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Protect Your Computer With Antivirus Software

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Online shopping & banking without antivirus protection these days is lethal.

Today computers are exposed to a number of risk. It's meanest threat is the dreaded Virus. A virus is basically malicious computer code, created by hackers having the ability to cause chaos in a number of tactics. Like the common cold, some of these viruses can be relatively harmless, but others can be fatal. It maybe programed to destroy data and software. It also can log keystrokes in order to access sensitive information such as passwords.

In addition, there are always new computer virus codes created everyday. It can be difficult to keep track of viruses if you don't setup a software to protect against these sneaky little bastards. And no process of knowing if one slinks into your machine immediately. A virus could sabotage your entire computer system including your network, thus costing you money. Therefore, you should have antivirus software to protect bug threats to your computer.

How Computer Viruses Work

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6 Types of Computer Viruses

It's essential for users to know how to avoid computer viruses. Sometimes you can contract a pathogen just by clicking on a certain web page. It's happen to me and many techies. Here is a peek at some frequent types of viruses. Hopefully after reading this you'll have a improved concept of viruses and be better prepared to protect your PC from invading contamination.

Macro Viruses

A macro virus is programmed as a macro embedded in a document. They are independent of the operating system and can infect Mac, PC or even Linux. These are known to be the most widespread viruses partly because of the popularity of programs for which macros are written. These affect mainly Microsoft Office files. Some of them are more an annoyance than a threat to the security of a computer system. An example would be a macro virus that produces undesired text within Microsoft Word® when a certain combination of keys are pressed.

Multipartite Viruses

Multipartite viruses are a combination of program and boot sector viruses. Initially the bug is contained in a program. When that software is activated the virus copies itself onto the boot sector, making it much harder to detect and remove. If only one part is clean and the other remains infected then the infection continues spreading . It'll gradually be infected again by the virus.

Logic Bombs

Yet another type of computer virus. They can be inserted in a computer software. The Logic bomb is triggered when any function of the host program or any other program is used. Generally, Logic Bombs are known to have triggered on a given date, commonly the April Fools Day or on Friday the 13th. The logic bombs can even delete files if triggered.

File Viruses

Usually, this kind of virus has extensions of .BIN, .COM, .EXE, .OVL, or .DRV. This pest will be active when the program file that carries the virus is opened. Activating this virus means letting them to re-duplicate and to infect other programs in your computer.

Boot Sector Viruses

Another really nasty type of virus is the Boot Sector Virus. These viruses are capable of damaging the hard drive itself because they reside in the Sector Zero and are capable of attacking the Master Boot Record of the drive. These viruses generally used floppy drives to spread and have started to decline as the usage of floppy drives has subsided.

Stealth Viruses

This is a quite unique type among other types. It can disguise perfectly to prevent any detection from any anti-virus software. The pathogen disguises through some effective ways such as modifying its file size, hiding itself in memory, and so on. A good anti-virus program could detect this virus by checking the infected files and evidence in the memory.

Almost all the different kinds of computer viruses can be removed using good anti virus software so it is always recommended that you should have one installed and updated in your machine.

Reference from Norton & WiseGeek

Solid Antivirus Programs

Be sure to install one the second your new computer arrives home.

There are trustworthy antivirus software on the internet for download including AVG Anti-Virus Free Edition 9.0 and Avast! Free.

AVG provides PC security at no charge and with LinkScanner. However, AVG Free Edition doesn't insure adware/spyware removal (though available in the paid version of the product). Avast! is an impressive antivirus software with over 10 years as an excellent choice given the solid protection and functionality it undertakes. Though both Avast! Free and AVG provide only the bare minimum protection. You can download them free at Download.Cnet.


avast! Internet SecurityWhile FREE is groovy, it's preferred to protect your PC right the 1st round. When you drop hundreds on it, why not protect it with the real deal? With growing registrations over 100 million, Avast! has develop its top dog antivirus software: Avast! Internet Security. If you aren't hip with the technical terms; this product covers a wide range of operating peripherals and multi-languages. An online forum is available for users to discuss all Avast! software. The eye catching fact about Avast! is that it's a itty-bitty program packing a Knock-Out Punch.

Key Features:

» Continuous protection against viruses and spyware.
» Ensures all mails sent and received are clean.
» Keeps you protected from "chat" infections.
» Stops attacks from hijacked websites.
» Lets you safely browse suspicious websites or run unknown applications.
» Blocks hacker attacks to protect your identity.
» Keeps your mailbox free from spam.
» Allows safe and uninterrupted gaming.

System Requirements:
If you secured a PC manufactured after the year 2000, it'll handle Avast!.
* Processor Pentium 3, 128 MB RAM, 100 MB of free hard disk space
* Microsoft Windows XP/Vista/7 (32/64 bit)

Interface:



Full specifications can be view here.



