by Andrew Segawa

Created on: December 16, 2009   Last Updated: March 28, 2011

Many people own anti viruses which are in fact not better than viruses themselves. These so called anti viruses end up allowing all kinds of malicious programs to have access to their systems which in turn causes a lot of harm and damage.

If you feel you really need to be so secure, you should try to use the less popular yet more secure Linux operating system. It is also always important to run your computer as a user and not as an administrator.

People who commit cyber crime and  crime ware like hackers and crackers will always have full access to your computer if they can access it when you are logged on as an administrator, they will be able to access the administrative privileges on your computer. They may this will make them able to create new user accounts on your computer and grant them selves administrative roles which will make your computer part of a botnet or being used as a zombie computer.

It is therefore important for a person to distinguish between a good and the best antivirus software before they make a purchase. Below are just a few tips of the common features of a good antivirus

USB and Floppy control

Floppy discs are getting out of date but many people still use them, I have seen people who download viruses to their computers through floppy discs which is quite common with people who use one floppy in more than one computer. Flash discs also have the same effect if moved from computer to computer. A good antivirus should be able to protect your computer USB ports and floppy slots.

Key logger blocker

There are now many programs on the internet which traces what you type in order to steal your personal information bank accounts, online passwords and other information. Such key logging software are very dangerous to internet users and you will probably need an antivirus which can block them

Web based help

A good antivirus really needs this feature, there are many times when you require technical and expert help and advice. If your antivirus vendor provides web based help, your load will automatically lessen.

Spyware blocker

It is always good to get a list of antivirus software and find which one can block spy ware for you. A good antivirus should be able to block and detect spy ware on your computer. This is for your own good, otherwise you may end up losing all your important information to hackers. Spy ware simply means programs which spy your computer and I am sure you do not need that.

You should also have the knowledge of how to prevent computer viruses since the battle to eliminate them seems endless. That will also help you to be a little safer.

Learn more about this author, Andrew Segawa.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.