SOHOLogics

Get The Scoop on Viruses With Help From AVG

By: Christy Osborne

What keeps eating my files faster than the Cookie Monster? It's a virus! Click here. We'll give you an idea what you're up against and go over a free program you can use today to irradiate those evil villains from your PC!

What is a virus? Basic viruses usually spread through the sharing or sending of files. Some viruses are more sophisticated than others. Worms for example, replicate and send themselves automatically from computer to computer by controlling software programs. Another virus, called a Trojan resembles as a beneficial program to lour users into downloading them. Some Trojans can even provide expected results while quietly damaging your computer.

End the Virus Scare!

We all know you need virus protection for your computer, but in this fast-paced digital world, how do you know which is right for you? Even with the leading anti-virus software, can viruses still slip by unnoticed? How do you protect yourself? Do you really need to pay that year virus update fee? Fortunately, there is an answer, the AVG Anti-Virus System searches out programs resembling viruses, locks them up, and puts them in isolation, leaving your computer safe. The best part about AVG is that the updates are free.

Representing one of the best anti-virus programs, AVG secures the greatest protection for your computer, does not cost a dime for a desktop PC, and it does not install a lot of unneeded software such as privacy protection and firewalls which slow down your PC. After deciding to download and install AVG for its premium benefits, we must remove all other virus protection programs currently on your computer, typically Norton Anti-Virus and McAfee Virus Scan.

Installing AVG Anti-Virus System

1. Open the Internet Explorer program and in the address bar type or copy the following URL : free.grisoft.com
2. Scroll all the way down and click on the link that says “Get AVG for Windows”.
3. On the next page, scroll all the way down and click on the link below the installation files (i.e. avg71free_375a716.exe).
4. This will start the download process. Save the file to your desktop.
5. Once the download is complete, it is time to install the AVG program.
6. Locate the file on your desktop and then, click on the icon.
7. This starts the installation program.
8. Then follow the instructions and screens.
9. You may be asked whether you want to restart the computer to complete the installation. Click yes and your machine will automatically reboot.
10. After installation, AVG will open up and ask you to finish setting up the software. Follow the setup screens to finish the installation.

Removing Your Old Virus Software

To remove a Windows component:

It is best to visit your old antivirus manufacturer’s website to properly remove their software. You can also find detailed instructions via your favorite search engine. The instructions below are general but will help you remove most antivirus programs from your computer. Be sure you are logged on as an administrator or a member of the Administrators group in order to complete this procedure.

1. Click the Start Button, located on the Windows Taskbar.
2. Then, point to Settings, click Control Panel, and then double-click Add or Remove Programs.
3. Click Add/Remove Windows Components.
4. Search for your antivirus program. Some popular programs include: “Norton Anti-Virus” and “McAfee Virus Scan.”
5. If these programs are present, click the program.
6. Click the Change/Remove Program button.
7. Follow the instructions in the Windows Components Wizard.
8. Select Remove from the InstallShield Wizard Window, then click Next.
9. Then click OK to approve the program’s removal.
10. Once the removal is complete, click Finish. You may be asked to reboot your system.

Note: You must remove all antivirus software after installing the AVG Anti-Virus System. Running more than one antivirus program will slow your computer down significantly.

You can find detailed instructions for Norton here.

You can find detailed instructions for McAfee here.

Scanning Procedures for Virus Detection

1. Run AVG Anti-Virus System.
2. Click the Scan Computer icon. This initiates AVG’s virus scan.
3. After the scan is complete, the Test Results are displayed and AVG will assist you in removing any problematic files it found.

Updates

Updating your AVG Anti-Virus program is essential for the protection of your computer. And don’t worry, its easy! To update:

1. Click the right mouse button over the AVG icon located on the system tray right next to your clock.
2. Select the Check for Updates option within the menu that opens after.

Also, try signing up for AVG’s free email service for news on new viruses, updates, and new tips and tricks at www.grisoft.com/doc/150/lng/us/tpl/tpl01.