What is AntiVirus Software?

With the advent of the Internet, millions of people surf the information superhighway every day. That’s just what a few sleazy, unethical and malicious programmers are looking for… unsuspecting people who don’t know much about the Internet and some of it’s associated challenges.

For reasons unknown to most, these hackers write programming code that is designed to damage or destroy your computer system. I guess they get a thrill out seeing how many computers they can infect with a virus. Maybe it’s a game to them, but it’s certainly not to the users that have to deal with a virus attack.

So, if you surf the Internet, you need software that will protect you so that viruses do not damage or destroy your computer system. Some of these antivirus programs can also repair your computer from a virus attack. It is critical that you not only use an antivirus program, but that you keep it current. New viruses crop up everyday looking for unsuspecting computers to damage.

There are several features a good antivirus program should include. Here are just three critical features.

First, the software should scan your computer for all know viruses. It will then alert you if a file on your computer has been changed since last use. This is a common sign that a virus has altered something in your computer.

A good antivirus program should scan all your incoming and outgoing emails plus any attachments to that email. A large number of viruses are sent as email attachments. If you receive an email with an attachment from someone you do not know, do not open the attachment. Delete the email immediately. Don’t let curiosity get the best of you and your computer.

Finally, your antivirus program should scan any programs you download through the Internet. Free computer programs, commonly called Freeware, are extremely popular on the Internet. It seems like everyone wants a great software deal. Be very careful in what programs you download. Sometimes these “Free” programs are designed to infect your computer as soon as you begin using them. Often, you will not notice anything at first, but over a little time, you computer will start acting funny, become very sluggish, or won’t work at all.

So, now that you know a little about antivirus programs, be sure you get one as soon as possible if you use the Internet. An ounce of “virus protection” is worth a pound of cure. 

• Download Norton AntiVirus 2005!        [See Review: NAV 2005 ]

About The Author:

Larry Andrew is an educational consultant, author and publisher of www.ez-software-review.com. Learn how to purchase cheap, reliable and quality software for your home, school and business.

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