There are many things that a computer user needs to do in order to protect themselves from online threats. Perhaps the most important of these in to have a good antivirus program installed on their computer. It is not enough however, just to install the software, a computer user also needs to know how to properly configure and update the software to ensure that they are getting the most protecting they can from the antivirus package.

When you select and antivirus package, there are a few things that you will need to make sure it has in order to be properly protected. You need to be sure that the antivirus software will scan all points of information entry into your computer, especially Internet browsing and e-mails. You also need to be sure that the antivirus program that you choose offers regular updates, good technical support, and early warning system and rapid response when a new virus has been discovered. If the program you are looking at does not offer these features, you are better off looking for something else.

Of course antivirus packages can be purchased from any local computer store or downloaded from online companies quite easily, but if you are like most computer users, you would rather use a free software package instead of paying. Luckily there are several very popular free antivirus programs that can be downloaded and installed without any cost to you. Some of these programs are even considered to be more effective than their competition which costs end users money.

ALWIL Softare has distributed avast! antivirus software to home users for free. This software package is available free to home users and can be found in both Windows and Linux compatible versions. Simply visit the avast web site to register and download your free copy. Once installed, avast! will start protecting your computer and will update often to keep things running smoothly.

Another popular antivirus program that can be downloaded for free is Avira Antivir. This package, just like avast! is available at no cost to home users and they also offer comercial versions to buisnesses. The free version is somewhat limited, however, as you will need to pay if you want to have protection against e-mail viruses, sypware and adware or a firewall. The Avira Antivir can be downloaded from Avria’s web site at no charge.

AVG antivirus is also a free version for home users that is available for either Windows or Linux Systems. Just like the others, the free version is somewhat limited and does not provide any technical support. For more information on the AVG antivirus software, visit the grisoft website.

If you have already got an antivirus program on your computer, be sure to read all of the documentation that was provided with it so that you fully understand what to do in case a virus is detected. You will also want to perform regular scans of your system and make sure that your permanent protection is enabled so that the antivirus program is always checking for viruses while you are using the Internet and e-mail clients.

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