Sorry MC but |I haven't read your article yet, I guess I should...
Carol, here's what I reckon is the quick answer (unusual for me, OK) -
> Hardware firewall - in the router
> Software firewall - Online Armor, or Ghostwall if you don't want any popups (but be aware that the popups mean a lot of extra safety and security as this is the ONLY WAY to stop nasties dialling out)
> Use a secure browser - Firefox, K-meleon, Opera. Don't use Windows default browser especially if it is <IE8.
> Use a secure email client like Thunderbird. Don't use Windows default email client!
> Antivirus - Avast
> Antispyware on-demand scanner - SuperAntiSpyware
> Use a simple password for login to your PC
> Encryption - use Axcrypt to encrypt any personal files on your PC, like account details etc
> Password manager - Use Lastpass (free) or Roboform (paid) + Firefox to hold your online logins etc
I think this is the minimum in terms of software. Also, to be secure, you need a security policy. For example, don't download screensavers; always change any password that has been sent in a plain text email; encrypt any files on your PC that have sensitive data; etc.
[edit]
OK, MC, I read it now. Reminded me about safe email clients - thanks.