Browsing the internet without protection is like stepping into a monsoon without an umbrella, boots or raincoat. You’ll find yourself in a huge mess and might be swept away by the storm of hackers and scammers. Protecting yourself is as easy as scrolling down this list of the best free security downloads.
We rounded up some of the best ways to protect your computer against viruses, cyberattacks and other threats. We’ve got you covered if you aren’t familiar with how cybersecurity threats work. Tap or click for a quick breakdown of the five most common digital threats you’ll encounter.
There are plenty of ways to protect your devices from harm. You can take preemptive measures like security software or scan your system for malware. Keep reading for the best ways to keep your devices safe — without spending a dime.
What it is: Angry IP scanner keeps track of everything connected to your network. It scans your network for IP addresses and other information about the devices connected to your network.
Why you want it: It’s useful for troubleshooting tech issues and catching hackers since it pinpoints unknown or suspicious devices on your network. Have trouble connecting a device to your network? Angry IP Scanner can show the exact IP address of specific devices, which will help you fix the issue.
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What you need to know: For Angry IP Scanner to run, you must have Java installed.
What it is: Free firewall software that detects malware from people trying to access your computer from afar.
Why you want it: You can use GlassWire to disable malware-ridden apps. Even better, it can stop you from downloading a virus in the first place. These free firewalls make your computer safer, especially when using the internet.
Just check out Netdata, which you can use on macOS and Linux.
It’s our favorite Glassware alternative for Apple users. Use it to quickly monitor your network’s infrastructure. Overall, it’s a great troubleshooting solution that provides thousands of real-time metrics. Put simply, it empowers you to monitor your network and see how healthy your system is.
There’s just one caveat: You must create an account and sign in before you can download NetData.
What it is: This remote access software lets you connect to any PC or server. You can control computers from afar — or, on the other hand, someone can control your computer from afar. This is incredibly helpful for IT and troubleshooting solutions.
Why you want it: Maybe you’re not tech savvy, but a friend is. You can ask them to control your computer and fix tech problems through Team Viewer. Or maybe you’re tech-savvy but struggling to talk your friend through their tech problems. Both of you should download this program so you can control your computers remotely and fix the issue.
What you need to know: Only use this with someone you know and trust. Cybercriminals can use tools like this. Scammers often bait you to download programs like this so they can take over your computer. Use this tool wisely — if you let a stranger use it, they could infect your device with malware.
You can also use Chrome Remote Desktop and Microsoft Remote Desktop to remotely control your computer. They aren’t for troubleshooting tech issues, but they’re still helpful. Tap or click here to safely access and control your computer via your phone.
What it is: This file compression software lets you package large files before you send them.
Why you want it: Sometimes, you need to share highly sensitive documents over email. Use 7Zip to compress your important files into an encrypted folder you can protect with a password. This way, hackers who get into your email can’t open the folders and steal important documents.
What you need to know: Only download it from its official website. You might get a mimicry embedded with malware if you download it from an unauthorized source. Click the yellow button below to download it safely.
What it is: This browser extension automatically switches unsecured HTTP sites over to HTTPS, which is much more secure. (In fact, the “S” stands for secure!) It encrypts a website’s content.
Why you want it: Its encryption makes it harder for hackers and advertisers to track you. This means HTTPS Everywhere will protect you against many forms of surveillance and account hijacking and some forms of censorship.
What you need to know: Sometimes, a website will say it’s secure until you log in. Then the protection drops. Sadly, you can’t trust websites to have your best interests at heart. Luckily, HTTPS Everywhere has your back once you download it to your browser. It’s available for mobile devices and multiple desktop browsers:
What it is: Ghostpress is anti-keylogging software that stops malicious software from capturing your keyboard presses. It also stops hackers from taking screenshots of your computer.
Why you want it: Ghostpress will stop invasive keylogging programs from monitoring what you’re typing in real time. It also stops keyloggers from sending your keystrokes to hackers, which is how cybercriminals steal passwords.
What you need to know: This program is pretty lightweight. It runs in the background while you type and blocks anyone who tries to record your keystrokes.
So you just found some of the most useful free cybersecurity downloads of 2022. If you’re craving more freebies, we don’t blame you. Here are a few useful resources worth checking out.
Sure, they aren’t security downloads. But it can be dangerous to go looking for things without knowing what is safe to use. Scammers often buy top spots in Google Search to trick you into downloading malware.
Here are some good tools to check out. Best of all, they’re as free as sunshine.
Here at Komando HQ, the only thing we love more than sharing tech tips is sharing freebies. Sadly, there can be time limits on the best freebies. Don’t waste any time: Grab these 10 tech freebies while you still can.
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