AntiVirus programs scan the files on your computer and check to see if there is a virus. In order to determine if there is a virus, they look for certain patterns in the files. These patterns are updated by the maker of the antivirus companies as new viruses are released, which is why it is imperative that we keep our antivirus program updated. Because this is so important, it is hard to find a free antivirus program that does as good a job as a program that we pay for. We are not paying for the program as much as we are paying for the updates, usually for a year at a time, to keep our computer protected from the latest threats.

Most antivirus programs will scan files when we try to open them, so that infected discs cannot transmit the infection to our computer. They check e-mail as it comes in, and alert us to any potential problems with an attachment. They can also do a complete virus scan when we turn on our computer, at a scheduled time of our choosing, and scan only certain file types to reduce the time it takes to run the scan. Different programs offer different options, but these are the basics.

One trend that has been growing among the antivirus makers is to offer a suite of tools that has antivirus as a part of that suite. (See my note on this on the Home page.) I recommend using a stand-alone antivirus program rather than a suite. I have seen suites malfunction and totally expose the computer to the world while the user tries to get everything reinstalled or re-updated. And that is not an easy thing to do in some cases.

There are some companies that have good 'name' recognition in the antivirus field that have become more difficult to work with as they have grown. They have tried to be everything to everyone, and the result is that they are doing poorly in customer service, ease of use, and overall customer satisfaction. I have used all of these programs, and they all offer good antivirus protection. I have indicated my top three choices. You may or may not agree with my opinions (and that is all I offer - my opinion). I welcome comments and questions, and if you believe that I have maligned your favorite program - . I will be glad to add your comments to the Newsletter as it comes out.