Anti virus and AntiSpyware Information and Resources

Here is some helpful information, excellent software and some very handy links.

CA Anti-Virus 2007


Definitions

VIRUS: A virus is a self-replicating program that spreads by inserting copies of itself into other executable code or documents. While viruses can be intentionally destructive (for example, by destroying data), many other viruses are fairly benign or merely annoying. Some viruses have a delayed payload, which is sometimes called a bomb. For example, a virus might display a message on a specific day or wait until it has infected a certain number of hosts. A time bomb occurs during a particular date or time, and a logic bomb occurs when the user of a computer takes an action that triggers the bomb. However, the predominant negative effect of viruses is their uncontrolled self-reproduction, which wastes or overwhelms computer resources.


WORM: A computer worm is a self-replicating computer program, similar to a computer virus. A virus attaches itself to, and becomes part of, another executable program; however, a worm is self-contained and does not need to be part of another program to propagate itself. They are often designed to exploit the file transmission capabilities found on many computers.


SPYWARE: Any software that subverts the computer's operation for the benefit of a third party.


TROJAN (Horse): A specialized computer virus that enters via stealth or through another program and deposits and/or executes an often destructive bit of computer code.


"Definitions from Wikipedia.org" (http://www.wikipepia.org)

The Resources

We highly recommend following software. Features vary between products, but they are all best of breed and highly effective .
Choose the one that you feel the most comfortable with.
A suite is usually three products bundled togethor, AntiCVirus, AntiSpam and AntiSpyware.

BitDefender is our number one choice for in terms of value for your dollar. CA and Kaspersky are somewhat more expensive but are both top performers.
CA would be the best choice for less powerfull systems as it requires very little resources to run

BitDefender ANTIVIRUS v10
The Anti virus software solution for your personal computer! The new and improved BitDefender scanning engines will scan and disinfect infected files on access, minimizing data loss. Infected documents can now be recovered instead of being deleted.

Version 10 also cleans and protects you from Spyware!



Standard Version 10 AntiVirus Plus Version 10 BitDefender Internet Security Suite
1 User 1 year 1 User 1 year 1 User 1 year
1 User 3 years 1 User 3 years 1 User 3 years


CA Internet Security Suite 2007
CA Internet Security Suite 2007 provides comprehensive protection against viruses, hackers, identity thieves, spyware, spam and other online threats that can jeopardize your privacy, your data, and your PC’s performance.


Kaspersky Anti-Virus Personal Kaspersky Lab has proven expertise in protecting against viruses, Internet worms, email worms, Trojans and other malicious programs.
Probably the best Anti Virus software on the market, if you don't mind spending the money.!



Excellent Online Virus Scanners