Defense Against Viruses and Worms

Use anti-virus software and a firewall, and update both regularly.

Dealing with anti-virus and firewall protection may sound about as exciting as fl ossing your teeth, but it’s just as important as a preventive measure. Having intense dental treatment is never fun; neither is dealing with the effects of a preventable computer virus.

Video: Defend Yourself Against Viruses and Worms

Anti-virus Software

Anti-virus software protects your computer from viruses that can destroy your data, slow your computer’s performance, cause a crash, or even allow spammers to send email through your account. It works by scanning your computer and your incoming email for viruses, and then deleting them. To be effective, your anti-virus software should update routinely with antidotes to the latest “bugs” circulating through the Internet. Most commercial anti-virus software includes a feature to download updates automatically when you are on the Internet.

What to Look For and Where to Get it

You can download anti-virus software from the websites of software companies or buy it in retail stores. Look for anti-virus software that:

• Recognizes current viruses, as well as older ones.
• Effectively reverses the damage.
• Updates automatically.

Firewalls

Don’t be put off by the word “firewall.” It’s not necessary to fully understand how it works; it’s enough to know what it does and why you need it. Firewalls help keep hackers from using your computer to send out your personal information without your permission. While anti-virus software scans incoming email and files, a firewall is like a guard, watching for outside attempts to access your system and blocking communications to and from sources you don’t permit.

Some operating systems and hardware devices come with a built-in firewall that may be shipped in the “off” mode. Make sure you turn it on. For your firewall to be effective, it needs to be set up properly and updated regularly. Check your online “Help” feature for specific instructions.

If your operating system doesn’t include a firewall, get a separate software firewall that runs in the background while you work, or install a hardware firewall — an external device that includes firewall software. Several free firewall software programs are available on the Internet.