Security Monitor

A security monitor will tell you if your computer's protection (such as antivirus or antispyware) is out-of-date or not working.

Enable a Security Monitor

There are several security monitors available. Windows XP service pack 2 has a security center (accessible through the control panel). When enabled, it will alert you if your firewall or antivirus protection are disabled or out-of-date. It can monitor several, but not all, 3rd party antivirus scanners and firewalls.

ZoneAlarm's firewall has antivirus monitoring which supports most 3rd party scanners.

Our favorite is AOL's active security monitor which keeps an eye not only on the virus scanner, firewall, and antispyware but also makes sure your browser, wireless network, and peer-to-peer programs are ok. Another added feature is that all the computers on your LAN can be monitored.