Before we discuss antivirus software it is important to understand what a virus is. A virus basically comprises a small program, a macro or a script designed to interfere with the normal functioning of a computer in various ways. At the grass root level these mischievous entities gain entry into our computers through external storage devices such as floppies, compact discs etc. However, with the advent of the internet, viruses now have a much easier way to infiltrate our PCs. All that the warped mind of a virus programmer has to do now is write the necessary code and introduce it into the internet system via an e-mail or other web enabled procedure. The online network means the virus can infiltrate literally billions of PCs in a short period of time. Days, or perhaps weeks later, the virus gets identified and a battery of coders or software professionals get down to building the vaccine to quell the code. Another change to the virus landscape is that they are now largely used to profit financially by stealing valuable information whereas before maximum disruption was the aim.

Pleasure of proving someone wrong

Software companies often come out with inflated claims about the security of their latest creations which exaggerations of virus proof protection all to common. They claim that it is impregnable and that users will enjoy an uninterrupted experience when using the software. This is what generally kicks off the war. World over, there are people, mostly teenagers and those in their twenties who fancy breaking into the secure environment created by the big players in the software industry. They may not do this for any monetary gains, but to derive pleasure from being able to unsettle the claims made by the big names.

Best antivirus downloads. Are free ones ok?

In order to combat viruses it has now become necessary for PCs users to protect themselves and not rely on their operating system and software to do it all. In response to this need there is naturally a large number of anti virus downloads available on the internet; some are good, some are bad and some will do you more harm than the original virus. You will also need to decide if you need to buy antivirus software or just get a free version.

Like with most things, those that charge a fee are usually better although this is not always the case. However, it is worth noting that a major impediment with several free downloads is that many of them do not have an uninstall facility. This means that once you have chosen to install the free anti virus program and you will find it difficult to migrate to another version later. You will either have to leave both on your hard drive or reformat your hard disk.

Another important factor is the lack of continuing support from the free providers, particularly regular updates. Viruses keep sprouting every second and if the provider does not update the software for the new viruses almost on daily basis, your computer security may be compromised. You should consider these two points carefully before deciding you want to save a bit of money and opt for the free versions.