You bought a new computer and after a few weeks start getting all kinds of “expiration” messages from the anti-virus program, the spyware protection, spam filters, parental control software . . . What is going on and do you need to do anything or can you just ignore them?

Many consumer PCs come with a trial subscriptions to security programs and once the trial is over, you may no longer be protected. Trial versions usually expire after 2-4 weeks depending on the type of program. Your PC will usually let you know when the program is heading for expiration or at least that it is not currently protected. In fact, it may start telling you ahead of time. Pay attention – because anyone who logs onto the Internet without basic security is asking for trouble.

Usually, you can get the full version of whatever you’re using by downloading linking to a website from the trial version and paying online for a full license. The question is whether to stick with what you have, or switch to another brand. Either way, you need to spend some money.

There are many options to sort through. Some vendors offer comprehensive Security suites, which may include anti-virus, a personal firewall, spam filter and parental controls. Prices tend to hover in the $70-$90 range for an entire suite.

It is fine to mix and match software from different manufacturers. In fact, you are unlikely to find a single manufacturer who provides a “best of breed” solution within each security category. So if you want to truly maximize your PC security, do some research to find what product suits you for each individual application. No publisher is the best at everything. Some actually license products from other leading manufacturers and this can be an excellent solution — allowing you to get leading products in each category and a good price since it is packaged as a suite. The one thing you don’t want to do is install two versions of the same type of software.

If you do switch brands, be sure to shut down the old security software first and uninstall it before you load the new software. If you don’t see an Uninstall option in the original program’s Start Menu entry, click on Start/Settings/Control/Panel/Add or Remove Programs. You’ll find the security software listed there. Double click on it to start the uninstall process.

Just remember that when you have uninstalled your original software, you are unprotected until you install new security programs.