AVG by Grisoft: The Handy Guide for Anti-Virus Health

Start any new or used computer with a high quality anti-virus. High quality anti-virus programs do not mean one has to spend a fortune on software. Many free anti-virus programs exist like AVG by Grisoft. There are many others although AVG is one of the most prevalent ones available online and easy to use.

The important part of any anti-virus program is to install the program immediately and just as immediately update the data files to avoid the possibility of a new virus sneaking into the system. If your computer is not on the internet, few are not online these days, it is especially important to install and update the anti-virus program of your choice as soon as going online or before if one has access to the software disks. AVG is available through download. The download process is fairly speedy with a broadband or DSL connection though it can take a bit of time when using dial-up. Few people use dial-up these days but there are a few so if dial-up is the only option, prepare to spend anywhere from several minutes to perhaps half an hour or so installing and updating anti-virus software the first time.

Since AVG is compatible with most any of the windows operating systems, there is little fear of messing up your hard drive files. It is important to double check at Grisoft.com to find out if this program is available for Macintosh computers. If purchasing an anti-virus software program, take time to read the requirements for compatibility. Older computers may have issues with newer software, even anti-virus programs.

Between regular intervals of automatic scanning, it is important to double your efforts at least once a week using websites such as Ewido.net and Trendmicro.com to use the free scanning and virus removal tools. Be sure to use Internet Explorer as these programs do not work with Firefox browsers. It is important to allow Active X to use these tools as well.

It is always important to keep your anti-virus program updated and use a firewall. Microsoft's operating systems come with a built-in software firewall or you can purchase one. The Windows firewall works well enough as long as the standard regular computer upkeep is up to par.