Wednesday, July 11, 2012

A Beginner's Guide to Anti-Virus Programs and Removing Computer Viruses

Due to the immense importance people put on computer and technology, it is crucial that one knows how to protect their computers against computer viruses. These viruses can be downloaded from Internet, which makes it easier for a user to introduce a virus into their computer without him/her knowing about it. Anti-virus software programs can help block viruses from entering a computer, but sometimes a virus may slip past these defenses. There are two things a person can do to remove a virus from their computer without taking it to the repair shop.

1. Back up their data. Some users seem to forget to do this, and once a virus infects the computer and deletes all the data on the computer's hard disk, it would set them back a long way. While most computers come with an option to store a back up of a user's files onto an external hard drive, this also increases the chance that any available viruses would also be copied to the external hard drive. Users can use a hard drive dock or upload their files on online file storage systems instead.

2. Run virus scans. Users should first boot their computers into safe mode before running the virus scan. They can also download anti-virus programs on the Internet, but users should make sure that they chose tried and tested programs. If users can still access the Internet on the computers, they can utilize online scanners that would help them pinpoint and remove viruses. These scanners are also able to improve the computer's performance and clean the hard disk.

Before one performs these steps, they should first make sure that their computer and technology is indeed infected with a virus. Some "symptoms" of an infected computer includes inaccessible disk drives or disks, distorted menus, and strange error messages. Computers that crash often, freeze, or run slowly may also be infected with a virus. However, these may also mean that the computer has some problems with the software. Anti-virus programs and scanners are the only sure way to determine if a virus has been introduced into the computer.

There are several kinds of anti-virus programs that people can install into their computers to help them remove any harmful add-ons. Spyware is directly aimed at removing any spyware from a computer, and even prevents any spyware from being installed in the future. Browser security assures users that they can surf the Internet safely, and the firewall serves as the computer's initial defense against unauthorized access. Parental controls, spam filters, and phishing protection are other types of anti-virus programs.

Aside from providing people with easier ways to communicate (among other things), computer and technology also gives people the chance to protect themselves from viruses and those with malicious intent. These programs lessen the risk of viruses, thus allowing people to use their computers without any delays.


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