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Viruses are surely not a new occurrence in the computer world – by now, almost everybody knows the importance of installing antivirus software. However, just to be on the safe side I will list some of the most important parts of configuring an antivirus for your system. First there is security – maybe your computer is not 100% protected just by using an antivirus, but it will protect most of your files from being corrupted and destroyed. Aside from this, your operating system will be more protected – remember those viruses that could tear down the OS? Why bother reinstalling your system and going through so many hoops when you can simply install antivirus software. These are the major advantages of using AV software.
Now, we shall discuss how you can maximize the protection of your system using a series of tips. As support I used Kaspersky Anti-Virus 2009, but most of these tips apply to almost any other antivirus application out there.
Extend your protection area – Most antivirus software offers the option of real time protection for your files, e-mail, web browsers, IM apps and so on. It would be wise to ensure protection for all applications that have some sort of contact with the internet, aside from the typical file protection. If you are not sure how safe the web environment you are surfing is, then you can change each of the security levels to High rather than Recommended. This will also ensure a higher degree of protection.
Full-Scan your computer at least once per week – Even with the file protection always on, you still cannot be sure some sort of worm did not manage to hide somewhere behind an unused file. In order to correct this possible intrusion, all you have to do is schedule a weekly full scan (you can schedule it at an hour you know you will not be using your computer, thus making it more comfortable for you too).
Remember the importance of Updates – Update your antivirus as often as possible since a more powerful virus can appear at any time. Without your updates you are cutting your own safety net because there is no way your AV software will be able to detect any new type of intrusion. You see, AV software works on a simple principle – it has a database filled with virus signatures – when these enter your computer, your AV spots the signature and acts upon it. Newer AV software have the capacity to detect possible intrusions (applications that may have harmful outcome) and warn you about it. Nevertheless, by prohibiting updates, you are prohibits your AV software to notice a certain type of intrusion.
