How to Choose Antivirus Software

Knowing how to keep intruders away from your computer is not always simple

You know you need anti-virus software, but determining what is best for you or your situation is not always cut and dried. Here are some ways to help you figure out which anti-virus software suite will work best for you.

Step1
Determine if your Internet Service Provider offers a free download of security or anti-virus and/or anti-spyware products. You can visit their website and go to the “help” section or call their technical support line and they will walk you through the download and installation process. Software is not “automatically” downloaded. This is a myth. Rather, you must download, put in the license key and then finish installing, updating and tweaking in order for it to function properly and protect your machine. This takes the guesswork and expense out of choosing an anti-virus program.
Step2
Shop around. Go to the store (can be any computer, electronics, major retailer or discount store) and compare prices. You can also shop online. Often times, if you make a purchase, the retailer may throw in anti-virus protection free with your purchase. Again, you will need to download and install the software to make it work.
Step3
Determine which features you need and how you will use your computer. If you use for pleasure and do not have “high speed” Internet access, you do not need the most stealthy anti-virus nor do you need an entire security suite. If you are looking for business features, however, you will want offerings of a full suite such as anti-spyware, spam filter, anti-virus and firewall. There are even some with parental controls built in so you can activate them.
Step4
If one anti-virus program tends to slow down your computer from what it was previously, uninstall and try a new software program.
Step5
If money is a problem or you do not wish to invest anything in software, go to the link in this article and download AVG free edition.
Step6
If you are unsure and do not wish to spend the money for a full version and software license, download a trial anti-virus version which covers you anywhere from 30 to 90 days. If at the end of the trial (or during) you find you wish to switch or do not like the performance, simply uninstall and reinstall a replacement anti-virus program.