail http://ask.slashdot.org/commen... & you know it... lol!
* :)
(Off topic crap doesn't cut it, & that is ALL you've got... lmao!)
APK
P.S.=> Clue: I don't "argue" with trolls like you - I simply challenge them to prove me wrong on my points on hosts vs. inferior competitors (& they are, by miles) - funniest part?
Not a SINGLE ONE has to date (not a one, including you, troll -> http://yro.slashdot.org/commen... after you did a "Run, Forrest: RUN!!!" there vs. those same points in the link above that you can't even touch, lmao!)... apk
See subject: (especially from windows) is when this was a threat. It was only shortly after that BIOS flashing malwares showed up (not only for mobos, but really *anything* using an eeprom that can be 'flash updated').
* Additionally - They don't "alter" the code as is, they stuff it with a BOGUS model iirc...
(Yes, you can "reflash" to wipe it out, but nevertheless again, such attacks DO & have existed + occurred in the past...)
APK
P.S.=> It exists as a threat, but you make a point there are MANY bios out there (AMI, Award, etc.) so the attacks are LIMITED to those in scope, not "universal" to ALL/EVERY BIOS maker's stuff... still, they happen as they occur, of course (point taken on that account, but I figured that was just 'understood' minus having to say it)... apk
Lately I've been dealing with Windows systems virtually crippled by the "real time protection" now standard in most antivirus applications. I bought Chromebooks for my family. They are fast, cheap and don't need anti-virus. My wife loves hers. The only way to stop AV packages crippling a Windows system is to disable or degrade the protection.... Which leaves you vulnerable. That's not the answer either. So I ditched Windows. That was the best answer. This has been going on for 20 years and more. Clearly it's part of the Windows ecology. No thanks.
Only boring people are ever bored.
Don't turn it on.
Agreed: See subject & my p.s. in this link http://ask.slashdot.org/commen... from this discussion (no software required, just a single file you have already does the job...)
* To quote Howard Stark (from the film "Captain America")? "It's stronger than steel & a 3rd the weight..."
(Hosts files really are that too, oddly enough - how so? Ok: They do MORE with less vs. browser addons, by far, on all fronts in abilities & also resources consumed...)
APK
P.S.=> It works (better than *ANY* single "so-called 'solution'" out there, bar-none, & does everything I said in the subject above (as well as making you faster online, a single NATIVE part of the TCP/IP stack you already have also makes you more secure + more reliably connected also))... apk
MS Security Essentials ranks at the BOTTOM of the list of every independent AV test and you think it is safe? The thing is just as useless as the built-in MS Firewall (does nothing).
The only people who suggest MSSE are people who are completely clueless about basic security.
Agreed. MSSE/Defender is useless. Had that on my parents' machine and it would invariably get infected every month or two. Have not once seen that POS detect or stop anything in the wild.
Got them an iMac, and knock on Formica it's been trouble free for six months so far :-)
There's a lot of people saying Microsoft Security Essentials or Windows Defender. That was a great answer a few years ago, it's not now. It's near the bottom of of the lists in rankings on most tests. For those saying don't use any AV, stop posting please. You're not impressing anyone by trying to be l33t prosauce internet surfer. http://www.av-comparatives.org... http://www.av-test.org/en/anti... https://www.virusbtn.com/vb100... http://www.tomsguide.com/us/be... http://www.lifehacker.co.uk/20... Nowhere on ay of those links will you find someone saying that MSE/Defender is a good choice.
Avira has been one of the highest rated hueristic scanners, detecting virii by behavior as opposed to a check sum of a know virus.
Free for personal use: https://www.avira.com/en/index
This is "too many words" http://ask.slashdot.org/commen... ? The analogy I used via Howard Stark regarding Capt. America's shield is QUITE apt (provided you've seen the film) since hosts are FAR MORE than "a 3rd the weight" (especially vs. AdBlock) & do FAR MORE than browser addons do (stronger than THEIR steel, by far).
ANY DOUBTS as to "what hosts do"?
They're all covered here -> APK Hosts File Engine 9.0++ SR-1 32/64-bit http://start64.com/index.php?o...
