Hi,

I was advised by a well respected local"Tech." that I should use ATF.EXE as a must in my anti malware artillery, utilities, etc.?

I run the following, security programs and Utils. now, and can't imagine adding much more?

AVG (AV)
Counterspy
Spybot S & D
AdAware 2007
A2
Spyware Blaster
Trojan Hunter
Spyhunter

Also, I do not use a internal or software Firewall, as I use a wired Linksys Router?

I have not had problems, not been easily removed in the past 2 years plus, with the above regime.

Plus I use several other programs to clean the hard drive, registry and defrag.

Vopt 8 as a Defragger, optimizer, and registry compactor.
System Mechanic by Iolo
Registry Booster 2 by Uniblue
Speedup My PC 3 " "

Do I really need Atf.exe? And would appreciate any advice, criticism, or opinion on my practices as listed above?

May be you guys have a suggestion for a must have Utility or Security Program that I should GET?

Is it that critical that I do not use a firewall to monitor what I might be sending out? The Router is good enough as an External Firewall for what is coming in as it changes my Ip adress dynamically, correct?

Should I really use a internal firewall like Zone Alarm too? I tried once and it gave e so many problems blocking my program use, inspite of my telling it which programs to allow?

I am a novice, although I have a 4 computer Home Network, with a Cable Ethernet Wired.
3 of the 4 computers run Win XP Home and 1 uses Win XP Pro.

Thank you very much for your support regarding this question on ATF as a necessity? And what you think about the other utilities? really appreciate your opinion and help!

Sincerely,


Miles

Hello Miles,
atf.exe is generally considered an undesireable and to be removed
See
Startup List

CounterSpy

I would add SUPERAntispyware, free home version. Update weekly and prior to a scan.
Also unless it is no trouble to you, AdAware 2007 has been giving some folks trouble and remove it.

Thank you for the reply and what a great board!! SuperAntispyware looks real good and AdAware 2007 has given me some trouble, unlike its predecessor AdAware SE. I will remove it

Sincerely,

Miles

SpyHunter is a program that was previously listed as a rogue product on the Rogue/Suspect Anti-Spyware Products List because of the company's history of employing aggressive, deceptive advertising. It has since been delisted but in my opinion it is not a very effective program compared to others with a proven track those mentioned in BC's List of Virus & Malware Resources or one of the other Trustworthy Anti-Spyware Products. Also see this Spy Hunter Review.

quietman7,
Thank you and that's it for Spy Hunter. It really stinks!

Miles

Your welcome.