7 Must-Have Free Software To Protect Your Home Office, Road Warrior Laptop

By Jeff Zbar
www.chiefhomeofficer.com

Traditional computer security measures often are not enough to protect your laptop and netbook.

Laptop security risks include insecure public wireless networks, laptop theft, laptop search, about which you don't worry with your desktop computer. Whether your laptop is stolen, your privacy can still be at risk by simply traveling with your laptop.

However, good laptop security does not have to cost money. The following are seven easy-to-use, useful and free applications that can help protect your laptop, your sensitive data and your privacy.

Encryption. TrueCrypt (www.truecrypt.org) program can protect your data against unauthorized access.

Backup. Cobian Backup (www.cobiansoft.com) is a reliable backup software that can protect your data against loss. An alternative is Mozy (www.mozy.com) free edition — an online backup software with 2 gigs of space.

Antivirus. AVG free edition provides protection against viruses, spyware and other malware. (http://free.avg.com/ww-en/download-free).

Firewall. The built-in Windows firewall protects your laptop against hackers while you're online. (but make sure you configured it properly)

Alarm. LAlarm helps prevent your laptop from theft and is like a car alarm for your laptop. Also it can recover and destroy data in case of laptop theft and more. (www.lalarm.com)

Tracking. Prey laptop tracking software (www.preyproject.com) can locate laptops if stolen.

File shredder. Eraser permanently deletes sensitive data such as passwords, Internet browse history, personal information from your laptop. (http://eraser.heidi.ie)

Since the '80s, Jeff Zbar has been a writer, speaker and spokesman on all facets of working from home and entrepreneurship. His columns, blogs and interviews have appeared in The New York Times, CNN, Entrepreneur, Home Office Computing, South Florida Sun-Sentinel and the South Florida Business Journal. He also serves as a small business expert on national television and radio. Follow him on Twitter @chiefhomeoffice or at www.chiefhomeofficer.com.