How to Protect Computer From Viruses

How to Protect Computer From Viruses. Viruses can do great damage to your computer’s operations. They can destroy your computer’s files, make it difficult, if not impossible, for the computer to operate properly, and, at the very least, invade your personal privacy.

Once the computer is infected with viruses, the virus can be removed, but there are sometimes complications in the removal process. Protecting the computer ahead of time is both easier and wiser, and can be accomplished through a combination of safe Internet practices and the installation of free anti-virus software.

Discs can be Dangerous

Data CDs are prime ways viruses are spread from computer to computer. It’s best not to share CDs. Even if you borrow a CD from a friend, your friend may not even be aware the disc is infected with a worm, virus or Trojan horse. If your friend wants to share a CD, offer an alternative way to get the data. With sites like Dropbox and Box.net, it’s easy now to get your files without increasing your chances of infection.

When in Doubt, Delete

If you question the validity of a file, don’t open it. Just delete it. Even if the email came from a friend and it looks legit, if you question it in any way, it’s best to not take the chance. You can always contact the sender to confirm they actually sent it.

Any spam you receive, if it has a file attached, should be deleted. Even if it appears to be an awesome deal, chances are, you’d end up paying more than you’d ever intended in getting your computer fixed. If that unknown pest company sends an attachment marked as “best rat trap deal”, just delete it. If that deal is interesting to you, contact the company directly. If they’re a legit company, they will honor it.
If the file looks legit, and you’re not doubting it, check the extension. If it’s a strange extension, or if it is .exe, delete it. Then contact the sender.

Download Protection

Enough of what you shouldn’t download and more about what you should. You can arm your computer with the needed protection by downloading reputable anti-virus software. Some of them are even free. Here are some of the best downloads you can get to keep your computer fully protected:

• Download AVG Anti-Virus Free software. AVG has designed this free security edition to protect you from viruses on the Internet and on social networks.

• Download Microsoft Security Essentials from the MSE website. This is an anti-virus designed by Microsoft for use with the Windows operating system. It is intended to provide complete antivirus protection.

• Download the ClamWinn Antivirus. This open-source anti-virus is powered by a server-scanning engine, but does not provide real-time protection.

After getting more info on how to protect computer from viruses hidden in rat trap emails to infected data CDs, you’d probably like to learn more about anti-virus software. Guest post written by James.