These steps are for computer virus prevention. Computer virus prevention is generally much easier than computer virus removal. There are three main rules to follow that will help prevent your computer from getting infected by viruses:

1. Keep Antivirus Software Installed and Updated
2. Keep Windows Patched
3. Avoid Dangerous Sites and Software

1. Keep Antivirus Software Installed and Updated

Free antivirus software like MS Security Essentials is the simplest way to keep Windows computers virus-free. Old antivirus programs do not function as well as newer ones. Even if your antivirus program is “updating”, you still have to make sure that you have the latest software available. “Updating” might just mean “retrieving the latest virus signatures” – which is important – but not enough. Paid versions of antivirus software typically expire, leaving you unprotected if you fail to renew the subscription – but the advantage of paid antivirus software is usually a more thorough threat coverage. If you feel you need the highest level of security and are willing to pay for it, go with Kaspersky or NOD32.

2. Keep Windows Patched

If Windows Update is not running on your computer, then you need to turn it on. If you don’t even know what Windows update is, then get someone who understands it to help you – or, if you are confident with computers, then follow these steps to turn Windows Update on.

3. Avoid Dangerous Sites and Software

Most computers catch a computer virus from a dangerous website or dangerous file sharing program. It can be difficult to tell which websites are dangerous, and sometimes even safe websites suddenly become dangerous when they become infected with a virus. If steps 1 and 2 are followed, then dangerous sites will usually not be able to infect your computer. Don’t let your kids use dangerous filesharing programs Kazaa or Limewire.

Advanced Steps

Once the above steps are being followed, consider following these additional steps to further increase the security of your computer:

1. Stop using Internet Explorer. Download Firefox, Opera, or another free browser.
2. Use a router, enable the Windows Firewall, and/or Install a separate firewall (for the best security).
3. Run a vulnerability scanner on your computer to check for insecure applications. Just as Windows needs to be updated, so do your programs like Adobe Reader and Java.

BienTek provides Virus Removal services to home computer owners and small businesses in Michigan.