Free Security Software
Welcome to FreebieList.com's free security programs category. In this section, we take a look at the best freeware to help keep you safe and secure on the Net. If you're looking for a free firewall utility, anti spyware tool, file shredder, password manager or encryption tool, you've come to the right place. You needn't pay to keep yourself secure on the Web and our reviews of the top security freeware ensure you'll retain a high level of protection. If you happen to stumble across an outdated link, we'd very much appreciate it if you could report it.
Online Vault
"The easy way to enter passwords and fill in Web forms". Online Vault is a popular and quality password manager program that integrates seamlessly with your Web browser. If you have trouble remembering usernames and passwords, or often fill in forms online, this program could save you a whole lot of time. Any data you store can be protected with a master password.
> The program will help you choose highly secure passwords, so you can be sure the maximum level of protection is available.
> You can configure Online Vault to remember various identities, so different credit cards, names and addresses can be used.
Spyware Terminator
Don't fall foul of spyware (rogue programs that collect personal information and surfing habits), download Spyware Terminator and blast them into oblivion. The tool scans and removes anything identified as spyware, then provides a neat and tidy summary. This program is free for both personal and commercial use, and comes complete with automatic updates and free technical support.
Access Manager
This British Web site is undoubtedly home to one of the best password managing programs ever created. It's fast, easy-to-use and very reliable. Features of this 3.51MB package include the ability to remember Web site passwords, e-mail passwords, banking codes, PIN numbers, computer logon passwords and even door entry and alarm codes.
Handy Password
An easy-to-use free password manager, ideal for storing your various log-in details in one convenient place. This smart program attaches to Internet Explorer browsers as an extra toolbar and operates by only requiring the use of one "master" password. If you wish to continue using Handy Password after the trial period, you must complete a free registration.
Panda Recovery
This freeware utility allows you to find and then attempt to recover deleted data files. Panda Recovery recovers files permanently removed from the Recycle Bin, files originally deleted using Shift + Delete keys (bypassing the Recycle Bin), and also files deleted from the DOS prompt. The program is so sophisticated that it can even recover files deleted months earlier. The program is compatible with Windows XP, Vista and 2000.
Windows Defender
This security program developed by Microsoft provides a range of countermeasures to help protect you from spyware and similar security threats. Windows Defender's simple interface is a joy to use and enables you to both monitor and protect vulnerable system areas. The program can detect spyware before it causes any harm or eliminate rogue files once they become installed on your computer.
> Microsoft provides automatic definition updates for Windows Defender to ensure the most recent security threats can be counteracted. To benefit from this, you must update the definition file regularly.
> Unlike other "anti spyware" programs, Windows Defender constantly runs in the background and springs into action if a security threat is identified.
Cookie Cruncher
This is one of the best known cookie-killer programs on the Internet. The idea behind this piece of kit is to stop the activity of cookies on your machine. After browsing, all cookies collected can be deleted instantly, meaning any site looking for the information it cached earlier won't find it. Note: Cookie Cruncher is always being updated and now is very easy to upgrade.
Lavasoft Ad-aware Free
The most popular free anti-spyware utility, this complete solution detects and removes all kinds of dodgy files, including trojans, worms and "malware" (malicious software purposely designed to harm computers). It even helps to protect you from identity theft. Ad-aware thoroughly scans your system registry and other folders to safely delete any rogue packages that may be attempting to relay information about your surfing habits to advertising companies. Inexperienced computer users will also find Ad-aware easy to use. Its "wizard style" interface allows for the step-by-step deletion of spyware.
> With over a quarter of a billion downloads, Ad-aware is considered the anti-spyware program of choice for home computer users.
> You may download updates free of charge to ensure the program is capable of detecting the latest threats to your system.
> The program has recently been updated with the release of Ad-Aware 2008, which now supports Windows Vista.
ZoneAlarm
ZoneAlarm is widely regarded as the most popular freeware firewall. This program protects your computer from malicious hacker attacks, viruses and intruders. It will also notify you of any attempted break-ins and then advise on how to deal with them. As a user, you can customise your level of protection and also surf the Internet in "stealth mode", invisible from the outside world.
> Whilst ZoneAlarm is a reliable firewall for home usage, users of older computers have often complained of the program hogging system resources. A system specification of Windows 2000 Pro/XP, with a Pentium III (450 MHz) processor or higher is recommended.
> ZoneAlarm is free for individual and not-for-profit charitable entity use (excluding governmental entities and educational institutions).
Ashampoo Free
This free firewall helps to protect your computer system from hacker attacks and other security threats. The program's Configuration Assistant, complete with "wizard style" interface, allows users to set up the appropriate level of protection with minimal hassle. Ashampoo has an impressive number of features and monitors both incoming and outgoing traffic. Local and network activity can also be monitored. Size 3.8 MB.