How to Deal with Computer Viruses ?
If you go to a professional or a friend and tell them that your laptop is infected by a virus, the last reaction you should expect from them is shock. Having a computer infection is as common as having a cold on a rainy day. In fact, majority of computer owners expect to be infected by a virus within the first month that they use their gadget.
Malware is so prevalent in the worldwide web that it won’t be the same without it. A virus is a form of malevolent software that has captured the attention of millions of people during its launch in the form of Melissa, ILOVEYOU, and Chernobyl. They begin subtly and later reveal to be too destructive for simple antivirus software to handle. When you are struck by it, do you know what to do? It is best to assume that you will encounter this problem so long as you are accessing the web and pulling your resources from there. Spare yourself from too much trouble by following our tips.
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Since you are expecting to get hit by a virus or any form of malware, you will prioritize the safety of your cherished files. Purchase a hard drive that is solely for backing-up your files and perform the back-up themselves on a regular basis. This way, you will not hold back on the measures you will take to remove a virus from your computer system.
Of course, your preparations do not end there. Back-ups are not signs of surrender. Search the web for the top free antivirus program and take your pick of free anti-malware software from there. If you have a budget to pay an expert to install the software in your computer, do so. You can even nag them to teach you the best practices to maintain your safety.
Bear in mind, however, that antivirus software is not your ultimate shield to viruses. They are there to defend you from infiltration and to detect the threats that have successfully infiltrated your defences. Despite these features, they remain reliant on your navigation for their efficiency.
Learn how they can be properly utilized and exert effort in maximizing them.
Responding to a Threat
Once your antivirus software detects a threat, you have the option to disinfect to quarantine, or to remove the infected file. Don’t stop the moment the name of the virus and the infected file is removed from the list. You can’t tell how long it’s been in your system and if it has spread to your other files as well. This signifies the importance of scanning your entire system at least once a week. It keeps you up to date to the latest condition of your computer and the necessary actions you should take.
Perform another full scan right after you have updated your antivirus software. The updates contain a new list of virus digital signatures that is included in the antivirus’ current directory, meaning it can now detect threats that it was not able to recognize before.
Do the same with every removable drive that you insert in your computer’s USB port. A deadly practice that sets you up for worse infections is running the files on those removable drives without scanning them. Any kind of malware is easily transferred through those drives because they leave and enter various computers.
Lastly, the second you know you are infected, go offline. The internet only reinforces the strength of the virus and invites for other malware to enter your system. Learn how to respond to a virus infection before you are actually hit by one so you can avoid going online for long hours in hopes that you can find a quick remedy. Preparation is the answer to most computer problems – start your preparations now.