Comparable to an invasion, you antivirus is your first defense- a wall, if you please. Just like any protective wall, it is up to the strength of it whether invaders can enter or not. You need to optimize your antivirus so it could protect your device better, and here are ways you can do just that.
Is Your Antivirus Good Enough?
There are a variety of antivirus softwares you can download. Some of them are even free. The question is, will it protect you from malware? According to Digital Information World, you need to look for names that are already familiar in cybersecurity, like Trend Macro.
Of course, you can look for other antivirus softwares on the web, but make sure to read the reviews to see how effective they are.
Tinker with the Software
More recent softwares can automatically do its job without you having to configure it. Of course, you're better safe than sorry. Make sure that an aditional firewall has been set up by the software, other than the hardware firewall your device already has. The antivirus firewall is capable of being updated, which is important for when new types of malware surface.
If your antivirus software's automated updates are already up and running, then you have nothing to worry about. If it's not, it's best that you turn it on. That way, you won't have to manually update it every time you need protection from a new type of computer virus.
Always Alert
If you're looking for an antivirus to download, make sure it has real-time screening. This means that your antivirus is active 24/7, and scans for every download and install you make.
With this feature, you won't have to manually scan for malware everytime you download, since the software will do that on its own.
No Permission Needed
There are antiviruses that detect and delete suspicious files on the spot. This is especially useful if you downlaod a lot of content from the web. This could be a chore if you have safe data that appears suspicious, but more often than not, the antivirus deleting flagged content does more good than harm.
Extending to Your Browser
Since the internet is chockfull of malware, your antivirus should extends to your browser as well. You'll know that it protects your browser as well if it comes with add-on, which can be viewed in your browser settings. This way, your antivirus can alert you of suspicious sites even before you open it, therefore nipping the malware threat in the bud.
Does it Backup Your Files?
In the event that your antivirus is not updated and a new malware finds its way to your device, your important files might get corrupted. Find an antivirus that has a backup feature so your files would be safe in the event of a breach. Try and pick one that has autmatic backup, so you wouldn't have to upload everytime you have new files.
Two is Not Better Than One
Do not install two antiviruses at ones. It does not mean twice the protection. This will lead to software conflicts that could cause system crashes, and keep your antivirus from doing its job, as mentioned in iolo.com.
Seemingly Untrusted Software
If you're installing a software that you're sure is safe even if the antivirus flags it, you can temporarily disable the antivirus until installation is complete. However, turn it back on as soon as you can and scan for the new files from the software you just installed.
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