Viruses, Worms And Trojan Horses

What exactly are these Viruses, Worms and Trojan Horses and why should we not want them on our computers? That's a great question. I'm glad you asked it.

Without going into lots of technical things, let's just say that viruses and worms will cause your computer to slow down and even malfunction. Some of them can even cause your computer to stop functioning altogether. Trojan Horses do many of the same things, but they lie in wait and spring up days, weeks, months, or even years later. Some of these programs can even replicate themselves and take over parts of your computer and then send themselves out via the e-mail you send to others. And still others can take over your e-mail program and send out spam to hundreds of thousands of other internet users without you knowing anything about it while you get the blame. And they can also steal your private and vital information such as credit card numbers you store on your computer or log in names and passwords.

Why do people invent these things and cause trouble for the rest of us? Let me answer that by asking this question: Why do some people mug and rob others who just want to be left alone? I'll just say that in both cases we are dealing with "sick puppies" and let it go at that. Regardless of why, we still have to protect ourselves.

Now for the good news, which is that there are antivirus programs out there that will put a stop to these undesirable elements. But they must be installed, activated, properly configured and constantly updated. Fortunately, most of this happens automatically when we first install them. They all come with instructions, so I recommend you take the time to read those instructions and set it up right and proper the first time so you can be truly safe. I put my antivirus programs on auto pilot. That means they automatically update themselves, usually once a day. There are a number of antivirus software programs out there, some with parental controls too. At least one is free and there are others that cost anywhere from $29.95 for two years use and free updates to $49.95 for one year use with free updates. Please go to our resource page to see the ones we have listed there. If you have some you are using and you think they are better, just let us know and we will be happy to check them out and place tthem on our resource pages if they pan out.