* Look: I appreciate the advice, but I've done extremely well in the software world over time since the mid 1990's (not just in freeware/shareware: Those are a "labor of love", just as this program I have @ MalwareBytes is - but also in commercially sold wares to this day which bear my code in them that did well @ say, Microsoft TechEd in its HARDEST CATEGORY - SQLServer Performance Enhancement).
Thus, based on a Pretty GOOD trackrecord & experience here on those notes? Well - I'll be true to myself, & continue as I have been doing & always have done (I've done well using HOW I do things before... have you, in the software world I wonder?).
That post you're all responding to now?
Hey - that's merely to point on MalwareByte rocks (did great in a mid 2014 antivirus comparison test from a reputable site no less, AND, to show they like my stuff enough to not only host it, but also RECOMMEND it... why? It works!)
APK
P.S.=> Besides, the 16 point list I put up in a few spots in this article ARE salient & apply - I don't just "concentrate on a few things only": I leave NO STONE unturned - that's all. There's SO MUCH hosts do, for less no less vs. other 'competitors' (that have to "eat my dust" on MANY levels in resources consumed AND lack of abilities hosts has), that I simply cover them all... apk
First off, ignore everyone who recommends Microsoft Security Essentials and/or Windows Defender. Google why - it sucks, totally worthless.
Second, the person who recommended http://www.av-comparatives.org... is wise. Look over their reports over the past few years, as well as http://www.av-test.org/. You will see that Avira, AVG, and Avast are very good products (all free). Some are more bloated that others - I prefer Avast, personally.
NOD32 by Eset used to be known as have the least-impacting AV product - no popups, silent gamer mode, low CPU and disk utilization, etc. It is not free.
I only resort to HijackThis or MalwareBytes when helping someone who already has some form of malware/virus. Safe browsing habits and a decent AV product will protect you just fine.
AVG was it's own company, then got bought by Intel, IIRC.
The person who recommended SandBoxie is also wise. It is a great product to use when you want to browse a site you are unsure about. My biggest complaint about Avast is that is dislikes SandBoxie - to get it to configure settings that I am uncomfortable disabling, so I gave up on using SandBoxie.
I only looked at ClamWin years ago - it did not have an on-access component, it only did disk scans. If this is still true I do not recommend it. You want an on-access scanner that can protect you as soon it it is read or written.
For free, I recommend Avast. For money, Trend Micro and BitDefender always perform well, and I would consider ESET, too.
I have many E-mail accounts as I'm sure others do, all being forwarded to my main E-mail account (Gmail). Gmail allows POP3 which lets you download your E-mail, many E-mail sites don't offer that ablity.. Web based E-mail you need to open to read (or even see) you don't know what it's going to contain or do, mostly though install beacons -the sender, if a site you subscribe to will tell you this up front in it's privacy policy.
I use Agent as my E-mail/newsgroup reader, actually I've always used Agent starting with version .98 (so know of no other similar programs); at this time Agent 6 as it has SSL. While I prefer 1.93 it hasn't SSL and the latest update to Stunnel not only didn't work, neither will the older versions now.
Agent won't load HTML, allowing you to read your E-mail as text; most HTML E-mail have two "versions" the HTML followed by text, both saying the same thing. Agent will load your E-mail in your browser if you want, but I have rarely needed to.
I can tell if an attachment has been sent with the E-mail by it's flags (status), the first item listed before the lines the message has, subject, author, and date. If I don't know the sender I just delete it by right clicking on the line of E-mail info itself. Since I've already downloaded it, if I really wanted to I could go into my incoming directory and see what it is, but if an unknown sender I couldn't care.
Charter offers access to the newsgroups (UseNet) as part of it's service (no charge) which I use Agent for as well. I've begun to notice people referring to Google Groups as the newsgroups (not even close).
Headers, while not as informative as they used to be (senders IP address no longer listed) are fully listed and an option to view along with the message. None of the E-mail programs I've seen (cell phone and such) have more than a few lines and of no real value.
I see E-mail having bounced back and forth between Google servers much like ping-pong. Servers which btw use the 10.0.0.0 ip address block Https://tools.ietf.org/html/rfc1918, all internal to Google. I was kind of impressed, cost em nothing.
