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What about antivirus software for my computer?

I get asked often "What antivirus program should I use?" My answer is usually "Find a free one." Here's why. It seems to me that purchasing antivirus software is sort of like paying someone to clean your house. If you have the money and that is what you want to do with it, fine. However, using a program to scan your computer isn't rocket science, just like sweeping your floors and dusting doesn't require a professional cleaner. In fact, the reason that people who sell computers recommend you "purchase" an antivirus program is often because they are being paid to sell a program. Now, let me clarify that that might not always be the case, but when you buy a computer, unless you need specific software for a specific reason (like Microsoft Word to type your dissertation with or Microsoft Powerpoint to create presentations at work), them it is likely you do not need additional software when you buy the computer. I tell people, if you do need additional software (like Microsoft's Office Suite), then purchase it separately and install it yourself. Again, you don't have to be a professional to install a program. If you are willing to take a few minutes to build your computer-savvy skills, don't take the "easy route" by just having everything "set up" for you. New computers will walk you through the process (Microsoft is even adding some humor to this process) and automatically install updates or required additional upgrades right out of the box.

Okay, back to antivirust software. Unless you intend to be dangerous and download many sketchy and questionable things onto your computer, it isn't likely you will encounter a bad virus. But, if you do, there are a variety of free programs that will find and fix the bugs on your machine before they cause any damage. Remember that I said cleaning your computer was like house cleaning? Well, I'll take it a step further and say it's also like cleaning out your fridge. At some point, if you don't review the produce or items that might be going bad, then your nasty mess will only grow. A computer virus is similar. If you don't clean consistantly and you do have a bug, it will get nasty and cause more havoc the longer it lingers. Think of a computer viruses as something like a moldy sandwhich in your fridge: deal with it sooner rather than later!

So how do you choose a free antivirus program and where do you download it? First, read a few of the latest reviews about what the experts are recommending. I find PCMag to be one that presents a nice overview of the options: The Best Freeware Antivirus Programs. I also like to read articles by tech gurus like The Techsupportalert.com site. and Fossbytes.com.

Second, try a couple of different programs. Just like a broom, mop, duster, or vacuum, it is likely that you'll find one product you like better than another. And, really, if you encounter a problem, its a good idea to end up scanning your system with more than one program. But, for the average user, pick one and get to know it. Chances are that you aren't going to be cleaning viruses off your computer weekly.

I'd like to add a few tips for downloading and installing free programs. These tips apply to ANY freeware, not just antivirus programs. The word "free" might mean that money isn't a requirement, but many "free" programs are trying to market something to you. You might have to endure a few ads running along the bottom, an annoying popup that tries to get you to buy the "paid" version, or start a "free trial" of the paid program. You have to be a little savvy to navigate through the marketing bombardment. Let's break it out in steps.

Step 1: Know that the site you are downloading from is safe. Don't just click on any link, but find out if you can go directly to the program's homepage. If not, use a reputable freeware place like FileHippo or CNet. Again, take some time to look around so you know the file you are agreeing to "download" is indeed the program you need. It seems like many download sites now are becoming so full of ads that it maybe be difficult to know when and if you've clicked the right "download now" button.

Step 2: Always read each screen thoroughly when installing a free program. Often, a "free" program comes packaged with other "free" programs they think you might like. If you can "uncheck" an additional "We think you'd also like this program" notice, then do uncheck it. One of my favorite programs is CCleaner by Puriform. But, every time I download or install it on someone's computer, I have to UNCHECK the box for another program. Free programs often try to change your browser's "homepage" --again, you can usually avoid this by simply reading carefully and saying "no" during the installation process.

Step 3: After you download a program, take the time to find the "options" or "settings" area. This may reveal much about the program you have just chosen to use. Because a program is "free," it may be collecting information from your computer about what sites you visit or how often you use your computer. This usually isn't infringing on personal data, but it's important to know what you might be sending out and if you can opt out of advertisements. This area is also where you might control popups or notifications about the program. If you are using an antivirus program that pops up a message when a problem is encountered, you want to be familiar with what that message will look like so you know if a real threat has been found. I often tell people to be wary of popup messages, but it is true that legitimate programs like antivirus programs do use notifications. Explore the settings area to know what program options you can modify.

Step 4: If you are choosing to run the "FREE" version of a program, be vigilant about avoiding the words "upgrade to trial" or "free trail" or "update to paid version." Again, these companies really want you to use the free version, fall in love, and buy the paid version to access the extra features. It is a marketing scheme you've agreed to by downloading their free program. If you don't want to ever pay for the program, you'll have to learn how to always choose the "free" updates and options and not accidentially get the "free 30 day trial" version.

In closing remarks, I'll just say that there is nothing wrong with paying someone to clean your house. Likewise, there's nothing wrong with purchasing a program to keep your computer safe. However, with a little time and effort, you can indeed manage this upkeep and cleaning process yourself. A few experts out there would even argue that the free versions of most programs will catch exactly the same viruses as the paid version will; you are usually paying for additional features, not quality. So, if you want to purchase one of the recommended paid or subscription antivirus software programs so you don't have to try to navigate the free process, then do that. It's your computer. You still may need to learn a little about how to use the program, but your paid version may have some automatic features that you probably won't have to remember to attend to.