YEI’s Tech Tim gives us the low-down on Viruses.
What they are (in an IT/cell phone context)
and why it is important for you to know
how to deal with them
What is a Virus or Antivirus?
Should you Google Virus or Antivirus, you will find a plethora of information on the Coronavirus. However, we are looking at Viruses and Antiviruses in a digital context.
A computer virus is a type of computer program that, when executed, replicates itself by modifying other computer programs and inserting its own code. If this replication succeeds, the affected areas are then said to be “infected” with a computer virus, a metaphor derived from biological viruses.
Computer viruses generally require a host program. The virus writes its own code into the host program. When the program runs, the written virus program is executed first, causing infection and damage. A computer worm does not need a host program, as it is an independent program or code chunk. Therefore, it is not restricted by the host program, but can run independently and actively carry out attacks.
Terms such as bots, spam, scam, hacked, infected and phishing are bandied about. These terms will be explained in later editions of “Tech Tim” and will provide you with tips on how to avoid becoming a victim.
Technical jargon over, lets simplify the explanation.
Like a human virus, a computer or cellphone virus tries to take over the “host” and can be used for nefarious means. This could be to get money out of you, by highjacking your device or by accessing your passwords and gaining access to your bank accounts or personal information.
So we can ask ourselves is an antivirus still necessary in 2021? The answer is a resounding YES!
How can you protect yourself?
The reality is the internet is not a safe place. If you visit a website or download files, you PC may acquire hazardous computer viruses. Some viruses are distributed through emails, free programs, pop-up messages etc.
If you insert removable media like CDs, USBs and DVDs which can get infected with a virus, it may put out your files to delete or corrupt. Sometimes, dangerous malicious software would completely damage the system, compromise security or erase important information.
So, it is essential to have good Antivirus software to detect and remove viruses before they do harm to your system. Antivirus software, also known as anti-malware, is a computer program used to prevent, detect, and remove malware.
Windows Defender
Many Laptops and computers may already have what’s called Windows Defender. This program comes pre-installed on all Windows machines and comes with very, very basic anti-virus measures. For advanced computer users, this may be enough but even Tech Tim finds it useful to have an Extra virus protection program installed.
Paid Vs. Free
| PAID | FREE | |||
| Pros | Cons | Pros | Cons | |
| Premium Protection | Subscription fees | Free | Some popups or in app adverts | |
| Consistent virus Database updates | Can be expensive | Virus protection not lacking | Many Premium options advertised but not enabled | |
| Other features such as password safe, Debit/Credit Card details safe, back up options | Some extra feature must be paid for on top of normal fee | Regular Virus Database updates | Very basic features | |
| Overall Recommendation | ||||
| Can sometimes be expensive, but well worth it if you want best protection with the latest features and tools. | Depending on the situation, a Free Anti-virus may provide exactly what you need without breaking the bank. | |||
Top 5 Paid Anti-Virus Programs
All are available on Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
- Kaspersky (Tim Recommends)
Kaspersky Cyber Security Solutions for Home & Business | Kaspersky - Bitdefender
Bitdefender – Global Leader in Cybersecurity Software - Norton
Official Site | Norton™ – Antivirus & Anti-Malware Software - Trend Micro
Sign In | Trend Micro - Avira
Download Security Software for Windows, Mac, Android & iOS | Avira Antivirus
Top 5 Free Antivirus Programs
All are available on Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
- AVG (Tim Recommends)
AVG 2021 | FREE Antivirus, VPN & TuneUp for All Your Devices - McAffee
McAfee | Antivirus, Identity Protection, and Mobile Security - Kaspersky
Kaspersky Cyber Security Solutions for Home & Business | Kaspersky - Avast
Avast | Download Free Antivirus & VPN | 100% Free & Easy - Norton
Official Site | Norton™ – Antivirus & Anti-Malware Software
Please note –
YEI is not being paid commission by any of the above organisations
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