So you've installed virus protection software on your computer, probably Symantec's Norton AntiVirus or McAfee's VirusScan. Now you can sit back, relax, and be virus free, right? Wrong. Though very important, antivirus software alone will not ensure
a safe computer system. Making sure to download and install bug patches, virus definition files, and security fixes for all your software applications, as well using common sense, will
make sure that your computer is truly safe.
Security patches and bug fixes
Fixes and patches, usually offered for free through software manufacturers' websites, are small files that you can download
to repair newly discovered problems with the software program you have on your system. These problems could open the gateway
for viruses or other hazards. However, if you make it standard practice to keep your software current, you can protect your
computer from any unpleasantness.
To be sure that your software is operating at its best, it's a good idea to periodically check the product website or sites
devoted to news about product patches. When you see a patch related to security, be sure to download and install it on all
machines using that application. Be sure to verify the version of the software you are running so that you can get the appropriate
updates. In some cases, the companies will no longer issue bug fixes or security patches for older programs, so you might
have to upgrade to a newer version.
Alternatively, you could use a service like CNET's CatchUp which will scan your computer for you and identify the patches that you are missing.
Viruses frequently exploit email and web browser programs. So, while you should investigate security patches for all of your
software, be especially certain that your Internet tools, email program, and web browser are up-to-date.
Here are some useful links:
Microsoft Outlook Security Patches
Microsoft Internet Explorer Patches
Eudora Patches
Symantec has a Security Check that you can run on for your computer
Virus definition files
If you've installed your virus software according to the instructions, updating your virus definition files will be a fairly
painless and automatic procedure. The trick is to make sure your computer is on when the updates are scheduled to happen.
If you've set your updates to occur during the night, don't power down your computer when you leave the office. Also, make
sure your Internet connection is on and ready when you need it to be.
However, you may wish to update your virus definitions before the next scheduled time. It's a good idea to do this when:
· anyone in your organization or anyone that regularly sends you email has received a virus
· you have reason to suspect you may be infected, but your virus scan is not picking anything up
· you hear about a new email born virus propagating through the world's computers
Manual Virus Scans
If you've set all the preferences as described in the antivirus software installation instructions, you should be fairly well
protected. Your settings should provide for automatic scanning of files that are identified as high risk. However, feel free
to manually scan software, downloaded files, and any other materials that make their way onto your computer. This is especially
necessary if you file share by disk in your office. (Why are you file-sharing by floppy? Get networked!)
If you've turned off automatic scan features to prevent system slowdowns or conflicts, be sure to run a manual scan at least
once a week. And as with updates, make sure your computer is on when the automatic scans are scheduled to happen.
Common sense
Common sense is what stops you from opening the door to thieves even though you have a security alarm on your building. Use
it with virus protection issues as well. If you receive an unexpected attachment from someone- even someone you know- don't open it. Check with sender and see if it's legitimate. If you can't verify its
legitimacy, delete it, and send a return email notifying them and telling them why.
If you download programs or files from the Internet, be sure they are from a trusted source. Also scan the programs and files
for viruses before opening them.
Do not propagate email virus warnings unless you have checked hoax sites and determined the threat is, indeed, real. Symantec
has a site for this express purpose.
If a virus strikes you, warn people on your network and in your address book as soon as possible.
In the age of the Internet and other networks, it's easy for a virus to spread like wildfire. However, if we all practice
safe computing, we can make sure our systems stay healthy.
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