I'd post one of the headers here but it would have to be edited to senselessness as it shows the complete path the E-mail followed; being forwarded E-mail, just too much info.
The only down side of Agent I've ever encountered are the features and options one has to work with, which can be overwhelming at first, this includes the message filtering system.
Not being that bright, a filter can take me quite awhile to get it to do just what I want, whether it's to begin downloading a file showing up sight unseen, or deleting one. The last time was to keep the first .par file but delete any additional .par files (ones needed to repair) as the newsgroups are very reliable, yep it took awhile.
But don't forget web based E-mail is a threat as well.
Feel I need to add: I have nothing to do with Agent (Forte), just a user.
Many antivirus programs will attempt to delete any email that contains a virus, even if said email resides in an index file managed by your email program.
This has been known to destroy entire local email databases, resulting in loss of all data since previous backup. Note that this includes newly received unread emails that are probably not recoverable because your email program already removed them from the server, and your email provider's customer support may not honor requests to recover deleted POP emails. In other words, you can lose an important message from X because Y sent you a virus.
Worse, you may not realize that you lost anything until years later -- after you've already migrated your email to another email program. In such cases, having a full backup of your old PC helps, but it's still a major pain in the ass to try to piece together which emails you still want, because importing the entire backup email database may not be an option if you've already painstakingly re-categorized and deleted thousands of old emails.
tl;dr: Do not run antivirus on the computer that hosts your email database. Always use IMAP locally, or use a web-based email if you run an antivirus program on your computer.
A couple of other things for prevention could include CryptoPrevent and HitmanPro.Alert.
CryptoPrevent is primarily an automated way to set a variety of documented settings to restrict execution from a variety of locations, though you may need to temporarily disable it for installing or updating some software. I also haven't investigated this, but it occurred to me this evening that those policy changes might have caused problems I recently had with some Windows security updates that ended up with me saying "screw it" and reinstalling Windows.
HitmanPro.Alert monitors filesystem behavior to attempt to detect and block the assorted CryptoLocker-style infections, though there are some that it still doesn't detect (or at least can't differentiate enough from regular activity).
fencepost
just a little off
See subject? "Ask Slashdot: Best Anti-Virus Software In 2015? Free Or Paid?"
APK
P.S.=> MalwareBytes undeniably "RoCkeD-TeH-PlaNeT" in a test of effectiveness vs. the competetion recently: There's no doubting that - I only plugged my freeware because it's working alongside their excellent & yes, noble effort... AND, it's highly effective in that capacity also & from where the threats REALLY are & originate from - online. I do so using what you have already, minus being dumb, bolting on more to do the same... in usermode SLOW no less! apk
"Your hosts file approach doesn't even address hardcoded IPs or domain-generating algorithms. Start working on another approach or shut the fuck up." - by bouldin (828821) on Saturday January 24, 2015 @09:15PM (#48896165)
See subject-line, & this link http://ask.slashdot.org/commen...
* :)
APK
P.S.=> Are you actually *trying* to make me look good, & yourself, well... "not so good"? You are successful in it if so. Thank-You, however, I just MUST (lol) ask you a question:
QUESTION: How does it taste eating your words washed down with the "bitter taste of SELF-DEFEAT", rammed down by your foot in your mouth too, for it?
(LMAO)
... apk
Clue: IF a domain name's in hosts blocked? It's nullified! They can throw it away, who cares if it lasts 1 second even: They own it & can use it again (ala FastFlux recycling) potentially, which hosts again, nullify...
* You fail, no matter what, due to what you yourself use, the word domain (host in other words).
APK
P.S.=> Pretty simple: IF it's blocked, it's no threat & hosts do THAT for you (as well as speed you up using hardcoded IP addresses proofing you vs. DNS shortcomings in that same stroke also - mega multi bonus!)...Eating your words again, eh? Hey, listen: Eating your words != "good nutrition" (change your diet, lmao...)...
... apk
The odds of me hitting a domain that lasts 1 second? Near zero.
