Avast! Antivirus Software
This is a very good FREE antivirus software. It offers real-time protection just like the major brands.
Advantages: It's free and updates automatically.
Drawbacks: Lacks the recognition of Norton and McAfee but don't let that be a deterrent to downloading and using it.

Windows Defender
Windows Defender is a free program that helps protect your computer against pop-ups, slow performance, and security threats caused by spyware and other unwanted software. It features Real-Time Protection, a monitoring system that recommends actions against spyware when it's detected, and a new streamlined interface that minimizes interruptions and helps you stay productive.
Advantages: It's free and from a trusted vendor that is very compatible with the Windows operating system.
Drawbacks: Not compatible to work with Windows 98 or ME. (If you use these operating systems we recommend Lavasoft)

Ad-Aware Personal SE (By Lavasoft)
Ad-Aware Personal provides advanced protection from known data-mining, aggressive advertising, Trojans, dialers, malware, browser hijackers, and tracking components. This software is downloadable free of charge. Users of Ad-Aware Personal can efficiently remove behavior-tracking spyware; thus protecting your privacy on the Internet and more.
Advantages: For use with ALL Windows operation systems.
Drawbacks: Very few if any.

Spybot Search & Destroy
Spyware, hijackers, dialers, trojans and other malware can play havoc with your PC and snoop around your personal data. Spybot - Search & Destroy is the essential solution to protect your online privacy. It removes snoops that already found their way into your system, and prevents others from infecting your computer. Spybot S&D even has applications for cellphone surfing.
Advantages: Compatible with operating systems from Win 95 on. Winner of many awards and recommended by reputable sites, publications and services making this a very credible application.
Drawbacks: None

Yahoo Toolbar
Packed with features and includes pop-up blocker and award-winning Anti-Spy technology. Completely customizable to include the features you want and need.
Advantages: Yahoo has long been the leader of internet searching and technology. The integration of the pop-up blocker and anti-spyware is most valuable.
Drawbacks: This tool bar can be lengthy for some to download. For some the inclusion or deletion of the features might seem a bit advanced.

Google Toolbar
Has many of the outstanding features of the Yahoo Toolbar but includes a spell checker for use with online forms and e-mails. Can translate English words into other languages. Includes a very good pop-up blocker.
Advantages: Google has become the current leader among search engines. Download and installs somewhat faster and easier than Yahoo.
Drawbacks: This toolbar lacks the anti-spyware that Yahoo has but if you use one of the softwares we recommended earlier this does not become an issue.

All Yours Chat Toolbar
We are very proud to place ourselves among the other two leaders of the internet with our very own toolbar. We in no way claim that we are in the same league but we do think we have a very non imposing toolbar that can serve your needs. The AYC toolbar is not lacking in features and includes something that neither Google or Yahoo offers. We have a radio that you can add a multitude of stations with your favorite genre of music. You may add and delete features. Click the link provided to see what features our toolbar has to offer.
Advantages: Also has pop-up blocker. Downloads quicker than either of the other two listed on this page. Quick links to many of the AYC pages and services.
Drawbacks: Hey, this is our baby. We love it!