My Review:
Personally I have Avast! Internet Security, and wouldn't trade it for anything. Avast! works like a champ, is simple to use, and updates every day automatically. When I repair relative's computers, I recommend this! In fact they love the speed increase over Norton and McAfee. It even warns the user when there's danger of viral contamination. And if infection breaks through, Avast! will do what it's made to. As an extra, Avast! provides phone support for installation, configuration, and troubleshooting toll free for USA and Canada.

Want to be in her shoes? 

What Others Have to Say About Avast!:




"I would have given a rating of 100 if i could. Avast! is no doubt a BEST EVER ANTIVIRUS i come across. You must try Avast! Internet Security 5.0."

"Started using Avast! after switching from AVG because version 8 onwards has just got worse and worse, im so glad I did Avast provides superb multi layered protection, is very light on my system and very reliable as its never gone wrong or failed to run."

"I've been using Avast! for years and recommend it to anyone that has a personal machine and needs protection. "



To get your copy of Avast! Internet Security, visit the Avast! Official Online Store.

Computer Virus Gone Wild.

Take a break for a minute and enjoy Avast! at work.

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Antivirus Programs from Amazon

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Malware

The Trojan Horse virus, a type of malware, gives hackers remote access to a targeted computer< system. After it has been installed in a workstation, hackers can access it right away and even perform different kinds of operations. This malware actually gives them the capacity to install other malware, steal important personal data as well as the download or upload dangerous files.

Furthermore, this type of plague can crash a computer, waste storage data and delete important files. What makes this disease especially difficult to deal with is that there are many different variations of it and each variation has to be removed in a different way. Basically malware or malicious software steal personal information(identity theft), send spam, and commit fraud.

What is Spyware? Spyware is another form of Malware with the main purpose of tracking your internet usage and actions. It works away in the background of your PC without your knowledge. It follows every stroke you type on your keyboard. This information is then captured and relay back to its creator(s).

2 Free Malware Programs

In addition to running Avast! Internet Security. I also use two other software.

MalwareBytes' Anti-Malware is crucial for catching the elusive of spyware infections. The resource friendly software is a huge benefit for users with lower spec and older machines. However, MalwareBytes' isn't as efficient at cleaning up smaller bugs such as tracking cookies. I advise consumers who run MBAM to use it in conjunction with Spybot Search & Detroy. Spybot S&D is excellent for the novice due to it's simplicity. Why consider these software? They're both free and provide constant virus database updates. You can download MalwareBytes' Anti-Malware and Spybot S&D.

Truth be told no single anti-virus software will be able to provide a "100% satisfying" solution to avoid and remove viruses. However, you can't go wrong with the 3 layer protection of Avast!, MBAM, and Spybot combine. Think about it. Would you fight a group of bullies by yourself or with two buddies at your side? Ideally, you should update virus definitions and perform a full scan every 2-3 weeks. By following this procedure along with safe surfing, your computer should remain in tip top condition from virus plague.

Explore Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware.

Norton is a resource hogger. Even this guy confirms.
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Spybot Search & Destroy Tutorial

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5 Tips To Protect Your Computer

Not a complete list by any standard, but it conveys the basics.


  • Make sure your Windows Fire Wall is turn on. For instructions on switching on your Firewall, click here.

  • Don't save important files on your C: Drive. You can but it's best to do so temporary. Most PC(s) partition your hard drives so it's best to saved and moved crucial documents to the other drives: D:, E:, F:, etc. With that precaution, if you ever perform a Windows System Restore or Full Reformat, you have don't lose precious data. Running a Full Reformat, the C: Drive is completely wiped clean to original factory state. All details are erased.

  • Back up necessary materials to external HD(s), USB Flash Drives, CD's, DVD's or secured online storage sites. You never what can occur the day you need your computer documents and it gets infected or loss.

  • Download all your operating system and software updates. They have security patches embedded to protect your machine.

  • Join online PC forums and make friends. In case your machinery catches a nasty cold, you can always to refer to them for advice. Try http://www.bleepingcomputer.com/, http://computerhelpforums.net/, http://www.pchelpforum.com/ and http://www.cybertechhelp.com/.

Going further with Viruses available from Amazon

More knowledge equals more power.

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5 Basic Tips for Surfing on the Net.

Try to make sure you have some kind of anti-virus protection on your computer before you surf online.

A concern for many is being able to stay safe while on the world wide web. You may or may not be aware that it's fairly simple for certain software that are malicious to take advantage of your systematic process if you aren't cautious.

The home network protection is essential. In order to secure your network you'll need to enable a password key. Indeed, the connection can be a slower, but it'll keep you shield from the intruders that can infiltrate your connected computers. Also use these 5 tips for reference.

  • Never make business or financial transactions on a public network. Use this type of network to watch a online tv or read the headlines. This precaution is useful because these types of Wi-Fi network aren't set up by you, so you don't know how secure they are.

  • Update your internet browser to the latest version. There are security reasons for doing so. Additionally, be sure that you update your browser plugins like Java and Flash since these have been taken advantage of at times when online.

