The world of broadband internet is a very exciting and vibrant place to be, offering a complete revolution in the way we communicate and entertain ourselves, but it can also be a pretty dangerous place with loads of people out there trying to steal identities, bank details and take advantage of the inexperienced and the young.

As a result it's important that everyone with broadband protects themselves and their families in the modern, digital environment and thankfully this doesn't have to be a difficult or expensive task, and it can be done for virtually nothing. Let's take a step by step look at protecting your computer.

Router Security and Firewalls

The first thing to do is make sure that your modem or router which connects you to the internet has at least a basic fire wall. Most routers do have some kind of built in protection, so at least on this level you should be protected. Also make sure that you put a password or encryption key on your wireless network in your home if you have one so that no rogue wireless users can sneak on and abuse your connection.

The second basic thing you can do is ensure that your operating system's built in firewall is turned on. Windows and Macs come with built in firewall software that is basic and won't protect you from the biggest threats, but it will suffice if you're a careful internet user. If you want a little more security online then you might consider purchasing one of the many software packages for internet security that are available.

Companies like McAffee and Norton have been in the field for years and offer user friendly firewall and anti-virus software at a price, or if you want to save money companies like Zonealarm and AVG will give you limited but free versions of their software, all available for download online.

A Firewall will stop intruders trying to hack into your PC, but will also warn you when any programs try and access the internet themselves without your consent, which could be a virus or a Trojan horse that you picked up online trying to send your information else where.

Broadband Security Suites

To make securing your PC online convenient and cheap, some of the UK's leading ISPs will offer you free security packages when you sign up to their broadband. This can include firewall and antivirus software from the big name brands as well as the ability to monitor any internet activity on your connection and most importantly block inappropriate sites from the reach of your kids.

Internet filtering software is getting more intelligent every day, and you can even set a limited time each day during which your kids can access the net so that they are only using it when you know about it. Some software even offers social networking filtering, which monitors sites like facebook and myspace whilst your child is online and counteracts any inappropriate grooming, and can even monitor conversations that they are having on any instant messaging services in real time so that they aren't exposed online.

It can take a matter of minutes to get your PC secured for use on the internet, but the best advice is to keep alert to any changes and regularly scan your PC for virus and Adware.