As the threat of computer viruses continues to grow, and antivirus systems try to keep pace, it is imperative to have a good program on your PC to keep your data, and you, safe. Basically, antivirus systems keep your vulnerable areas protected from attack, and detect and remove any viruses that have made their way on to your computer. They will scan emails for possible attached viruses, monitor files as they are downloaded, opened or created, and perform system-wide scans to detect any infections.
But what, exactly, makes up a good antivirus system? The answer depends on you, your computer habits and your level of experience, as well as on what you are willing or able to spend. But, there are some vital questions that you must ask before you buy or download any spyware blocker or similar program.
1. How often are the virus definitions updated?
Every new virus has its own signature. Security firms will create a signature, or definition, for each known virus, and that is how antivirus systems recognize new threats. Since new threats are being created every day, you must have an antivirus program that updates its virus definitions consistently and frequently. This is vital, because without constant updates, your data is vulnerable to attack.
2. By what method are the virus definitions updated?
Viruses spread quickly, and if you have only manual updates your computer may get infected simply because you went online before you checked for the latest updates for your antivirus system. Look for a program that updates the definitions automatically, every time you go online, so you know that you are always getting the latest, highest level virus protection without you even having to think about it.
3. Does the system allow scheduled scans?
Your computer can have a virus without you being aware of it. Often, an infection will hibernate, and have no obvious symptoms. The most effective way to remain virus free is to choose an antivirus system that can be configured to perform regular, scheduled system-wide scans.
4. Does the program dispose as well as detect?
Some systems simply detect viruses...they offer no way to actually remove them from your computer. You want a program that will snatch the virus, and at least quarantine it so that it presents no threat to your data. You should ideally be able to fully remove the virus from your system, so make sure you ask if and how the program does this.
5. Does the software have any additional security features?
For true internet security, it is often more convenient and economical to choose an antivirus system that has a suite of security tools. In addition to virus detection, protection and removal, look for spyware, phishing and spam protection. Also, ask if the program comes with a firewall. If you want parental controls, look for software that includes them...many do not.
Before you try or buy antivirus systems, you must know the facts. When you ask these 5 questions, you'll be able to narrow down your choices and choose the system that offers the best protection and performance for your data, and for you.
But what, exactly, makes up a good antivirus system? The answer depends on you, your computer habits and your level of experience, as well as on what you are willing or able to spend. But, there are some vital questions that you must ask before you buy or download any spyware blocker or similar program.
1. How often are the virus definitions updated?
Every new virus has its own signature. Security firms will create a signature, or definition, for each known virus, and that is how antivirus systems recognize new threats. Since new threats are being created every day, you must have an antivirus program that updates its virus definitions consistently and frequently. This is vital, because without constant updates, your data is vulnerable to attack.
2. By what method are the virus definitions updated?
Viruses spread quickly, and if you have only manual updates your computer may get infected simply because you went online before you checked for the latest updates for your antivirus system. Look for a program that updates the definitions automatically, every time you go online, so you know that you are always getting the latest, highest level virus protection without you even having to think about it.
3. Does the system allow scheduled scans?
Your computer can have a virus without you being aware of it. Often, an infection will hibernate, and have no obvious symptoms. The most effective way to remain virus free is to choose an antivirus system that can be configured to perform regular, scheduled system-wide scans.
4. Does the program dispose as well as detect?
Some systems simply detect viruses...they offer no way to actually remove them from your computer. You want a program that will snatch the virus, and at least quarantine it so that it presents no threat to your data. You should ideally be able to fully remove the virus from your system, so make sure you ask if and how the program does this.
5. Does the software have any additional security features?
For true internet security, it is often more convenient and economical to choose an antivirus system that has a suite of security tools. In addition to virus detection, protection and removal, look for spyware, phishing and spam protection. Also, ask if the program comes with a firewall. If you want parental controls, look for software that includes them...many do not.
Before you try or buy antivirus systems, you must know the facts. When you ask these 5 questions, you'll be able to narrow down your choices and choose the system that offers the best protection and performance for your data, and for you.
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