Mainstream media foolishly treat the two as the same. Do not depend on it. You should view it as a helpful servant who will lead the bad guys straight to the good stuff. Black Ice is a good software defense. It detects and records attempts at intrusion, traces unauthorized users, and blocks access.
Encryption is an easy way to protect vital data.
All kinds of encryption tools are available, for files and e-mail. I am not making this up. I don't know who would want to spy on her Solitaire marathons anyway. New Kewl Home Network Linksys is my favorite vendor of networking equipment. Their prices and quality are quite good.