Windows Vista's security has come a long way since Windows XP, but still iricludes a number of problems that you'll want to rectify as soon as possible. The new firewall, for instance, is packed with features, yet somehow still makes it difficult to trap outgoing connections. Replace it with the excellent free Como do firewal. And while it's good to see that Windows now includes an antispyware tool in Windows Defender, you really need antI-Vlrus protection too to stay safe online. Avira Antivir , Avast antivirus or AVG Free will all keep home users safe from a range of malware for no charge at all.

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The Windows Vista Recycle Bin sees an impressive new icon, but we'd rather Microsoft had addressed a more significant flaw namely its inability to securely wipe files. If a Mac user wants to get rid of a confidential file forever then they simply click Secure Empty Trash and it'll be overwritten in such a way that snoopers with undelete software won't be able to recover a thing. Windows users must simply choose the Empty Recycle Bin and hope no-one else gets access to their system, and that's not good enough. Doubtless Microsoft will get around to adding this eventually, but in the meantime you can fix the problem for yourself by installing Eraser.

File encryption is annoyingly reserved for the Windows Vista Business, Enterprise and Ultimate editions. Microsoft apparently believes that home users don't have any confidential data worth protecting. Still, don't complain, just download a free copy of Truecrypt. It can create virtual encrypted drives that will keep all your most private files safe frorrnnoopers.