Every time you connect your computer to the Internet, you expose your computer and data to a host of web-based threats like viruses, spyware, adware and information phishing attempts. Installing Internet security software can help lessen the threat of losing your data due to hard drive corruption or---worse yet---having your sensitive data, such as banking transactions, fall into the wrong hands.

On the Other: Software Protection Alone Isn't Enough

With new web-based threats being developed every day, Internet security software alone should not be your only line of defense. For instance, the U.S. Computer Emergency Readiness Team (US-CERT) recommends that you connect your computer behind a hardware-based firewall if possible, use a software-based firewall, disable nonessential services (such as file and print sharing) and regularly download operating system and security software patches.

Bottom Line

No security measure is ever foolproof, but if you use Internet security software in conjunction with safe computing habits and stay mindful of how and when you share information online, you will be well on your way to keeping your sensitive data safely away from would-be hackers.

Source:

United States Computer Emergency Readiness Team: Before You Connect a New Computer to the Internet

National Cyber Security Alliance: Core Protections

More Information:

FirewallGuide.com: Internet Security Overview