Virus+Protection

=__Virus Protection__ = //By Moriah Farmer//

What is a Virus?
Computer viruses are small software programs that are designed to spread from one computer to another and to interfere with computer operation. A virus might corrupt or delete data on your computer, use your e-mail program to spread itself to other computers, or even erase everything on your hard disk. Viruses are most easily spread by attachments in e-mail messages or instant messaging messages. That is why it is essential that you never open e-mail attachments unless you know who it's from and you are expecting it. Viruses can be disguised as attachments of funny images, greeting cards, or audio and video files. Viruses also spread through downloads on the Internet. They can be hidden in illicit software or other files or programs you might download. To help avoid viruses, it's essential that you keep your computer current with the latest updates and antivirus tools, stay informed about recent threats, and that you follow a few basic rules when you surf the Internet, download files, and open attachments. Once a virus is on your computer, its type or the method it used to get there is not as important as removing it and preventing further infection. ([|www.microsoft.com]) Apple computers are not susceptible to viruses. If you have a Mac you don't need to worry about reading this section!

A few steps to avoid viruses

 * 1) Use an Internet Firewall.
 * 2) Make sure your computer always has the latest updates. Allow your operating system to automatically check for updates.
 * 3) Install a version of antivirus software (see below) and keep it current.
 * 4) Never open and email attachment from someone you don't know.
 * 5) Avoid opening an email attachment unless you know exactly what it is.

Virus Protection
There are several software programs available for your use. The items listed below are just a few of the programs I have personal experience with.

1.  [|AVG] - AVG Free provides you with basic antivirus and antispyware protection for Windows and is available to download for free.
 * The most downloaded software on CNET's Download.com
 * Protection against viruses and spyware (Spyware is computer software that is installed personal computer to intercept or take partial control over the user's interaction with the computer, without the user's consent.)
 * Compatible with **Windows XP** and **Windows Vista***

2. [|McAfee] - **McAfee VirusScan Plus** (their most popular item) -
 * Shields PCs from viruses and spyware
 * Includes a firewall to protect you against hacker attacks
 * It also features McAfee SiteAdvisor - an online safety guide that warns you about risky web sites before you visit.
 * A one year subscription for one computer costs $39.99*

3. [|Windows Live OneCare] - Protect, maintain, and manage your computer with Windows Live OneCare, the always-on PC-care service from Microsoft. Working quietly in the background on your computer, OneCare protects against viruses, spyware, hackers, and other unwanted intruders.
 * Antivirus and antispyware scanners
 * A managed two-way firewall
 * Integrated anti-phishing technology to protect your computer from viruses, worms, Trojan horses, hackers, phishing, and other threats.
 * It runs continuously, but you can scan individual files and folders for viruses on demand simply by right-clicking them. You can even scan attachments you receive via Windows Live Messenger or MSN Messenger.
 * You can use OneCare free for 90 days. After that you can purchase a OneCare license that covers three computers for one year for $49.95.*

//*All information was taken from the product websites listed.//