Internet Safety
Filtering Software
Open DNS is a free product. It uses the Internet's Domain Name System to filter access based on numerous web-page categories. Interestingly, the technology can slightly speed up access to web pages. By default, it automatically blocks known malware sites. Exceptions can be made for specific web sites. You manage it through OpenDNS's website, so you can make changes remotely.
You can place the control on any router, so an entire household is filtered, not just one computer. I also install the control on laptops so filtering stays enabled wherever the laptop goes. There is a downside: some Internet hotspots also use DNS to control access, and the two services are not compatible.
Another downside is that a small program must run on at least one computer when your ISP uses dynamic IP addresses (most do). The program tracks where you are so it can apply the proper filter settings. Without it, you will only get the default filters. You can hide the IP tracker, but a knowledgeable user could remove it or change the DNS settings to normal usage -- effectively disabling the product.
Monitoring Software
None to recommend at this time.
Computer Security
Avast! The anti-virus-only version is free. A complete suite, including a firewall, costs extra. I haven't tried the paid-for version, but the free version is definitely fast. Unlike most, it is compatible with older hardware and software. One feature I particularly like is the ability to schedule a scan at the start of the next boot, before anything else runs on the computer (and possibly hide malicious software). I've seen one case where malicious software got past the free version and disabled the software. The paid version probably wouldn't have had the problem.
AVG: This used to be my favorite, but starting with version 9, the product started to show its age. It slows a computer down too much for me to keep using it. It has a free, antivirus-only edition and paid-for editions which include a firewall. I've used both the free and paid-for editions and never ran into a problem beyond the speed issue.
Avira Simple and it is free for individuals.
Kaspersky: I've never used this software. I know a few people who have used it. I found it awkward to install, which left me unimpressed.
Malwarebytes: This is one of my favorites. It uses a unique way to scan for viruses. The free version only runs when you launch it, so it makes a great "second opinion" tool since it doesn't interfere with your installed antivirus. The paid version works great, and the price is good.
McAfee. I've never liked this software. I see it bypassed and broken by malware regularly. It is well known for slowing computers down. It often comes free with various ISPs, which is why it is used so often.
Norton Internet Security. This is currently my favorite suite since the 2009 version. It does cost money, but I find it worth the price. You can install it on five computers or phones, which helps with the yearly cost. The best feature is that scans run when the computer is idle, so they don't interfere with work in progress. It tends to run very silently.