  • Be careful about where you download things online. Many times there are fake programs that are viruses or exploits. Wherever you go, be sure that you do your downloading only from trusted sites on the internet. And try to always scan your download files first if your antivirus doesn't automatically. I know it gets tedious fast.

  • If you use Mozilla Firefox, be should to download the plug-ins WOT - Safe Browsing Tool and NoScript 2.0.1 They provide an extra layer of protection from infection plus rates each site's safeness.

  • Do not open email attachments that come from untrusted sources. Also Avoid Adult Websites!

Furthermore the Internet can be a cool pal of ours, as long as we watch and protect our own backs.

External Hard Drives Available from Amazon

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9 Signs of Viral Infection

Even after doing everything within your knowledge to protect your data, you're system may still become infected.


1. The system runs slower than its normal time.
2. The CPU gives a very slow respond and freezes frequently.
3. It often restarts itself.
4. It shows some uncommon error messages, dialog boxes, and distorted menu.
5. The applications in your thinking machine don't operate properly.
6. You can't print document correctly.
7. Random toolbars on your Internet browser page that you never actually installed.
8. Pop ups from your Windows taskbar telling you to download an antispyware ex. "Warning Spyware Threat detected on your PC!".
9. If the homepage gets changed to unknown sites without your consent.

You tried to be safe, but your PC system was still infected.

(Warning: If you're not comfortable using computers have someone help you.)

**Note- This is a self-help guide. Use at your own risk.**

1st of all, take a deep breath and relax.

Okay... now reboot in safe mode then run your anti-virus scanner. Remember to activate a full system scan. If you don't know how to restart in safe mode, locate your manufacture recovery disc for instructions. You may also check the computer brand's website. Some PC(s) reboot differently depending on the maker.

Start your antivirus in safe mode. It should detect some bugs. Opt to delete or relocate them to your antivirus chest/vault/safe zone. If the virus can't be remove, at least you now know its name. Write it down on paper. Use the Google search engine and type in the virus. Chances are you aren't the 1st to be hit by this parasite. People may have already posted the menace so there might be a solution to destroying this troublesome fellow. If the condition is bad enough where you can't get online, then use another workstation. You can download other free virus software and try scanning again by transferring/installing it through a USB Flash Drive.

What if there is no solution? That's where Windows System Restore comes in handy. This process reverts your structure settings to an earlier state before the initial attack. Sometimes it doesn't fix the problem depending on the type of virus.

Hopefully you been backing up personal documents, cause you'll need to whip out your trump card. Performing a Full Reformat either through your BIOS or the Restore Disk included when you purchased your PC. This process usually fixes the infestation 99% of the time but it may of left damages to your HD. And the fact that you'll be up late re-installing all your favorite software over again. No body in the right mind wants to go through sort of hell with our busy lifes today. Now imagine if you didn't have any antivirus in the 1st round, life would be define as a massive migraine.

Bang for the Buck USB Flash Drives from Amazon

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Online Shopping Do's and Don't.

Shop from the comfort of your home with just a mouse click away.

Do's:


  • Ensure your computer security is working. (Updates, Anti-virus, firewall....)

  • If you're shopping on a website for the first time, then take a moment to read about the website. Before clicking on buy, read the terms and conditions.

  • Shopping at Big Boys equal better protection. Ex. Amazon, Ebay, Sony, Apple, etc... The disadvantage is that the smaller merchants might have better deals.

  • Credit cards are the safest method for online purchases because most have protection on them. If a merchant rips you off, you can dispute the charge. The beauty of using a credit card is that it's the creditor's investment too.

  • Find out if the website you are shopping at is secure. Most secure websites have a footer that gives you the security information of the site.

  • Shop at encrypted websites. They secure your fund transfers by coding your personal information. The URL which should read "https"

  • Check your credit card statement for that month to reconfirm the amount you paid for the online purchase.

  • Keep a proof of the orders & payments.



Don't:


  • Try to avoid paying from Debit card. Debit cards pull money right from your bank account. There is no liability of the bank if fraud occurs. It can take months to get your money back.

  • If you're at the checkout page and the web page asks for your date of birth and Social Security number, be big no no.

  • If it looks too good to be true, it probably is. At any time you don't feel comfortable buying from the website, abort the process right there.

  • Going with an business you never heard of before is typically not recommended. Initiate a Google search on the company and see what information pops up.


Consumers who research companies before making purchases, watch for warning signs of fraud, use credit cards for purchases and keep receipts should be relatively safe. Hope and wish you a Happy online shopping experience.

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Conclusion

If you value the contents on your computer, then it's best that you provide it with adequate antivirus protection. Don't be like my car buddies who spent thousands on their imports and ZERO investment in security.


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After:


Questions? Comments? Rants?


US - avast! 1 Year FREE promotion

  • Photahsiamirabel Sep 2, 2010 @ 12:20 pm | delete
    A super lens, lots of information, useful FREE advice and I just love the images! Well done! Angel Blessing today :)
  • theraggededge Aug 22, 2010 @ 4:53 pm | delete
    A wealth of info here. Blessed :-)
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