A computer virus is basically an executable code delivered to your computer that has the ability to replicate itself. In the past, this was done primarily with floppy disks. Now, with the advent and popularity of the internet, 87% of computer viruses are delivered via email.
Since email has become such an important part of doing business online, viruses today can spread faster than ever. No one is immune to computer viruses and spyware.
There have been some 10,000 computer viruses identified and hundreds more are created every month. In a survey by the Computer Security Institute, 85% of respondents detected some form of security breach within the preceding 12 months. This translated into $377,828,700 in losses.
It is estimated that the average PC is checked for its presence or weakness 17 times a day. One in four computers will be hacked into this year. And one in 20 adults in the U.S. are the victims of identity theft.
The best thing to do to avoid damage is to protect yourself. There are many antivirus products out there. Most PC's come with Norton Anti-virus protection already loaded. McAfee also seems to be used quite a lot.
These programs run full time in the background and check all files and diskettes the moment they are accessed. The main drawback of these types of programs is keeping up with subscription renewals and paying for updates. Sometimes the support is not very good as well.
One thing to remember about PC and internet security, however, is that it is not a one-time event. You should not just install a cheap program or use what was given to you on your computer and sit back and relax. True internet security requires a fairly high level of expertise and is an ongoing process.
One of the best solutions is to find a computer security program that gives you personalized support and on-going upgrades and updates. Then, if you do encounter a security problem, an expert will be there to help you fix it.
This is how large companies like Google and NASA protect themselves online. They do not rely on an off the shelf anti-virus software program to protect them and neither should you.
So, do some research and see what kind of anti-virus protection is available to you. Do not sit back and wait until you are attacked. There are better solutions out there than what you probably currently use.
Whether you just have a home PC or a small business, you should look for comprehensive protection against all threats.
Anti Virus Protection Downloads
You cannot avoid viruses because sooner or later you will have one. What's important is that have the knowledge about viruses and how to use Anti Virus protection.
You can take precautionary measures to protect your computer. Also, you will know what to do if your computer got infected with a virus. Allow me to give you some advice about having Anti Virus Protection.
Educate yourself about Viruses.
Having basic knowledge about viruses would help you in easily solving the problems brought about by a virus. This way you know the ways you can get a virus, signs of having a virus, different types of viruses, what it does to your computer and how it can damage your files.
Be careful when online.
They say that prevention is better than cure. Although, the chances of getting a virus is very high, it is still suggested that you are careful when surfing websites, downloading files from email or web and installing programs.
Some programs may look very attractive but they can be dangerous to your computer. Taking precautionary measures will result into minimal chances of your computer being infected with a Virus.
Make a smart decision.
There are Anti Virus softwares which you can download for free such as AVG, Panda etc. But there are also some which you need to buy before you can use them. Compare their advantages and disadvantages.
You may be getting a free anti virus protection but it does not satisfy your needs. Or you may decide purchasing one but you are on a tight budget.
Think of what you need from an anti virus protection, get information on the prospect software, make a comparison and then decide which one to download or purchase.
Know your Anti Virus Protection.
Once you have installed an Anti Virus program, ensure that you know the basic information regarding the software. Read the manual or user guide as a starter.
Then use the internet to look for other helpful information about the anti virus protection.
Furthermore, you can seek assistance from the Customer Service of the software provider if available.
Regularly Perform Virus Scan.
Depending on your anti virus settings, you can do a quick scan everyday just to ensure that your computer is clean from any viruses. A full scan is not recommended as an everyday online habit specifically if you do a lot of things when online.
A full scan is very slow because it will check all the files on your computer. While a quick scan will just check the important sectors on your computer.
Always update your Anti Virus Protection.
Everyday, a new virus is being introduced. Thus, it is important that your anti virus software is updated so that it can detect and repair the newest virus.
Some anti virus programs have automatic update functionality. This means that every time you have internet connection, your anti virus program will be updated. But if yours does not have that setting, then you may need to run an update regularly.
There is no need to worry too much about viruses because there are just some things you need to know and do to ensure that your computer is safe and secure. Have enough knowledge about viruses and anti virus protection to have a safer online experience.
Both Amy Hansen & Dave Poon are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
Amy Hansen has sinced written about articles on various topics from Gas Prices, Modelling and Gas Prices. Amy Hansen invites you to visit Your Tech Mall for more information about corporate grade anti-virus protection for your home or small business at
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