How Does Antivirus Software Work?
In order to ensure that you are fully protected from viruses and other types of malicious applications, you should consider running antivirus software on your system. Even the most experienced computer users who are well versed in the art of avoiding viruses still run antivirus software as an additional safeguard. The potential loss of data that a virus can cause makes having maximum security for your PC a must.
Antivirus software functions in two main ways. Its large database of known viruses allows it to scan files and folder on your computer and compare them with virus data to make sure that viruses are not present and files are not infected. In addition, antivirus software provides constant system monitoring to alert you of any suspicious activity that might otherwise go undetected. Part of this monitoring process involves creating hidden decoy files that act as bait to see if a lingering virus attempts to alter them. If this occurs, the program identifies it as a virus and alerts the computer owner immediately.
The two largest providers of antivirus software are Norton and McAfee. Both commercial software companies offer premium security software that is regularly updated as part of their annual subscriptions. Each product offers the same basic functions, and both are well equipped to protect any PC. They tend to be a bit more expensive then other brands, but they are among the most trusted in the industry.
If you’d rather not pay for antivirus protection, there are free alternatives available. One such program is offered by AVG as their “Free Edition”. It’s a relatively small yet effective antivirus application that’s quite popular for being free and also for using very little system resources (so it doesn’t noticeably affect computer performance). AVG is a also a great option for those with older model computers that might not support more elaborate antivirus software.
If you’d simply like to run a check to see if your system is infected but do not wish do actually download and install an antivirus program, you can take advantage of TrendMicro’s HouseCall website. By visiting the website and clicking “Scan Now”, you can perform an immediate scan of your computer that will check for any viruses without the need to install any software, completely free of charge. Although it is very useful to determine if your computer has any infections, it may not help you to actually correct problems that might be discovered. In general, it is not considered a good idea to operate a PC that is not protected with some sort of antivirus software, especially if it is connected to the internet.
It is recommended to try out different antivirus software before deciding which one you’d like to continue using. Most paid antivirus programs offer a free trial version that you can download from their website and will allow you to get a feel for the software before deciding to make a purchase. However, if you test several antivirus products, always make sure that you uninstall each one before installing a new one. Having two antivirus applications running simultaneously can cause system instability.
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