Again, clue: Hosts block a domain name, no matter what, I can't be harmed by it
(... & domain name generation using botnets have that as their weakness - hosts block domain names)
APK
P.S.=> You still haven't answered my question, since you have to "eat your words" (1 word in particular - domain): How does it taste, eating your words, washed down with "the bitter taste of SELF-defeat", spiced with egg on your face, & ramming it all down with your foot in your mouth...?
... apk
Visual cues. Sure. Obviously this dude's a commercial pilot who claims he can land a plane BY SMELL.
If a domain is blocked in hosts it can't harm me. It gets discovered and added as blocked when it's bad. Happens all the time.
* See Gar Warner's blog (has many DGA botnets' C&C + payload servers listed).
Thus - I don't *HAVE* to predict them in hosts: I simply block them as they are added.
If they last longer than 1 second, I get them added as blocked by 12 reputable sources in the security community OR from security blog articles (like Mr. Warner I mentioned).
It works simply because DGA uses hostnames.
APK
P.S.=> No matter what you say, as long as I get entries for ANY KIND of threat online as blocked entered in hosts (and I do by the truckloads every hour here due to my program being automated to pickup that data), they cannot harm me (odds & time do the rest - since the odds of me hitting it are also INCREDIBLY small, especially if/when short-lived). Protecting/Security-Hardening my system does the rest (especially omitting using threats like Javascript or even Java for example - the "main harbingers of doom")... apk
See subject: It's far more than you have http://ask.slashdot.org/commen...
* :)
APK
P.S.=> Face it, Luckyo: You *WISH* you were me... lol!
... apk
Why that would be 'common sense' of course.
"NO, by the time those blogs post a domain name, it is not being used anymore. The malware will generate another domain name based on the date/time, and you will not have that domain name in your blacklist." - by bouldin (828821) on Sunday January 25, 2015 @09:50AM (#48898125)
See subject: I'm protected if an entry's blocked in hosts, period. Yes, I have any DGA generated hostnames. I get them from my sources in the security community I noted.
(Gar Warner's excellent on that account, specifically/in particular!)
Secondly: The malware makers/botnet herders etc. own those domain/host names. Thus, they'll recycle (fastflux) & reuse them (more than just potentially) since they own them.
---
"A hosts file is great for blocking ad domains, but it does NOT provide strong security." - by bouldin (828821) on Sunday January 25, 2015 @09:50AM (#48898125)
ACL & UAC + WFP/SFP start out the show there on that account THEN My program furthers that by applying read-only attributes to the hosts file (constantly on a hi-res timer when left resident) and at shutdown of the program. Nothing is going to get thru to write the hosts file while my application runs.
My app's in the way protecting hosts ABOVE those std. measures in Windows.
You fail.
---
"You still don't get it, so I guess I'm giving up. This is like explaining Calculus to a housecat." - by bouldin (828821) on Sunday January 25, 2015 @09:50AM (#48898125)
LMAO - listen you little ARROGANT NOBODY:
Has your work EVER been a FINALIST @ Microsoft TechEd, 2 yrs. in a ROW, in its HARDEST CATEGORY? Mine has. It also went into commercially sold ware to this day because of it. * How about you? You pick on my shareware here, where's YOURS that does a BETTER JOB?? It's not.
APK
P.S.=> Unbelievable - I've been writing code professionally AND SECURING PC's before you were out of diapers I'd strongly wager!
... apk
"It can hardcode a C&C IP address, like the Sony Pictures malware did" - by bouldin (828821) on Sunday January 25, 2015 @09:50AM (#48898125)
LOL- that's what I use this for (complimenting hosts) -> http://yro.slashdot.org/commen... (Windows Firewall rules - since they filter by IP addresses - then again, I never *once* claimed hosts stop those, but then again, 99% of malware doesn't USE IP ADDRESSES & instead favors hostnames - I know: I fill my hosts file with data from the major security sites and see both types... daily, for years!)
---
"It can just send the UDP port 53 packets to resolve DNS itself, bypassing the system calls that would check the hosts file" - by bouldin (828821) on Sunday January 25, 2015 @09:50AM (#48898125)
Speaking of hardcoded IP addresses: When I put my favorite sites into hosts @ the top of the hostsfile, I bypass DNS entirely for them (which is how DNS amplification attacks can't affect me since I do that via hosts).
