Top 10 Ways to Prevent Computer Viruses


how to prevent computer virusesA computer virus is a program that is designed to spread malicious code by copying itself and infecting host computers. It often spread through e-mail attachments, portable media, or files downloaded from the Internet.
Although some viruses are harmless, many can be quite harmful which can slow down your computer’s performance, steal your personal data and even destroy your computer files.
Fortunately, there are several steps that you can take to reduce the likelihood of your computer getting infected with a virus. Here are 10 ways to prevent computer viruses from invading your computer.
  1. Install a reliable anti virus program and always keep it up to date
    You should ensure that you have an anti-virus program installed and enabled on your computer. It can detect and block viruses before they have a chance to cause any harm to your computer. A good anti-virus program can scan all program, files, or documents on your hard drive. If it finds any viruses, it will remove the virus, quarantine it or delete the file safely from your computer.New viruses are continually being produced by virus writers. Therefore, it is necessary for you to update your anti-virus program regularly in order to tackle them.
  2. Activate your computer firewall
    In addition to prevent instruction from outside source, firewall also helps block some viruses and worms from reaching your computer. It closes your computer’s door to hackers, preventing your computer from being infected with a virus.
  3. Only download software from trusted sources or websites
    There are many websites that allow you to download applications or games for free but most of them are unverified website which means the software they provided may pose many risks, including a higher risk of having one or more viruses. So only download these softwares from trusted websites that you can count on or at least scan them before you open them.
  4. Disable autorun for USB and other external drive
    Many viruses work by attaching themselves to a drive and automatically installing themselves on any other media connected to the system. So the best way to protect your computer from such threats is by disabling the Windows autorun.
  5. Don’t open email attachments until you are sure it is safe
    Email is one of the common ways by which your computer can be infected by a virus. You should not open email attachments sent by people you do not know and you should always be cautious about opening .exe files. If you have to do that, scan it before you open it.
  6. Be wary of files with a double extension such as .jpg.exe.
    you should be exceptionally wary of files with double extensions, such as ‘images.jpg.exe’. The only extension that matters is the last one. In the example above, EXE represents an executable file that will automatically run software upon download. Files with double extensions are almost always deceptive and malicious in intent.
  7. Be wary of websites that asks you to install a plug-in
    Various forms of viruses can be hidden within plug-ins. if you install the plugin, it will infect your computer which can steal your information like username and passwords to other websites.
  8. Always Scan external storage devices before you open it
    If you are copying files from external storage media like thumb drive, portable hard drive or even CD, make sure you scan the drive before you open it.
  9. Avoid suspicious websites
    Try not to enter any kind of suspicious website as you can, because they can also bring you trouble for getting a virus. Be sure to notice the url of the website. For example micro.soft.com is not Microsoft.com.
  10. Stay away from cracked software
    Stay away from cracked software as they are always infested with many and varied stubborn bugs and viruses. Play it safe and get your software from the original source.

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