[Krazed]

I just want to clarify a few things regarding Spyware, Virus' and "Hackers".

Spyware is by definition software that is secretly collecting information on your computer. They seek to embed themselves on your computer for this purpose. However, the "secret" part isn't so secret anymore as they are embedding themselves as False Antivirus or AntiSpyware programs to attempt to collect credit card info and get you to pay them to remove it. Which never works. Or redirecting your web browser to other websites for similar purposes, also called "Browser Hijacking".

Virus' however seek to spread themselves throughout computers, hard drives, networks, etc. Their purpose is generally to harm, or ruin a computer.

These two very different things require very different software to prevent. Spyware is near impossible to stop in its current form as it can be loaded from just visiting any website and having an ad load on that web page, it automatically installs itself onto your computer and suddenly you have some fake Virus Alert software warning you of all the infected things it found, which is itself.

This is why I suggested two different pieces of software, but came with the final suggestion of Microsoft Security Essentials. It is an all in one AntiVirus and AntiSpyware program that so far has stopped most everything we've had it encounter.

That being said, none of this software will stop "Hackers" Unless you have firewalls, 100% Clean computers, or just aren't connected to the internet. Hackers can break through those things, find the flaws in the software, and exploit it to gain control of your computer. The VPN website and software you suggested can prevent that to a point. It gives your computer an alternate access point to the internet and stops direct connection to your computer. However, this will not prevent ANY form of spyware OR Virus' which are loaded onto computers via downloading, clicking, or just loading websites themselves.

Now, I'm not saying this is THE solution and you're wrong. I'm just trying to clarify my suggestion, and what it helps prevent.

Knowledge is Power after all.