Making the Most of Anti-virus Software

Let's get this simple point out of the way upfront: If you use a computer and you're not running regular virus scans, you're playing with fire. With the wide variety of anti-virus software available today, and their ease of installation, there's no reason not to run this basic protection on your computer. Whether you want a free anti-virus software download or a more amped-up version that comes with a fee, you'll want to choose a product with the most comprehensive features.

Start with the basics. At a minimum, any anti-virus software you install should block viruses and spyware and check internet pages before you launch them. This basic protection will go a long way toward keeping your system safe, but it won't stop all threats. Some of the more basic applications now also provide protection against adware, rootkits, spyware and worms.

A more advanced anti-virus software application will offer protection when you're downloading files. This means that the software will review all files you intend to download before you do so and alert you if any are infected. Some security software will also protect you while you're in online chat rooms by securing your online connection.

Moving up the ladder, anti-virus software suites add firewall capability, which actively seeks to block incoming infections. These applications also sometimes provide spam blockers to help keep infected emails out of your inbox, and you can find anti-virus protection for those times when you're traveling and using Wi-Fi access away from home.

With the rise in phishing scams, some anti-virus software suites provide a tool to help keep you from falling victim to such scams. You can find specific components that block phishing sites, and some anti-virus software adds the ability to scan links on your social media pages so that you're protected from viruses and scams that travel via these pages.

While researching anti-virus software, you might find that two completely different forms of software from different suppliers can protect you better than just one. For example, you might want a basic form of anti-virus software plus an anti-malware application that removes malicious software. This way you'll be covered whether the encroaching infection is a virus or a more complex form of software designed to hide in and take over your system. At least one free anti-malware application offers a full spectrum of protection against malicious software.

Once you've found products that deliver the anti-virus and other protections you want, check to see how often you'll receive updates. Software updates are a key part of preventing infections in a world of constantly changing computer threats. Also, be sure to set your security software to perform routine automated scans.

You might also want to see if the anti-virus software you prefer carries any certification. A variety of international certification agencies test anti-virus software to determine if its abilities live up to its supplier's claims. Suppliers must pay a fee to be subjected to this scrutiny, and those that have done so and come out with consistent high ratings are more likely to provide the most reliable anti-virus protection.

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