Viruses can be "contracted" from downloading files then using them without first using your virus scanner to check them for any harmful content. Viruses are now also spread through e-mail messages, and most recently through websites containing malicious content.
Even if you have a virus scanner, you might not be safe. Most people assume that once they have a virus scanner, they are immune to getting computer viruses. This is just not the case. New viruses come out at an alarming rate of 100 to 200 new viruses and trojans each week. What does this mean to you? It means you will have to keep updating your virus "definitions" each week. Updating your "definitions" can be done in most virus scanners with the "Live Update" feature which will check for new "definitions" and install them on your computer. Keep in mind that some new viruses may not have a fix for a week or two after they are noticed in the general population of computers.
Choosing the right virus scanner can be a tedious feat. Which one is updated often? How easy is it to use? Can I get technical support if I need it? We have looked at some of the virus scanners on the market and have rated them for you. This should only be used for reference, as the opinions of others may vary.
Editors Pick: PC Cillin (www.antivirus.com). The overall ease of use and problem free scanning of internet activity and e-mail make this our choice. Unlike some other products, PC Cillin does does not change system settings, which at times other products do, making it impossible without some manual changes to play games or check your own e-mail. PC Cillin is just one of the many virus scanners out there, you are welcome to shop around there are literally hundreds of different scanners. Choose one that suits your needs and will protect you to the highest degree.