| INTERNET BROWSERS:
• FireFox - A FREE open-sourced browser ... a great alternative to Internet Explorer. Available for Windows as well as Mac and Linux based machines.
• Opera - Claiming to be "The Fastest Browser on Earth", it comes in many flavors for a variety of operating systems as well as mobile devices. FREE download. SPYWARE PROTECTION SUGGESTIONS:
• Spybot - Search and Destroy - a great freeware utility for finding and eliminating spyware on your Windows based computer. Featured in PC World.
FIREWALL UTILITIES:
• Zone Alarm - Zonelabs - Offering one of the best software based firewall systems, this is a must have for any computer connected to the internet today. We recommend the paid version, but adequate protection is also available through the free version (look under Special Offers on their site). Paid version includes spyware protection.
• GRC.COM - Gibson Research Corporation has been identifying and plugging Windows based security issues for a number of years. The online Shields Up utility will provide you with a litmus test as to how visible (and in turn vulnerable) your computer is on the internet. The site also offers other Windows security-enhancing freeware utilities. SECURITY ANTIVIRUS TOOLS:
• Norton/Symantic Antivirus - Our recommended pick as the best to use. Great virus protection and covers spyware, trojans, and other internet "nasties". The "Systemworks" package is good value providing additional tools along with Antivirus.
• McAfee Antivirus - they also offer a number of free security tools (hoping you will buy a main product). These can be found HERE.
• PC-cillin - these folks also have a few online tools, including a virus scan called Housecall. Company also features a number of business/server applications. Note: There are a few free/shareware anti-virus applications available. We tend to lean towards the above commercial products because of their track history. If you are really on a budget you can try one of the below listed links, but we have no information on their reliability.
• avast! - from ALWIL Software offers a FREE full-featured antivirus package designed exclusively for home users. Company is Czech-based, established in April 1991.
• AVG Free Edition - available free-of-charge to home users. Company is also Czech-based and has offices in several other countries.
PODCAST SOFTWARE:
• iTunes - this popular music software also handles podcasts. Windows and Mac versions.
• Juice - free online receiver that is designed to manage podcasts. Windows and Mac (fomerly ipodder).
• Other Software - Podcast Alley and Podcasting News have directories with various software clients. 
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