Get ZoneAlarm Pro Firewall 2010 free (today only)
ZoneAlarm Pro protects not only your PC, but also your identity.
(Credit: Check Point Software)Keeping your PC secure requires diligence, common sense, and, perhaps most importantly, software. It's not enough to install antivirus and antispyware utilities; you also need a rock-solid firewall to keep hackers at bay.
Today only (in honor of my birthday, I'm guessing), Check Point Software is offering ZoneAlarm Pro Firewall 2010 absolutely free. That's a $39.95 value, my friends.
(Actually, what you're getting is a free one-year license. If you want to keep using ZoneAlarm after that, you'll have to pony up 40 bucks. On the other hand, this is the second year running for this promotion, so you might be able to score it free again next year.)
ZoneAlarm is widely regarded as one of the best firewall utilities on the planet. Look no further than the rare five-star rating at CNET's Download.com.
In addition to blocking unauthorized access to your PC, ZoneAlarm analyzes browser downloads to prevent malware infections, monitors your credit report on a daily basis, and steers you clear of phishing sites.
The software is compatible with Windows 2000 and later, including Windows 7.
Speaking of which, if you're relying solely on the firewall that's built-in to Windows--well, my guess is you're fine. That's what I do, and at the risk of jinxing it, I've never had a problem. But there's also a firewall built into my router, so I feel doubly protected.
In fact, I'll be honest. I don't run security software at all. I rely on the tools built into Windows and Gmail's outstanding spam-virus-malware filtering. I also use that aforementioned common-sense thing.
That said, my security "solution" isn't for everyone. If you want help keeping your PC (and identity) safe and sound, grab this valuable freebie. The offer expires at the end of the day.
Update: Be sure to use THIS LINK to download the software! It should take you to a page that looks like this. You should not need credit-card information or the like to take advantage of this offer. I've downloaded, installed, and activated the software and was never once asked for a credit card.
Rick Broida, a technology writer for nearly 20 years, is the author of more than a dozen books. In addition to writing CNET's The Cheapskate blog, he oversees BNET's Business Hacks. Rick is a member of the CNET Blog Network and is not an employee of CBS Interactive. Disclosure. Deals found on The Cheapskate are subject to availability, expiration, and other terms determined by sellers. Follow Rick on Twitter at cheapskateblog. 
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I'm like you (a fellow computer geek), I don't run third party firewall/security software either. But I use Chrome/Gmail/common sense to avoid getting infections.
YMMV.
Thanks for all the cool deals. :-)
Ask for registration which is fine. But than asks for CC info. stopped me in my tracks. I can see them billing me in a yr for renewal of subscript. Please verify?? HBday Rick!
I didn't even bother entering anything at that point, so I have no idea if it somehow gets taxed on $0 afterwards. Or if they'll just charge you automatically one year from now. Definitely not worth it.
ZoneAlarm is awesome, I've used the free version for years and always loved the program setup and how it blocks programs for sending info without my consent.
- by mrfixit69 October 13, 2009 9:49 AM PDT
- Rick, the download buttons are taking you thru the purchase process w/cc info only. the amount zero's out so you are getting it for free. State law probably requires taxes be collected for the free gift, this is only my assumption???? If there was a seperate link I would be happy to try. Just trying to help. Keep the freebies coming!
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- by rickbroida October 13, 2009 11:48 AM PDT
- Still very confused by what some of you are experiencing. When I clicked "Download Now," a pop-up window asked for my name and e-mail address. Then I got an e-mail with a direct download link and license key. Then I installed, rebooted, and activated. No credit card involved, no taxes, nada.
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