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[H1543]How To Remove A Computer Virus

by Tim Stokes, Tim

There probably are few things more annoying than having a computer virus. People who rely on their computer for social networking can really have their personal lives affected without a computer every day. Other people who rely on their computer to run an Internet business can be in big trouble if a virus takes over their computer.

In this article let's talk about how to remove a computer virus regardless of the reasons why you need it done.

1. First of all relax and understand that whether you are technically inclined or not you can probably do this yourself. Removing a computer virus is not something that is necessarily hard to do.

2. You will need to purchase an antivirus software program and install it before you can begin to remove your virus. There are many antivirus software programs that you can pick from.

Because of how important this is to you, you do not want to cut corners on the antivirus software you purchase. You can research online to determine which ones come highly recommended.

3. After you have purchased your software it is time to install it. This is as simple as installing a CD and following the directions. It will lead you step by step and you do not need any technical expertise to do it.

4. Once your software is installed you will want to perform a full scan of your computer. This is where you will find and remove any viruses that are currently infecting your computer.

5. There are thousands of potential viruses that can infect a computer so you may still have a problem. To get rid of your current virus you can run a utility called a stinger from: http://vil.nai.com/vil/stinger/

This utility will get rid of major viruses and it is an .exe file which means when you open it, it will clean out your computer automatically. It is created by Mcafee and it updates the utility to add more virus definitions each week.

Simply go to the site and download the file. Then copy it on a disc and bring it to the infected computer. Then open the file and let it go to work on removing the virus in your computer.

If this still fails to clean up the computer virus you will probably have to take it to a professional and have them look at it for you. Another option is if you have a friend who is computer savvy and possibly they can help you.

While visiting with a one of my students, I became aware that her anti-virus software was over seventeen months old and had never been updated. Upon informing her that she should update her anti-virus software regularly, she was totally surprised. Furthermore she had no concept how essential this was to ensure her system's safety. Therefore I thought it wise to write about some of the precautions you should take to avoid becoming infected with a computer virus.

While there are many 'virus' hoaxes, and please do not pass any of these hoaxes on as these may actually contain viruses, computer viruses do pose a very real danger. Therefore I've listed a few preventative measures that you should take to ensure computer safety.

1. Do install an anti-virus software program and update it often as there are new viruses discovered everyday. I update my anti-virus database daily. At least weekly should be a goal. If you are not updating perpetually, it is like having an insurance policy and never paying the premiums. In no time at all it would be worthless.

2. Be wary of email from strangers. Never open an email with an attachment from a source that is unknown or suspicious. Virus containing emails can be very persuasive in the subject line. Do not let your curiosity be aroused.

I prefer an anti-virus program that has the ability to check all email sent and received. If you update it often, this should keep you safe, although nothing is 100% secure. There are good programs that offer a free version for personal use. These programs generally allow continual updates. Some may require that you register again at the end of year, but the software and updates will still be free.
Two such programs are listed below. For more options and reviews on programs you can do a search on google for anti-virus software.

AVG anti-virus, Free edition
http://grisoft.com

Free avast! 4 Home Edition
http://www.avast.com/eng/avast_4_home.html

3. Do exercise caution when downloading files from the Internet. Be sure to download from well known and reputable sources. Ascertain that your anti-virus software is set to scan files while you are downloading. I have that feature enabled in my anti-virus program and it scans all files when I am in the process of downloading, and it has on occasion prevented me from downloading a file that was infected or posed a potential danger. These programs work so take advantage of the security your anti-virus will provide by using all of the safety features.

4. New viruses creep upon a daily basis. It is important to back up your important files regularly. CD's and DVD's hold a large amount of information. Take advantage of this and store your valuable information and computer programs on these removable disks. In the event that a virus should ever invade your system and your files become corrupted you will be able to replace them with your backup copies.

5. Lastly apply the little rule, 'When in doubt do without'. If you are uncertain, whether it is with an unknown source in your email or a web site that offers a download, then best not to take a chance. No email message or free software is worth the damage to your computer files and the time and expense of repairing your PC. Do not be fooled, computer viruses do affect everyone.

The Internet offers us an array of software, services, entertainment and education that is beneficial. There is no reason to fear the web, it can be safe and secure. Yet it would be unrealistic to assume that there is no danger of computer viruses. There are unscrupulous persons who desire to do you harm. By observing these few guidelines you can minimize any threat of a virus attacking your computer.

Article Source : Types of Computer Viruses

About Author

Both Tim Stokes & Doran Roggio 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.

Tim Stokes has sinced written about articles on various topics from Work From Home, Personal Desktop and Internet Marketing. If you need to protect your computer from spyware and othe malicious programs, visit my site. Good l. Tim Stokes's top article generates over 60500 views. to your Favourites.

Doran Roggio has sinced written about articles on various topics from The Internet, Eating Out and Web Development. Doran Roggio teaches others computer safety and maintenance. At http://doranunlimited.com she provides lessons, PC tips, freeware, mp3s, cool sites, ebooks biz info, hosting, all to improve your PC and Internet experience.. Doran Roggio's top article generates over 4400 views. to your Favourites.