Anti-Virus Software

If you use the Internet or you copy files from other computers you must have an Anti-Virus package installed.

There are many virus checking packages to choose from.

An effective virus checker stops viruses from infesting a computer.

I have encountered most virus checkers and there are only two freebies I am prepared to recommend.

• Avast! Home Edition which is free for home use - preferred November 2010

• AVG Free which is free for home use

Both are available on the Internet for downloading - click the appropriate link above to download one of them.

Make sure you get the free version and not the one for which you will be charged!

** Never have more than one Virus checker installed on your computer **

If you already have a virus checker installed, follow this path:

• Download and save the latest version of Avast! or AVG and remember where you save it!

• Uninstall your current package

• Reboot your PC

• Install the new package by double clicking or running the download you saved

• Register and configure the package as required

Virus checking software relies on keeping a database of virus signatures and a search engine. The search engine checks each file for viruses against the database. It is vital that both the engine and the database are kept up-to-date automatically.

Both of these packages update themselves automatically and sometimes require a restart when the engine is updated.

Keep a check on the package icon in the system tray at the bottom right corner of your screen. Hovering over the icon may reveal a notice. Sometimes you may be directed to do something to ensure all is well. Follow any instructions given.

The time your risk is greatest is when a new virus signature has not been incorporated into the signatures database. Usually the package catches up a little later but regrettably this is not infallible. This risk is at its worst when you boot your computer and do not wait for the latest Virus update before you use the Internet, either for browsing or email. This is especially dangerous if you have not used the computer for a few days or after a holiday away.

Remember to wait until virus updating is complete!

If you avoid the higher risk sites on the Internet you considerably reduce the chance of infestation, which is small.

For most users, other protection is not vital. Normal, non-paranoid users generally do not need extras such as Spybot, Adaware and the like.

Higher risk sites are those favoured by the young such as music sites and the less salubrious sex related sites. Social networking with Twitter and Facebook my have higher risk potential.

You have been warned!