Computer Virus Security 101

What is a computer virus? What does it mean to be protected with security software? It is meant to protect your PC, as well as corporate ones. There are a lot of options for virus protection on the market today, so how do you know which is best for you?

A consumer needs to ask some questions like what can I afford? Does it have real time protection? Is the virus database updated on a regular basis?


A virus is a malicious program that invades computers and is known as malware, Trojans, Worms, spyware, adware and their primary function is to destroy the inner workings and data that is on the PC.

Viruses come from pop ups while surfing the web, or banners, they also interrupt web surfing, slow down browsers and hinder performance general. In many cases they can completely disable web browsers and important computer functions where a full reinstall of the operating software maybe required or a new computer all together.

They can also infect you without you even knowing it, via what is a called a drive-by, which is malware that downloads itself to your system just by visiting an infected website. A pop up can also come in a warning fashion which is really a trick to get you to download a virus, it is a trap and you should never download anything from untrusted sources or from pop ups. Most viruses will cause major slow downs in functioning and is a sure sign you have been infected.

If you are seeing these symptoms, chances are you have been infected. You can purchase an anti-virus clean up software to remove the infections. The best security software is one that can prevent infections as well as clean up any that may occur, prevention is often key as there are security risks are all over the net and having an effective and accurate virus software that has an up to date virus database can prevent damage and significant expense of fixing an infected computer.

There are many programs with a range of costs, some as low as $20.00 dollars and up to $100 or more. It really depends on your need and with this type of software a higher price does not always guarantee the best protection. It is also a good idea to see if the program offers a firewall, and real time protection which will help to defend against the very tricky drive-by malware that lurks on websites you may visit.

By: JR Lang

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