How to choose an anti-virus program

Viruses have become the bane of computer users everywhere. Virtually everyone has a story of having deal with a computer intruder that exposes the vulnerability of their computer. In addition, with the rise of the internet, the chances of accidentally downloading a virus onto your computer has risen at an alarming rate. This makes even more crucial that you have the right anti-virus software on your computer. These programs can protect your computer, from all sorts of viruses and the problems they cause. Here is what you need to know about how to choose an anti-virus program-

• Consider the overall program-When purchasing anti-virus software, you want to make sure that you choose a program that is able to detect all possible virus threats. Taking the time to research the available choices online is crucial. You can also ask family and friends, for recommendations. It is important to remember that all ant-virus programs are not equal. You also should consider price, since protection can be affordable, and make sure the program comes with upgrades, that are affordable as well. Keep in mind that if you use any file sharing applications, instant messaging or email, you will need to make sure these are protected with your anti-virus program, as well.

Once you have narrowed down your choices there are certain questions you should ask, before making a final purchasing decision. These questions are-

• Can the anti-virus software be updated? It is important to keep in mind that there are new viruses, almost daily. Your anti-virus software needs to be able to be updated, to be able to combat the new virus demands. The more updated your anti-virus program is, the higher the level of protection, your computer will have. The bottom line is that you must be able to update your anti-virus program if it is going to be effective, for any length of time.
• Can your anti-virus software update automatically? While you can still manually update your anti-virus software, it is a lot more effective and certainly easier to have software that will automatically update your programs. This will help your anti-virus program, be ready to meet any new threats, without you having to constantly worry about whether it is updated or not. This eliminates the problem of having viruses attack your computer, after you have forgotten to update your anti-virus software.
• Can the anti-virus program be configured to check for updates, when you go online? It is important to understand that your computer is vulnerable to an attack, every time you go online, no matter what you are doing. The best way to protect yourself is to use an anti-virus software program that can automatically check, for updates, whenever you are going on to the internet. Many programs, but not all can be configured to do this, so it is important to check this out, before buying a program.
• Can the anti-virus program automatically scan your computer? While some computer users are diligent about updating their software and scanning their computer, most people hardly give it a thought, until their computer has a problem. By having an anti-virus software program, that can automatically scan your computer, you can install it and virtually forget about it.
• Can your anti-virus software clean out problems from your computer? You want to make sure that not only does your anti-virus software need to be able to detect problems, but clean them out as well. If your program only detects viruses, then you are faced with having to find a solution, in order to get your computer up and running again.