Using Anti Virus Software

Most computer users know that they need good anti virus software to keep their computers safe, especially if their computers are connected to the Internet. In today’s world, anti virus software is crucial because it can protect your computer from viruses which can destroy your computer files or hard drive. However, far too many computer users think that all they have to do is install an anti virus software to be safe. This is simply not true. In fact, anti virus software should be just part of an overall strategy to keep your computer safe. In order to use your anti virus software effectively, you need to follow a few basic steps: •Know what your anti virus software can and cannot do. Your anti virus software can block known viruses and can help clean files that are contaminated. It cannot protect you from hackers and cannot even protect you from very new viruses. •Choose the best anti virus software you can. Make sure it is easy to use and make sure that it can clean files as well as block known viruses. Make sure updating the software is easy. •Update your anti virus software daily. New viruses are created each day so if your anti virus software is not up to date it will let in new viruses. In fact, not updating frequently is one of the biggest mistakes new anti virus software users make. Luckily, anti virus software today often updates automatically each day. Check to make sure your software is set to do this. If possible, you may also want to set your anti virus software to automatically scan new files and email messages, as well. •Run a system check frequently. You should regularly use your anti virus software to run a complete check on your system to make sure that no viruses are looming

hidden. •See anti virus software as the start of Internet security - not as complete security in itself. A good anti virus software program is a good start but it only protects you from so much. You need to follow common sense as well and refuse to download and programs or email attachments that seem suspicious. You may also wish to help your anti virus software by installing a firewall and anti-spyware programs as well. A firewall will protect you from hackers. Anti-spyware will protect your from programs that gather personal information about you and will help you control annoying pop-ups. Today, you can get anti virus software bundles that contain all these types of programs.