(WTF is it you're *trying* to say here?)
---
"It can disable checking of the hosts file" - by bouldin (828821) on Sunday January 25, 2015 @09:50AM (#48898125)
LMAO - not when my hosts file program is running protecting hosts AND the registry entries for resolution order as I said in my other post, nullifying your "I read it online but never wrote such code myself" bullshit (yes, that's about YOUR speed).
You just got "shot down in flames" again...
APK
P.S.=> You sure "talk a good game" but I don't SEE anything YOU have *EVER* done that did any good, whereas by way of comparison, I could put out a small list of my favorites only that would make you shit your pants... apk
Write or call Mr. Eric Dickman @ SuperSpeed.com (formerly EEC systems) & find out otherwise (first of all): What code have you written in a product I can verify the same at that is sold commercially?
APK
P.S.=> You make stupid assumptions: Malware can't modify my hosts file (my app protects it BEYOND OS UAC/ACL & WFP/SFP also) & hosts files keep me AWAY FROM SOURCES OF INFESTATION (& I don't use javascript/java etc. to get more) + I conscientiously patch my OS & apps, as well as security harden my system beyond that (of which hosts is a part also) - you talk a LOT OF TALK about "a virus could do this & that" b.s., but it's no good if hosts stop me from getting it in the FIRST PLACE (which hosts are great at), & if I do all that too... apk
"by the time those blogs post a domain name, it is not being used anymore" - by bouldin (828821) on Sunday January 25, 2015 @06:28PM (#48901031)
If a hostname's not used anymore it's not threat 1st of all. Get it? Secondly: THEY OWN THAT NAME (& thus, via fastflux design use in their botnet or future versions, those domains can be reused for malicious purposes).
You have NO imagination or creativity. You're (& now I've just GOTTA say this) just "too, Too, TOO EASY: Just '2ez'" to get the better of on ALL fronts... you're no security pro. You like to TALK like one, but I haven't seen that commercially sold code of yours have I? Nope... I can do that. You? Can't. You fail (on all fronts).
APK
P.S.=> Lastly: IF I have that name (& even DGA generated I do, even if eventually), it is NO THREAT TO ME BLOCKED IN HOSTS (even IF reused/recycled in the future via fastflux botnet design, if not already present in said malware)... Get THAT too? I hope so... lmao!
... apk
"I'm not contacting Eric or telling you where I work, idiot." - by bouldin (828821) on Sunday January 25, 2015 @07:24PM (#48901297)
You're full of it (knew it... lol, see subject-line above).
"Look back through the comments in this Slashdot post and see if there is a single person who likes you or has any respect for you." - by bouldin (828821) on Sunday January 25, 2015 @07:24PM (#48901297)
MalwareBytes does, hosting & recommending my program -> http://hosts-file.net/?s=Downl... so what would I need ANYBODY ELSE for?
* You done better?
(Show me, show us all, something of even THAT extent that helps not only surf more reliably & SAFER online, but faster too... ok? Show us you've done better... you can't & you KNOW it, I know it, & anyone reading with 1/2 a brain does by now too!)
APK
P.S.=> I can show you, literally, where a RESPECTED computer security company showcases & recommends my wares in that simple freeware: How about you? NADA/SQUAT/ZIP... you're full of it, period (no balls, & certainly NOTHING to back up your b.s.)... apk
I'm like Linus Torvalds in 1 respect: I don't care about you - I care about my ware being the best it can be (just updated today, it is) -> http://start64.com/index.php?o... & personally, I am *NOT* into being worshipped either (sets you up for a fall. Media does it all the time...)
* Which is, of course, clearly beyond your abilities to create (a something that makes folks go faster, more reliably & SAFER online - getting their monies' worth & peace of mind... for FREE!)
Lastly, per my subject-line: You don't merit worship (I'd like to know where you got THAT idea from in the 1st place why did you bring it up?).
Besides: Since you brought up worship (for Lord only knows why as to your reasons) What've you done for your non-existent worshippers (nothing) since you don't merit having any?
APK
P.S.=> Beat that with a stick & do better on YOUR end (you'd be surprised @ the rewards, as there IS a joy in giving alone)... apk
No, I just don't need a job (you do evidently) & MalwareBytes does http://hosts-file.net/?s=Downl... : See subject...
