PROTECT YOUR COMPUTER FROM COMPUTER VIRUS

As more people become comfortable using their computers at school, home or office. It's just a matter of time before they deal with computer viruses. Here are some steps to protect you from computer viruses.

Use high quality anti-virus program. There are various anti-virus computer programs in the market some of them are better than others. Look at the reputation of the computer magazines or websites for ratings to help you find what suits your needs.

Always use anti-virus software. Ensure anti-virus software is always enabled and scanning, incoming and outgoing email messages, and any software programs that you run.

Your antivirus program up to date. Most programs come with a yearly subscription make sure you take advantage of the update. Advanced program allows you to schedule updates or full system scans for "off hours" like 2 when you can not use your computer.

Keep your computer up to date. From time to time the operating system became the victim of security holes or issue updates. Make sure you check periodically to make sure you are running stable up to date version of your software.

Backup your data regularly. Most windows computer users keep the documents in "My Documents" folder. This makes it easy to backup all your important documents. Weekly or monthly to make copies to CD or USB drive.

If you use a floppy disk or USB drives on public computers like your school computer lab, Kinko's, or even digital photo printing store make sure you scan them for viruses. Public computers are not known for up to date and properly protected.

Be careful of email attachments. Treat every email attachment is potentially dangerous. Never open attachments from people you do not expect. Also, be aware that an attachment from someone you know but do not expect. Many computer viruses that replicate themselves by reading the contacts from the infected computer.

Use text email if possible. While beautiful HTML emails and allows you more control over formatting it also can carry computer viruses. If you are using a text based email the only way to get a virus is by opening the attachment.

Use downloaded freeware and shareware files or software with caution. Try to download them from popular leading source scan programs before they are uploaded. To ensure your safe scan the program before you install it on your computer.

Be wary of links in IM or instant messaging software. Did not receive invitations from people you do not know and never click on a link from someone you do not believe, they can easily direct you to another website that will try to install a virus on your computer system.