- Anti virus & anti spyware software
- Firewall
- Updating for Security
Yes. Viruses and Spyware are different types of malicious software (malware). You need protection from both. Some packaged security software protects both threats but many do either one or the other.
No. New malicious software is constantly being written and circulated. You need to keep your security software up to date so that it will defend your against the latest threats.
Don't turn it off. It is much easier to protect a computer from malicious software than it is to clear it once infected. If your security software is requesting attention, you should take the required action. Turning it off will make the messages go away, but leave your computer vulnerable.