| A virus is a program that can wreak havoc on
your computer and use your Internet connection to spread itself
to other computers, usually those of your co-workers, friends,
and family. You can prevent many viruses by only opening e-mail
attachments when you know where the e-mail came from and what
the attachment is. Unfortunately, sometimes that isn't even
enough. Read on to learn how you can help prevent viruses from
infecting your computer. Step 1: Check your
computer for antivirus software
Most computers now come with antivirus software installed.
Follow these steps to determine if you already have the software
you need to prevent viruses.
1. Click Start, and then click Programs.
2. Look for the word "antivirus." You might also see the name of
a popular antivirus manufacturer such as McAfee, Norton, Trend
Micro, or Symantec.
Step 2: Keep your antivirus program up to date
You don't expect that flu shot you got three years ago to
prevent you from contracting this year's strain do you?
Similarly, antivirus software will only help protect you from
viruses if you update it regularly. Antivirus programs work by
comparing your machine against known viruses. When you update
your software you download information about all the latest
viruses. Depending on your software this information is usually
referred to as "virus definitions." As virus writers are always
coming up with new ways to infect your computer, we recommend
that you download all the new virus definitions monthly or even
weekly.
Here are two ways to find out when you last updated your
antivirus program:
1. Click the antivirus software icon in your system tray in
the bottom right side of your screen, near the clock. You should
see the date that you last updated your software.
2. Open your antivirus software by clicking Start, clicking
Programs, and then clicking your antivirus software. Look for
information about the update status.
If it has been more than a month since you updated your
software, do it now to help ensure your safety. You can usually
download up to date virus definitions (antivirus software
updates) by simply visiting the website of the company that
makes your software.
Remember, you must have a current antivirus subscription to
download updates to your software. If your subscription has
expired, be sure to renew or, if you prefer, take this
opportunity to try a different antivirus program.
Tip: Many antivirus companies offer an automatic downloads
service that will automatically update your antivirus software
when you go online. Check your antivirus manufacturer's website
for more information.
Step 3: Choose antivirus software that's right
for you
If you don't have antivirus software on your system, or if
you'd like to install a different program here are two key
factors to consider before you make your choice:
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Auto-updates. Downloading
the latest updates is critical. Many companies offer an
automated option for their products. |
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The manufacturer's
reputation. If you search the Internet long enough
you're bound to find antivirus software for which you
don't have to pay a dime. Yet other antivirus vendors
allow you to download a free trial version of their
antivirus software to see if you like it before you buy
it. |
To learn more about where you can get antivirus software,
read Frequently asked questions about antivirus software.
Tip: Two antivirus programs are not better than one. If you
already have antivirus software but you'd like to try a
different one, always uninstall the old program before you
install the new one. Running more than one antivirus program at
the same time may cause major conflicts. |
