I'd like to plug a HIPS software that I beta tested for some time; it is simple, very minimal user interaction (read: lack of popup windows, something that turns most folks off about HIPS), extremely small footprint, and all that I have turned on to this program have loved it. It is very secure and works on a trusted-untrusted model that prevents untrusted processes and their child processes from spawning malware.
I have learned to trust it sufficiently to have run without a *resident* AV program for most of the last year; others have been AV free for longer than that. Other than regular manual scans there simply isn't much reason to. DW doesn't require constant updates of signatures like AVs; it is a behavior-blocker of sorts and so is looking for activity of a different nature to block even zero-day malware, something regular AV doesn't do well. It regularly passes all security tests thrown at it. On the odd occasion that it doesn't, the author has a fix ready quickly. It will protect from spyware, adware, keyloggers, rootkits, etc.
It's called DefenseWall HIPS. It has an active forum at Gladiator Security; address is:
Gladiator Security Forum -> SoftSphere Technologies Support Forums
My handle there is rbz; please read my comments in the announcements section. The author is, without a doubt, the hardest-working and most easy to deal with author that I have ever tested for. He is devoted to making sure that each user is satisfied, and personally will respond to every query on the forum most likely within hours, 7 days a week.
The website for download is:
SoftSphere Technologies, the official site of the DefenseWall HIPS - Host Intrusion Prevention System - Sandbox, Virtualization, Anti-Spyware, Anti-Rootkit, Anti-Malware, Anti-Keylogger, Anti-Virus. DefencePlus - Buffer Overflow protection. Security
It's not free, but it is extremely reasonable at $29 USD. The 30 day fully functional version is free for trial, and you will receive support from the author if needed until you are satisfied.
My HIGHEST recommendation. Feel free to contact me on this forum or by PM if you need info.