APK
P.S.=> Before you talk shit about something? Try it -> http://start64.com/index.php?o... OR do better yourself... apk
non-admin accounts and Software whitelisting is what you should be doing.
See subject: However, I do try to do "the right thing" giving others faster, safer, & more reliable online experiences (see below) via skills in coding I've acquired over time since 1982 programming - that's all.
* Life's been good to me so far (as the song goes) so, I thought I'd share that with others.
APK Hosts File Engine 9.0++ SR-1 32/64-bit:
http://start64.com/index.php?o...
(Call it a "pay it forward" since it's free, & does a great job for all of its virtues I extolled above...)
APK
P.S.=> MalwareBytes seems to like my work enough to host & RECOMMEND it here http://hosts-file.net/?s=Downl... & THAT? Is good enough, for me... apk
See subject: I wish you the same 'craziness' - It pays off in MANY ways http://ask.slashdot.org/commen... again - per my 'p.s.' in that last post of mine to you... I'm quite proud of that (especially vs. all the "flack" I've taken here from trolls on this forums especially here on /. ... having MalwareBytes host & recommend my wares makes ALL the difference!)
* :)
APK
P.S.=> "Onwards & UPWARDS!!!"... apk
Take a look at baidu antivirus, I'm using it for a while and I like it.
Can ghostery/adblock do 16 things hosts do for more speed, security, & reliability:
1.) Protect you vs. malicious sites/servers (beyond malicious adbanners: See 2-10 next)
2.) Protect you vs. fastflux botnets + stop their communication back to C&C servers
3.) Protect you vs. dynamic dns botnets + stop their communication back to C&C servers
4.) Protect you vs. DGA botnets + stop their communication back to C&C servers
5.) Protect you vs. downed DNS servers (adds reliability)
6.) Protect you vs. DNS redirect poisoned dns servers
7.) Protect you vs. DNS amplification attacks
8.) Protect you vs. trackers
9.) Protect you vs. spam sources
10.) Protect you vs. phishing sources
11.) Get you past a dnsbl you don't like
12.) Keep you off dns request logs
13.) Speed up websurfing by adblocking & also hardcoding favorite sites
14.) Work on ANY webbound app (think stand-alone email programs).
15.) Give you direct easily texteditor controlled data for all of the above
16.) Do all of those things & block ads (better than addons) more efficiently in cpu cycles + memory usage
* "?"
APK
P.S.=> ANSWER ="NO" to each above on Ghostery/AdBlock:
Ghostery's Advertiser owned - "A fox guards the henhouse"-> http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/G...
AdBlock's 4++gb & 100% CPU usage flooring inefficiency -> https://blog.mozilla.org/nneth... + ClarityRay defeats it + it 'souled-out' & is crippled by default paid off to not do its job http://techcrunch.com/2013/07/...
BOTH do far less than hosts do & less efficiently - hosts by way of comparison, do MORE w/ less.
Both add more complexity/room for breakdown/exploit + from a slower mode of operations (usermode = more messagepassing overheads vs. hosts in kernelmode).
Hosts start w/ the IP stack itself before REDUNDANT inefficient addons BEGIN to operate (as 1st resolver queried).
For the BEST hosts file? APK Hosts File Engine 9.0++ SR-1 32/64-bit -> http://start64.com/index.php?o...
... apk
Someone will one day post you the obvious "can condoms protect you from" post where they will list things like hand wounds in boxing.
But that will not be today :D
See subject: To validly prove my points on hosts wrong here http://ask.slashdot.org/commen... as to their superiority to browser addons (that don't do a FRACTION of what hosts can for more speed, security, & reliability online + with less resources consumed, by FAR...)
* Good luck - you'll need a miracle!
"But that will not be today :D" - by Luckyo (1726890) on Tuesday January 27, 2015 @10:06AM (#48914005)
You're right on 1 account: You'll FAIL this FAIR & SIMPLE CHALLENGE put to you - guaranteed.
APK
P.S.=> That's how it always goes - nobody can do it since it CAN'T validly be done... apk