Q: I have Webroot Spy Sweeper and need to renew the program. Do you think this is a good anti-virus program or can you recommend something better?
— Lori Milliman
A: It's a good program for finding and eliminating spyware and adware. But it does not detect computer viruses. My advice would be to hang on to it since it really is excellent for that type malware. One outfit that I respect, Cnet.com, gave it a good review. But you'll also need a program to protect you from computer viruses.
On the commercial side I favor Norton's 360 (http://tinyurl.com/ovqcy5).
Among the free anti-virus programs, I favor AVG Free at http://free.avg.com/.
Lately however, I've been increasingly impressed with the Norton program — unlike some earlier Norton anti-virus programs it doesn't noticeably slow down my computer. So if money isn't a problem, consider Norton 360. Besides anti-virus protection it comes with programs to back-up your computer, detect spyware, clean the registry and help protect against identity theft.
Q: I live in a condominium and cannot have a rooftop antenna. My reception seems to depend on which way the wind is blowing. I've tried a couple different "rabbit ears" and don't seem to have much luck with any of them. What should I do? Also, should I leave the digital converter box on all the time? It doesn't seem to make much difference (except maybe in my electrical bill).
— Mary Kreisle
A: Since you are unable to use a rooftop antenna, I don't know of an easy way to improve your over-the-air reception. You probably are a candidate for cable service.
There's no harm — not even to your electric bill — to leaving the converter box on all the time. Those boxes don't draw much power at all. Keep in mind, however, that if you switch to cable you will be replacing that over-the-air converter box with a different box furnished by the cable company.
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