Downloads

Anti-virus Tools

Anti-Vir - Sometimes F-Secure can be grouchy and not install on infected systems. If you have trouble with F-Secure, first make sure it is fully uninstalled, and then install Anti-Vir. It is also free and is a useful alternative.

Housecall - You can actually run this virus scanner from the web without installing it on your computer. This program is very useful in the case your virus scanner does not find or cannot remove what is infecting your system. It also does not interfere with F-Secure or other installed anti-virus programs.

Anti-spyware Tools

Spybot-Search&Destroy - A very powerful anti-spyware tool that offers a nifty "Immunization" feature which will block many future spyware infections. Scheduled spyware scans are also very helpful. However, Spybot is a bit trickier to use and update than AdAware Personal.

Windows Defender (Beta) - This tool from Microsoft is arguably the most complete and powerful free spyware tool and it is very easy to use. The program will automatically update itself with new spyware definitions, and it offers real-time protection from spyware--it catches infections as they occur. Currently in beta, it is unclear whether the final product will be free. Get it while it's hot!

Using Multiple Anti-Spyware Programs - Unlike Anti-virus programs, you can install more than one Anti-Spyware program without screwing up your computer. Virus and Spyware creators are often finding ways to get around spcific detection programs, so using more than one program can help catch spyware you would otherwise miss. This same procedure can be done for viruses by using Housecall since it does not actually install to your computer.

Web Browsers

Netscape - Version 8.0 is preferred to all other browsers by many people, and includes spyware warnings, tabbed browsing, intelligent password management, and several other handy features. .

Opera - Opera has more features than almost any other browser including several very useful ones for those who are interested in developing websites. Opera is one of the easiest browsers to use on the market, though it does have an advertisement bar at the top of the free version.

Safari - (Mac OSX only). Apple's leading web browser. Not only can it handle the most advanced website layouts, but its user interface and speed--Apple claims it is the fastest web browser--are wonderful as well.

Other Useful Programs

Java - Java is used for many websites, and is necessary to connect to WebCT, OASIS, and Horizon Wimba.

Quicktime - Plays movies including the .mov and .qt formats and is required for Horizon Wimba online classes at UGA.

Flash - A common and integral part of many websites today. Flash allows web sites to present much flashier and more engaging content to the viewer. This program has no specific purpose at UGA, but having the most recent version installed on your computer will enhance your web browser experience.

Winsock XP Fix - After cleaning a computer with a severe spyware problem your Internet connection may still not work correctly. This program resets your network settings for Windows and will often fix this problem.

Ghost - A set of utilities for Intel/AMD machines that can make and install compressed images of a hard drive. Also useful for duplicating a computer's hard drive. Ideal for those who format often.