Easy Guide on How to Install Antivirus Software
Malware is easier to produce and cleverer at finding ways into computers than ever before. And just as with biological viruses, their virtual counterparts are in a constant state of mutation, making it harder for companies to develop security patches to block them.
The potential for damage by viruses and other malicious code can be serious. Some of the worst variants can attack your system and cause it to crash, or scan your hard drive for personal information such as banking details which are then stolen by the hackers who distribute them. Most malware, whether fairly benign such as adware or malevolent as with Trojan worms, will slow down the performance of your computer and also potentially make its operating system unstable.
The primary way to keep your computer free from malware is to install a robust security software product which will block and destroy viruses before they have a chance to infect your computer.
The following guide will take you through the steps of ridding your computer of malware by installing an effective antivirus program.
Easy Antivirus Installation Steps
There are two sources for antivirus downloads – direct from the Internet or through an external disc. Whichever avenue you choose, be sure to opt for a reputable security provider, as there are certain types of malware which masquerade as antivirus protection but actually infect your computer with malicious code.
Internet Installation
Step 1 – Browse for the website of the antivirus company you have chosen as your Internet security provider.
Step 2 – Find the software package that suits you from their list of product offerings – see my previous article titled ‘Top Features to Look Out For In Antivirus Software’ to help you make the right choice.
Step 3 – Once you’ve selected your product, click on the ‘Buy Now’ or ‘Download Now’ button to complete your purchase.
Step 4 – You’ll be asked to enter your contact and banking details in the boxes provided, then click ‘Enter’.
Step 5 – Continue to follow the setup prompts until you’re asked “Do you wish to install this software?”
Step 6 – the time it takes for antivirus downloads to complete will depend on the speed of your Internet connection, but it generally won’t take more than a few minutes.
Step 7 – When the installation is confirmed as complete, in most cases you’ll be told to switch off your computer to reboot, so that the antivirus software can run as part of your operating system.
Disc Installation
Step 1 – Load the CD-ROM antivirus product into your disc tray and close. In a few seconds the CD menu should automatically appear on your desktop screen.
Step 2 – You will be prompted to type in the product’s security code in the boxes provided as part of the setup instructions. You’ll generally find this code printed on the back of the packaging case that contains the CD-ROM software.
Step 3 – Continue to follow the setup prompts until you’re asked “Do you wish to install this software?”
Step 4 – When the installation is confirmed as complete, switch off your computer to reboot, so that the antivirus software can run as part of your operating system.
Getting Rid of Computer Viruses
Even with antivirus software installed, there are numerous ways for malware to insidiously infiltrate your computer, such as through infected email links, by clicking on dodgy popups or by agreeing to download a malicious file. Then there’s also the factor that antivirus software is only as good as it’s last update – if you don’t keep it current, you run the risk of the product not recognising a new strain of malware, meaning it will not know to block it.
If a virus has managed to get its hooks into your computer, here are the steps to take to remove the infection:
Step 1 – Immediately remove your computer from the Internet and any networks it might be on to prevent the malware from spreading further.
Step 2 – Manually run your antivirus program to scan for malware.
Step 3 – It will generally quarantine any malware it has identified then ask your permission to remove the offending files.
Step 4 – Reconnect to the Internet and visit your antivirus provider’s website to download the most current security updates they offer.
Step 5 – Following this update, run your antivirus software scan again to make sure your computer gets a clean bill of health.
Conclusion
The good news is that these days, antivirus downloads are easy to perform, so there really is no excuse not to have adequate protection when it comes to keeping your computer healthy. Apart from choosing a reliable and respected security provider, it’s just as important to make sure your antivirus software is kept current.
About the Author: Peter McKiel is an IT Consultant for antivirus downloads.
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