The Computer Virus: 10 Ways to Protect Yourself | Computers

By RobertoBeiro
Total views: 4
Word Count: 405

If you are the type of person that likes to download lots of files of the internet, you could be pushing your luck when it comes to getting a computer virus. If this is the case, I'll assert that you have little understanding of just how vulnerable you are to getting infected. This article is my way of helping you avoid the dreaded infestations.

Listed below are some of the guidelines you can follow in order to keep those nasty viruses from making a mess out of your computer and your life.

1. Get yourself some antivirus software from a respected company such as Norton Antivirus software. You should set it up to run automatically every time you turn your computer on.

2. Ensure that the antivirus software is kept up to date. Most software has a feature that warns you when it is going to expire.

3. The antivirus software can also scan for Macro Viruses. This type of virus is usually hidden in word processing documents that you may receive in an email.

4. Downloading software from the internet should not be done too often. It is very easy to get infected this way, even though there may be lots of great programs available This is very risky.

5. Tansfering data between storage devices like usb drives and discs, should only be done if really neccessary and they should be scanned for viruses before you install the data onto your machine.

6. If using floppy disks to transfer data make sure to format them before using them for the first time.

7. Don't install any software that hasn't been purchased from a well known and trusted vendor.

8. Never install software that is pirated. This is not only illegal but also a great way to get infected with a virus.

9. You must scan all programs you download of the web, BEFORE you open and install them on your computer.

10. One very important task is to back your computer files regularly. This will ensure that if, after all your prevention measures, you do still catch a virus it can be removed, and the lost files can be replaced with the ones that were saved.

Following the steps I have laid out won't guarantee that you will not be infected, but it will make you far less likely of becoming a victim of a dreaded computer virus.

About the Author

Roberto Beiro is a new writer on the web. You can search for lots of computer advice from him at his website Old boy articles. There are also 100's of articles on other subjects like finance advice, and travel advice .

You are here Articles > Computers