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In order to protect your computer against viruses and spyware, you will need to download and install a couple of computer programs onto your computer.
Everyone has heard of virus scanning software such as Norton or McAfee. While both may be viable solutions, ComPro Software actually recommends a free virus scanning solution in Grisoft's AVG Free Edition.
In order to download AVG Free Edition, please visit www.grisoft.com (also listed on the menu bar). You will be given an application download and serial number.
Install the program, make sure your virus definitions are up-to-date, and scan your computer for viruses. You may be surprised at what you find.
Also, to combat spyware, Lavasoft has created an excellent application called 'Ad-aware'. This program will scan your computer's hard drive and registry for potential spyware components and remove them from your hard drive.
To download Ad-aware, please visit www.lavasoftusa.com (also listed in the menu bar). Click on 'Ad-aware' and follow the links on the site to download the program.
Once installed, click the button that says 'Check for Updates' (you must still be connected to the Internet for this) and let it update the reference file. Once the reference file has completed updating, scan your entire system.
After removing viruses and spyware, you will most likely notice a dramatic speed and performance increase in your system.
Be sure that you scan at least once a month and that your virus definitions and Ad-aware reference files are up-to-date. AVG should automatically update itself when you are online, but check it every so often. Also, you must manually update the Ad-aware reference file when you are connected to the Internet.
One more step in protecting your PC is to download a new web browser. Many Internet users use Microsoft's Internet Explorer web browser. However, there have been government warnings issued against the insecurity and instability of the browser.
ComPro Software recommends the use of Mozilla's Firefox web browser. Head over to www.getfirefox.com (also listed on the menu bar) and download the latest Firefox build.
It should automatically import your favorites and Internet settings upon installation.
With that, enjoy a safer computing experience!
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